NOESIS successfully transacts SUBA group and 1589 Hotels merger

The transaction sees SUBA hotels adding 35 hotels and resorts across India and Nepal to its existing portfolio of 15 Hotels spread across India & UAE with significant growth to come in South Asia & the Middle East.

NOESIS announced the hotel merger and acquisition of the year, with the SUBA group of hotels acquiring a significant majority stake in 1589 Hotels. The transaction sees SUBA hotels adding 35 hotels and resorts across India and Nepal to its existing portfolio of 15 Hotels spread across India & UAE with significant growth to come in South Asia & the Middle East.

1589 Hotels operates hotels in the economy to mid-segment space predominantly in the offbeat leisure locations and tier-II & III cities. They are present in 22 cities such as Jaipur, Lucknow, Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, Dalhousie, Ajmer, Pushkar, Udaipur, Mirzapur, Vadodara, Bhavnagar, and others under the Genx and RNB brands. It also operates several properties in Nepal. The company will continue with its asset-light approach to hotel management.

NOESIS acted as an exclusive transaction advisor and Nandivardhan Jain, CEO of NOESIS led the transaction with an internal team. Entire transaction was completed in three months including the execution of the definitive agreements.

Nandivardhan Jain, CEO - Noesis Capital Advisors said, “The opportunity to acquire 1589 Hotels which have operations across India & Nepal attracted the SUBA group of Hotels. This transaction reflects great Indian entrepreneurialism creating a sustainable conversion-friendly hotel management platform suiting independent hotel owners and domestic traveler’s requirements. The acquisition of this platform will enable SUBA Hotels to fast track its growth across South Asia.”

NOESIS Capital Advisors, Asia's largest Hospitality transaction advisory company currently mandated for more than 12000 plus keys for operator search assignment on the lease, revenue sharing, management, and franchise contract. NOESIS is also working on an exclusive buy-side mandate from the family office and special situation funds to invest 1.5 billion dollars in distressed hospitality assets in South Asia.

INITIATIVE | ibis hotels have joined hands with The Robin Hood Army

ibis hotels along with The Robin Hood Army is extending their support to the community by providing meals to the less privileged.

Empathy is the need of the hour: Sylvain Laroche

ibis hotels have joined hands with The Robin Hood Army to extend their support to the community by providing meals to the less privileged. Through this initiative, ibis aims to deliver over 5000 meals every month across Delhi, Gurgaon, Jaipur, Nashik, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

“13 hotels from the ibis network have partnered with the local Robin Hood Army representatives to deliver cooked wholesome nutritious meals packed in biodegradable material to the needy. These meals are specially cooked for this initiative,” Sylvain Laroche, Director of Operations, ibis & ibis Styles, India informed ET HospitalityWorld.

In many cities ibis employees are delivering these meals themselves as some of the Robin Hood Army representatives were affected by Covid-19. This gave the employees an opportunity to go that extra mile.

“These are exceptionally challenging times, but we feel confident that as a community, we can get through this together,” said Laroche adding that as we recover from the deadly second wave of the pandemic, it is important to support each other and the community. “Empathy is the need of the hour. As an organization that prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of its guests and employees, we are doing everything we can to support those who need us,” he said.

The Robin Hood Army is zero funds, volunteer-based organization that has thousands of young professionals and citizens who have taken to the streets in their free time to fight global hunger, the team collects surplus food from restaurants and distributes it to the less fortunate.

“It makes me very proud to see our team members who continue to push their limits every day and have gone out of their way to help those who need us the most at this time,” Laroche mentioned.

In some cities, the ibis hotel teams are also doing their bit by distributing meals to frontline workers, traffic police who are working tirelessly round the clock. Few hotels have also associated with local NGOs to extend support to Covid-19 patients, nursing homes, and the needy.

Source

HRAWI Holds Online Training On FSSAI’s COVID19 Focused FoSTaC Programme

 The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) in association with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently conducted a COVID-19 focused Online Food Safety Supervisory Training in Advance Catering (FoSTaC) programme. The programme was created especially, for personnel employed in hotels and restaurants so that they are fully equipped with the required information to ensure guest safety and hygiene during the pandemic.

The course covered all the basic principle rules of personal hygiene and also introduced some special provisions to cover any emergencies. The programme stressed on the need for designated Special Officers in case of a COVID-19 emergency. Among other safety protocols to be followed, the trainees were imparted in-depth info on guest handling, kitchen best practices including man power planning and chefs’ responsibilities. 40 Hospitality personnel were trained under the programme which was conducted in collaboration with Parikshan.

“Among the several places open to public, hotels and restaurants are by far the safest and most hygienic spaces. HRAWI wants it members to be doubly cautious and fully prepared for any contingencies. The programme was organised to enable people working in hotels and restaurants to not only ensure guest safety but also their own. The programme was developed by FSSAI especially for the purpose and we are glad that there was proactive participation from our members for this programme. The trainer - Dr Pashupathy is an expert in the field and imparted in-depth knowledge on the finer nuances of food handling and safety to the participants,” says Mr Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI.

The programme also covered processes on scheduled housekeeping and disinfections procedures, and the role of Human Resources in a Hospitality establishment. The HRAWI has successfully trained and certified 1675 hospitality professionals across India’s Western region.

About Hotel & Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI)

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) is a 71 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include various restaurants and smaller Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. The bulk of its members like any growth economy are made up of restaurants and budget hotels. With membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Daman, Diu & Silvassa, and is considered to be the voice of the Hotel Industry. The association is part of the national body of Federation of the Hotels & Restaurants Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata. 

NEWS | Avani Hotels Blends Retro Flair with Samui's Paradise Island Vibe in Chaweng

Avani Hotels Blends Retro Flair
with Samui's Paradise Island Vibe in Chaweng

It’s not only time to travel again – it’s time travelling back to the retro ’50s with Avani Hotels and Resorts latest resort on the popular Thai island of Koh Samui.

The brand new Avani Chaweng Samui Resort that is scheduled to launch by mid-2022 has a 50’s beach vibe seen in its geometric patterns and curves, mirrored furniture, abundant use of metallic and opulent fabrics. Keeping things modern, the retro space is decorated using contemporary materials and techniques, creating spaces that are ideal for relaxation and socializing in style.

So grab your longboards and head down to the beach with Avani!

A sneak peek of the upcoming resort:

The property will introduce all-new 76-room and suites, designed in 50’s vibe and elements.

The lobby will double as a check-in and social space to interact with other travelers.

A social pool hangout space and AvaniFit inspired gym to keep an active lifestyle for travelers.

The resort will enjoy exclusive access to the hottest club on the island - SEEN Beach Club Samui.

PRODUCT | HEALTHY, HEARTY, WHOLESOME; Introducing a New Menu at Bombay Baking Company, Mumbai’s Iconic Patisserie-Deli.

HEALTHY, HEARTY, WHOLESOME; 

Introducing a New Menu at Bombay Baking Company, 

Mumbai’s Iconic Patisserie-Deli.

Mumbai, 28th June 2021 – “Coffee and conversation” gets a whole new meaning as Bombay Baking Company, the much sought-after patisserie-deli at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu presents an all-new menu this season. 

The thoughtfully curated menu features nutritious breakfast bowls, all-time deli favorites, and fresh house-made  smoothies made with superfoods and immunity-boosting ingredients to offer flavorsome, power-packed meals. 

It’s the perfect place for a catch-up with friends or to just sit by yourself and indulge in your creative side. Delve into morning essentials such as Acai Bowl, Granola Yogurt Parfait and Omega Bowl which are sure to get your  creative juices flowing, and everyone’s favorite Pancakes and Waffles for that feel-good sweet indulgence. 

The menu also includes hearty and wholesome meals including BBCo. Signature Club Sandwich, Croissant  Sandwich, Lox and Bagel, Mushroom Bruschetta, Farmhouse Panini along with fresh, nutrition-packed  smoothies like Avocado & Blueberries, Beetroot & Banana, Date & Cinnamon, Avocado & Moringa and Spinach & Kale. What’s more, indulge in fresh treats from the oven such as Quiches, Danishes, Cruffins,  Cronuts, Brioches and more. 

Refresh your palate as you enjoy the ultimate Bombay Baking Company experience beginning 1st July, 2021. 

Bombay Baking Company New Menu  

▪ When : 1st July, 2021 onwards 

▪ Time : 9:00 am - 4:00 pm  

▪ Where to Buy: Bombay Baking Company, JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu  

To place your order, dial +91 22 6693 3344 / +91 90046 16506 or visit our social handles @jwmarriottjuhu  across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. 

About JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts  

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway  cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated,  self- assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere  lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are  reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them.  Currently, there are 70 JW Marriott hotels in 26 countries; by 2019 the portfolio is expected to encompass  more than 100 properties in over 30 countries. Visit us online, on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.  

About Marriott International, Inc  

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 7,500 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 132 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

New Opening | At 2,000 feet, Shanghai opens world's highest hotel

At 2,000 feet, Shanghai opens world's highest hotel

A restaurant on the 120th floor, yes you read that right, Shanghai has opened the world’s highest luxury restaurant, situated on the 120th floor of a skyscraper.

Apart from the height, this eatery named ‘J Hotel’ boasts of 24-hours personal butler service and is now open for the deep-pocketed guests in China.   

The restaurant is located in the city’s financial capital, at the top of 632-meter (around 2,000 feet) long Shanghai Tower, which is the world’s second-tallest building after Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

Guests are whizzed up in the blink of an eye. Elevators running at the speed of 18 meters per second take them up the intimidating skyscraper, to the J Hotel.

Although the hotel’s opening was delayed by the pandemic, it has now started receiving guests, calling on the services of a dedicated butler at all times of day and night.

Source

STR: Canada Hotel Performance For May 2021

HENDERSONVILLE, Tennessee — Canada’s hotel industry reported slightly lower performance from the previous month, according to STR’s May 2021 data.

While year-over-year percentage changes show significant increases because of comparison with a pandemic-affected period in 2020, the country’s performance levels remained well below the pre-pandemic comparable of May 2019

• Occupancy: 28.1% (-58.6%)

• Average daily rate (ADR): CAD113.40 (-32.0%)

• Revenue per available room (RevPAR): CAD31.87 (-71.9%)

“Despite subdued performance in May due to continued travel restrictions and lockdown measures, RevPAR increased in each of the first three weeks of June, signaling the start of recovery now that provincial travel restrictions are in the process of being lifted,” said Laura Baxter, CoStar Group’s director of hospitality analytics for Canada. CoStar Group is the parent company of STR.

As long as Canada keeps up the vaccine momentum and variants are controlled, hotel performance will continue to recover. Recovery will be led by pent-up leisure demand this summer. In Q3, we expect occupancy and ADR to reach 47% and CAD146, respectively, thus resulting in a 34% increase in RevPAR from Q3 2020. We anticipate a particularly strong recovery in smaller cities and resort hotels. Recovery in urban markets is expected to lag until corporate, group and international demand returns. Urban markets with large development pipelines will also experience downward pressure on recovery as new rooms are added to the inventory.”

“International demand plays an incredibly important role in the recovery process, and we expect a jump in hotel leisure and corporate demand once the U.S./Canada land border reopens. The relaxed quarantine requirements for those who are fully vaccinated is a step in the right direction. However, the catalyst for even stronger hotel performance recovery will be an extension of those loosened requirements for international travelers.”

Among the provinces and territories, Prince Edward Island recorded the lowest May occupancy level (16.8%), which was 71.5% below the pre-pandemic comparable.

Source

AIDA Cruises opens cruise season in Hamburg on July 31

After Kiel and Rostock-Warnemünde, AIDA Cruises today announced it will open the 2021 season at a third German cruise port, Hamburg, with AIDAmar on July 31. Every Saturday, the Hanseatic city will be the port of departure and destination for seven-day voyages initially sailing to the Dutch metropolises Amsterdam (Ijmuiden) and Rotterdam. In both ports AIDAmar will stay overnight, giving guests additional time for AIDA-organized shore excursions to the Dutch capital Amsterdam and the fashion and culture metropolis Rotterdam.

As soon as more destinations open for cruise tourism, the company intends to complement these voyages with calls at further ports.

Bookings for these new cruises between July 31 and October 16, 2021, start today, June 25.

New to the program of AIDA Cruises is a 40-day voyage in the Caribbean with AIDAsol from/to Hamburg between October 16 and November 25, 2021, followed by two 43-day “Great Caribbean Winter Break” voyages, also from/to Hamburg starting on November 25, 2021, and January 7, 2022. These two cruises were originally scheduled with AIDAvita.

All cruises are carried out in compliance with AIDA’s enhanced health and safety protocols, as well as applicable laws and regulations. More information is available at www.aida.de/sichererurlaub.

With the "AIDA Promise”, AIDA Cruises offers more flexibility, peace of mind and confidence when planning and booking vacations. Generous booking options are part of the offer, from low deposits to free rebooking. The "AIDA Promise" is already included in the travel price for new bookings up to July 31, 2021, and is valid for departures up to March 31, 2022.

All AIDA cruises can be booked at travel agencies, on the Internet at www.aida.de, and at the AIDA Customer Center.

Carnival Corporation Brands Resume Cruising in US, Caribbean and Europe

Eight of the corporation's world-leading cruise line brands - including US-based brands Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn, as well as UK-based brands Cunard and P&O Cruises - are resuming guest operations with gradual, phased-in voyages and enhanced health protocols
Lineup of currently planned sailings represents 52% of corporation's total capacity and builds on recent restarts of its Germany-based AIDA Cruises and Italy-based Costa Cruises brands

Eight cruise line brands from Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world's largest cruise company, have announced plans to resume guest cruise operations, with AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Seabourn sailing in the United States, the Caribbean and Europe.

The brands are resuming operations using a gradual, phased-in approach, with sailings announced on 42 ships to date through the end of fiscal year 2021 (Nov. 30), representing 52% of the company's total capacity across its global fleet of 91 cruise ships. The initial cruises will take place with enhanced health protocols developed in conjunction with government and health authorities, and informed by guidance from the company's public health, epidemiological and policy experts.

Carnival Corporation's most recent brand restart announcements are summarized directly below, with a full list of initial restart plans by brand, ship and expected start date available further below. Additional brand updates on the resumption of guest cruise operations for the remainder of fiscal year 2021 will be announced as further restart plans are finalized.

North America Brands:

• Carnival Cruise Line has announced it will resume guest cruise operations with eight ships by the end of August, including sailings out of Galveston, Miami, Port Canaveral, Long Beach and Seattle (to Alaska). Included in that roster is Mardi Gras, the line's newest and most innovative ship, and first cruise ship in North America powered by eco-friendly liquefied natural gas (LNG), with sailings from Port Canaveral starting on July 31.

• Princess Cruises expects to resume guest cruise operations in July with Alaska sailings and a series of cruises around UK coastal waters, as well as cruises out of Los Angeles, San Francisco and Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, Hawaii and California coast starting in September.

• Holland America Line expects to resume guest cruise operations in July with Alaska sailings, followed by sailings from Greece in August, and from Italy and Spain in September, as well as sailings to Mexico, Hawaii, the California coast and the Caribbean this fall.

• Seabourn expects to resume guest cruise operations in July sailing from Greece and Barbados, along with the beginning of the Antarctica season in November.

Europe & Asia Brands:

• Costa Cruises resumed guest cruise operations in May with sailings in Italy and Greece, and is now offering sailings to France and Spain in July, followed by Portugal and Turkey in September.

• AIDA Cruises resumed guest cruise operations in March sailing in the Canary Islands, in May with sailings in Greece and Germany, and is now offering additional sailings out of Germany as well as sailings in Spain, Italy, Portugal and Malta from July, and the Persian Gulf from November.

• P&O Cruises (UK) will offer a series of cruises this summer sailing around UK coastal waters beginning in June, expanding to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic coast starting in September.

• Cunard will offer a series of cruises this summer sailing around UK coastal waters in July, followed by voyages to the Iberian coast and Canary Islands. In November, Queen Mary 2 returns to service with a combination of transatlantic crossings and Caribbean cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line to Grow Fleet with Two Additional Ships by 2023

Carnival Cruise Line to Grow Fleet with Two Additional Ships by 2023 https://t.co/yl5fmXMD3J pic.twitter.com/V0Y1iLB4S5

— Carnival Cruise PR (@CarnivalPR) June 23, 2021

Six new hotel openings in Ras Al Khaimah

July 2021: Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island

September 2021: Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island

Q4 2021: InterContinental Mina Al Arab

2021: Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah

2022: Ananatara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort

2022: Conrad Marjan Island

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World’s Top Hotel Brands Lose Nearly $23 Billion in Brand Value

• Total value of world’s top 50 most valuable hotel brands has declined by 33% (US$22.8 billion) as sector negotiates fallout from COVID-19 pandemic

• Hilton retains title of world’s most valuable hotel brand, despite recording 30% brand value decrease to US$7.6 billion

• Hyatt is fastest growing brand in top 10 and one of only two brands to record brand value growth in top 50, up 4%

• New entrant Taj is sector’s strongest, with AAA strength rating

• Leisure & tourism brands also take hit, cumulative brand value down 40%

source

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Mobile hotel startup Cabana secures $10M to accelerate growth

The latest funding was led by Craft Ventures and Goldcrest Capital with participation from Launch, Castor Ventures, Gaingels, Nordic Eye and other strategic angels and syndicates.

Cabana is a rental platform offering a fleet of vans that have been customized to serve as mobile hotel rooms, equipped with a bed and bedding, a shower, toiletries, Wi-Fi, a water tank and, in some units, kitchens.

The company says its business has surged since its official launch last year in Seattle, with more than 6,700 nights booked.

“Cabana's growth during the pandemic proves the increasing consumer shift away from traditional modes of travel,” says David Sacks, co-founder and general partner of Craft Ventures.

source

Auro Hotels appoints Tanvir Shaikh as Front Office Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Surat.

Tanvir brings 9 years of experience in Front Office operations under various hotel brands

Auro Hotels recently appointed Tanvir Shaikh as ‘Front Office Manager’. In his new role, Tanvir will be spearheading Front office operations of Courtyard by Marriott Surat. Tanvir, a driven and result oriented professional, has the ability to maintain excellent guest relationships and ensuring an outstanding front office experience for his guests.

Prior to joining Courtyard by Marriott Surat, Tanvir has worked with brands like Ginger, Aloft, Le Meridien, Radisson Blu.

Vikas Sharma, Area Director and General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Surat commented, “It is a delight to have Tanvir on board with us. He has proven himself to be a great asset to the team in his previous stint with Courtyard by Marriott Surat and I am sure that he will be exceeding expectations this time too. Tanvir is dynamic, a quick thinker, a fair leader and above all creates memorable experiences for our guests.”

Tanvir was recently recognised by Marriott International– Asia Pacific for his excellent contributions in strengthening Courtyard by Marriott Surat’s Guest service experience and will be given a shout out at the upcoming Digital Guest Experience and GXP Webinar later in the month.

Hailing from Beed, Maharashtra Tanvir is a fitness enthusiast and an expert swimmer.

About AURO Hotels

A successor to GJHM Hotels based in Greenville, SC – Auro Hotels has developed, owned, and operated hotels for 44 years. The company currently owns 36 hotels and operates hotels with over 6500 guestrooms, located in the United States and India, operating under such well-known brands as Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt. Auro Hotels were the first franchise operators of Marriott Hotels in Asia Pacific. For more information, visit the website at www.aurohotels.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Turks & Caicos, Bringing the Ultimate in Seaside Luxury to the World-Renowned Grace Bay

The Iconic Hospitality Brand Proudly Welcomes Guests to The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, Inviting Them to Delight in the Destination

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is pleased to announce the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, marking the debut of the iconic luxury hospitality brand in this island paradise. Situated on the world-famous Grace Bay in Providenciales, The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos offers an idyllic tropical getaway, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of the destination with the legendary service and elegant accommodations for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is known.

“We are thrilled to expand our global portfolio with the debut of The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos, a destination known for its stunning natural environment, which has long served as an alluring retreat for the world’s most discerning travelers,” said Donna McNamara, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton. “Whether enjoying a sunset sail or family snorkel from the resort’s private catamaran, Lady Grace, to relaxing poolside, The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos offers the perfect opportunity for our guests to recharge and reconnect while making lasting memories.”

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Hilton announces six new hotel openings in France

As travel restrictions ease in France, Hilton is continuing its rapid expansion across the country with the launch of its Tapestry Collection by Hilton and Canopy by Hilton brands in Paris, as well as opening new hotels in Tours and Le Havre.

Tapestry Collection by Hilton will mark its entry in France with the openings of Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées and Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon in the coming months. Embracing the distinct culture of their local neighbourhoods, the hotels will join a global portfolio of almost 60 unique Tapestry Collection by Hilton properties, providing the perfect base for travellers looking for the authentic experience of an independent hotel. Having just opened its first hotel in Madrid this month, later this year the brand will continue its expansion across Europe with the opening of Se Catedral Hotel Porto and The Samuel Ryder Hotel St Albans.

Outside Paris, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre will be Hilton’s first hotels in the renowned Loire Valley region, providing an ideal base for leisure guests looking to explore everything the local area has to offer. Later in the year, Hilton Garden Inn Le Havre will also join the portfolio, bringing the total number of Hilton-branded hotels in France to 20.

The openings follow the recent debut of Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, which opened in May.

As it prepares to welcome back international leisure guests, Hilton has seen searches for leisure stays rise across its existing portfolio, with popular destinations for summer including Hilton Evian Les Bains, Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, Hilton Garden Inn Bordeaux and Grand Hotel des Sablettes Plage, Curio Collection by Hilton. Hilton.com data shows that last month, searches for staycation options in France more than doubled, with travellers eager to take a break and reconnect with family and friends. International traffic also increased by more than 75 per cent, suggesting strong demand from international visitors as restrictions continue to ease.

David Kelly, senior vice president, Continental Europe, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming back leisure guests to our hotels across France in time for the summer season. After an incredibly challenging year, these six exciting openings—coupled with wider plans to open around 40 hotels across Europe before the end of the year—demonstrate the strength of the European market and our confidence in the industry’s recovery. We look forward to opening our doors to guests and further diversifying our portfolio, providing a range of options to empower domestic and international travellers alike to explore everything that this fantastic country has to offer.”

Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero

Opened in May

The newly opened 123-room Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, designed by Jean-Philippe Nuel, features period architecture and touches of modern Parisian elegance, encouraging guests to feel as if they’re staying in a local’s historical apartment. Situated in the cultural hotspot of Paris’ 16th arrondissement, the vibrant, neighbourhood hotel is within two kilometres of the Arc de Triomphe, Trocadero Gardens and the Champs-Elysees and features a rooftop terrace and bar with sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower.

Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre

Expected to open this Summer

Located on the banks of the Loire River and surrounded by the city’s shops, theatres and eateries, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton Tours Centre provide the perfect pitstop for guests looking to explore everything the city has to offer. The stunning new-build hotels form part of a major redevelopment project in the city centre, creating a contemporary, welcoming public space and spectacularly designed, modern facilities.

For those wishing to explore further ahead, Tours—known as the Gateway to the Loire Valley—provides easy access to the famous Loire Valley Chateaux and vineyards, many of which can be reached within an hour from the hotels.

Both hotels feature modern, airy guestrooms, many of which offer stunning views over the Loire River. Guests at Hilton Garden Inn Tours Centre can feast on fresh and seasonal produce at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, Babette.

Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées

Expected to open this Summer

Taking its inspiration from the historical beauty and elegance of the City of Light, the 46-room Le Belgrand Hotel Paris Champs-Élysées promises a truly authentic Parisian stay. From original artwork exclusively curated by French artist Christophe Bonacorsi to bronze night lamps designed by French artist Jean Pierre Viot, the hotel reflects the rich culture of France’s capital city.

Tucked away just minutes from some of the city’s most famous streets, guests can explore the delights of the Champs-Élysées, visit the Eiffel Tower or the iconic Arc de Triomphe or spend the day admiring some of the most famous pieces of art in the world at the Louvre. After a busy day of sightseeing, the cosy lounge and bar and beautifully landscaped garden in the inner patio provide a sanctuary for guests to relax and unwind.

Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon

Expected to open this Autumn

Anchored in its local environment, the 56-room Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon exudes Parisian charm, featuring timeless, elegant décor throughout its public areas and freshly renovated modern bedrooms and suites. The hotel’s stunning glass-roofed atrium gives a warm welcome to guests, providing a place to relax whilst enjoying a drink and selection of locally sourced dishes.

Nestled amongst the shops and restaurants of the 12th arrondissement and just a kilometre from the famous Place de la Bastille, Hotel Camille Paris Gare de Lyon provides a perfect “pied-à-terre" to unpack for a night, a weekend or a longer stay. Whether strolling through the streets of Paris to discover its famous landmarks or stopping off between business meetings, the hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the City of Light, with famous sights such as Notre Dame Cathedral just a 20-minute walk away.

Guests at the hotels can travel with peace of mind from check-in to check-out with Hilton CleanStay. New standards include a Hilton CleanStay Room Seal to indicate that a room has not been accessed since being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, increased frequency of cleaning of all public areas and flexible housekeeping options.

All the hotels are part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty programme for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and access to the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Hilton Honors members can redeem Points using the Points Explorer tool. All hotels offer fully flexible booking options with free changes and cancellations, with most giving guests flexibility to change or cancel up to 24 hours before their arrival day.

UK economy accelerates as tourism and hospitality emerge from lockdown

The UK’s economic recovery accelerated in May as tourism and recreation firms reopened, but the delay in ending Covid-19 restrictions is putting hospitality firms at risk, research shows.

Eleven out of 14 UK sectors reported faster growth in output month on month in May, up from nine in April, according to the Lloyds Bank UK Recovery Tracker, as the UK moved further out of lockdown.

The tracker found that the UK tourism and recreation sector recorded the sharpest rise in output growth as British hotels, pubs and restaurants benefited from pent-up consumer demand.

Firms took on more staff to handle rising demand. All 14 sectors reported jobs growth in May, led by manufacturing, while the tourism and recreation sector added jobs for the first time since January 2020.

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Hilton aims to nearly quadruple KSA hotel network by 2025

The Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Financial District is the latest opening in Saudi Arabia by the famous US hotelier, but the company has big plans in the pipeline for the Kingdom, including more than 40 new properties and the recruitment of thousands of Saudi professionals.

“Saudi Arabia is an important market for us,” Jochem-Jan Sleiffer, president of Hilton Middle East, Africa and Turkey, told Arab News. “We’re trying to expand all of our different brands as much as we can in the right cities.”

Hilton — which has a regional office in Jeddah — today has 18 brands across 119 countries, and more than 6,500 properties worldwide. The Middle East now has 61 Hilton hotels with 85 more in the pipeline, 41 of which will be in Saudi Arabia over the next three to four years.

“If I look at Saudi Arabia, at all the cities, every country should at least have a Hampton or Garden Inn,” Sleiffer said. “Mid-market hotels should be in every city in Saudi Arabia, and currently there is more demand for hotels than there is supply.”

The Waldorf Astoria, Hilton’s most luxurious brand, has operated in Jeddah for many years, alongside the likes of brands including Conrad, Hampton and DoubleTree. On deciding which brand to introduce in a given city, Sleiffer said that an analysis of the market and a future forecast is necessary to understand the demographics of potential guests.

Of the 41 pipeline projects, most will be “upscale,” like DoubleTree, while others will cater to the mid-market segment, like Garden Inn. “This is where the bulk is, the upscale and mid-market. Pre-pandemic, Saudi Arabia has had strong demand in the business segment and religious tourism, but now the leisure demand is much bigger,” he said.

With international travel having restarted in the Kingdom on May 17, Sleiffer said that people are desperate to travel again and go to places they have not been before, like Saudi Arabia.

“In the next two years, we expect to hire about 2,000 people. Over the next 10 years, 10,000 people — half of which will be Saudis. I want Saudis to run these hotels. We have training programs and we have a Hilton university which has more than 5,000 online training courses.”

The Hilton president said that according to figures from the World Travel and Tourism Council, one in 10 jobs are in hospitality and tourism, but added: “Saudi is low where that’s concerned, so we need to bring it up here as well. It will come up, I have no doubt — take Hilton Riyadh as an example, where 44 percent of current staff is Saudi.”

Demand is certainly there, as a survey in December commissioned by The Red Sea Development Co. found that about nine in 10 young Saudis surveyed said they would be keen to work in the tourism and hospitality sectors, compared to 77 percent who said they were interested in a job in petrochemicals.

When the pandemic hit more than a year ago, Hilton shifted its focus to three things: The safety of staff and customers, the community around hotels, and property.

This involved postponing investment deals to help preserve cash, adapting to safety protocols, and making layoffs where necessary. However, as vaccination rates picked up, Hilton has been begun rehiring at an accelerated rate, Sleiffer said.

“We put emphasis on the touchpoints in the room, the light switches, and the remote controls. We developed Hilton CleanStay and Hilton EventReady for meetings,” he added.

Mobile check-in and digital key — developed by Hilton before the pandemic — has been a significant feature that has decreased interactions between staff and customers, reducing the potential spread of coronavirus.

Sleiffer also hopes to expand the Hilton brand to the Kingdom’s megaprojects, such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project.

“There’s more coming,” he said, mentioning his excitement about the upcoming Formula One race in Jeddah in December this year, where Hilton is serving as the official sponsor of McLaren Racing.

First Radisson hotel opens in port city of Odesa, Ukraine

On the shores of the Black Sea, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa opens as Radisson Hotel Group’s seventh hotel in Ukraine in operation and under development. 

With an excellent location on the famous Derybasivska Street, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa unlocks the cosmopolitan city of Odesa, full of architectural styles, international cuisines and beautiful Black Sea beaches. With the opening of this new property, Radisson Hotel Group now has 1,445 guest rooms in operation and under development in Ukraine and opens its first Radisson branded hotel not only in Odesa, but in the country. 

Offering 90 rooms, Radisson Hotel City Centre Odesa has been decorated in a soft Scandinavian style to create the perfect oasis for a stay in Odesa with cozy standard rooms alongside elegant and comfortable superior rooms with a Derybasivska view, overlooking the picturesque historical center of Odesa. Guests can enjoy an intimate dining experience at the elegant Gatto Nero Restaurant in the hotel’s cozy interior courtyard. 

With a modern, stylish layout, the restaurant serves an à la carte menu in a relaxed, casual ambiance. For business travellers interested in holding a meeting or event in Odesa, the hotel boasts conference space for up to 85 delegates.

Yilmaz Yildirimlar, Area Senior Vice President, Central & Eastern Europe, Russia and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, says, "We are delighted to open the doors of our first Radisson hotel in Odesa. Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to focus on a work/life balance and find harmony in their travel experience. We believe the brand has strong further potential across Ukraine market and also strengthening our position with over 1,445 guest rooms in operation and under development."

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