PUBLISHER’S NOTE In this issue two of the cities we spotlight are full of Hispanic influences – San Antonio preserves our history extremely well and Philadelphia is beginning to fully embrace it. One of our writers here at HM&T had the opportunity this year to visit San Antonio and experience the expansion of the famous Riverwalk which has increased its user friendly ease to tourists. This city is so rich in Hispanic history that you learn something new about our culture every time you visit. It beckons us to return to it again and again.
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Philadelphia is poised to become a prime choice for Hispanic meetings and conventions now and in the future. Later this year the National Conference of Puerto Rican Women and the National Society of Hispanic MBAs will be holding their respective conferences in Philadelphia so we have decided to take a closer look at the city of Brotherly Love. With new hotel development and renovations to existing properties Philadelphia offers accommodations and meeting space for any size event. ¡A visitar Philly y San Antonio!
María de la Luz González Publisher and Editor
SUMMER 2014
COVER STORY
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VOL 16
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NO 2
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12..........................Let’s Meet in Philadelphia!
FEATURES 08 ......................Texas Meeting Destinations 14 ....................New & Renovated Properties 18 ......Hispanic Association Meeting News 22 ..Hispanic Travel: Gulf Coast Destinations
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DEPARTMENTS 03 ..........................................Publisher’s Letter 04 ..............Contributing Editor’s Comments 04 ................................................................Credits 06 ................................................Industry Briefs Cover Photo Credit: View of the Philadelphia skyline and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Edward Savaria, Jr. for the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau.
In the Next Issue FALL 2014 • Southwest Meeting Destinations • Hispanics In The Industry • Meeting in the Mid-West • Convention Centers
“Mother Nature is screaming at us”
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR’S COMMENTS
Secretary of State John Kerry has stated “Mother Nature is screaming at us” in his effort to bring awareness to people around the globe to focus on environmental issues affecting planet earth. The issue of climate change remains a potentially world-shattering issue that just can't get the attention of the vast majority of the American people.
Recently, the People’s Climate March in New York City saw over 300,000 people participate including former Vice President Al Gore and Leonardo de Caprio the actor, who has been named by Ban Kimoon, the UN Secretary General, as a UN Messenger of Peace on Climate Change. Other climate change marches were held around the world.
The People’s Climate March was a huge topic on social media but America's biggest news organizations failed to cover the event even though the march was pegged to a UN summit that President Obama attended. For the most part, the mainstream media ignored the march. You can read or see more about the march on “Democracy Now” an independent, global weekday news hour anchored by award-winning journalists Amy Goodman and Juan González who covered the entire event live. See www.youtube.com/user/democracynow
Climate change could affect travel according to the White House climate change report that included a warning stating 13 of the nation’s largest airports will face increased risk of flooding. They include all three major airports serving New York City and three of Florida’s four largest airports.
The 13 airports are: Fort Lauderdale Int. Airport, Florida Honolulu International Airport, Hawaii Isla Grande Airport, San Juan, Puerto Rico John F. Kennedy Int. Airport, New York LaGuardia Airport, New York Louis Armstrong Int. Airport, New Orleans Miami International Airport Newark Liberty Int. Airport, New Jersey Oakland International Airport, California Philadelphia International Airport San Francisco International Airport Tampa International Airport, Florida
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington, D.C. 4 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
HispanicMeetingsTravel.com PUBLISHER Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. EDITOR María de la Luz González mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com FOUNDER & CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Margaret Gonzalez mgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com
Some of these facilities have already had a glimpse of the future. The 14-foot storm surge from Hurricane Sandy flooded all three New York airports in 2012. LaGuardia was closed for three days. Improvements are already underway at LaGuardia and JFK, and both San Francisco Bay Area airports are working on plans to protect against storm surges.
EcoAmerica has released a new report on African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino American attitudes, values, and motivations on climate change. The findings, in American Climate Values Survey indicate African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino Americans are slightly more convinced climate change is happening (74%, 83%, and 73% respectively vs. 71% of Americans overall and they are ready and willing to be engaged on climate solutions (65%, 80%, and 70% respectively versus 60% of Americans overall). The concern that "climate impacts are threatening our way of life" is a key issue for these groups. "For too long, important communities have not been well included in the climate change dialogue or the design of climate solutions." Bob Perkowitz, ecoAmerica Founder and President says "African, Asian, and Hispanic/Latino Americans are currently 37% of the U.S. population (U.S. Census Bureau, 2012). Their voices, ideas, and considerations are required for effective action on climate change. We hope this research will inspire and empower anyone working toward climate solutions to ensure their organizations, audiences, and initiatives engage the full representation of the American people." To download the report, visit http://ecoamerica.org/research/#ACVRE.
Get involved and help make a difference by bringing this topic before participants at your meetings and events.
Margaret Gonzalez Founder & Contributing Editor
DESIGN & PRODUCTION BAY AREA MEDIA SERVICES / SCENE MEDIA CREATIVE & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR - John Ennis www.bams.us / www.thescenemagazine.com ADVERTISING STEVEN GONZALEZ sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com MARIA GONZALEZ mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Americas Latino Eco Festival, Associated Luxury Hotels International, Brand USA, California LULAC Chapter, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Four Seasons, Galveston Island CVB, Gold Key | PHR Hotels & Resorts, Margaret Gonzalez, Maria de la Luz Gonzalez, Steven Gonzalez, IHG(InterContinental Hotels Group), Interfin Companies, Localeur, LULAC National, Philadelphia CVB, United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Washington Marriott Georgetown, White Lodging
PHOTOGR APHY Associated Luxury Hotels International, DigPicPhoto, Galveston Island CVB, Katie Haugland, IHG(InterContinental Hotels Group), Interfin Companies, International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals, Philadelphia CVB, PRNewsFoto/FourSeasons, Al Rendon, San Antonio CVB, Edward Savaria Jr., Washington Marriott Georgetown, Wikimedia Commons
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industrybriefs N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E
Four Seasons Launches New Vacation Rental Website Showcasing Portfolio of Exclusive Urban & Resort Residences Around the World Vacation rental guests can enjoy the comforts of home with access to signature Four Seasons customized service and luxury amenities
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our Seasons just made it easier to plan the perfect getaway with the launch of the Four Seasons Vacation Rental website. Guests can now browse through some of the world's most exclusive properties and select the ideal urban residence or resort villa that provides the comforts of home, backed by the promise of uncompromised luxury and customized service that is Four Seasons. Delivering a seamless user experience, visitors to the site can browse the collection of private luxury residences at vacationrentals.fourseasons.com through customized searches based on region or area of interest. Users can further target their search based on the number of guests, rooms, square footage and price in order to find the ideal holiday home to meet their needs – whether it be a luxury residence in the heart of downtown Houston or a holiday villa nestled on the coast of the Indian Ocean in the Seychelles. Each property page also features a comprehensive image gallery as well as a selection of a la carte services to further customize the experience – from booking a private Four Seasons chef or chauffeur to requesting a fully stocked fridge or childproofing before arrival and everything in between. "We're seeing a steady increase in multi-generational and small group travel – guests who want to get away with children, grandparents or groups of friends to 6 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
celebrate holidays or mark special moments – and these guests are looking at residential options," said Jose Soriano, Vice President, Worldwide Residential Operations, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "Whether a pied-a-terre in the city or a holiday villa, our new website takes the guess work out of finding a Four Seasons vacation rental that offers the privacy, space and freedom of being at home with an ideal base from which to explore a new destination, relax or entertain – all while having full access to Four Seasons signature service and amenities to deliver every comfort and luxury." Four Seasons employees are at the disposal of vacation rental guests to truly create a home away from home. This is in addition to enjoying access to all the exclusive services and amenities guests have come to expect from Four Seasons – including housekeeping, world-class spa and full service fitness facilities. Guests
can personalize their stay even further by selecting from a menu of items available exclusively to Four Seasons Residential guests. Four Seasons has been setting the benchmark in luxury travel for more than 50 years and was the first luxury hotel brand to extend the signature personalized service to the management of residences more than three decades ago. Four Seasons is now the first luxury hotel brand to launch a dedicated vacation rental website. This launch comes on the heels of the recently announced exclusive fully-customizable Four Seasons bed and the introduction of the hotel industry's first fully-branded private jet experience, making its inaugural flight in February 2015. To learn more about Four Seasons Vacation Rentals and browse the full collection of luxury properties, visit vacationrentals.fourseasons.com.
ith the release of Discover America: Great American Food Stories culinary guide, Brand USA, the destination marketing organization for the United States, is launching its culinary initiative aimed at promoting gastro-tourism and showcasing the U.S. as a top culinary destination for world travelers. “American cuisine captures inspiration from all over the world, truly embodying the diversity and history of the United States,” said Christopher L. Thompson, President and CEO of Brand USA. “We’re excited to invite travelers to experience the culinary highlights of each region of the country.” The Department of State’s Diplomatic Culinary Partnership, established in 2012 in cooperation with the James Beard Foundation, collaborated with Brand USA to produce the guide, which is published in six languages. The guide features thirty-one James Beard affiliated chefs with
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recipes from all regions of the U.S. Five of the chefs featured in the culinary guide will travel to five different key markets in Asia. The chefs’ travel will coincide with U.S. Independence Day celebrations at U.S missions in China, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. The participating chefs include: Rick Bayless of Chicago, IL; Tory McPhail of New Orleans, LA; Barbara Lynch of Boston, MA; Bryce Gilmore of Austin, TX; and Sam Kass of Washington, D.C. The guide will be available in other markets where Brand USA has representation. A digital platform for the Discover America culinary guide will be broadcast on all Brand USA channels, and will include U.S. culinary destinations and Discover America: Great American Food Stories culinary Q&A sessions with participating chefs. guide features Chef Tory McPhail of New Orleans, LA. Brand USA invites travelers to visit its consumer call-to-action at Discover- experiences on social media platforms America.com/foodstories and to share utilizing the hash-tag #FoodStoriesUSA. their own U.S. food and culinary travel
Localeur Expands to Help More Travelers Avoid Tourist Traps Startup grows from six to 13 U.S. cities this summer ocaleur has doubled its reach this summer from six to 13 U.S. cities. Named the Best New Startup by Austin Monthly in 2013, Localeur expanded to Atlanta, Chicago, Denver and Miami before Memorial Day followed by New Orleans, Seattle and Washington, D.C. later in the summer. These cities will join its roster of Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco. "Since launching last year, Localeur's mission has been to help travelers experience cities the way locals do," said CEO Joah Spearman. "We've built an engaged community across the country, and we're ready to meet demand in more major U.S. travel destinations." Localeur has built a community of locals in each of its cities who provide authentic recommendations on where to
eat, drink, and play. While competitors focus on checkins and reviews, Localeur's hyper-focus on authenticity and curation helps travelers avoid places rated highly on sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor that many locals consider to be overrated or tourist traps. "We're experiencing exceptional month-over-month growth and user engagement is well above industry averages, which is tremendous validation of what we're doing and our unique value proposition to travelers and locals," said Chase White, co-founder and head of product. Localeur has built a diverse roster of early angel investors. Several Central Texas Angel Network members have invested led by consumer investor Chris Shonk, along with hedge fund specialist
Travis Devitt, former Microsoft technology executive Bart Robertson and former Freescale veteran and Rice University faculty member Michael Brogioli, Ph.D. "Localeur has all the things I look for in an early-stage investment: passionate and savvy founders who've built a great product with very little funding that serves a real consumer pain point in a large and growing market," said Brogioli, whose engineering firm works with General Electric and Thompson Reuters, among others. Several successful entrepreneurs have also invested in the company, including Ken Cho, who co-founded Spredfast and now leads the startup, People Pattern; Sweet Leaf Tea and Deep Eddy Vodka founder Clayton Christopher; WP Engine CEO Heather Brunner, who previously served as COO of Bazaarvoice; and Dre Hayes, co-founder of The Foundation, a notable lifestyle branding and sales firm. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 7
Hispanic Trends
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Brand USA Launches Culinary Initiative to Entice the World to Discover the Tastes of the United States
Texas Meeting Destinations
San Antonio River Improvements Project Ties City Together
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n 1929, Robert Harvey Harold Hugman outlined a plan for a basic San Antonio River walk. Hugman was later hired by hotelier Jack White, who took up the project and completed it in 1941. San Antonio hosted the World’s Fair in 1968, which spurred Riverwalk development into the regional and national destination it is today. In 1998, the San Antonio River Oversight Committee and the San Antonio River Improvements projects were created to revitalize the Riverwalk. The San Antonio River project includes four sections throughout the city. The Northern Museum Reach, Downtown Reach, Eagleland Project and Mission Reach. All four sections are accessible via walkways along the entire length.
The Northern Museum reach includes two segments the Urban segment and the Park segment. The park segment is under construction and will be complete in 2015. This section of the river includes access to the Witte Museum and the San Antonio Museum of Art. The San Antonio Zoo and Breckenridge park also part of this section. The Witte Museum was established in 1926 and welcomes over 350,000 visitors each year. The Museum features a number of exhibits on natural history, science, and South Texas Heritage. The Witte has meeting and event spaces for groups of 10 up to 1,500 guests.
The Eagleland Project includes the Eagleland Zone and King William Zone. Both zones include launch & recovery areas for kayakers. The Eagleland section has undergone an extensive Ecosystem Restoration Project which will be managed by the San Antonio River Authority. The project is located along the river just south of downtown and stretches approximately one mile of the river’s length.
The Mission reach includes access to four Spanish missions and adjacent city parks, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and Mission Espada. Mission Concepcion is the first mission along the southern portion of the river and is 3 miles from downtown. Mission Concepcion has river access through Concepcion Park, and is located near Riverside Golf Course. Mission San Jose is located beyond Mission Concepcion, six miles from downtown on the west bank of the San Antonio River. Mission San Jose visitors can access the Riverwalk via Padre Park. Mission San Juan is located down river from Mission San Jose, and is surrounded by the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Mission San Juan is eight and half miles from downtown. Mission Espada is the last mission along the river and is 10 miles from downtown. Each mission is operated by the Texas State Parks Division and is open to visitors daily. The Mission Reach section is also undergoing an ecosystem restoration project. The Mission reach portion of the river is an eight mile stretch that includes 113 acres of aquatic habitat, 334 acres of restored riparian woodlands habitat, fifteen miles of trails, nine water edge landings, six foot bridges and four pavilions. For more information on the San Antonio Riverwalk projects visit the San Antonio River Authority at www.sara-tx.org. For information on booking your next meeting in San Antonio visit: www.visitsanantonio.com.
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Texas Meeting Destinations
Associated Luxury Hotels International Expands Texas Portfolio
ssociated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) has expanded its exclusive portfolio of Fourand Five-Diamond quality meeting, convention and incentive hotels and resorts, as well as its portfolio offerings in Texas, with the addition of two hotels. The impressive AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, located by The University of Texas at Austin, and the extraordinary Omni Dallas Hotel in Dallas, have been accepted into ALHI’s worldwide portfolio, becoming ALHI’s seventh and eighth Member hotels in Texas. ALHI now provides Global Sales Organization (GSO) support, expertise, and sales services to meeting professionals, association executives, incentive/recognition specialists, and business executives in North America interested in conducting meetings and/or programs at the hotels.
AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, ideally situated in downtown Austin at the south entrance to The University of Texas at Austin, features 297 stylish guest rooms and 40,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel’s 37 different meeting spaces include: • A 300-seat tiered Amphitheater • Multiple tiered classrooms • An 800-seat divisible ballroom • 18 breakout rooms (ranging from 200 to 600 square feet).
In addition, the hotel’s state-of-the-art telepresence environment enables meeting participants to connect virtually with up to 48 locations, 24/7. Conveniently located just four blocks from the Texas State Capitol, the hotel also features complimentary highspeed internet (wired and wireless), a 24-hour fitness center, a heated outdoor pool, the award-winning and sophisticated Carillon Restaurant, Gabriel’s Café, and One Twenty 5 Café. The use of University of Texas campus recreational facilities and pools also may be arranged at the hotel. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just eight miles away.
The Omni Dallas Hotel, the recipient of many of the meetings industry’s highest honors, offers 110,000 square feet of meeting
space, with 39 meeting rooms that includes the 31,733-square-foot Dallas Ballroom and the 15,418-square-foot Trinity Ballroom. Located in the center of the revitalized downtown Dallas, the hotel is connected via sky bridge to the Dallas Convention Center, providing convenient access to 2.1 million square feet of meeting space. Featuring a contemporary reflective glass exterior, the luxurious 23-story hotel offers 1,001 guest rooms, which includes 67 spacious suites and three presidential suites. The hotel also features the full-service Mokara Spa, a rooftop terrace pool deck, a spacious state-of-the-art fitness center with stunning views of downtown, a heated infinity swimming pool, a sauna, the nationallyrenowned Bob’s Steak & Chop House restaurant, the farm-to-table restaurant Texas Spice, The Owner’s Box interactive sports bar, a gourmet coffee shop, and a lobby lounge. The American Airlines Center (home to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks) is just 1.4 miles away, and DFW International Airport is 19 miles from the hotel.
“Texas continues to be a very popular and convenient destination for meetings and conventions, and these two outstanding hotels handsomely augment our offerings and are two of the very best meeting hotels and facilities in the state,” said David Gabri, CEO of ALHI. “Each features an excellent location, exceptional meeting facilities, and first-class facilities and service. They are very welcome additions to our worldwide portfolio.”
On the ALHI website, www.alhi.com, planners can quickly see details of the properties’ meeting, accommodation, recreational and dining offerings, as well as destination information and “Luxury on Sale” value opportunities. A photo gallery, meeting floor plans and specs, and a location map for each property are also easily available.
For more information about ALHI, to inquire about any of the ALHI member properties, and/or to acquire a free copy of ALHI’s “2014 Global Sales Guide To Meeting Facilities” or the new ALHI app, contact your nearest ALHI Global Sales Office, or call the “ALHI Group Desk” toll-free at 866-303ALHI(2544), or visit www.alhi.com. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 9
Texas Meeting Destinations
Luxury Tuscan Style Hotel "Hotel Granduca Austin" Begins Construction
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onstruction has begun on a new luxury hotel – the Hotel Granduca Austin. The hotel will sit atop the hillside near Bee Caves Road and Loop 360. The 194-room hotel is scheduled for completion in late 2015.
The hotel is based on innovative Houston developer Giorgio Borlenghi's vision of old-world Italian sophistication and modern luxury similar in style to the original Hotel Granduca in Houston, Texas. The hotel will echo the classical grace of a private Tuscan villa with common areas and rooms filled with elegant touches and a warm ambiance making guests feel at home from the minute they arrive.
"We selected this location for the hotel just a few minutes from downtown, in the gorgeous, highly visible and accessible Westlake area, providing a unique oasis of sophistication and elegance, unlike any Austin hotel" said Alex Borlenghi, Vice President of Development for Interfin, the hotel’s developer. "This will be a perfect destination for business and social guests, as well as corporate events and weddings."
The Hotel Granduca in Houston is a member of "The Leading Hotels of the World," a designation that will be sought for the Hotel Granduca Austin as well.
A highlight of the new property will be its stunning ballroom seating up to 220 guests making the hotel an ideal location for
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weddings. Additionally, numerous private conference rooms with state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment make the hotel the perfect spot for business meetings and corporate retreats.
Hotel Granduca Austin will also feature northern Italian cuisine similar to the Houston Hotel Granduca's award winning Ristorante Cavour – recently named the best Italian restaurant in Houston. "Like our Houston location, it will be a private sanctuary for everyone from elite clientele and celebrities to business leaders whether they are visiting the restaurant and bar, utilizing our conference rooms and event spaces or enjoying a morning cappuccino overlooking the area vistas,” said Giorgio Borlenghi, President of Interfin.
JW Marriott Austin Announces New Opening Date More Than 310,000 Room Nights Already Contracted
hite Lodging announced earlier this year that the JW Marriott Austin is ahead of schedule and will now open on Friday, February 20, 2015. More than 310,000 room nights have already been contracted, with the first groups arriving the day the hotel opens.
When the JW Marriott Austin opens, it will be the largest hotel in Austin, the largest JW Marriott in the U.S. and the second largest JW Marriott in the world. The hotel is designed to host large conventions and meetings, with more than 112,000 square feet of event space, 42 meeting rooms and 1,012 guest rooms.
"The City of Austin is excited to showcase our city to many new people, businesses and organizations from around the world," 10 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Bob Lander, president and CEO of the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, said. "To have already booked more than 300,000 rooms illustrates the interest in Austin as not only a tourist destination, but also as a key hub for many different industries and businesses.”
The JW Marriott Austin recently added two new hires to the staff—Director of Event Planning, Jeff Stutts, and Director of Catering, Linda Poole.
Stutts previously held positions as the director of event management at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter and director of event planning at the JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton at the LA LIVE center. Poole previously worked as the director of catering and conference services at the
Driskill Hotel in Austin.
"We are excited about these very talented new additions to our team," Jay Spurr, director of sales and marketing for the JW Marriott Austin, said. "Jeff and Linda have a successful track record with hotel event planning and catering, and we know they will bring that same level of success and commitment to the JW Marriott Austin."
The JW Marriott Austin will feature three restaurants including a full-service regional Italian restaurant, a restaurant highlighting local Texas cuisine and a restaurant with a walk-up food truck-style window on Congress Ave. The hotel will also achieve a LEED Silver certification and two-star Austin Energy Green Building rating. For an inside look at the hotel and its current progress visit, http://youtu.be/8q6WDavkego.
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Cover Story
PHILADELPHIA
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ENJOYING A HOTEL DEVELOPMENT & RENOVATION SURGE hiladelphia’s hotel landscape is once again experiencing a surge of activity with a host of recently opened developments, renovation projects and newly announced properties. Among the planned properties is a 200-room Four Seasons, an SLS International, a combined W and Element property and most recently, a 199-room Kimpton Hotel.
“The hotel landscape in Philadelphia is attracting national attention for all the right reasons. Over the next few years we expect Philadelphia’s reputation as a modern renaissance city and smart choice for hotel development to take root even further, ultimately benefitting our customers from around the world,” said Jack Ferguson, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) President & CEO. Here’s a roundup of what’s hot on the hotel scene in Philadelphia:
Recently Announced Projects
A 700-room, 780,000 square foot W and Element Hotel by Westin is planned for 1441 Chestnut St. The property will offer 41,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, an 8,600-square-foot restaurant, and a 185-space, below-grade parking garage.
A new $85 million, 199-room Kimpton Hotel will be built at 1801 Vine Street along the prominent Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The building is currently serving as home to the Family Division of the Court of Common Pleas is listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places and the planned redevelopment will incorporate its important historic elements, including the preservation and maintenance of its 37 historic interior murals. The new hotel will feature 199 guest 12 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
rooms, 16,000 square feet of spa and fitness space, 14,000 square feet of meeting and event space and 5,800 square feet for a restaurant and bar. Construction is expected to commence in late 2014 or early 2015, with expected completion of the hotel in 2016 or 2017.
Comcast Corporation and Liberty Property Trust recently announced today plans to develop the "Comcast Innovation and Technology Center" on the 1800 block of Arch Street in Center City Philadelphia. The proposed 59-story, 1,121-foot tower will house a Four Seasons hotel with more than 200 rooms. The luxury hotel will include world-class spa, fitness, event and meeting facilities as well as an exciting new restaurant located on the top floor of the building, offering spectacular 360 degree city views.
Plans are underway for a 47-story tower at Broad and Spruce Streets across from the Kimmel Center. The 422,838-square-foot SLS International mixed-use luxury boutique hotel and condominium tower will feature 149 hotel rooms occupying 11 floors. Groundbreaking is expected to take place in the fall of 2014, with the project slated to take two years to be completed.
Undergoing/Recently Completed Renovations
The Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel is in the middle of a multi-million dollar renovation which includes an expansive revitalization of the hotel’s lobby as well as a state-of-the-art redesign of all 58,000 square feet of meeting space including the 20,000 square foot Liberty Ballroom.
The Liberty Ballroom, which is the second-largest of its kind in Philadelphia, is receiving wall coverings, décor and carpet, along with the entire Mezzanine level. sheratonphiladelphiadowntown.com
All 581 guestrooms in Center City’s Loews Philadelphia Hotel on Market Street have been fully renovated with new furniture, wall coverings and bathroom refreshers, providing state-of-the-art, working luxury rooms for guests. The hotel also added five new meeting rooms that can accommodate 10-40 people each, a new FedEx business center and upgraded spa fitness center facilities. loewsphiladelphiahotel.com
The Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia recently completed a refurbishment of its ballroom and meeting spaces with artinspired urban modern décor. Phase two of the renovation project will include a redesigned lobby in addition to a new façade and pool area slated to be complete in September. sonesta.com/Philadelphia
The Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown completed a $16 million dollar renovation in March. courtyardphiladelphiadowntown.com
The Westin Philadelphia recently completed a full renovation of its lobby, restaurant and bar. It also added 1200 sq. feet of meeting space as well as a new private dining area. starwoodhotels.com The Morris House Hotel completed minor refurbishment to its courtyard gardens and upgraded its furniture and bathrooms. morrishousehotel.com
The Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District has renovated all of its 135 rooms in addition to all public and meeting space. Its lobby and restaurant was also upgraded with the restaurant converted to a large private dining room which can be used as additional meeting space. The final phase of the renovation will included a completely new façade. phillydowntownhotel.com
New & Renovated Properties Washington Marriott Georgetown Unveils New Greatroom
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ashington Marriott Georgetown, situated at 1221 22nd Street at M Street, NW, near Washington, DC’s historic Georgetown, recently unveiled its new vibrant Greatroom lobby. The reimagined Greatroom is part of Marriott Hotels brand initiative to transform lobbies from a formal living room into a local destination where people spend time, by themselves or with friends or colleagues, to relax, socialize or get work done.
“We are thrilled to introduce our new look to the neighborhood,” said Kori Johnson, general manager, Washington Marriott Georgetown. “Our guests desire interesting spaces, which create a sophisticated yet relaxing ambiance that fosters relaxation, work and social gatherings. Our Greatroom lobby has delivered that and more and we’re excited for our guests to experience our Greatroom in person.”
Whitespace Interiors, of Chicago, Ill., re-envisioned the lobby to capture the essence of Georgetown’s historic character. The furnishings complement this new aesthetic with tailored and comfortable forms that are rooted in tradition. Custom hand-woven area rugs that depict the streets and cobblestones of old Georgetown line the floor as a reminder of the hotel’s vibrant and cosmopolitan location.
Washington Marriott Georgetown’s Greatroom features a new “5/10/20” 14 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
menu designed by Executive Chef Lauren Uthenwoldt, which consists of locally sourced small bites, shareable plates and lounge friendly entrees. In addition, the Greatroom features a welcoming reception area designed to make it easier for guests and hotel staff to interact. With free Wi-Fi and power outlets throughout, guests and locals can boot up and work on their laptops or kick back and relax with their own tablets.
Washington Marriott Georgetown also features new Marriott Hotels brand technology, designed for guests who embrace the mobile lifestyle for work as well as leisure. Apps include:
-Red Coat Direct (www.redcoatdirect.marriott.com), a first-of-its-kind app that lets
meeting organizers adjust and edit their meeting requests and preferences with a touch of a button and without ever leaving the meeting room.
-Mobile Check-In & Check-Out (www.marriott.com/marriott/mobileapps.mi), that provides an enhanced arrival experience with check-in up to two hours before arrival and automatic notifications when a room is ready.
- Workspace On Demand (www.workspaceondemand.marriott.com) powered by Liquidspace, that allows guests to book both free and paid meeting spaces as easily as they book a guest room. For more information, visit www.MarriottHotels.com.
New & Renovated Properties Norfolk & Gold Key l PHR Hotels & Resorts Launch The Main
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Downtown Norfolk’s Newest Destination
n a ceremonial groundbreaking earlier this year the City of Norfolk and Gold Key l PHR Hotels & Resorts Officially Launched The Main, a mixed-use conference center, entertainment, dining and Hilton hotel destination in Downtown Norfolk.
The $126 million public/private initiative is expected to open in 2017. The vision behind the project is to create a place-maker for Downtown. A collaboration of the country’s top designers, architects and consultants were assembled for the project. Gold Key l PHR Hotels & Resorts is the developer working with the City of Norfolk and Norfolk Hotel Associates.
“The Main is a transformational development with a design that gives the city a stunning architectural landmark and will be unique in the conference market,” said Norfolk Mayor Paul D. Fraim. “Downtown’s newest destination is an investment in our future that will grow and diversify our economy generating jobs and revenue for all of Norfolk. A technologically advanced facility, The Main complements Norfolk’s growing arts, food and entertainment culture.”
“Our goal is to create an iconic terminus in Downtown that rivals those in major metropolitan cities along the East Coast,” said Bruce Thompson, CEO of Gold Key l PHR Hotels & Resorts. “We are very clear that this is not just a hotel but will clearly be a destination for business and leisure travelers as well as locals. The Main will be a regional destination and a gathering place for downtown residents and business leaders after work. The striking structure and concept has been designed to complement Norfolk’s ongoing investment in Downtown. This destination will acknowledge Norfolk’s past, and build on its momentum.”
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Meeting Space
At the core of the destination will be The Exchange at The Main, a new conference and meeting center. It will be one of the most technically advanced meeting facilities in the country certified by the International Association of Conference Centers and SCIF-approved to accommodate government and defense contractors’ specifications for security. This will be the only meeting space in the Mid-Atlantic with both designations. The Exchange includes a stunning 50,000-square-foot ballroom in the Hilton to accommodate 1,500 people that will be the largest meeting space in the city.
Group Dining Venues
Three new restaurant venues will be added to Downtown’s growing foodie status in an already known for local, chef-inspired fare.
An urban seafood bistro will welcome guests on the ground floor. Using oldworld detailing and materials, the restaurant flows from lounge to bar to dining area for a variety of experiences. The bar are will be built with a stone mosaic floor and pewter bar top with both a raw bar and a sushi bar. The kitchen and fish-cutting room will serve as a backdrop to showcase a fresh seafood display with lobster tanks. Overlooking the entry and bar is a 2000bottle wine display and glassed-in private dining room. Black distressed millwork and large globe lighting throughout give a masculine yet comfortable feel to the dining room, with areas of exposed brick hinting at the integration of the historic Decker building into the structure. Two additional private dining rooms are available in the rear of the restaurant.
Varia is an Italian-inspired trattoria located on the second floor. The initial space is a wine lounge with more 100 bottles of wine and 50 by the glass. The
lounge is anchored at the end with a piano bar. The dining room includes an open kitchen, exposed pizza station and intricate detailing and finishes. The historic Decker building façade is also incorporated into the dining room. In the center of the dining room is a seating area adorned with a reclaimed chandelier from the Historic Cavalier Hotel ballroom. The dining room culminates in a large millwork library featuring hidden doors in the bookshelves leading into an ultra-private room.
On the fifth floor, Saluna, the roof garden and lounge, is being designed to bring the outside in, and take the inside out. Large garage doors on both sides of the space open to terraced patios with trees and lighting to invoke a backyard garden vibe. This space includes an oversized fire pit that doubles as a stage for live performances. The space offers spectacular views of the Elizabeth River. Other amenities include a large lawn chess set and billiard room.
Hilton Norfolk at The Main
The destination includes a 23-story luxury hotel – Hilton Norfolk at The Main. The 294 guest rooms, including 24 luxury suites and two presidential suites, will offer breathtaking views of the Elizabeth River and Downtown. The interiors will pamper guests with luxury appointments and timeless design. Everything from the furnishings, linens and bath products will reflect the highest quality finishes characteristic of other top Hilton properties around the world. Amenities include Empyrean Level Club, Concierge Lounge, indoor pool, business center, car service, one grand ballroom capable of seating 1,500 guests and a junior ballroom. For more information, visit www.goldkeyphr.com.
Hispanic Association Meeting News California LULAC State Convention Kicks Off with the Production ‘Veteranos: A Legacy of Valor’ as a Tribute to Latino Veterans
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he League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Californiastate members and community representatives from across the state gathered at the Westin Hotel in Long Beach, California for the annual LULAC State Convention from May 16 through May 18. This year’s convention kicked off with a tribute to Latino military veterans with a special presentation of the awardwinning play Veteranos: A Legacy of Valor on May 16th at the Veteran’s Breakfast.
Veteranos: A Legacy of Valor, written and directed by actor Enrique Castillo (Weeds, Blood in Blood Out), is a bilingual, multi-visual production with live music, dance and drama, complimented by slides and military archival video projections. The play re-counts the story of four Latinos who received the highest award given to military personnel by the President of the United States, the Congressional Medal of Honor. In light of President Obama awarding 17 more Lati-
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League of United Latin American Citizens
Long Beach, California the site of the 2014 California LULAC State Convention.
nos (to the existing 41) with the Medal of Honor last April, the play is even more relevant today.
empowers its members to create and develop opportunities where they are needed most.
The special presentation of Veteranos: A Legacy of Valor at the LULAC convention was a condensed version of the play, focusing on the story of California native Eugene Arnold Obregon a United States Marine who received his Medal of Honor for his service in the Korean Conflict.
This year, for the first time in LULAC's 85 year history, they opened their doors to the public. Some of the topics covered in the panels and workshops include civil rights, educational rights and core, California fracking, financial planning, employment opportunities, and health access among others.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), founded in 1929, is the oldest and most widely respected Hispanic civil rights organization in the United States of America. LULAC was created at a time in our country’s history when Hispanics were denied basic civil and human rights, despite contributions to American society. The founders of LULAC created an organization that
Veteranos: A Legacy of Valor director Castillo is honored to have been given the opportunity to present this important production at the convention. “This opportunity is priceless because it allows us to tell the stories of Latinos and their military service to this country dating back to the American Revolution,” Castillo said.
LULAC National Concludes Successful Convention in New York City he League of United Latin American Citizens concluded a very successful convention in New York City this past July with unprecedented attendance and star power. The organization drew over 20,000 people and featured First Lady Michelle Obama and Jennifer Lopez as speakers.
The expo hall, workshops and special events were at capacity and the organization addressed key issues impacting the Latino community including the humanitarian border crisis. LULAC leaders announced plans to partner with other organizations, corporations and federal agencies to provide emergency mate-
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rial assistance to the innocent child refugees being held in facilities throughout the United States.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.
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olorado has been selected as the home of the 2nd annual Americas Latino Eco Festival (ALEF) taking place in Denver and Boulder, September 11-15, 2014. The event, A New Shade of Green, is produced by Americas for Conservation + the Arts (AFC+A) and is presented in part by The Sierra Club and The Dairy Center of the Arts. In addition, ALEF will be launching the Hemispheric Conservation Latino Network (HCLN), a network about Latinovating environmental advocacy and the forging of a hemispheric coalition of Latino conservation leaders across national borders. ALEF will welcome celebrities, artists, scientists, and community and public policy leaders of the Americas to discuss the environmental and health problems our communities face, to propose solutions and to awaken diverse communities to
take an active role in the environmental movement. Some celebrities include environmental global leader Jean-Michel Cousteau and actor/social activist and educator, Edward James Olmos. Puerto Rican Boulder resident and festival founder, Irene Vilar, launched ALEF fueled by the region's diverse Latino population. Latin Americans have "nature" in their genes and it resonates in their religions, social structures and agricultural practices. The joint mission is to reconnect Latin Americans with this "green" legacy. With a motto of "A New Shade of Green," ALEF promotes environmental awareness by curating a novel annual platform for dialogue and mobilization for a just society and universal access to a healthy environment. "Latinos are increasingly concerned with creating and living sustainable lives
and reconnecting with their cultural origins which were, and are, intrinsically green, nature driven, and traditionally marked by recycling and upcycling," said Vilar. "There is a need to empower and validate the green cultural heritage of Latinos and recast the green national conversation that frames Latinos as the solution and not the problem." Some of the ALEF highlights include: 50 presenters, 20 films with five directors, a K-12 Eco Exhibit called "Migrating Birds of the Americas" with 20 schools, 10 arts exhibits with seven artists present for workshops, a Family Day with a Latinovating Food Fiesta, a Green Goods Fair, a Migrar en Palabras Book Expo, a Performance Fest, and a Green Colorado Entrepreneurs Challenge. For more information visit www.americaslatinofestival.org.
CHCI Announces 37th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Events
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"Building Our Future, Together"
he Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), the nation's leading Hispanic leadership development and educational services organization, announced the theme Building Our Future, Together for its 37th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in Washington, D.C. on September 30October 2, 2014. CHCI hosts the nation's premier events commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM), which draw more than 3,000 Latino leaders from across the country to its Public Policy Conference, Reyes of Comedy, and Annual Awards Gala in Washington, D.C. "This year's theme and events reflect the growing strength of our community and the tremendous impact Latinos will have on the future success of America," said Esther Aguilera, CHCI President & CEO. "For the past 37 years, CHCI has worked together with its board of directors, advisory council, strategic partners and other stakeholders to successfully build a pipeline of talent by educating, empowering and connecting the next generation of Latino leaders." Legendary East Los Angeles Chicano rock band Los Lobos will perform at the 37th Annual Awards Gala on October 2. The multiple Grammy Award-winning band, influenced by rock and roll, Tex-Mex, folk, R&B, blues, brown-eyed soul, and tradi-
tional music such as cumbia, boleros and norteños, celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2014. CHCI kicks off its 2014 Hispanic Heritage Month events with its annual Public Policy Conference at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center on September 30-October 1. This year, CHCI Chair Rep. Rubén Hinojosa will be joined by Congressional Hispanic Caucus members, administration officials, and national experts and scholars to participate in timely discussions of major policy issues affecting the Latino community. To complement the conference, CHCI's Ready to Lead (R2L®) program educates and engages high school students in policy discussions while preparing them for college. On October 1, CHCI will hold its 14th Annual Reyes of Comedy. This popular event features both established Latino comedians as well as emerging Latino talent for a night of exceptional entertainment. The closing and premier event of the conference is CHCI's 37th Annual Awards Gala at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. This prestigious dinner recognizes CHCI's highest honorees and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of Latino leaders who are giving back to their communities. For more information call CHCI at 202-543-1771 or visit www.chci.org. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 19
hispanic association meeting news
Colorado to Host Largest Latino-themed Environmental Festival, “A New Shade of Green”
INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS
hispanic association meeting news
USHCC Announces Houston to Host 2015 National Convention
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he United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) has announced its 2015 National Convention—the largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders in the country—will be held September 2022, 2015 in Houston, Texas. The annual convention is a premier event for America's small business community, convening thousands of Hispanic entrepreneurs, national and international corporate executives, top government officials, and representatives from local chambers and business associations throughout the country. "We are thrilled to bring the USHCC 2015 National Convention to Houston, a city with a defining American story, and where our community's roots are deeply embedded and widely celebrated. The city of Houston has served as a major hub for attracting world-class innovation, captains of industry, and the brightest minds from across the globe. Today, the city is home to 27 Fortune 500 headquarters, five major professional sports teams, the largest and most advanced medical complex in the world, 60 colleges and universities, and is hailed as the energy capital of the world," said USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "Few places reflect America's economic and cultural strength more than Houston, and we look forward to celebrating the success of our nation's Hispanic business community in the Lone Star State." Each year, the USHCC National Convention is held at a destination that is renowned for its economic prowess, probusiness environment, and embrace of diversity. The USHCC National Convention is the largest gathering of its kind, and through its nearly 6,000 attendees each year, produces a surge in economic activity and business contracting for the host city. "Texas has cultivated an economic climate where any business can grow and thrive, and that makes the Lone Star State, exemplified by Houston, a natural fit for the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 2015 National Convention," Gov.
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The 2015 USHCOC Convention will take place in Houston, Texas.
Perry said. "Our combination of low taxes, fair courts, smart regulations and accountable schools has helped make our state the national leader in job creation over the past decade, and we welcome this opportunity to showcase what our state has to offer to entrepreneurs from across the country." "Houston is excited to have been chosen to host the 2015 USHCC National Convention," said Mayor Annise Parker. "We are the most ethnically and culturally diverse city in the nation, a city with an entrepreneurial spirit that promotes envious job growth and a diversified, business friendly economy. In short, if you can dream it, you can achieve it here. We look forward to welcoming USHCC convention attendees and urge them to set aside some time for exploring our great city. You could spend 365 days in our city and still not experience everything we have to offer. Showing visitors a good time is what we do." Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and the largest city in Texas, with a thriving half-trillion dollar economy, an estimated 150,000 Hispanic-owned firms, and a diverse business community operating across a broad spectrum of industries. Houston is one of the most affordable cities in America, and the no. 1 job-creating city in the country, with an unemployment rate significantly below the national average. According to the U.S. Census, over one-third of Houstonians
identify as being Hispanic. "Houston's economy is thriving, resilient, and embodies the type of growth that we look forward to seeing in our nation as a whole. As a city with a growing Hispanic population, and in a state whose economy has consistently proven to be among our nation's best, Houston makes perfect sense to host the USHCC's next National Convention," said USHCC Chairman of the Board Marc Rodriguez. "The role our constituency plays is engrained in the American story, and we look forward to sharing that perspective in Houston next year." Signature events of the USHCC National Convention include the Million Dollar Club (MDC), which recognizes companies that invest $25 million to $1 billion in Hispanic-owned businesses; the HBE Elite Luncheon, which pays tribute to the largest Hispanic Business Enterprises (HBE) in America; the ERG Summit, the only event of its kind which brings together the Employee Resource Groups (ERG) of over 100 corporations looking to increase diversity, develop talent, and recruit the best and brightest employees; and the CEO Panel, a candid, revealing, and informative discussion about management style, leadership philosophy and the economic outlook in today's global market. To learn more, visit www.ushccconvention.com/2015.
HISPANIC TRAVEL
IHG Opens New Beachfront Holiday Inn Resort® in Fort Walton Beach, Fla
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Resort located near several water and adventure parks
nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has opened the Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach. The beachfront resort is located directly on the Gulf of Mexico in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, with stunning ocean views.
“The Holiday Inn Resort brand continues to grow in key vacation destinations, and we are thrilled to welcome this property into the Holiday Inn® Portfolio of Brands,” said Heather Balsley, senior vice president, Americas Holiday Inn Brand Family. “The brand is one guests have come to know and trust, aimed at providing family vacation experiences that create lasting memories at our diverse group of properties.” The Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach is located at 1299 Miracle Strip Parkway and directly across the street from the Emerald Coast Convention Center, with the Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field both just a short drive away. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located near other local attractions such as the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park and The Track Family Recreational Center. The 152-room resort includes five floors, and features KidSuites® Rooms which are smaller rooms within a guestroom, designed specifically with kids in mind to include bunk beds, themed décor and a TV with electronic video games. The resort has a well-equipped fitness center, business center, game room and 2,500 sq. feet of beachfront meeting space, as well as an outdoor pool with a lazy river and waterfall, hot tub, indoor pool and a Kids Club, an activity program for the whole family offering free on-site activities. On-site activities include Dive-Inn movies by the pool and interactive pirate and mermaid shows. Guests can also enjoy dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Riptides Restaurant and Sports Bar as well as grab cocktails at the poolside tiki bar.
“We are excited to join the growing Holiday Inn Resort brand portfolio,” said Keith Myers, general manager. “This property is located in an ideal resort destination with many leisure activities for guests to enjoy close by and we look forward to providing guests with the op22 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
portunity to make lasting memories at our resort with their family and friends.” The Holiday Inn Resort Fort Walton Beach participates in IHG Green Engage – IHG’s proprietary online sustainability tool. This unique program enables the hotel to identify means to conserve resources, increase energy savings and ably respond to any future increases in energy prices or carbon taxes.
About the Holiday Inn Resort® brand With 38 properties worldwide, the Holiday Inn Resort brand offers family fun and relaxation from a brand name guests know and trust. Located in many of the world’s leading resort destinations, each property makes the most of its great location and offers quality accommodations, facilities and activities. Guests enjoy amenities such as multiple food options, whether poolside or in a restaurant, swimming pools, fitness centers as well as tailored services for children such as KidSuites® Rooms and a Children’s Activity Program. All Holiday Inn Resort properties also offer nightly on-site entertainment from live bands and karaoke to comedy shows. For more information about the Holiday Inn Resort brand or to book reservations, call 1-800-HOLIDAY or visit www.ihg.com/holidayinnresort.
HISPANIC TRAVEL
5 New Things to Do in Galveston This Year G
alveston Island was recently named one of the “Top 10 Destinations on the Rise in the U.S.” by Trip Advisor, and with a variety of new experiences being offered in 2014, it’s not hard to see why.
When heading to Galveston this summer, the island’s 32 miles of beaches and classic attractions won’t be the only draw. Here’s a look at new things to do on the island.
Explore the New Ropes Course & Zip Line at Moody Gardens: Challenge your agility, balance and strength at Moody Gardens as you encounter the Gulf Coast's tallest fivetier Sky Trail Explorer Ropes Course and new Zip Line opening May 3. Ranging from Criss-Cross Tight Ropes to Burma Buckets, the 71-foot Ropes Course is filled with 48 fascinating obstacles. Thrill seekers can then glide 60 feet in the air on the Moody Gardens Zip Line for a bird's eye view of the Moody Gardens Pyramids and tropical gardens. For details, visit www.moodygardens.com.
Get Thrilled with New “Screaming Serpents” Ride at Schlitterbahn: Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark is opening a new ride this summer, sure to please thrill-seekers looking to beat the heat. The Screaming Serpents ride includes two high-speed body slides wrapped tightly around each other 60 feet in the air. Riders will swish back and forth inside the bellies of the “serpents” and narrowly escape through their giant mouths. Screaming Serpents is a totally immersive thrill slide experience, enhanced by fog, light and sound effects. Translucent multicolored stripes on the slides create light effects throughout the twisting course of the ride. The new attraction opens May 31. For information, visit www.schlitterbahn.com/galveston.
Treat Yourself at New Restaurants: The island’s culinary scene is buzzing with the opening of several new restaurants this year. Number 13 Prime Steak & Seafood offers big city cuisine with a locally focused menu and waterfront view from Pelican Rest Ma-
rina. In addition to its upscale main dining room, Number 13 offers a more casual, outdoor two-story terrace with live music Thursday through Sunday. For details, visit www.number13steak.com. In addition, the San Luis Resort recently opened Blake’s Bistro and the poolside Cup + Cone, serving gelato and other goodies. For details, visit www.sanluisresort.com.
Go on a Paddle Board Excursion: Hit the waves in Galveston this summer on a paddle surfing excursion with Ohana Surf & Skate. Ohana offers a wide selection of stand up paddle boards for all skill levels as well as experienced instructors to guide you along the way. Lessons include one-on-one instruction on the beach and in the water. Visit www.ohanasurfandskate.com for details.
Explore with Marine Biology Tours at the Texas Seaport Museum: Galveston Historical Foundation is offering a new tour to the public this summer. The Marine Biology Tour provides participants with a hands-on opportunity to observe dolphins and other species in their natural habitat, trawl for and handle marine organisms, study plankton through a microscopic lens and explore Galveston Bay’s rich history. The tour takes place twice a month now through August onboard the SEAGULL II catamaran that is docked at the Texas Seaport Museum. The tour is $15 for adults and $12 for youth ages 6 to 18. For reservations, contact the Texas Seaport Museum at 409763-1877 or visit www.galvestonhistory.org. For new experiences at Galveston lodging venues, visit the newly renovated Moody Gardens Hotel, which just completed a massive update of its 428 guest rooms, spa and more. Or, stay at the waterfront Harbor House Hotel & Marina at Pier 21, which unveiled a full renovation in February. For a full list of accommodations venues and for more information on Galveston, visit www.galveston.com. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 23
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