contents WINTER 2016 | VOL/ 18 | NO/4
8 16
Cover Story
Departments
8 | 2017 MEETINGS GUIDE
4
| EDITOR’S COMMENTS
6
| INDUSTRY BRIEFS –
Destination DC – Helps travelers book hotels, plan itineraries for the 58th Presidential Inauguration. Phoenix – Highly anticipated FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel and MATCH Cuisine & Cocktails is now open.
14 | MEETING PLANNER INCENTIVES
Milwaukee – Meetings made easy in this mid-western city.
20 | AIR TRAVEL Aeromexico unveils Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner called “Quetzacoatl”
Feature
21 | GAMING DESTINATIONS
16 | NEW PROPERTIES Spotlighting the W Las Vegas and Sheraton Grand London Park Lane
6
“Enhance Your Meeting Experience” promotion at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis
New MGM National Harbor on the Banks of the Potomac River
22 | INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
20
W Hotels Worldwide to open in Portugal
In the Next Issue
14 21
SPRING 2017 • East Coast Meetings • Hispanic Meeting Trends • Florida Meeting Destinations • Summer Travel • Convention Hotels
www.hispanicmeetingstravel .com | HM&T
3
EDITOR’S COMMENT
Looking Towards the Future of Our Industry
A
HispanicMeetingsTravel.com
PUBLISHER Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. www.GonzalezGlobalMedia.com
EDITOR María de la Luz González mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com FOUNDER & CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Margaret Gonzalez mgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com
DESIGN & PRODUCTION MARGIL VILLARREAL DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Margil Villarreal
s we continue to reel from the
mid-western city can
result of the 2016 Presidential
provide big city accom-
election we must look towards
modations, trends and
the future and what lies ahead
logistics within an easy
Steven Gonzalez
in 2017 for the travel and meetings industries.
to navigate city centre
sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com
We can only conjure at the effect any poten-
that appeals to any sized
tial travel initiatives presented by the new
event or conference.
administration may have on our meetings,
This issue of Hispanic Meetings & Travel
conferences and events as well as the travel
also spotlights some amazing hotels from
industry as a whole.
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR - Christian Villarreal www.margilvillarreal.com
ADVERTISING
Maria Gonzalez mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Aeromexico, Chase Park Plaza, Destination DC,
around the world that will entice planners and
Lucy Sarabia, Maria Gonzalez,
The one city with an immediate impact
travelers alike. From 2 new W hotels, one in
Marriott International, MGM National Harbor,
from the election is of course our capital,
Las Vegas and one coming to Portugal in
Washington, D.C. As the city prepares for the
2018, to the Sheraton Grand London Park
inauguration of our 45th President we at His-
Lane and the Luxurious New MGM National
panic Meetings & Travel have highlighted the
Harbor on the Banks of the Potomac River,
preparations the city is undergoing for this
these amazing accommodation choices are
incredible event that comes every 4 to 8
amazing make us want to make a reservation
years. Destination DC, the official destination
as soon as we finish reading about them.
FOUND:RE Phoenix, Steven Gonzalez, Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, Southwest Airlines, W Hotels Worldwide
PHOTOGRAPHY Aeromexico, Chase Park Plaza, Destination DC, GGM, Marriott, MGM National Harbor, FOUND:RE Phoenix, Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, Southwest Airlines, Visit Milwaukee, W Hotels Worldwide
marketing organization for the city, provides
It is great to see the hotel industry booming
the resources necessary to navigate all the
especially given the fact that 8 years ago we
events during inauguration week and is a
were in the mist of one of the greatest eco-
valuable tool to any meeting planner or asso-
nomic crises this country had ever seen. With
ciation planning an event there. It is fitting
that in mind, we cautiously look towards the
that Destination DC is spotlighted in the 2017
future of our country, our industry and our
W E B PA G E
Meetings Guide.
community under a new White House admin-
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com
We also highlight a new and trendy hotel in Phoenix, the FOUND:RE Phoenix hotel. This
istration. Only time will tell if this administration will favor us or not.
property will easily appeal to those associations looking for a trendy and avant-garde
¡Que nuestro futuro siga brillando!
location to inject dynamic energy to their
María de la Luz González
meetings and inspire attendees. Another des-
Publisher and Editor
tination that seeks to inspire the Hispanic meetings community is Milwaukee. This 4 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. 2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300 League City, Texas 77573 Telephone - 281-245-3330 Fax - 281-668-9199
WEB MASTER - Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. Hispanic Meetings & Travel ISSN #1527-8387 is owned and published by Gonzalez Global Media, at 2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300, League City, Texas 77573 C 1999-2016 All Rights Reserved. Hispanic Meetings & Travel cannot by held responsible for unsolicited material. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for any unsolicited material and will return only those accompanied by stamped selfaddressed envelope. We reserve the right to edit all copy. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the publisher. Subscription rates: $30.00 per year within the USA, $52.50 in Canada, and $75.00 elsewhere. All subscriptions must be paid in U.S. currency. Single copies: U.S. $5.00, Canada $8.75, and $12.50 elsewhere. Produced in the USA.
industrybriefs
N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL CONTINUES EXPANSION IN LATIN AMERICA WITH THE SIGNING OF FOUR NEW HOTELS IN MEXICO
A
s part of a visit to Mexico, Arne Sorenson, President and CEO of Marriott International, Inc., announced the signing of four hotels in the country. Following an aggressive expansion strategy in one of the region's key markets, Marriott expects to add the new properties to its existing portfolio of 70 hotels. The company operates more than 200 hotels in the Caribbean and Latin American region, spanning 20 brands in 33 countries and territories. "We are very excited to continue growing our reach in Latin America with brands as diverse as Renaissance, AC Hotels by Marriott, Westin and Aloft," said Sorenson. "These new projects are driven by a solid increase in the demand for business and leisure travel to this dynamic part of the world. They also reaffirm our commitment to delivering high-quality hotel development projects and maintaining investor confidence in our innovative brands."
DEMAND INCREASES FOR FULL-S SERVICE BRANDS Marriott is meeting the growing demand in the full-service segment in Mexico with the signing of The Westin Puebla. Owned by IDEURBAN and managed by Marriott, the hotel is set to open in the second half of 2018 and will bring the Westin brand's innovative wellness initiatives to one of the oldest cities in the region. The property will join Westin's 6 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
portfolio of hotels throughout the country, including in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Cancun. Two additional Westin hotels are under construction in Cozumel and Monterrey, expected to open in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Ideally situated in the heart of Angelopolis, one of Puebla's most important business, commercial and residential developments, The Westin Puebla will be part of a multi-purpose complex to include Westin residences, boutiques, restaurants and office space. The hotel will be designed by renowned architectural firm TEN Arquitectos, led by internationally acclaimed architect Enrique Norten. It will feature 142 guestrooms and offer Westin's signature and celebrated amenities, including the iconic Westin Heavenly® Bed. The hotel will also feature a Heavenly Spa by Westin, a state-of-the-art WestinWORKOUT® fitness center, a pool and inspiring dining venues that will provide a variety of healthy culinary option, alongside the brand's signature and delicious SuperFoodsRx™ menus. Additionally, together with Grupo Diestra, Marriott's largest full-service franchise partner in the Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott prepares to introduce the Renaissance Hotels brand to Mexico with the development of a Renaissance hotel in Cancun, a strategically important market in Mexico. The new-build property will break ground within Puerto Cancun, located between Cancun's Hotel Zone and its downtown area. The 800-acre masterplanned development includes 270 acres of ecological reserve, an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf (operating), a 200slip marina, some 5,000 residential units, 115 retail outlets, restaurants, cinemas and more once completed. The Renaissance Cancun will comprise 180 rooms and approximately 445 square meters of indoor meeting space.
MARRIOTT'S SELECT-S SERVICE SEGMENT CONTINUES BUILDING CONSIDERABLE MOMENTUM The select-service segment continues to drive important projects in different cities in the country, including the opening of Aloft Puebla and AC Monterrey. Aloft Puebla will join the two existing Aloft hotels in Guadalajara and Cancun. Scheduled to open late in 2018, Aloft Puebla will bring the vibrant style, technology and innovation of this brand to one of Mexico's leading industrial cities. Located in Angelopolis, the complex will include office space, residences, restaurants, shops, as well as other hotels and will be close to major hospitals and universities. It will feature 100 loft-style rooms, fully equipped with brand amenities such as Bliss® bathroom products, SPG Keyless®, free and fast Wi-Fi connection, and other flagship brand amenities like Re:chargeSM, the renowned brand gym and Re:fuelSM by Aloft, a café where you can enjoy breakfast and lunch. From AC Hotels, which was first introduced in Mexico with the opening of the AC Hotel Guadalajara in August, comes the AC Hotel by Marriott Monterrey. The 168room property will be developed within a mixed-use project called Distrito Armida in a high-end neighborhood of Monterrey known as Valle Oriente. Seventeen hotels have been signed into the Marriott's Caribbean and Latin America development pipeline in 2016, totaling nearly 2,500 hotels rooms. By 2022 the company is planning to open 38 additional properties, reinforcing Mexico's status as Marriott's top market within the region. For additional information on Marriott's Caribbean and Latin America region, please see www.marriott.com.
industrybriefs
SOUTHWEST AIRLINES AND THE HISPANIC ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES AWARD COMPLIMENTARY AIRFARE TO MORE THAN 100 COLLEGE STUDENTS ful higher education experience for Hispanic college students," said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. "As an organization whose mission is to champion Hispanic success in higher education, HACU is honored to partner with Southwest Airlines' ¡Lánzate! Travel Award Program to help college students stay connected with their families as part of their higher education journey." To learn more about Southwest Airlines, visit the Southwest Airlines Community.
ABOUT HACU
S
outhwest Airlines in partnership with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), has awarded more than 100 students, ranging from incoming freshmen through graduate students, with complimentary roundtrip airfare as part of the ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! travel award program. The ¡Lánzate! Program, which was recognized in 2015 by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, is geared toward Hispanic college students with economic need who attend school far away from home. Students from across the nation completed online entries and submitted essays conveying how receiving a travel award would help them achieve their educational goals. In 2015, a student studying in Milwaukee wrote about the strain of finding herself more than 1,000 miles away from her family who lived in Austin, Texas. The student wrote "Studying in the Milwaukee area has made it difficult for me to see them; last Thanksgiving was my first holiday away from my family due to our inability to afford my travel expenses. My future college degree is not only mine, but a combination of hard work from my family and me. Receiving the ¡Lánzate! scholarship would greatly ease my fam-
ily's financial strain to travel for my graduation and subsequently allow us to celebrate a great accomplishment together." A panel of judges made up of college professors and educational advocates met to determine the award recipients. Recipients were awarded between one and four roundtrip tickets for travel for themselves or a family member. Southwest donated 400 one-way e-passes to encourage students to continue on their paths to higher education.
Founded in 1986, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) represents more than 450 colleges and universities committed to Hispanic higher education success in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Latin America and Spain. HACU is the only national association representing existing and emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). The association headquarters are located in San Antonio, Texas, with government relations offices in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California. This year, HACU is celebrating 30 years of championing Hispanic education. Information is available at www.hacu.net.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO. "Southwest Airlines has been proud to partner with HACU for 12 years as we work together to assist Hispanic youth throughout the country in making their dreams of higher education come true," said Christine Ortega, Southwest Airlines Senior Advisor, Community Affairs & Grassroots. "This travel can make it possible for a student to go home for the holidays. Sometimes that connection with family and home can make the difference between graduating and dropping out." "The entries received this year demonstrate how important family visits are to a success-
In its 46th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 53,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,900 departures a day during peak travel season across a network of 99 destinations in the United States and eight additional countries with additional Cuba service to Havana, Cuba, beginning Dec. 12, 2016, and Santa Clara beginning Dec. 15, 2016, both routes subject to governmental approvals. SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.
www.hispanicmeetingstravel .com | HM&T
7
2017 MEETINGS GUIDE
DESTINATION DC
HELPS TRAVELERS BOOK HOTELS, PLAN ITINERARIES F O R T H E 5 8 T H P R E S I D E N T I A L I N A U G U R AT I O N
Washington, DC's hospitality community is united in its preparation for the inauguration of the 45th president on Friday, January 20, 2017. Hotels, restaurants and attractions in neighborhoods across the nation's capital are creating thematic packages, menus, balls, exhibits and tours for visitors eager to participate in the 58th presidential inauguration. The District's official destination marketing organization, Destination DC is showcasing this information for visitors coming to the nation's capital. • Find comprehensive information on washington.org/inauguration. Content includes a calendar of events; suggestions for experiencing free (and almost free) presidential history; lists of award-winning restaurants and signature DC dishes. An inauguration FAQ will be updated as practical details including street closures are announced. • Book hotel packages designed for family, group and luxury travelers: • Family-friendly options include Marriott Metro Center down town; Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Woodley Park; Embassy Suites at the Chevy Chase Pavilion in upper North west; The Dupont Circle, Beacon Hotel and Courtyard Wash ington, DC in Dupont Circle; Liaison Capitol Hill and Phoenix Park Hotel on Capitol Hill; Hamilton Crowne Plaza down town; Hyatt Place Washington DC, Melrose Georgetown Hotel, Georgetown Suites and Washington Marriott George town; Harborside Hotel at National Harbor, Md. • Packages created for corporate group travelers including the JW Marriott's $2.5 million buy-out that bundles 325 guest rooms, four presidential suites, a rooftop party for 300 over looking the inaugural parade and $400,000 in food and beverage credit. • Luxury hotels including Four Seasons Washington, DC in Georgetown; The Fairmont Hotel, Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC, Park Hyatt and Watergate Hotel in Foggy Bottom; The Churchill Hotel near Embassy Row; the "Inauguration's a Ball" package at 10 DC-area Kimpton properties; Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square; Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel; the Marriott Marquis Washington, DC in Shaw; Willard InterContinental, W Washington, DC and Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square near the White House.
• Speak with visitor services representatives on Destination DC's tollfree concierge-style information line (800-422-8644), staffed Mon day-Friday, 8:30am-5pm EST. • Engage with experts and user-generated content on Destination DC's Instagram (@visitwashingtondc) and Facebook (@washingtondc) channels. Inauguration Day begins with a swearing-in ceremony at noon, continues with a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, and ends with official inaugural balls that will be confirmed by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. Throughout the city, special events take place including numerous ticketed unofficial balls that are open to the public. Destination DC will broadcast event details and practical considerations as they are announced. In 2017, DC will welcome new hospitality inventory including The Line in Adams Morgan and The Pod Hotel in the Penn Quarter. In October, the first phase of The Wharf, a $2 billion, 24-acre reimaging of the southwest waterfront will debut with new hotels including Canopy by Hilton and Hyatt House and restaurants from the likes of Fabio Trabocchi (Fiola); Nick Stefanelli (Masseria) and Jamie Leeds (Hank's Oyster Bar). The Smithsonian Institution's Freer Gallery reopens on the National Mall in October, and the Museum of the Bible is scheduled to open in November.
About Destination DC: Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation's capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization of 900 businesses committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities. www.washington.org. SOURCE Destination DC
2017 MEETINGS GUIDE
HIGHLY ANTICIPATED FOUND:RE PHOENIX HOTEL AND MATCH CUISINE & COCKTAILS IS NOW OPEN
T
he New, Next-Level 105-Room Hotel Embodies the Vibrant Local Art Rhythm While Transforming Downtown Phoenix's Creative Landscape Habitat Metro, in conjunction with BOND Partners, announces the opening of FOUND:RE Phoenix, a one-of-a-kind lifestyle hotel experience with every design detail inspired by local contemporary art, culture, fashion and music. The 105-room hotel welcomes guests and Valley residents to delve into the museum-worthy spaces as well as the creative programming woven throughout. The newly unveiled on-site restaurant, MATCH Cuisine & Cocktails, sizzles as Phoenix's newest culinary dining destination. An art and hotel concept unlike any other, FOUND:RE Phoenix sparks curiosity and brings the creative culture together. "Our goal is to create a place of community and invoke a sense of wonder for every guest at FOUND:RE Phoenix," said Vittal Calamur, general manager. "We want people to feel inspired, connected, and engaged on a visceral level. We want every experience here to be an opportunity for our guests to discover and learn something new - we want you to find yourself." The soul of the hotel is centered around a vibrant art milieu, led by Cultural Curator Michael Oleskow. He has sourced more than 25 artists to feature works of various mediums enmeshed into every aspect of the guest experience, igniting curiosity and a sense of discovery. Both the Studio and the Gallery spaces will feature a roster of rotating shows, pop-ups and artists throughout the year. The hotel's opening has forever changed the landscape of Downtown Phoenix with a captivating eightstory digital projection exterior light installation. Additionally, an outdoor display box provides omnipresent public art by exhibiting everchanging, avant-garde masterpieces created by local artists. Each piece of art has been sourced from Arizona artists, supporting the local artists, economy and overall health of the community. Notable local artists whose work will be featured at FOUND:RE Phoenix include Diego Perez, Cheryle Marine, Niki Woehler and Kathy Taylor. Five of FOUND:RE's artists were recently selected to exhibit at ArtLink's 18th Annual Juried Exhibition, where Kathy Taylor was selected as a runner up; a true testament to the hotels commitment to downtown Phoenix's vibrant cultural art scene. "FOUND:RE Phoenix truly unites our local artists with the global community," said Michael Oleskow, cultural curator. "Not only are their 10 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
works featured throughout the hotel, but guests can actually purchase the works, take them home, and keep the very best of Arizona with them forever. We can even arrange to take our guests on private tours of the artists' studios and workspaces." For each of the guestrooms, on-site restaurant and public spaces, FOUND:RE has partnered with prolific design experts to create an industrial, raw aesthetic throughout. The guest rooms and suites offer an original blend of well-wrought design and welcoming gravitas; think concrete floors, exposed ceiling and floating beds. The hotel has also added unexpected amenities that include Bluetooth speakers playing various sounds based on the surface where they are placed, whimsical pre-set dial-in buttons on the guestroom phones and customdesigned room numbers by local artist Cheryle Marine. It is all instep with the hotel's ethos that each guest "find yourself," tapping into his or her inner artist. "FOUND:RE has added a new layer of creativity in Phoenix's growing arts community, embracing its urban location in the thriving arts district of Phoenix with nearby art galleries, the Phoenix Art Museum and creative pop-ups," said Tim Sprague, principal of Habitat Metro. "Located within the Central Arts District, in close proximity to Roosevelt Row, across the street from the Roosevelt Valley Metro light rail station, Portland Street Park and the new Portland on the Park residences, the hotel is a welcomed addition to the neighborhood offering a warm gathering place of creative social spaces, interesting activations and captivating dining experiences." FOUND:RE Phoenix is an affiliate of Worldhotels, a leading global group for independent upscale hotels with nearly 500 hotels in 250 destinations and 65 countries worldwide. Reservations can be made at www.foundrehotels.com or 602-875-8000. Nightly rates start at $249 a night. For regular updates, please follow along on social media, Facebook: FOUND:RE Phoenix, Twitter and Instagram: @foundrephx.
2017 MEETINGS GUIDE
Milwaukee
M
ilwaukee has a great number of fantastic hotels and resorts including the Hilton Milwaukee, the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, the Pfister hotel and the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino. Milwaukee's main convention center is the Wisconsin Center. The city also features many alternative meeting destinations including Discovery World, The Harley Davidson Museum, the Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Miller Park Conference Center.
Hilton Milwaukee The Hilton Milwaukee is one of the largest hotels in Milwaukee. It is a triple A, Four Diamond Hotel and a member of the Historic Hotels of America. The hotel features 729 guest rooms, 18 meeting rooms with 23,800 square feet of meeting space. The largest meeting room is 6,800 square feet. The Hilton Milwaukee went through a multimillion dollar renovation which restored the hotel to its original 1920's state. The renovation included marble floors, furnishings, chandeliers and wood work accents. Guests at the Hilton Milwaukee will enjoy several dining options including the Milwaukee Chophouse, Miller Time Pub, Starbucks, and the Hilton CafĂŠ. The Milwaukee Chophouse specializes in steaks and seafood with a wide range of wines and creative drinks for guests to enjoy. The Miller Time Pub provides great food in a relaxing Milwaukee atmosphere. The Classic Hilton CafĂŠ is available for breakfast every day.
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee The Hyatt Regency Milwaukee hotel features 481 guest rooms, 19 meeting rooms, with a total of 26,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel also features the largest ballroom in downtown Milwaukee. The Hyatt Regency Milwaukee also completed a $19 million dollar renovation. The hotel has a skywalk to the Wisconsin Convention Center which includes 12 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
access to the Reuss Federal Plaza and Shops of Grand Avenue. The memorable hotel lobby features 18 stories of open air space that showcases the hotel's 481 rooms. Guests at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee enjoy a great number of amenities. Some unique amenities include separate work and seating areas, in-room safes, electronic door locks, video messages, video account review and video checkout, jackpack for computers to TV Connectivity, iHome alarm clock with docking station, individual climate control, and full bath amenities.
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino The Potawatomi Hotel and Casino features a twenty story hotel with 381 guest rooms, 16 meeting rooms and a total of 55,000 square feet of meeting space. The largest meeting space is 27,000 square feet. Hotel guests will enjoy bingo, table games, slot machines, and special poker room, an off-track betting room and a 500-seat theater. The Potawatomi Hotel has a great number of dining options for guests. Dream Dance Steak features fabulous steaks and over six hundred wines to choose from. The Fire Pit Sports Bar and Grill features twenty-seven high definition screens. RuYi features authentic cuisine from Peking Duck to Noodles. Groups have access to all the restaurants and catering venues including the Woodland Dreams Ballroom, Wild Earth, and Tribal Room dining areas.
Pfister Hotel The Pfister Hotel is located in the heart of Milwaukee's downtown and features 307 guest rooms, 19 meeting rooms and 24,600 total square feet of meeting space. The Pfister Hotel is a Four Diamond Hotel and a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Hotel guests enjoy a number of accommodations including feather top beds, 24 hour room service, flat screen TVs, MP3 radios and valet parking. The Pfister features the WELL Spa+ Janice Salon, Advance fitness studio and Boutique B'Lou. The hotel also features several restaurants including the Mason Street Grill, Blu Lounge, the CafĂŠ, and the Rouge. The Pfister Hotel can accommodate groups from 10 to 1,000. The meeting and event space has had a multi-million dollar renovation including its ballrooms.
Meeting Venues Milwaukee has a great number of popular meeting venues. The Wisconsin Center, Milwaukee's convention center, features 189,000 square feet of exhibit space and state of the art technology. The Wisconsin Center is home to the Burke Family Collection of commissioned and integrated art. Discovery World is located
on the water front and can accommodate events ranging from 20 - 2000 guests. Discovery World is a science and technology center that includes interactive exhibits. The Harley-Davidson Museum has 35,340 square feet of meeting space and features over 450 motorcycles on a 20 acre site. The Miller Park Conference Center, home of the Milwaukee Brewers, has 6,000 square feet of meeting space that can accommodate groups of 10 to 200 on game days or non-game days. The Milwaukee Art Museum features 30,000 works of art and has 25,000 square feet of meeting space. Each of these meeting venue draws from different aspects of Milwaukee's history and make for exceptional off-site meeting destinations. For more information, visit www.milwaukee.org.
Meeting Planner Incentives
The Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis Offering Appealing New "Enhance Your Meeting Experience" Promotion If you are interested in conducting a meeting or program in the Midwest, you should consider the new "Enhance Your Meeting Experience" promotion that is now available at the AAA Four-Diamond The Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis, Missouri. Available to new programs booked and consumed by April 21, 2017, the offer features many appealing incentives for groups with at least 20 room nights at the grand landmark hotel. Ideally located within St. Louis' vibrant Central West End neighborhood, across the street from picturesque Forest Park which is home to fine museums and the world-renowned St. Louis Zoo, The Chase Park Plaza features 338 deluxe guest rooms and suites, and more than 65,000 square feet of meeting space. Additional on-site offerings at the stately and legendary hotel include the impressive 18,000-square-foot SantĂŠ Fitness & Wellness Center, the full-service Aveda Salon & Spa, a five-screen movie theater, an outdoor heated resort-style pool, three diverse dining options, such as the Preston Restaurant, and indoor parking, all minutes from major highways. According to the hotel's Director of Sales & 14 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Marketing David Hume, the "Enhance Your Meeting Experience" promotion provides up to four enhancements, based on the number of room nights contracted. Groups with 20-49 room nights contracted will receive their choice of one enhancement. Groups with 50100 room nights contracted will receive their choice of two enhancements. Those with 101250 room nights will receive three enhancements, and groups of 251-500+ room nights will receive their choice of four enhancements. Enhancement options include: 10 VIP upgrades; 20% attrition; 10% off A/V rental; 1 complimentary room per 30 rooms contracted; complimentary one-hour cocktail reception; and one free future day meeting for up to 10 people inclusive of meeting rooms and full breaks. In addition, any group that books over 400 room nights add two free domestic coach air fares (up to a maximum of $1,000) to be used in conjunction with the booking, along with the choice of four enhancements. The "Enhance Your Meeting Experience" promotion is subject to availability, and is not valid with any other discounts, pro-
motions or previously contracted business. Note that all groups must be contracted between now and April 21, 2017, and the final bill must be paid in full before discounts apply. Audio visual rental includes equipment only, and excludes labor. The complimentary reception includes beer, wine, and hors d'oeuvres. For information on the offer, call the hotel's group sales department at (314) 6331006, or email Tammy McKenna in the sales department at tmckenna@ChaseParkPlaza.com . "The Chase Park Plaza has long been a favorite with meeting professionals, business executives and groups for meetings, programs and events, both large and small," said Hume. "In addition to featuring a terrific location in St. Louis' vibrant Central West End neighborhood, the hotel offers exceptional meeting facilities, luxurious accommodations, outstanding on-site recreational options, and first-class service. This promotion simply provides even more reason for groups to conduct a meeting at The Chase."
Meeting offerings at the grand hotel include the magnificent Khorassan Ballroom, which can accommodate 2,500 guests, and the 6,150square-foot Conference Center. In total, the hotel offers 24 meeting rooms, and is able to accommodate groups of all sizes and styles. Located in the heart of the walkable Central West End neighborhood, one of St. Louis' most popular dining, entertainment and shopping areas, The Chase Park Plaza features a premier location surrounded by the very best St. Louis has to offer. Ideally situated across the street from beloved Forest Park, a truly beautiful urban oasis that is larger than New York City's Central Park, the historic hotel is close to The Missouri History Museum, The St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, The Boathouse, and to one of the country's finest public golf courses. Additional nearby attractions include Busch Stadium (just 5 miles away), St. Louis Gateway Arch (just 4 miles away), Downtown St. Louis and Clayton Business Districts (4 miles), Grant's Farm, Missouri Botanical Garden, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, the magnificent Fox Theatre, Powell Symphony Hall, the Muny Opera, and the St. Louis Science Center. The hotel is just 11 miles from St. Louis' Lambert International Airport.
A treasured architectural gem of the city, The Chase Park Plaza is located at 212 North Kingshighway Boulevard in St. Louis. For
additional information, contact the hotel's group sales department at (314) 633-1006, and visit ChaseParkPlaza.com .
N E W
P R O P E R T I E S
W Hotels Worldwide, now part of Marriott International, made its much anticipated Sin City debut with the opening of W Las Vegas.
W Hotels Worldwide, made its much anticipated Sin City debut with the opening of W Las Vegas. W transformed a 289-room tower of SLS Las Vegas, providing guests an elevated hotel-within-a-hotel experience, located on the emerging North End of the Vegas Strip. "If there are two things in this world that were truly made for each other, it's W Hotels and Las Vegas," said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. "After nearly two decades of anticipation, W Las Vegas will show guests a different side of the strip, offering an unexpected and irreverent twist on the typical Sin City experience." Built by PENTA Building Group designed by Gensler in collaboration with AvroKO Hospitality Group, guests arrive at the Welcome Desk and are invited into the brand's signature Living Room to mix and mingle. Evoking a sense of Vegas glamour, the Living Room bar was inspired by casino gaming tables, while intimate seating nooks nod to the hotel's original mid-century incarnation as the Sahara. Behind the bar, a neon art "desert garden" by artist Keith Lemley dramatically transforms the space from day to night. Bold and energetic, the 289 rooms at W Las Vegas were designed by Philippe Starck in collaboration with Gensler, and offer an exclusive escape from the chaos of Sin City. Each room features a cheeky interpretation of luxury hospitality that Starck is known for, as well as the signature W bedding and sumptuous Bliss® bath amenities. Decidedly chic, the hotel's 2,382 square foot Extreme WOW Suite (designed by multi-talented artist Lenny Kravitz) adorns the top of the tower, and is highlighted by a spacious balcony with sweeping mountain views. W Las Vegas remixes an iconic address with three floors (and 15,000 square feet) of brand new, state-of-the-art meeting and event space. The adjacent SLS Las Vegas hotel serves up an additional 16 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
80,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, to play host to any size event. The rooftop WET Deck is an elite oasis for guests, providing an intimate escape to see and be seen in a private cabana or at the destination bar. Maximizing its North Strip location, the WET Deck offers panoramic views of the Stratosphere and desert mountains, all from its discrete rooftop perch. Art from local and international muralists and photographers converge to make the space truly unique. The AWAY® Spa, located on the hotel's second floor, offers signature spa treatments for guests to detox (before a welcomed retox). Designed in pure white, playful elements such as large fauxpearl key rings, lockers featuring bright pink interiors, and artful hand sculptures, add a touch of whimsy. FIT, the 24hour fitness center at W Las Vegas, offers guests access to state-of-the-art fitness equipment in an energetic space. The Hottest Tables in Town Guests of W Las Vegas are able to indulge in award-winning restaurants throughout SLS Las Vegas. The property boasts seven eateries, including on-site coffee shop The Perq; Northside Café & Chinese Kitchen which is available 24 hours a day; Bazaar Meat by José Andrés; Katsuya; Cleo; 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria; and Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book. Designed by Philippe Starck in collaboration with Gensler architects, Bazaar Meat by José Andrés is an avant-garde interpretation of the classic Vegas steakhouse. Chef José Andrés has created a dinner menu that delights, with its sophisticated and unexpected culinary combinations. Under the exacting eye of Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi, Katsuya restaurant is changing the face of Japanese cuisine. Known for his spectacular sushi and sashimi platters, wildly inventive rolls, and unique cocktails, the restaurant has quickly garnered the highest accolades among critics and a loyal following among visitors from around the world. Chef Danny Elmaleh features his acclaimed contemporary Mediterranean cuisine at Egyptian namesake, Cleo. In this vibrant setting, Chef Elmaleh showcases seasonal shared plates, mezzes, and flatbreads, complemented by handcrafted cocktails and unique wines. 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria sets a casual, quirky stage with its intricate chalk art and playful ceiling images of paparazzi surrounding a red stiletto. Umami Burger, Beer Garden & Sports Book combines unmatched flavor with exceptional hospitality in its chic burger bar location accompanied by the William Hill Sports Book. The restaurant's expansive industrial design showcases exposed brick and wide wooden beams, and sports fans will appreciate a giant high-definition video wall. For a more intimate setting, guests can always enjoy a meal in the privacy of their room with the hotel's all-hours room service menu. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit WLasVegas.com or follow @w_lasvegas on Instagram. For more information on W Hotels Worldwide, visit whotels.com/theangle or follow on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
N E W
P R O P E R T I E S
Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Debuts Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc., announced the official unveil of the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane after a multi-million pound transformation of its 303 guest rooms and public spaces, including the famed Palm Court Lounge and Grade II listed Art Deco Ballroom and Silver Gallery. Led by interior designers MKV Design, in partnership with the Sheraton brand's global design team, the renovation project draws on the property's heritage and enviable location directly opposite Green Park, while adding modern and stylish design touches throughout. Following the robust renovation, the hotel has been designated as a Sheraton Grand, the brand's premier tier of hotels recognised for their enticing destinations, distinguished designs and excellence in service and guest experiences. The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane is the first property in London to join this select portfolio of 35 Sheraton hotels worldwide. "A major global hub for travel, London is a crucial market for Sheraton, Marriott International's most global brand, to have a premium flagship property in," said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader for Sheraton Hotels and Resorts. "The Sheraton Grand Park Lane London and its extravagant renovation will certainly create a halo effect for the brand and serve as a great example of our transformation efforts." From its heyday as the hangout of choice for socialites, celebrities and the aristocracy, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane has a long history of bringing people together in the heart 18 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
of Mayfair. Building on the hotel's Art Deco heritage and social sway, the new interior is designed to provide a series of well-connected spaces where business and pleasure seamlessly combine. The 303 guestrooms have been completely redesigned in order to create an elegant, luxury hotel experience, capturing the spirit of the Art Deco era. New to the hotel, 43 Sheraton Club Rooms and suites offer exclusive access to the Sheraton® Club Lounge, a private space where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, drinks and snacks during the day, a taster of The Palm Court afternoon tea, a full bar and evening canapés. For business travellers, the Club Rooms also include complimentary use of a private meeting room within the Sheraton® Club Lounge, which can seat up to eight people. The hotel's 21 suites have been reconfigured to make best use of the internal space and take full advantage of leafy views over Green Park. Many now have the option of opening up into adjoining suites to accommodate large family groups. The hotel's Grand Suite is a statement in luxury, comprised of an entrance lobby, master bedroom and bathroom, as well as living and dining areas. Rooms are interconnected with double-width, sliding pocket doors enabling the entire suite to be opened into a single space. "The transformation of the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane marks a milestone for the Sheraton brand in the United Kingdom," said Even Frydenberg, Chief Operations and Franchise Support Officer Europe, Marriott International. "Thanks to a successful collaboration with Sir Richard Sutton Limited, this newly ren-
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Unveils Revamped Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Following Multi-Million Pound Renovation
ovated hotel is a shining representation of the brand's Grand tier and a strategically important asset in our Sheraton portfolio." The renovation has also created contemporary meeting places for local and global travellers alike. In the hotel's famous Palm Court Lounge, sleek furniture and a magnificent stained glass ceiling provide the perfect backdrop to a vibrant atmosphere and lively social scene. In-keeping with the tradition of the grand hotel lounges of the 1920s and 30s, breakfast, Afternoon Tea, dinner and cocktails will all be served, with imaginative menu additions through Paired, the Sheraton brand's reinvigorated food and beverage programme, which offers small plates and eclectic bar snacks served alongside suggested premium wines and local craft beers. The authentic Italian restaurant, Mercante, offers fresh and seasonal dining for hotel guests and visitors alike. A speedy Business Lunch menu caters for those mid-week meetings, while the Italian style Prosecco Brunch gives a unique spin on the established foodie trend. As a more traditional offering, the 1920s themed bar Smith & Whistle serves cocktails and craft beers alongside British-inspired sharing plates. Outdoor dining is also available in both Mercante and Smith & Whistle. "As hoteliers, we are delighted to have partnered with Sheraton Hotels & Resorts in this 2 year project to restore this Piccadilly icon," said Christopher Lacey, Managing Director, Sir Richard Sutton Limited. The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane rates starting at £249 for a classic room. For more information or to book, please visit www.sheratonparklane.com
airtravel
Aeromexico unveils its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner called "Quetzalcoatl" at the carrier's hangar in the Mexico City International Airport, as the latest addition to the airline's fleet. This airplane is the first of ten of these models the airline ordered in a package it announced in July 2012, representing the largest investment in the history of Mexican aviation. Aeromexico took delivery of its first Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner three years ago, and currently has nine of these aircraft in its fleet, which it uses to serve different international destinations. Passengers on this airplane will enjoy the comfort of a new configuration with 274 seats in two cabins. Clase Premier, Aeromexico's business class cabin, features 36 true 180degree flat-bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration for complete passenger comfort with full autonomy between aisles. The individual 18inch touchscreens are two inches larger than those featured on the Boeing 787-8, and feature two live television channels, movies, TV series, and music albums, for more than 200 total hours of entertainment. Amenities in Clase Premier also include an innovative bar with the best food and beverage brands as part of its continuous refreshment service during the flight. The Economy cabin has 238 ergonomic seats, with individual 11-inch touchscreens, two inches larger than those featured on the carrier's other models, offering a wide variety 20 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
of movies, TV series, music, a seat-to-seat chat system, and real time flight information. Like other aircraft in the Aeromexico fleet, this model also features WiFi service giving customers the option to surf the web in-flight. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is lighter and environmentally-friendlier than other aircraft in its category, thanks to its carbon fiber structure that cuts the noise created on takeoff and landing by 57% and reduces fuel consumption by 23%, representing a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. "We are proud to take delivery of this new Boeing 787-9 called Quetzalcoatl with its unique and original design that will represent Mexico across the globe. The airline hired the best suppliers in the world to obtain this mix of technology and comfort to benefit the thousands of Aeromexico customers who would rather fly on this airplane than on the other options available in the market," said Aeromexico CEO Andres Conesa. Aeromexico will start to serve the Amsterdam, London, Madrid, New York, Paris, Santiago, Shanghai, and Tokyo routes in coming weeks, with the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with aircraft registration number XA-ADL that landed at the Mexico City International Airport from Seattle on October 12.
Aeromexico's Boeing 787-9 "Quetzalcoatl"
About Grupo Aeromexico Grupo Aeromexico, S.A.B. de C.V. is a holding company whose subsidiaries provide commercial aviation services and promote passenger loyalty programs in Mexico. Aeromexico, Mexico's global airline, operates more than 600 daily flights from its main hub in Terminal 2 at the Mexico City International Airport. Its route network spans more than 80 cities on three continents including 45 in Mexico, 18 in the United States, 15 in Latin America, four in Europe, three in Canada, and two in Asia. Grupo Aeromexico's fleet of close to 130 aircraft is comprised of Boeing 787, 777 and 737 jet airliners and next generation Embraer 190, 175, 170, and 145 models. In 2012, the airline announced the most significant investment strategy in aviation history in Mexico, to purchase 100 Boeing aircraft including 90 MAX 737 airliners and ten 787-9 Dreamliners. As a founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Aeromexico offers customers more than 1,000 destinations in 177 countries served by its top 20 airline partners rewarding passengers with benefits including access to 672 premium airport lounges around the world. Aeromexico also offers travel options through its code share partners Alaska Airlines, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and WestJet with extensive connectivity in countries like Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and the United States. Visit www.aeromexico.com for more information.
gamingdestinations
The Luxurious New MGM National Harbor, Opening This December on the Banks of the Potomac River, Accepted as the Newest Member of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) Maryland's luxurious new MGM National Harbor, which will open this December, has been accepted as the newest member of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI). Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., on the banks of the scenic Potomac River, the luxurious new $1.4 billion destination resort will be an amazing addition to the skyline of our Nation's Capital. The resort is now served by the ALHI Global Sales Organization to the North American Meetings & Incentives marketplace, according to ALHI President Jim Schultenover. Featuring a contemporary and progressive design, the world-class MGM National Harbor will be like no other in the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region. Offering 308 elegant guest rooms and suites, the stunning resort will have 53,000 square feet of versatile meeting space, which includes the 16,137-square-foot MGM Grand Ballroom, boasting a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the Potomac River. Additional meeting and event options include the 4,300-square-foot Bellagio Ballroom, the Grand Ballroom Terrace, a state-of-the-art 3,000-seat theater, and picturesque Potomac Plaza overlooking the harbor with breathtaking views of the Potomac and the nation's cap-
ital. The well-appointed guest rooms and suites will have modern amenities, a 48-inch HD LCD TV, and high-speed Wi-Fi. In addition, the resort will offer a 125,000-squarefoot casino, a 27,000-square-foot spa, celebrity chef restaurants, an authentic Pan Asian restaurant, a sports bar, patisserie, food market, and luxury retail shops. The resort is just seven miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), and 36 miles from both Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) and Dulles International Airport (IAD). In addition to becoming a new Member in ALHI's worldwide portfolio, MGM National Harbor becomes the newest option in the "ALHI Entertainment & Gaming Collection" luxury brand segment. "Featuring an incredible setting on the Potomac, just minutes from Washington, D.C., MGM National Harbor is an all-new, world-class meeting option for groups of all sizes," said Schultenover. "We are proud and excited to showcase this outstanding new option to groups across North America." The resort is owned and operated by MGM Resorts International. The addition to ALHI's portfolio further expands the longstanding relationship ALHI has with providing its
Global Sales Organization (GSO) sales services across America and Canada to the MGM Resorts International family of resorts over the past 15 years. In addition to MGM National Harbor, ALHI's distinguished portfolio also features such other exceptional MGM Resorts International hotels and resorts as Las Vegas' spectacular 4,004-room ARIA Resort & Casino and the adjacent all-suite, non-gaming Vdara Hotel & Spa; the renowned AAA Five-Diamond Bellagio; the acclaimed 5,000-room MGM Grand Las Vegas; the exquisite Skylofts at MGM Grand, located on the top two floors of MGM Grand; the adjacent and luxurious all-suite, non-gaming The Signature at MGM Grand; the famed Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, featuring 3,220 newly remodeled rooms and 2 million square feet of meeting space; the stylish, and incorporated 1,117-suite Delano Las Vegas; the AAA FourDiamond, 3,044-room The Mirage; and Monte Carlo Resort and Casino, featuring 2,992 well-appointed rooms and 30,446 square feet of meeting space. ALHI's distinctive membership also includes MGM Resorts International's extraordinary 1,740-room Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, the largest meeting resort or hotel in Mississippi; the AAA Four-Diamond MGM Grand Detroit, offering 30,000 square feet of meeting and event space; and the AAA Four-Diamond Borgata Hotel & Casino, featuring 2,800 guest rooms and 88,000 square feet of flexible meeting space in Atlantic City, New Jersey. www.hispanicmeetingstravel .com | HM&T
21
International Travel
W Hotels Worldwide Swims Up To Portugal's Famed Sunkissed Coast With W Algarve W Hotels Worldwide, now part of Marriott International announced it will open W Algarve in 2018 on Portugal's stunning sunkissed Algarve coast. Developed in partnership with Nozul Algarve, S.A., the vibrant oceanfront oasis will overlook the breathtaking coastline and the beckoning waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The debut will mark the third W Escape in Europe, a newly created portfolio of W Hotels located in ski, sand and entertainment destinations around the world, that make the traditional 'resort' a last resort. "This beachfront paradise is the perfect backdrop for the W brand's tone-setting design, signature cocktail culture and dynamic spirit," said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. "Located on one of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the world, W Algarve will embody everything a W Escape should be - breathtaking and bold with a healthy dose of revelry." Located on a 250,000 square meters of beachfront on the central Algarve coastline, W Algarve is an escape for extraordinary experiences which is set to ignite the local scene with its electrifying style, innovative design, and full calendar of exclusive W Happenings, showcasing what's new / next in fashion, music and design. The hotel will offer 134 stylish guest rooms and suites, including two Extreme WOW Suites, the W brand's reinter22 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
pretation of the Presidential Suite. Guests and locals will enjoy relaxing at one of W Algarve's three beautiful beaches or sipping a cocktail at the glamorous WET deck pool, which is set to become the most soughtafter place to mix and mingle with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Guests will also be able to indulge in the extravagant 10,000 square foot spa or unwind with outdoor yoga, tennis or in FITÂŽ - the ultimate workout facility. W Algarve will offer a range of cocktail and culinary experiences from the W Living Room, the W brand's energetic spin on the hotel lobby, to sought-after restaurants and dynamic destination bars. These new venues are set to reignite the Algarve's dining scene with the brand's bold twist on contemporary cuisine. W Algarve will also cater for those who need to mix a little work with play, offering two ultra-modern meeting rooms to elevate any meeting from ordinary to extraordinary. The 500 square meter state-of-the-art meeting rooms are complemented by extensive outdoor facilities ideal for vibrant open air events or beachfront celebrations. The brand's iconic Whatever/Whenever service will be available 24/7, providing jetsetters with whatever they want - from late night manicures to speed boat experiences -whenever they want it.
"We are delighted to be working with our long-standing partners, Nozul Algarve, S.A., to bring the iconic W brand to Portugal," said Even Frydenberg, Chief Operations & Franchise Support Officer, Europe, Marriott International. "The debut of W Algarve will further position the region as one of the world's premiere destinations for high-end global travelers, while marking a significant milestone for W Hotels Worldwide in the global expansion of the brand." "We are proud to extend our presence in Europe with the opening of W Algarve Hotel & Residences," said Mr. Ali Jaidah, Chairman of Nozul Algarve S.A. "The perfect place for those who enjoy the sun and the sea, Portugal is a blessed destination with a wonderful coastline that is bathed in sunshine all year round. W Algarve will become the new destination within the Algarve and will also bring exciting new employment opportunities to the local area. We believe in the future of Portugal and decided to invest in our second W Hotel after W Doha. As part of our overall strategy, our vision is to invest in high quality assets and we are confident that the W Brand is the perfect fit for this iconic property."