FRHI Regional Media Highlights, Americas - May 2014 by Hadley Schroll

Region – Americas Public Relations Media Highlights May 2014

FRHI HOTELS & RESORTS PUBLIC RELATIONS - REGIONAL MONTHLY REPORT

5/8/2014

Those Keeping a Diet Find Better Signposts to Dining on the Road - NYTimes.com

http://nyti.ms/1oqRncL

BUSINESS DAY

BUSINESS TRAVEL

Those Keeping a Diet Find Better Signposts to Dining on the Road By JANE L. LEVERE

MAY 7, 2014

Melanie Melia, owner of a brokerage company in Glen Cove, N.Y., that represents natural food manufacturers, is a vegan who has found many ways to stick to her diet while traveling for business. She relies on the Happy Cow app, which identifies vegetarian and vegan restaurants around the world, often with diners’ reviews. She also finds Yelp helpful. Asian restaurants “are the best way to go,” she said. “I’ve hardly ever been to an Asian restaurant where I couldn’t get a good, balanced vegan meal.” For breakfast, her “most challenging meal,” she takes packaged oatmeal that she can prepare with boiling water in her hotel room; she can also find this at Starbucks. Ms. Melia is far from alone in trying to maintain her diet while traveling. In fact, the number of travelers like her is growing constantly. Bjorn Hanson, divisional dean of the Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management at New York University, estimated that some two-thirds of the United States population regularly or periodically focused on special diets. He said almost 5 percent had a food allergy, some 20 percent had a food sensitivity, while 30 percent had consistent dietary preferences — vegan, vegetarian, kosher and so on. The number of people with special dietary needs is growing at least 10 percent

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annually, he added. Susie Ellis, president of Spafinder Wellness, a wellness industry media and marketing company, said she was “definitely seeing far more glutenfree menu options.” “And weight is increasingly a major issue for a huge percentage of the population,” she added. “People’s stress levels just continue to skyrocket, and this has a lot to do with technology,” she said. “People are working 24/7. And business travelers have had to become more conscious of what they do when they travel. There’s no more recovery period; they have to recover when they travel.” Henry Harteveldt, travel analyst for Atmosphere Research, said fullservice and luxury hotels were doing a “very good job” of catering to business travelers’ special dietary needs. Among these are Fairmont hotels, which introduced their Lifestyle Cuisine Plus menu three years ago, provided on request to guests who have diabetes or a heart condition, or who prefer gluten-free, macrobiotic, raw, vegan, vegetarian, low-fat or low-carbohydrate dishes. In 2007 Westin Hotels and Resorts teamed up with SuperFoods Partners to create dishes — offered worldwide on all Westin menus, including those for room service — featuring foods with health-enhancing or life-lengthening benefits attributed to them, like avocados, spinach, honey, blueberries, wild salmon, walnuts and oats. Hyatt and Andaz hotels worldwide offer a “create your own” room service menu that lets guests choose a protein, a side dish and a preferred preparation method. One way Marriott International addresses its guests’ dietary needs is through training: Since 2008 it has offered chefs and servers in its restaurants and bars a course that teaches them about food allergies, how to prepare and serve meals free of a guest’s allergen, and how to handle an allergic reaction. Over 80,000 staff members have completed the training, Marriott says. Mr. Harteveldt said airlines needed to “do better responding to food

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Those Keeping a Diet Find Better Signposts to Dining on the Road - NYTimes.com

trends.” He criticized United States carriers in general, saying they focused on “shelf-stable items, high in sodium and fat,” sold in economy class on domestic flights. Carriers considered more proactive in catering to food preferences include Singapore Airlines, which generally offers a choice of 15 special meals to passengers in all classes of service, and Delta, which has 16 special meal categories available in first class on some domestic flights and in all classes of service on most international flights. Special meals usually must be ordered 24 hours before departure. This month, Swiss International Air Lines began offering lactose-free and gluten-free coffee cream and chocolate bars on all flights. Depending on the length of the flight, passengers also can get special snacks, like candy bars, yogurt or cakes, that meet their dietary needs. Alternative dairy and bread products also are being offered at the airline’s airport lounges in Switzerland. The carrier recently was certified as an “allergyfriendly” airline by the European Center for Allergy Research Foundation. Travelers are relying on an ever-growing number of websites and apps to identify healthy dining options. These include the Food Tripping app, which provides alternatives to fast food at restaurants, juice stores, farmers’ markets and elsewhere; HealthyOut, an app that lets users find dishes at local restaurants that meet their dietary needs; and HealthyDiningFinder.com, a website where registered dietitians and other nutrition professionals identify restaurant menu items that incorporate lean and high-nutrient ingredients. Other websites are SafeFare, which helps users find nearby allergyaware restaurants, and AllergyEats, a guide to peer-reviewed restaurants in the United States that cater to those with allergies. For those avoiding gluten (a type of protein found in foods processed from wheat and related grains), there is glutenfreepassport.com, a website that offers tips, travel language guides and gluten- and allergy-free apps. There is also an app, Gluten Free Restaurant Items, that is a fast-food diet guide for people with celiac disease and wheat allergies.

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Those Keeping a Diet Find Better Signposts to Dining on the Road - NYTimes.com

Carol Kicinski, editor in chief of Simply Gluten Free Magazine, uses the Find Me Gluten Free app, which features gluten-free restaurants, and the Dine Gluten Free app, which offers user-submitted reviews of restaurants, hotels, bakeries and markets worldwide. She always travels with gluten-free foods with an extended shelf life, like hummus, glutenfree chips, protein bars and oatmeal. Mr. Harteveldt suggested that full-service hotels might incorporate information on their guests’ special dietary needs in their reservations systems or loyalty program databases. This could let them recommend special menu items at their restaurants when travelers book a room, creating a “way to show that the hotel is responsive and cares for guests’ needs.” “This could also keep guests on the property,” he said, “something they might otherwise not do.” A version of this article appears in print on May 8, 2014, on page F7 of the New York edition with the headline: Those Keeping a Diet Find Better Signposts to Dining on the Road.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/08/business/those-keeping-a-diet-find-better-signposts-to-dining-on-the-road.html?ref=businessspecial&_r=1

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http://www.today.com/video/today/55218261#55218261

Hotels With Live Music May 22, 2014

For a Throwback: The Fairmont San Francisco Midcentury tiki bars are back in style, but a taste for over-the-top escapism never fell out of fashion at the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar in the Fairmont San Francisco. Complete with a tropically inspired ambiance (bamboo railings, rattan furniture, Polynesian-style wallpaper), a simulated thundershower every 30 minutes and, of course, stiff mai tais, it is kitsch at its best. Opened in 1945, the bar has stayed true to its origins, which includes the bandstand floating in the roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s center pool. There, the band Island Groove plays classic rock, Motown favorites, R&B, disco, funk and more (think Lionel Ritchie, The Police, Barry White) on ukuleles, steel guitars and keyboards. Bring a Hawaiian shirt and a sense of humor and you may even end up on the dance floor. Rooms start at $330; 950 Mason St.; 415-7725000; fairmont.com/san-francisco.

Direct Link: http://www.departures.com/slideshows/hotels-with-live-music/4

6/6/2014

HOTELSMag.com

NEWS

What’s Hot: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac renovates

By Oriana Lerner o n 5/26/2014

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac has unveiled a top-tobottom revamp. Rockwell Group and Wilson Associates spearheaded the US$75 million effort, which focused on preserving the rich historical detail in the original 1893 Bruce Price building while streamlining and modernizing the aesthetic and guest experience. In keeping with the hotel’s original medieval and Renaissance architectural leanings, the renovation utilizes rich textures and muted color schemes to meld restored pieces with more modern touches. The lobby’s ornate ceiling is complemented by large Italian blue onyx wall panels behind the check-in desks. Preserving a sense of place — both historical and modern — was also key. The hotel’s dining venues draw inspiration from the city’s history. In the 1608 Wine & Cheese Bar (named for the year the city was founded), which showcases a wide variety of Quebec cheeses and wines by the glasses, slender glass lights above the bar mimic the effect of candlelight. Leather sofas and a parquet floor finish off a timeless ambience. For new addition Bistro Le Sam, named after explorer Samuel de Champlain, the designers used a lighted palette of cream and mid-blue for this lunchtime restaurant. Today’s landscape is reflected in a chandelier in http://www.hotelsmag.com/Industry/News/Details/50383

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T h e lo b b y ' s recep ti o n area s h o w cas es b ack li t o n y x p an els .

the Rose grand staircase that uses glass pieces that resemble icicles from Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chilly winters. The renovation also included a new spa with seven treatment rooms, 15 new Fairmont Gold rooms and expanded meeting spaces.

1608 Wine & Cheese bar is named for the year of Quebec City's foundng.

http://www.hotelsmag.com/Industry/News/Details/50383

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http://dujour.com/article/health-spa-psychic-readings-health-benefits/43183

Go Big or Go Home: $75M Reno Biggest Ever at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Québec City By Janice Tober May 27, 2014

If you’ve never been to this Gothic revival-style grand hotel dominating Québec City’s skyline, you should know that renovating Le Château Frontenac would be like renovating a castle (the hotel

even has ramparts!). But renovate they did and paid the princely price of $75 mill to revamp the 611-room, 120-year-old property. Wowza! Compared to when this writer last stayed at the hotel about seven years ago, the lobby-to-roof reno looks to have kept the property’s elegant classical interior while updating textures and adding a more contemporary color palette.

Some of the nifty new things include the changes made to the Fairmont Gold level, Fairmont’s version of the Club Level. The room count went from 45 to 60 rooms and the private lounge – with dedicated concierge, morning breaky, evening hors d’oeuvres, and honor bar – has been consequently expanded and gussied up. More below!

The main lobby has kept some of its old-world features, but now includes Italian blue onyx backlit panels inspired by the St. Lawrence River found at the Château’s doorstep, and the lobby's grand staircase has a custom-built 15-foot chandelier made from slender pieces of glass modeled after the icicles that form during Québec’s winters. This is Canada, after all. The restaurants have all been transformed and there’s a brand spanking new spa, Spa du Château, with seven treatment rooms as well as an expanded health club. We think the Elixir Ice Cider Exfoliation sounds the most enticing. To celebrate the completion of this major makeover, the hotel is offering a Nouveau Château Package starting on June 1, which includes accommodations, breakfast for two, a $50 CAD dining credit per stay and early arrival and late departure upon availability. Prices start at $339 CAD per night based on double occupancy.

Direct Link: http://www.hotelchatter.com/story/2014/5/25/173229/627/hotels/Go_Big_or_Go_Home%3A_%247 5M_Reno_Biggest_Ever_at_Fairmont_Le_Ch%E2teau_Frontenac_in_Qu%E9bec_City

Get in the Game: Local Sports to Try By Adam H. Graham From polo in Argentina to fly-fishing in Pennsylvania, native pastimes are making their way into the active offerings at hotels around the globe. As a way of getting guests involved—and moving— hotels are beginning to emphasize the national sports and pastimes of their locations along with yoga, boot camps and other, more traditional fitness pursuits. Longboard skateboarding in Southern California, polo on Argentina’s vast pampas, outrigger canoeing off Hawaii’s Big Island and capoeira in Brazil are just a few examples, all allowing guests to experience a destination on a deeper level and to download local heritage. “We’ve noticed a recent increase in the number of our guests who are looking for authentic cultural experiences and a change from the workout routine they follow at home,” says Nicola Chilton, senior director of public relations for the Asia Pacific region for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, which employs a tai chi master at its Hong Kong hotel. Other places offer unprecedented access to sporting events, from The Oberoi, Mumbai’s last-minute tickets to cricket matches to exclusive private trips to the famed Cheltenham racetrack courtesy of nearby Ellenborough Park in England’s Cotswolds. Read on for more destinations that will help you break a sweat in local style. Longboarding: Fairmont Miramar Bungalows, Santa Monica, California

Hotel

The historic Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, perched under the iconic Miramar Moreton Bay fig tree and across the street from Santa Monica’s stretch of sunny Pacific-kissed sand, has teamed up with French swimwear label Vilebrequin to offer custom-made longboard skateboards in each of its 32 secluded garden bungalows. To celebrate the partnership, the hotel has added a new longboard concierge, who will bring guests to the Santa Monica Pier for one-hour lessons (reservations required). Rooms start at $420; 101 Wilshire Blvd.; 310-576-7777; fairmont.com.

By CAROLYN HSU May 20, 2014 Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa Wine Country is, of course, the obvious choice for San Franciscans who want an easy getaway. But save the vineyard tours for another day, and instead, head over for complete wellness retreat with a weekend stay at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. Book a day at the award-winning Willow Spa or play a round at the on-property 18-hole championship golf course. Then eat, eat, and eat some more at resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five restaurants.

http://www.glam.com/slideshow/last-minute-memorial-day-travel/

Swiss Bliss: Swissotels Offering 20 Percent Off Summer Stays May 28, 2014

Now, that Memorial Day has passed, summer is (un)officially here and Swissotels are enticing guests with a new summer offer--20 percent off best available rates. All Swissotels are participating in the deal from Sydney to Amsterdam, Phuket and Chicago with additional benefits thrown in like a complimentary room upgrade and a late check-out (if available.) Swissotels is also offering delivery charges for room service to be waived for guests who book online (as if we'd do it any other way!) There are some terms and conditions to follow but nothing major. First, you need to book at least seven days in advance. The savings can't be combined with any offer except "Book Smart, Stay Smarter" which has pretty much the same perks. But other than those few things, the deal is good from May 31 - September 30, 2014.

http://www.hotelchatter.com/story/2014/5/21/121439/439/hotels/Swiss_Bliss%3A_Swissotels_Offe ring_20_Percent_Off_Summer_Stays_

5/14/2014

9 Reasons to Stay at The Fairmont San Francisco - Johnny Jet

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9 Reasons to Stay at The Fairmont San Francisco The Gold Rewards Card americanexpress.com/canada Earn 25,000 points, plus your first year's on us. Learn more & apply MA Y 13, 2014 BY JOHN N Y JET

2 COMMEN TS

Arguably, one of the world’s most famous hotels is the Fairmont San Francisco. Its been sitting atop Nob Hill for over a hundred years and was made famous by the hit 80’s TV series Hotel. Thanks to the Canadian Media Marketplace (an industry conference) I recently got to experience one of their 591 guest rooms and suites firsthand. From the moment I walked into the lobby I knew this luxurious historic hotel was special and to share my excitement and experiences I put together 9 reasons to stay at The Fairmont San Francisco.

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9 Reasons to Stay at The Fairmont San Francisco - Johnny Jet

1. L o c atio n It’s centrally located. It’s a short walk down to Chinatown, Financial District and Union Square. But with the city’s steep hills you probably will want to take a Cable Car ($6) back up the hill and what’s nice is that The Fairmont San Francisco hotel is the only spot in San Francisco where each of the City’s cable car lines meet. FYI: It’s about a 30 minute drive (without traffic) to SFO and a taxi costs around $50. I took UBER X and it was $34. But you can also take BART, get off at Powell and walk UP the hill for under $10.

2. Pan o ram ic v iew s The conference’s Welcome Reception took place in the hotel’s Crown Room which is on the Penthouse and has panoramic views of the City and the Bay. The views are so unbelievable that every time I looked up I saw someone taking a photo – including one of the chefs! I don’t know about you but I think on a clear day, San Francisco is one of the world’s most beautiful cities and some of the rooms at The Fairmont will sway you.

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3. Histo ry The Fairmont San Francisco opened in 1907 and was named after U.S. Senator James Graham Fair (1831-1894). Since then it has hosted pretty much every single politician — including all the presidents and foreign dignitaries. In 1945 delegates from 40 countries around the World met in the hotel’s historic Garden Room to draft the Charter for the United Nations. Good to know: The hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in April 2002 and is a member of Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. 4. T o n y Ben n et Speaking of history, Tony Bennett first sang, ‘I Left my Heart in San Francisco‘ in the hotel’s Venetian Room in 1961. Go o d to Kn o w : -There’s 55,000 square feet of function space so it’s a popular place for meetings, conventions and weddings. -The elevators are slow when there’s a meeting going on. -The windows are thin so you can hear outside noise. -Valet parking cost $65 (includes tax) per night

5 . Mo v ies/ Sh o w s As I mentioned in my intro The Fairmont San Francisco was made famous by the hit 80’s TV series Hotel (exterior and interior shots were used as stand-ins for the fictional St. Gregory Hotel). But it was also featured in many films, including Alfred Hitchcock’s film Vertigo (1958) and Michael Bay’s The Rock (1996). Other movies filmed here include: Jade (1995), Junior (1994), Hard to Hold (1984), Sudden Impact (1983), Shoot the Moon (1982), Chu Chu and The Philly http://www.johnnyjet.com/2014/05/9-reasons-stay-fairmont-san-francisco/#ixzz31dZCuGkz

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Flash (1981), A Night Full of Rain (1978), Towering Inferno (1974), Petulia (1968) and Midnight Lace (1960). In 2010 TripAdvisor named The Fairmont San Francisco as the number one on its top-10 list of famous movies hotels.

6. Garden s, Bees & Ho n ey If you walk around the hotel’s property you will discover some beautiful and peaceful gardens. If you look closely you will find the 1,000 square foot culinary garden where they grow rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil, chives, cilantro and lavender. But that’s not the only thing brewing out there. In June 2010, The Fairmont San Francisco partnered with Marshall’s Farm to install honey beehives in the hotel’s culinary garden. They did this in order to help support the bee population, which has decreased in number by 90 percent since the 1980s. They currently have four nascent beehives, each containing approximately 20,000 bees. In 2011 alone, the beehives produced approximately 800 pounds of honey, which is served to hotel guests in soups, salad dressings, pastries and as an accompaniment to the hotel’s time-honored afternoon tea service. It is also used in The Fairmont San Francisco’s own Honey Saison Beer, which is offered on draft in Laurel Court Restaurant & Bar. This is all part of The Fairmont’s commitment to offering local, organic, sustainable cuisine. And honey beehives can also be found at The Fairmont Dallas; Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn; The Fairmont Washington, D.C.; The Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, The Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver; The Fairmont Algonquin in St. Andrews, Canada; The Fairmont Yangcheng Lake in Kunshan, China and The Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club. More info.

7 . Co n c ierge Any time a hotel has the country’s first Concierge they need to be credited. Tom Wolfe first http://www.johnnyjet.com/2014/05/9-reasons-stay-fairmont-san-francisco/#ixzz31dZCuGkz

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arrived at The Fairmont in 1973 and the Concierge did not yet exist yet in the United States. Tom trained as a Concierge in Europe and worked with legendary Concierges in London and Paris. He left and took this revered European tradition and implemented the concept to The Fairmont San Francisco. Then in 1978, Tom founded the US chapter of the international organization of hotel lobby concierges, Les Clefs d’Or (the Golden Keys Society), which at the time was recognized as the 19th member section of this international guild of professionals. Tom still works as a Concierge today at the hotel and more info on him can be found here.

8. Ro o m s The hotel’s guestrooms are spacious and have been recently updated with flat screen TVs, pillow top beds, Frette linen sheets and MP3 docking stations. The bed was comfortable and so was the working desk. The only thing I didn’t like is that they charge for internet: $13.95 for basic and $23.95 for the fast stuff.

9. T o n ga Ro o m My biggest surprise of the hotel was when I walked into their Tonga Room. I was not expecting a tropical and festive atmosphere with live entertainment and a rain storm every 15 minutes in the hotel – let alone San Francisco. The Tonga Room serves Pacific Rim Asian Cuisine and it was so much fun I was surprised when I learned Anthony Bourdain called it “This is like, the greatest place in the history of the world” during his show The Layover. I love everything about it: décor, atmosphere, service, fresh fruit drinks (mine came in a whole pineapple), food (okay, my soup was a little bland) and the live music. It’s open 5 days away and closed Monday’s and Tuesday’s. Ever since I was a kid a dreamt of staying at The Fairmont San Francisco and when I finally got the opportunity it didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait to go back with my wife to show it off to her. http://www.johnnyjet.com/2014/05/9-reasons-stay-fairmont-san-francisco/#ixzz31dZCuGkz

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Facilities BEDROCK COMMUNICATIONS, INC. 152 Madison Ave., Ste. 802, New York, NY 10016

2014 Prime Site & Top Destination Awards 62

2014

& Destinations

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For Association & Corporate Meeting Planners & Tradeshow Professionals

Planning by the Rules Keys to success in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly regulated medical meetings industry

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President and CEO, Rx Worldwide Meetings, Inc. Planner Perspectives: 44

Aruba 146

St. Croix 138

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PHILADELPHIA: Lorenz Hassenstein

New GM of the SMG-Managed Pennsylvania Convention Center 54

UpFront Destination Watch Quebec City This spring, the Algonquin Resort in New Brunswick, St. Andrews-by-the Sea, New Brunswick, Canada, completed a renovation of its 233 guestrooms and public spaces to reflect the hotel’s original Victorian style. The property offers 19,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space. JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts has expanded its luxury portfolio in South Korea with the unveiling of the new 170-room JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul in February. The new hotel is the second JW Marriott to open in Seoul and the first hotel in the city to receive LEED Gold certification. It offers 10,570 sq. ft. of meeting space and a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 750 guests. After recently acquiring the 116-hotel Protea Hospitality Group, based in South Africa, Marriott International, Inc. has become the largest hotel company in Africa, and nearly doubled its presence in its Middle East and Africa region to more than 160 hotels and 23,000 rooms. Marriott’s

One of the redesigned ModeRoom guestrooms at the Delta Québec. Not only has Québec City, Canada, recently completed an expansion to its convention center (see Hot List on page 156), but it also boasts several hotel improvement projects in its downtown, along with a milestone for the Hilton Québec. • This year, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is completing a $75 million upgrade of its 611 rooms and suites, expansion of The Fairmont Gold floors, transformation of the main lobby, and the addition of a new luxury spa. • Last fall, the Courtyard Québec City Downtown became the full-service Québec City Marriott Downtown, after a two-year, $3 million renovation. The 111-room property offers 3,500 sq. ft. of meeting space. • The 571-room Hilton Québec is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with numerous promotions, including a $40 per person special meeting package for business guests. • The Delta Québec has completed renovations to its 377 guestrooms, outdoor pool terrace area and Club floor lounge. Guestrooms feature a color palette inspired by the Canadian landscape and new SmartDesks. In addition, the hotel has redesigned its 5,760-sq.-ft. ballroom and added a new fitness center. The Delta Québec is currently undergoing the final stage of its renovation project, which includes a lobby redesign, expected to be completed by the end of June 2014.

Continued on page 22

Facilities & destinations 2014 superbook

the gazette

Tr avel H7 sec tion

· montrealgazette.com · S a t u r d ay, May 3, 2014

Getaway gifts for Mother’s Day, two ways From Boston luxury to seaside resort Rochelle Lash checking in

ave you gifted for Mother’s Day? If you are choosing a minivacation, May 11 might call for a destination loaded with grandeur that would sweep Mom away from the everyday. For others, the second Sunday in May is all about family, all ages having fun on a moderate budget. Here are two ideas in New England: the Fair mont Copley Plaza, a sophisticated landmark of Boston, and Ocean Woods Resort, a budget-conscious, childfriendly seaside getaway.

Ocean Woods Resort

The Ocean Woods Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine, has a down-home feel and family-friendly features.

❚ iF YOU GO Fairmont Copley Plaza: 866-540-4417, 800-4411414, 617-267-5300, oaklongbarkitchen.com, fairmont.com/copley-plazaboston; 138 St. James Ave., Boston, Mass.; pet-friendly, $25 per night.

Even historic hotels shake things up to stay on trend.

The Fairmont Copley Plaza has stylish new features in addition to its splendid neoclassical architecture and ornate interiors. The Copley has been a favourite of the establishment since 1912, a home away from home for dignitaries, and virtually every U.S. president since the 1930s has visited, including Clinton, Nixon and F.D.R. It’s still A-list. Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Kate Hudson and Taylor Swift are among the celebrity sightings. Since its 100th birthday, the Copley has been unveiling modernizations, including a comprehensive rooftop fitness centre with an outdoor deck and a new lobby lounge with a major see-and-be-seen quotient. The hotel also redecorated its nearly 400 luxurious rooms with elegant residential-style decor in a regal plum and blue colour scheme, and it created themed suites around Boston’s institutions, such as the Boston Pops and the Freedom Trail. Guests enjoy all the right stuff: pod coffee makers, flat-screen televisions and iHome docking stations. The exclusive Gold Floor Lounge, also recently renovated, takes it up a notch with welcome perks — a private concierge, all-day refreshments and an honour bar.

Price: Rooms start at approximately $389 U.S. and suites start at $689 U.S. per night, for two, including health club, concierge. Extras: parking, Wi-Fi, babysitting/cribs, 24-hour business services. Internet is free on Fairmont Gold floor or Fairmont Presidents Club.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

A stunning model of classic luxury, the Fairmont Copley Plaza added cool new features for its 100th anniversary, including themed suites related to Boston’s institutions. My idea was to gift Mom with a sleepover at this opulent hotel, yes, but also to experience the updated take on food and drink. The clubby, patrician Oak Bar has been reincarnated as the more fashionable OAK Long Bar + Kitchen, arguably the hottest and most chic brasserie this side of Boston’s Charles River. It is a gorgeous room with towering arched windows, 100-year-old stained glass and a huge fireplace, all a classical backdrop to the trendy new open kitchen and burnished coppertopped bar. Fresh farm-and-sea dinner fare includes clam chowder, Yankee pot roast, Kobe meatballs, lemon sole, grilled duck

and crab cakes. Brunch features a morning-after cocktail of vodka, hazelnut and espresso, plus a menu of wagyu beef burgers and short ribs, as well as old faves like blueberry pancakes and chicken pot pie. Opening this month will be OAK’s sidewalk café, facing Trinity Church and the action of Copley Square. The Fairmont’s location is impeccable, especially if Mom likes to shop. Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman-Marcus are a few blocks away, and Catie Copley, the hotel’s canine ambassador, would be delighted to go for a stroll.

A world away from the urban fray, the Ocean Woods

Resort in the peaceful en-

WHERE

virons of Kennebunkport, Maine, beckons with bracing sea air and an atmosphere of summer-cottage comfort. Ocean Woods is operated by a family, for families. It’s a rambling white clapboard hotel one kilometre from a beautiful stretch of Goose Rocks Beach on the Atlantic Ocean. Owners Kathleen Spang and her partner, Peter Morton, assisted by Spang’s five children, manage 32 guest rooms, a swimming pool and a pub, PJ’s Spirits and Sports. A throwback to a kinder, gentler time, Ocean Woods has lawn games like shuffleboard, tetherball and horseshoes. And generations of guests return year

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after year to make memories and fill Facebook pages with youngsters splashing in the pool and building sandcastles until the tide rolls in. “We have a quiet country setting near the beach,” said Spang, “and the hotel has a real down-home feeling. “We’re an attraction for what I call ‘the sand-pail set.’ ” Goose Rocks Beach is protected by a reef, so the surging Atlantic waters are relatively calm. And you don’t have to lug your beach gear in the car from home. Ocean Woods provides everything — towels, umbrellas, boogie boards, chairs and, yes, sand pails, plus a buggy to get everything to the shore. Spang and Morton have steadily upgraded in recent years. The pool is surrounded by a new patio, and the guest rooms all have been refurbished with pastel decor, fresh carpets and colonialstyle furniture. All rooms have coffee machines and cable television, and some have gas fireplaces and mini-

Ocean Woods Resort: 866967-1928, 207-967-1928; oceanwoodsresort.com; 72 Dyke Rd., Kennebunkport/ Goose Rocks Beach, Maine. Price: May 3 to June 18 and Sept. 1 to Oct. 20, $95-$145 U.S.; June 19 to Aug. 31 (high season), $165-$195 U.S.; incl. continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, newspaper, pool, lawn games and beach gear. Pay 10 per cent less for five nights. Children 18 and under stay for free. Apartments with kitchens rented Sat.-to-Sat. Extras: bikes, $10; kayaks and canoes, $20; beach parking, $10.

refrigerators — so handy in summer, especially with children. I particularly like the ground-floor rooms with walkout patios. Prices here can’t be beat. Until June 20, rates start at about $110 U.S. for a family of four in one room with two queen beds. For more space and privacy, I recommend the two-room suite. PJ’s, the pub at Ocean Woods, knows its mission: casual f are, accessible prices, a kids’ menu, beer and cocktails. Lobster rolls and steamed lobster are on the menu, as well as steak tips, haddock and sports-bar staples like pizza, tacos, onion rings and nachos. You can watch the sun set on the outdoor deck or pull up a tavern chair and tune in to the Boston Red Sox on a big screen. There is life beyond the beach. Ocean Woods is about eight kilometres from the shops and harbour of downtown Kennebunkport. The hotel organizes sport-fishing, boat cruises and golf.

STAY

TO ADVERTISE please call 514-987-2350

1000 ISLANDS

VERMONT

GLEN HOUSE RESORT – SMUGGLERS GLEN GOLF COURSE In the Heart of the 1000 Islands and choose from one of our many Stay and Play or Romance Packages, starting at $136 per night based on double occupancy. Enjoy our 18 hole championship golf course, onsite spa, casual ﬁne dining, local Theatre, Boat Cruises and Casino. Visit www.glenhouseresort.com or Call 1-800-268-4536 for details.

SMART SUITES Spring Special. Come and enjoy our hospitality in either a studio efﬁciency at US $92.95 or a more spacious one bedroom suite at US $102.95/ night, including a deluxe continental breakfast and free WIFI. Call toll free 877.862.6800 and mention the Gazette special. Not valid with other discounts and subject to availability. Effective 05/02/13. 1700 Shelburne Rd., So. Burlington, Vt. Take Exit 13 off I-89, left on rt. 7 for 1.5 miles, same entrance as Holiday Inn Express.

Call directly to book this special offer to our Canadian patrons. These rates include free wireless, deluxe continental breakfast and free use of Shelburne health and ﬁtness club. There are a limited number of rooms available at this rate. Take 189 to exit 13 and make a left. We are 3 miles down on the left. Close to restaurants, shops and museums. Call 802-985-3334 or email dianna@daysinnshelburne.com

GREEN MOUNTAIN SUITES HOTEL Experience all the Charm of a Boutique Vermont Country Inn Escape to beautiful Burlington, Vermont starting at $149/night weekdays Luxurious One-Bedroom Suite Includes Vermont-style Hot Breakfast served each morning Includes Fireside Reception with Beer, Wine and Dinner (M-Th.) Weekend Reception Coming Soon! Heated Indoor Pool/Jacuzzi & Exercise facility Walking distance to University Mall and close to Lake Champlain and the Church Street Marketplace Promotional rate may not be available during select periods. Contact hotel for more information Toll-free reservations 866.337.1616

KEY MOTEL/WILDWOOD Large rooms with kitchenettes. Close to beach, boardwalk, & amusement parks. Inground pool BBQ. July and August special: 5 nights Sun-Fri $399.00 efﬁciency, 5 nights Sun-Fri $549.00 1 bdrm suite, 7 night special, Sat -Sat $599.00 efﬁciency $749.00 1 bdrm suite. 609-522-8142 www.keymotel.net

NEW YORK RIVERSIDE TOWER HOTEL – NEW YORK CITY Singles USD $134. Doubles USD $139. Suites USD $149.-$169. Lincoln Center area. Hudson River views, 18 ﬂoors, kitchenette, 5 minutes to midtown. Safe, quiet luxury area. Riverside Drive & 80th Street. For more info, call 800-724-3136 or visit www.riversidetowerhotel.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE WHITE MOUNTAINS • NORTH CONWAY Enjoy the comforts of our historic “country elegant” boutique hotel with panoramic mountain views, cozy Martini Library Lounge, renowned international dining. Some guest rooms with ﬁreplaces and/or Jacuzzi. Golf, hiking & tax-free outlet shopping nearby. From $78ppdo(US) includes Full Breakfast & Dinner (off regular full menu). Photos, amenities & menu online. 603-421-6146 www.StonehurstManor.com

DAYS INN SHELBURNE Our special off season rates are $135 for 2 nights or $69 for 1 night double or single occupancy. Newly remodeled rooms or suites available until 4/30/14.

VERMONT

NEW JERSEY

ISLAND BREEZE MOTEL/NORTH WILDWOOD Directly in front of Morey’s Surfside Pier and Oasis Waterpark, all standard rooms, newly remodeled, in ground pool & kiddie pool, BBQ, free WIFI, complimentary poolside pizza weekly, Unbeatable location at an affordable price! 5 night SPECIAL Sun-Fri $549.00+ tax, 7 night SPECIAL $799.00+ tax (satsat,sun-sun) 609-522-2700 islandbreezemotel.net MON01048279_1_1

Not-So-Secret Gardens: Five Luxury Hotels with the Most Magical Outdoor Spaces

Courtesy Swissotel The Stamford

May 15, 2014 When you combine the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most luxurious hotels with the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beautiful open-air spaces, you truly have the best way to enjoy the great outdoors. These five to-die-for properties up the ante on wow-factor, with gardens, rooftops, and outdoor lounges that somehow manage to make spring and summer even more enjoyable. Pop some bubbly and let the sun worshipping begin!

Forty 1° North, Newport, Rhode Island In one of New England’s favorite summer playgrounds, the hottest spot in town is this chic, waterfront boutique hotel. And the hottest spot at Forty 1° North is the open-air dockside bar and lounge, where guests enjoy world-class cuisine while yacht-watching. Friday and Saturday nights feature a DJ and Newport’s most beautiful people—all enjoying Newport’s most beautiful views.

Fairmont Nile City, Cairo, Egypt The Nile River and the Cairo skyline are two of the most exquisite sights travelers will ever enjoy, and the best way to experience them is during a swim at this chichotel’s 25th-floor Sky Pool. Somehow cocktails and apps taste that much better while staring off at the pyramids in the distance and watching the sun set in the Cairo sky.

Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris Enjoy meals from any one of their multiple bars and restaurants in the beautiful, lush, oh-sopeaceful Terrace Garden, complete with a pond, a teapot sculpture, and the je ne sais quoi that is Paris in the springtime. Of course the city and the season are even more enchanting thanks to the hotel’s Michelin star cuisine.

The PuLi Hotel & Spa, Shanghai, China Shanghai’s sexiest and most sophisticated hotel is not only home to the city’s best spa and views, but also to the 1,400-square foot Garden Terrace. Whether for enjoying live music under the stars in the evening, afternoon tea, coffee in the early morning, or a late night cocktail, this is where Shanghai guests and locals find respite and outdoor bliss.

Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore Not one, but two free-form swimming pools, illuminated in various colors come nightfall, make one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best hotels an enchanting oasis, and the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of Singapore. The tropical setting is also the ideal spot to enjoy artisanal cocktails, fresh juices, and meals from their Alligator Pear restaurant.

Direct Link: http://www.examiner.com/list/not-so-secret-gardens-five-luxury-hotels-with-the-mostmagical-outdoor-spaces

FRHI Middle East & Africa Development Update

FRHI Hotels & Resorts Announces Seven New Hotel Developments in the Middle East, Africa, and India Region May, 7 2014 FRHI Hotels & Resorts FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI), the hotel management company that operates the luxury and upper upscale hotel brands Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, announced at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) the development of seven new hotels in the burgeoning Middle East, Africa and India (MEAI) region. FRHI Hotels & Resorts (FRHI), the hotel management company that operates the luxury and upper upscale hotel brands Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, announced at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) the development of seven new hotels in the burgeoning Middle East, Africa and India (MEAI) region. The addition of these new hotels is an important step towards FRHI's goal of doubling its regional footprint by 2020. Currently, FRHI has 19 existing hotels in the MEAI region. The new developments are set to open in key strategic markets, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Nigeria. "Our newly announced projects represent significant growth for FRHI and support our global expansion strategy of growing by 50 per cent over the next five years," stated Michael Glennie, FRHI's president & chief operating officer. "Increasing the footprint of our leading hotel brands, as well as the continued expansion of our residential business across the MEAI region is critical to our success. We look forward to successfully opening these new hotels and to exploring future development opportunities throughout the region." FRHI's 2020 expansion strategy for the MEAI region includes seven new hotel developments. These include: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - two new hotels will complement an existing presence in Makkah (the iconic Makkah Clock Royal Tower, Raffles Makkah Palace, and the Swissôtel Makkah), as well as the previously announced Fairmont Riyadh, Business Gate, set to open in 2015. 

Raffles Jeddah - With an enviable location, and inspired by rich Arab heritage, the luxury hotel will feature 180 guestrooms and 188 branded residences. The property will offer special wedding suites for newlyweds, as well as a great number of recreational options such as a library, penthouse-level entertainment suite, and a 1,200 square meter (12,900, square foot) spa and fitness club featuring an indoor ladies-only pool. The hotel will also have state-of-the-art



event and meeting facilities, including a 1,000 square meter (10,750 square foot) ballroom overlooking the corniche and 750 square meters (8,000 square feet) of meeting space. Swissôtel Jeddah - Located in the bustling Palestine Road, the hotel will have 350 guestrooms, executive rooms and suites, a unique variety of innovative and trendy dining options, 2,500 square meters (26,900 square feet) of meeting and conference space, and a 1,200 square meter (12,900 square foot) Pürovel Spa and Sport center featuring indoor and outdoor pools.

United Arab Emirates - with four properties operating in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and more in development (Fairmont Ajman, Fairmont Fujairah, and Fairmont Abu Dhabi Marina), FRHI is bringing the Swissôtel brand to its growing UAE portfolio in an emerging area of Dubai. 

Swissôtel Jaddaf - enjoying an excellent location just minutes away from the Dubai International Airport and close to the Princess Haya Children's Hospital, the property will feature 276 guestrooms and suites, 1,600 square meters (17,200 square feet) of ultra-contemporary meeting and conference space and a Pürovel Spa & Sport, which has philosophy that is inspired by the Alpine seasons. The five star Swissotel will anchor the Al Jaddaf mixed use development envisioned by Aabar Properties to also include two other hotels, serviced apartments, residential and retail facilities.

Egypt - to complement existing properties in Cairo, FRHI will partner with Citystars on an exceptional flagship project in Sharm el Sheikh. Three new hotels and a signature golf course will be built in Egypt's Red Sea coastal city. 

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Fairmont Citystars Sharm el Sheikh - Part of the first phase, including extensive retail, residential apartments and the largest Crystal Lagoon in the world. The Fairmont is scheduled to open in 2015, includes a Fairmont hotel and residential development with 457 guestrooms and 232 residences. Swissôtel Citystars Sharm el Sheikh -- The project's second phase includes the first Swissôtel in Egypt with 400 guestrooms and suites overlooking the Crystal Lagoon alongside retail space and 400 residences due to open in 2016. Raffles Citystars Sharm el Sheikh - A luxury offering of 250 guestrooms and 50 residential villas facing a private lagoon, the hotel will boast a 2,500 square meter (26,900 square foot) banquet and conference island, retail souks, a "La Croisette" leisure and retail promenade, and a Colin Montgomery 18-hole championship golf course.

The final phase of FRHI's Sharm el Sheikh project development covering 7.5 million sqm of land will include an extensive residential development with multiple lagoons and a boutique desert hotel with 80 tent-like rooms. Contributing to the infrastructure of the area, a school and tennis academy will also be built, as well as a natural reserve of mangroves planted for environmental preservation. Nigeria - Lagos, Nigeria's commercial capital and the second fastest-growing city in Africa, represents an important business hub. The city will soon welcome its first Fairmont property. 

Fairmont Lagos - Featuring 220 guestrooms and suites, 50 residences, a Fairmont Gold lounge and an art gallery, the property will showcase a diversity of handmade arts and crafts including beautifully carved wooden furniture and statues alongside colorful paintings. A 3,800 square meter (41,000 square foot) meeting and conference area will cater to the needs of the business

community, while a 1,800 square meter (19,400 square foot) Willow Stream Spa will offer authentic treatment options and an extensive menu of relaxation programming. Added Glennie, "This is the first of what we hope will be many exciting announcements for FRHI in the year ahead, as we continue to focus on opening new luxury hotels and growing our brands in key strategic markets."

Direct Link: http://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article77782.html

MetGolfer TRAVELER The

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E M E T R O P O L I TA N G O L F A S S O C I AT I O N

M G A G O L F. O R G

IN THIS ISSUE May 2014 2 NEWS Pebble Beach’s new range will help you get that much more prepared for a memorable day on the course—and beyond.

4 RENOVATIONS The National course at Georgia golﬁng hotbed Reynolds Plantation has new grass, new sand and a few fewer tree limbs. It’s a worthwhile update.

5 ACROSS THE POND The Donald swoops in to grab Ireland’s Doonbeg GC. Rest assured a new name isn’t the only change en route.

6 EVENT PLANNER Golf may be the linchpin of Sea Island Resort, but its upcoming National Geographic Live programs emphasize other sides of the great outdoors.

8 SHORT SHOTS The hippest town in the Hudson Valley, Hudson, N.Y., boasts great food and great antiquing—plus a great antique golf course nearby.

9 CLUBBING Snake River Sporting Club in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, boasts a surprisingly Met Area–heavy membership. Now there’s a way to join without calling the place home.

11 YORE! The 2014 Ryder Cup host, Gleneagles, is ﬁrst making history by offering guests history, in the form of hickory golf.

12 RUB OFF THE GREEN A new spa on Maui where the foursome that plays together can also get its kneads attended to together.

13 CHECKING OUT Bandon Dunes’ newest Tom Doak course requires just one club but lots of touch and imagination.

Pictured: You may well arrive at Pebble Beach’s famous closing hole in fewer strokes thanks to the course’s new practice area.

RUB OFF THE GREEN ▼

HawaiiFour-Ahhh... Does the group that plays a round together want to get rubbed together? Is this what stretching feels like in space? These are two of the questions that can now be answered, thanks to the new, 9,000square-foot, multimillion-dollar Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Kea Lani (fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/) on Maui, Hawaii, adjacent to the 54 holes of Wailea Golf Club (waileagolf.com). The spa’s Hui (Gather) Suites feature four treatment rooms with a private foyer, for a unique 19th hole gathering, while its Nalu (Wave) Suite offers Maui’s only wave massage table that provides a muscle stretching massage technique creating a feeling of weightlessness. (Our only on-course feeling of weightlessness was the time we holed out from the fairway for eagle.) Golf fees are extra with the spa package, but the Fairmont does offer complementary shuttle service to Wailea GC.

Luxury Hotel Operator Expands in Middle East, Africa May 8, 2014

Travelers to the Middle East, Africa and India are in luck: FRHI Hotels & Resorts—which operates Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts—announced the development of seven new hotels in the region. The addition of these new hotels is an important step towards FRHI’s goal of doubling its regional footprint by 2020.

Currently, FRHI has 19 hotels in the MEAI region. The new developments are set to open in key strategic markets, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Nigeria. FRHI’s 2020 expansion strategy for the MEAI region includes seven new hotel developments. These include:

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Two new hotels will complement an existing presence in Makkah (the iconic Makkah Clock Royal Tower, the Raffles Makkah Palace, and the Swissôtel Makkah), as well as the previously announced Fairmont Riyadh, Business Gate, set to open in 2015. Raffles Jeddah – This hotel will have 180 guestrooms and 188 branded residences. Bonus: The property will offer special wedding suites for newlyweds, as well as a library, penthouse-level entertainment suite, and a spa and fitness club with an indoor ladies-only pool. The hotel will also have event and meeting facilities, including a 10,750 square foot ballroom overlooking the corniche and 8,000 square feet of meeting space. Swissôtel Jeddah – This hotel will have 350 guestrooms, executive rooms and suites, a several dining options, 26,900 square feet of meeting and conference space, and a Pürovel Spa and Sport center with indoor and outdoor pools.

United Arab Emirates With four properties operating in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and more in development (Fairmont Ajman, Fairmont Fujairah, and Fairmont Abu Dhabi Marina), FRHI is bringing the Swissôtel brand to its growing UAE portfolio in an emerging area of Dubai. Swissôtel Jaddaf – Just minutes away from the Dubai International Airport and close to the Princess Haya Children’s Hospital, this hotel will have 276 guestrooms and suites, 17,200 square feet of meeting and conference space and a Pürovel Spa & Sport. The five-star Swissotel will anchor the Al Jaddaf mixed use development that is expected to also include two other hotels, serviced apartments, residential and retail facilities.

Egypt To complement existing properties in Cairo, FRHI will partner with Citystars on a flagship project in Sharm el Sheikh. Three new hotels and a signature golf course will be built in Egypt’s Red Sea coastal city. Fairmont Citystars Sharm el Sheikh – Part of the first phase, including extensive retail, residential apartments and the largest Crystal Lagoon in the world. The Fairmont is scheduled to open in 2015, includes a Fairmont hotel and residential development with 457 guestrooms and 232 residences. Swissôtel Citystars Sharm el Sheikh – The project’s second phase includes the first Swissôtel in Egypt with 400 guestrooms and suites overlooking the Crystal Lagoon alongside retail space and 400 residences due to open in 2016. Raffles Citystars Sharm el Sheikh – A luxury property with 250 guestrooms and 50 residential villas facing a private lagoon, the hotel will have a 26,900 square foot banquet and conference island, retail souks, a “La Croisette” leisure and retail promenade, and a Colin Montgomery 18-hole championship golf course. The final phase of FRHI’s Sharm el Sheikh project development covering 8 million square feet of land will include an extensive residential development with multiple lagoons and a boutique desert hotel with 80 tent-like rooms. The development will also get a school and tennis academy as well as a natural reserve of mangroves planted for environmental preservation.

Nigeria Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital and the second-fastest-growing city in Africa, represents an important business hub. The city will soon get its first Fairmont property. Fairmont Lagos – This hotel is expected to have 220 guestrooms and suites, 50 residences, a Fairmont Gold lounge and an art gallery. A 41,000 square foot meeting and conference area will serve the business community, while a Willow Stream Spa will offer treatment options and an extensive menu of relaxation programming. Direct Link: http://www.luxurytraveladvisor.com/luxury-hotels/luxury-hotel-operator-expands-middle-east-africa12741?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=unknown&utm_content=luxury-hotel-operatorexpands-middle-east-africa12741&spMailingID=20721018&spUserID=MTg4NDQyOTQ1NzIS1&spJobID=320486913&spReportId=MzIwNDg2OTEzS0

Welcome Aboard: New Hires and Promotions for May 6, 2014 MAY 06, 2014

Un-Cruise Adventures Hires Mark Graves, Port Captain Small ship adventure cruise line Un-Cruise Adventures has hired Captain Mark Graves as the company’s port captain. Graves is based at the line’s Fishermen’s Terminal headquarters in Seattle. Ship masters working aboard the adventure cruise line’s eight vessels will report directly to Graves. All aspects concerning vessel team management, voyage planning and navigation standards are under Graves’ direct leadership. Graves will also work closely with the company’s safety officer to ensure a safe and secure environment for the company’s crew and guests. Graves reports directly to the company’s CEO. Graves most recently returned from a three-year sailing adventure with his wife, Michelle. They sailed their sloop along the West Coast of Mexico, across the Pacific to French Polynesia and island-hopped

through the South Pacific Islands to New Zealand. Before leaving for his sailing adventure, Graves spent 22 years with Lindblad Expeditions serving as captain operating small ships throughout the Americas. He started his life aboard at Clipper Cruise Line as a deckhand and quickly worked his way up through the hawse pipe to chief mate. Outrigger Enterprises Group Promotes Mary Loy and Welcomes Richard Oshiro Outrigger Enterprises Group announces two key sales and marketing appointments with the promotion of Mary Loy to director of sales and marketing for the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach and the hiring of Richard Oshiro as director of sales and marketing for the Outrigger Reef on the Beach.

Both Loy and Oshiro will be responsible for planning and implementing sales and marketing strategies for their respective hotels across all market segments working closely with the revenue management team, corporate sales, advertising, public relations and business development to increase brand recognition and meet revenue goals. Loy has been Outrigger’s regional director of sales since 2002 and prior was sales manager at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach and front office manager and assistant hotel manager at the then Outrigger East and West hotels. Loy began her career at Outrigger as a summer intern in 1982 and held various positions in operations. Loy holds a Bachelor of Science in International Relations from the University of San Diego. Oshiro joins Outrigger from the Miramar At Waikiki where he was executive assistant manager and director of sales and marketing. Previously Oshiro was regional director of sales for Westcoast Hotels; director of sales for Waikiki Parkside Hotel; sales manager at the Coconut Beach Hotel; and account manager at the Sheraton Makaha Resort and Country Club. Oshiro holds a bachelor’s in marketing from the University of Hawaii School of Business Administration. Chris Sanchez Named Director of Sales And Marketing for The National Hotel Miami Beach, Florida The National Hotel Miami Beach is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Sanchez as the hotel’s new director of sales & marketing. Sanchez will oversee all aspects of the historic hotel’s sales and marketing efforts, while creating a new long-term strategy of sustainable growth, both domestically and internationally.

Sanchez brings over 20 years of experience in the South Florida luxury market, to include Sonesta Hotels & Resorts earlier in his career, and later opening and introducing major luxury-brand hotels to the area like Mandarin Oriental Miami and Viceroy Miami. Saskia Schuller Appointed Director of Sales & Marketing for Raffles Praslin, Seychelles Saskia Schuller has been appointed director of sales and marketing, Raffles Praslin, Seychelles. Schuller, a German native with 19 years of international experience in the hospitality industry, joins the Raffles family from Kerzner International’s Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Schuller was director of international leisure sales for Kerzer International, responsible for growing and maintaining the share of the European inbound leisure markets at Atlantis, The Palm, One&Only Royal Mirage and One&Only The Palm. Prior to this, Schuller was account director leisure sales at Kerzner International’s Regional Sales Office in Germany. In addition to her experience with Kerzner International, Mrs. Schuller also brings further Sales & Marketing expertise from working for a number of other prominent hotels including Four Seasons Hotel, Hotel Breidenbacher Hof in Germany, The Mark in New York, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. Two Longtime Veteran Travel Leaders Franchise Group Employees Promoted To Leadership Positions Today, Travel Leaders Franchise Group announced that two of its longtime veteran employees have been promoted to key leadership positions within the company. Barbara Blattner, CTC, who has been serving as director of regional franchise consultants (RFC) since 2009, has been appointed as vice president of associate relations. Gloria Stock Mickelson, CTC, who has been serving as senior manager of training for the company since 2008, has been promoted to director of education services. After first entering the travel industry in 1992, Blattner joined the company in 1997 as a business development manager, the precursor to the Travel Leaders position now known as a regional franchise consultant (RFC). While she retired from the company in 2004, she rejoined the organization in 2009 as director of the RFCs. She has since developed consistency in RFC consulting and associated tools that are offered to agency members. Stock Mickelson first joined the company in 1988 as manager of training, and she was promoted to senior manager of training six years ago. In addition to more than a quarter century of service to Travel Leaders, she also serves as president of the Upper Midwest Chapter of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), the trade association for U.S. travel agents and agencies; last September, Stock Mickelson was honored nationally by ASTA for her advocacy in defeating a proposed sales tax on travel agency services in Minnesota. New East Coast Based Sales Managers Boost Air New Zealand’s North American Presence

Air New Zealand has appointed two new East Coast-based sales managers to the airline’s expanding North American staff. Erika Brum has been named corporate sales account manager for the Eastern United States, while Caroline Alberts joins the company as a Leisure Sales Account Manager in the East. Based out of the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area, Brum brings with her 12 years of airline industry experience, including roles in similar capacities at both Japan Airlines and TAM Airlines. She is a native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Alberts is based out of Boston, MA and joins current Account Manager Hank Marques in the Eastern region. A graduate of Boston University, she previously spent three years in sales and marketing with JetBlue and then moved on to Icelandair handling trade sales in the Southern United States.

Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Names Lynn Clark New V.P. of Travel Agency Sales and National Accounts Lynn Clark has been named vice president, Travel Agency Sales and National Accounts for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. In this role, Lynn will provide strategic direction and leadership to Disney’s Travel Agency Sales and National Accounts teams. These teams are responsible for revenue production from USA-based travel agencies and national accounts for the division’s domestic products, including Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland Resort, Aulani and Adventures by Disney. Clark will report directly to Kenneth Svendsen, senior vice president, Global Sales. Clark’s most recent role was director, Destination Sales, On-line Travel Agents, and Wholesale, supporting Disney’s domestic theme parks, Aulani, and Disney Cruise Line. A travel industry veteran, Clark represents the Disneyland Resort as a member of the California Travel board of directors and the Orange County Visitors Association board of directors. Prior to this role, she served as director of Global Sales at the Disneyland Resort from 2005 through 2010. In this role she led teams in the key sales areas of domestic and international wholesale, destination sales, on-line travel agents, retail, corporate ticket, military and youth group sales. Before this, Lynn was the sales division's travel industry and hotel product director, where she worked with Walt Disney World counterparts to implement retail travel channel initiatives for Walt Disney Travel Company and Disney Cruise Line while also developing off-site hotel product for Walt Disney Travel Company California. As manager, National Accounts, Lynn oversaw the travel agency national account relationships supporting Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line.

Lynn has worked for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts since 1996. She was a member of the Disney Cruise Line opening team, joining the company as a district sales manager in Southern California. Prior to joining The Walt Disney Company, Lynn worked for Royal Cruise Line as an onboard passenger service representative and district sales manager. She is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Colorado with majors in French and Spanish. Lynn currently resides in Southern California. David Gudgel Joins Clipper Vacations Clipper Vacations is pleased to announce that David Gudgel has recently joined in a newly created position, as vice president of business development, reporting to president and CEO, Darrell Bryan. In this role, Gudgel will be responsible for the development of key strategic growth, product distribution and passenger service enhancement initiatives. For over 20 years, he has served in key roles in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Caribbean and Europe travel markets in cruise, transportation and international package travel segments. He has experience in both large and small organizations, starting his career with Holland America Line and most recently working with Europe Express, an outbound tour operator specializing in custom group and individual travel.

Direct Link: http://www.travelpulse.com/news/people/welcome-aboard-new-hires-and-promotions-formay-6-2014.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/departures-magazine/top-airportrestaurants_b_5249590.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel?view=print&comm_ref=false

6/2/2014

10 Over-Indulgent Hotel Perks You Never Knew You Needed | Reader's Digest

Home » Travel » Travel the World » 10 Over-Indulgent Hotel Perks You Never Knew You Needed

10 Over-Indulgent Hotel Perks You Never Knew You Needed Since state-of-the-art gyms, decadent spas and celebrity chefs are now the norm at hotels around the globe, some establishments are taking their services to an impressive new level. From pet psychics to social media concierges, here are 10 hotel services that you didn't know you needed – until now! By Jackie Middleton

Catch of the Day Car Service

Photo: The Fairmont Vancouver Airport

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British Columbia is a fisherman's dream destination. With an abundance of premiere fishing lodges and plenty of cod, halibut and salmon to net, it's not surprising that so many tourists successfully hook their catch of the day. But too often, their prize catches spoil before the journey back home. Enter the Fairmont Vancouver Airport's Fish Valet. He'll store your bounty in a 575cubic foot freezer where it will be kept fresh until it's time for you to

checkout.

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Find more about : world travel | travel | hotel | concierges

http://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/world/10-over-indulgent-hotel-perks-you-never-knew-you-needed/

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5/21/2014

Fancy a cuppa? Indulge in centuries-old tradition of afternoon tea

Fancy a cuppa? Indulge in centuries-old tradition of afternoon tea BY CHRIS PURDY, THE CANADIAN PRESS

MAY 12, 2014

A cup of tea is poured at the Fairmont Empress Tea Room in Victoria on Wednesday, May 7, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito

Forget coffee. Tea is the new black. And we're not talking about your average cuppa — think bigger, fancier, with finger sandwiches. The British tradition of afternoon tea is a lingering and luxurious affair, still popular three centuries after a noblewoman started the trend because she got the growlies in the late afternoon. Legend has it that Anna Maria Stanhope, Duchess of Bedford, had servants sneak a pot of tea and some snacks up to her room each day. Eventually she started inviting friends to join her and the event morphed into a regular social occasion. Since then, high-end hotels and specialty tea shops around the world have been offering up the afternoon ritual in a range of prices and decadence. Not to be confused with high tea — which is more of a meal, served in the early evening — afternoon tea begins with a selection of the drink transported in elegant pots that endlessly fill cups daintily http://www.thestarphoenix.com/story_print.html?id=9830152&sponsor=

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Fancy a cuppa? Indulge in centuries-old tradition of afternoon tea

clinking on top of saucers. Towering in the middle of the table is the main attraction: a tiered stand piled high with scones to smother with preserves and clotted cream, tiny crustless sandwiches (there's usually at least one stuffed with cucumbers), and rich pastries and desserts. Most venues recommend customers set aside at least 90 minutes for sipping, nibbling and chatting away. Tea and food aside, it's the entire experience of afternoon tea that's the draw, says Anne Marie Vivani, owner of the Savoy Room in St. Catharines, Ont. Three years ago, Vivani opened her tea room — all it serves is afternoon tea — and has noticed a steady increase in customers. She thinks more people want what she calls "Old World charm." Brett Patterson is a Toronto executive with Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, which has offered afternoon tea at many of its locations for decades. He says he has also seen a recent resurgence in the tradition. "We're going back to a lot of things in life, going back to older things ... It's all coming back." The British period TV drama "Downton Abbey" has spawned at-home tea parties and special events at some tea houses. So have non-fiction royal visits. Later this month, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, are to visit Canada, with stops scheduled in Prince Edward Island, Manitoba and Nova Scotia. Of course, the mother of all afternoon tea times seems to be Mother's Day. The popularity of the tradition is perhaps matched by a growing taste for tea itself. Starbucks — the queen of coffee — said it all when it acquired a chain of tea stores in 2012 and, the following year, opened its first "tea bar" in New York. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has even identified the tea trend, linking it to people's growing interest in being healthy. Statistics Canada reports that Canadians drink about 10 billion cups of tea each year. Fairmont's Empress Hotel in Victoria, perhaps the most renowned place to sit down for afternoon tea in Canada, serves about 100,000 people annually. It started its daily event in 1908. In Edmonton, the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald serves a common twist on afternoon tea, called royal tea. It basically adds alcohol to the menu, typically a glass of sherry or Champagne. The hotel even throws in a tour of its royal suite, where the Queen stayed in 2005. For those who want to include their wee ones, Fairmont offers afternoon tea in the form of a teddy bear picnic at its Chateau Lake Louise in Alberta. At the company's Vancouver hotel, children are http://www.thestarphoenix.com/story_print.html?id=9830152&sponsor=

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Fancy a cuppa? Indulge in centuries-old tradition of afternoon tea

encouraged to dress up like their favourite fairy-tale characters and get special bubble gum tea with peanut butter and jelly finger sandwiches. Other locations of note that offer afternoon tea include the historic Windsor Arms Hotel in Toronto, Mademoiselle Clifford's Tea Room in Hudson, Que., and Grandma's Tea Room in Charlottetown. There is an art to serving afternoon tea and it has its own etiquette. Here are some dos and don'ts from Fairmont Hotels and Resorts: — If you add milk, pour it into the cup before the tea. If you like sugar, drop cubes in afterward. — To stir, hold the spoon at the six o'clock position and swish back and forth without touching the sides of the cup. Never clink. — Don't blow on tea to cool it. You just have to wait it out. — Place index finger into the handle with your thumb on top. The bottom of the handle should rest on your third finger. And, if you like, point your pinky up for balance. — Take an elegant sip and don't look around. Keep your eyes on your cup so it doesn't spill.

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STAFF MOVEMENT Saskia Schuller has been appointed Director of Sales & Marketing at Raffles Praslin in Praslin Island, Seychelles Saskia Schuller has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing, Raffles Praslin, Seychelles, with immediate effect. Mrs Schuller, a German native with 19 years of international experience in the hospitality industry, joins the Raffles family from Kerzner Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Mrs Schuller was Director of International Leisure Sales for Kerzner International, responsible for growing and maintaining the share of the European inbound leisure markets at Atlantis, The Palm, and assisting One&Only Royal Mirage and One&Only The Palm. Prior to this, Mrs Schuller was Account Director Leisure Sales at Kerzner Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Regional Sales Office in Germany. In addition to her experience with Kerzner International, Mrs Schuller also brings further Sales and Marketing expertise from working for a number of other prominent hotels including Four Seasons Hotel and Hotel Breidenbacher Hof in Germany, The Mark in New York and Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. Saskia Schuller is a graduate of Hotelfachschule Heidelberg in Heidelberg - Germany (Class of 2005) OTHER STAFF MOVEMENTS AT RAFFLES

Ayman Gharib Has been promoted General Manager at Raffles Dubai, United Arab Emirates - posted on 3 March

Len Tobias Has been appointed Director of Sales at Raffles Dubai, United Arab Emirates - posted on 24 July, 2013

Christoph Ganster Has been appointed General Manager at Raffles Praslin Seychelles in Praslin Island posted on 18 July, 2013.

Simon Hirst Has been appointed General Manager at Raffles Singapore - posted on 18 July, 2013.

Richard Schestak Has been appointed General Manager at Raffles Jakarta in Jakarta, Indonesia - posted on 10 July, 2013.

Direct Link: http://www.hospitalitynet.org/staffmovement/79006509.html

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