ReportWire

Tag: hospitality

  • The Biltmore Los Angeles Welcomes Matthias Kaiser as New General Manager

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    LOS ANGELES, November 8, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Millennium Hotels and Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthias Kaiser as the new General Manager of The Biltmore Los Angeles. With over 20 years of global experience in the hospitality industry, Kaiser brings a wealth of expertise in luxury hotel operations, team leadership, and guest service excellence.

    Kaiser joins the Biltmore from his recent position as Hotel Manager at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic insight, overseeing operations to ensure high standards of guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. His career spans prominent roles at luxury properties worldwide, including the InterContinental New York Barclay, Hilton Beachfront Resort in Santa Barbara, Swisstouches Hotels & Resorts in China, and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in Saudi Arabia.

    A proven leader in both pre-opening and rebranding initiatives, Kaiser has played a key role in enhancing guest experiences through refined operational processes, staff development, and commitment to service excellence. His hands-on approach and dedication to fostering inclusive, culturally diverse environments have been instrumental in his ability to elevate hotel performance and guest satisfaction.

    Kaiser holds an MBA from the HTMi Hotel and Tourism Management Institute in Switzerland, along with a Rooms Division Executive Certificate from the AHLA Educational Institute. His diverse background and strong operational acumen make him an ideal fit to lead the historic Biltmore Los Angeles into its next chapter.

    Benedict Ng, Vice President of Operations, North America, commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Matthias to the Millennium team. His commitment to operational excellence and his international perspective will be invaluable as we continue to uphold the legacy of the Biltmore.”

    About The Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles

    The Biltmore Los Angeles, having recently added the ‘Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument’ accolade to its mantle, is the grand dame of downtown LA. The beaux-arts institution has impressed guests and locals since the glory days of Old Hollywood, entertaining a galaxy of stars, dignitaries, and presidents from around the world. And with the booming arts and cultural scene of downtown Los Angeles just outside, guests can easily explore and discover the true spirit of Tinseltown. The historic hotel has a variety of restaurants and bars that celebrate tradition, flavor, and sophistication. For more information, please visit the hotel website.

    Source: The Biltmore Los Angeles

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  • Luxury Hospitality + Smart Lighting: SAVE Electronics Elevates Guest Experiences With AI-Driven Brilliance

    Luxury Hospitality + Smart Lighting: SAVE Electronics Elevates Guest Experiences With AI-Driven Brilliance

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    ATLANTA, November 1, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    As one of the few national Hospitality Technology Integrators (HTIs) for Lutron, SAVE Electronics is helping redefine luxury hospitality with AI-integrated, precision-engineered lighting control solutions that enhance ambiance and reduce operational costs. By harnessing advanced AI analytics alongside precision lighting, SAVE Electronics delivers transformative solutions that meet the demands of the most discerning guests.

    Luxury hospitality brands are increasingly turning to SAVE Electronics for lighting solutions that go beyond reliability—bringing the transformative power of AI to streamline operations and elevate the guest experience. With over 30 years of expertise in lighting, controls, and energy management, Matthew Caro, President of the Lighting Division, leads with a strategic vision that empowers properties to operate at peak efficiency. SAVE Electronics combines experience with AI-driven predictive analytics to craft sustainable, immersive environments that delight guests and drive value for hospitality leaders.

    Lighting Drives Revenue + Engagement 

    Strategic lighting design in hospitality has a powerful yet subtle influence on guests’ behavior and spending. Thoughtfully controlled lighting levels and color temperatures naturally guide guests to key Food and Beverage (F&B) areas, retail spaces, and event venues, driving engagement where it matters most. By creating a tailored atmosphere—bright lighting to encourage impulse buys and warm, ambient lighting to invite guests to linger—our designs elevate guest experiences and maximize revenue. “Our solutions establish a natural flow, drawing guests in, enhancing satisfaction, and driving revenue for our clients’ properties,” says Caro.

    Sustainability + Efficiency

    At SAVE Electronics, our solutions go far beyond standard lighting by using AI-driven analytics to interpret and predict energy needs, reducing costs while creating an ambiance tailored to guest presence and preferences. Our motto, “Let us automate while you operate,” reflects our commitment to streamlining operations so hotel staff can focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences. With predictive analytics, SAVE Electronics empowers hotel operators to optimize key guest areas, ensuring spaces are both visually captivating and efficient.

    Creating Social Media Buzz 

    Today’s luxury travelers crave more than comfort—they seek memorable, shareable experiences. Through expertly crafted spaces and quality lighting, SAVE Electronics helps hotels create photogenic, “Instagrammable” spots that reinforce brand visibility and encourage guests to capture and share their experiences instantly. “In a social media-driven world, every corner of a luxury hotel has the potential to expand the brand’s reach,” says Caro. “Lighting creates the kind of visual impact that inspires guests to share these memories with the world.”

    Quality and Reliability 

    SAVE Electronics is known for using only the highest-quality products that stand the test of time, delivering lighting solutions built to perform and endure. With Caro’s extensive experience at the helm, SAVE Electronics combines proven quality with AI innovation, offering hoteliers peace of mind and a strong return on investment.

    Luxury hotels and hospitality leaders ready to elevate guest experiences and maximize efficiency are invited to discover SAVE Electronics’ innovative solutions today at www.saveelectronics.com.

    Source: SAVE Electronics

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  • Honeymoons.com Honored at Sandals Resorts Star Awards

    Honeymoons.com Honored at Sandals Resorts Star Awards

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    Recognized as “Best of the Best Travel Agency” and Joins the Exclusive “Million Dollar Club Worldwide” for Excellence in Sandals Resort Travel


    CONCORD, N.H., October 22, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Honeymoons.com, a leader in honeymoon planning and Sandals Resort travel information, took home top honors at the prestigious Sandals Star Awards, held at Sandals’ newest luxury destination in St. Vincent. The company was named “Best of the Best Travel Agency” for its exceptional service and expertise in booking Sandals Resorts and was inducted into the exclusive “Million Dollar Club Worldwide” for its outstanding sales performance.

    In addition to the company’s success, Honeymoons.com’s founder, Jim Campbell, was recognized as a Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite member, an honor reserved for top-performing Sandals travel agents who demonstrate unmatched excellence in promoting Sandals and Beaches Resorts. Campbell’s recognition highlights the dedication Honeymoons.com brings to the honeymoon industry and its commitment to Sandals Resorts.

    “Our team at Honeymoons.com is passionate about providing couples with the most accurate and up-to-date information on Sandals Resorts,” said Campbell. “These awards affirm our commitment to being a trusted source for honeymooners and our continued focus on delivering top-tier service and advice.”

    Honeymoons.com has become a go-to resource for couples planning romantic getaways. The website offers comprehensive reviews of the top-rated Sandals Resorts, up-to-date Sandals deals, and expert guidance. The website’s detailed resort guides and insider knowledge ensure travelers are well-informed when planning their dream vacation. Their knowledgeable travel agents are available to help couples plan and book their honeymoon.

    By maintaining a strong partnership with Sandals Resorts, Honeymoons.com continues to serve thousands of couples each year, helping them plan unforgettable honeymoons, destination weddings, and romantic vacations in the Caribbean.

    About Honeymoons.com

    Honeymoons.com is the ultimate online resource for couples planning their perfect honeymoon or romantic getaway. The site offers expert advice, resort reviews, travel deals, and personalized service to help couples find their ideal destination. With a focus on all-inclusive honeymoon experiences in the Caribbean, Honeymoons.com partners with top resorts, including Sandals Resorts, to create unforgettable vacations for newlyweds.

    For more information, visit honeymoons.com.

    Source: Honeymoons.com

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  • Barcelona restaurant offers tonic to city’s overtourism problem

    Barcelona restaurant offers tonic to city’s overtourism problem

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    When you save up for a meal at an acclaimed restaurant in a city far from your own, philanthropy and sustainability are likely far from your mind. For one Barcelona-based chef who has just scooped a major culinary humanitarian prize, this is a problem that needs fixing.

    Andres Torres is a former war correspondent who has turned his experiences on the battlefield into an acclaimed restaurant. 

    Nestled in the Catalan wine region of Penedés, Torres’s Casa Nova, where he is the head chef, serves high-level cuisine to customers while encouraging them to consider where their pricey food is coming from.

    Torres scooped the prestigious Basque Culinary World Prize and its €100,000 reward this year. The prize is awarded to a restaurant that displays a wider socio-economic benefit from its endeavors outside the kitchen. 

    The former war reporter splits his time between Casa Nova and running the NGO Global Humanitaria, a non-profit organization that mainly works in impoverished and war-torn countries to provide food and clean water sources to locals. 

    It might seem incomprehensible that one person can run both a kitchen and an international humanitarian organization, but these ventures have a surprising level of crossover.

    Torres’s Michelin Green Star restaurant drives a portion of its profits into Golbal Humanitaria. The food is inspired by places where Torres has reported and carried out humanitarian activities, including Guatemala, Syria, and Ukraine. 

    Torres told Fortune through an interpreter that he learned how conflict impacted local food ecosystems while reporting on the ground. As a self-trained chef, he decided the best way to portray this to the public wasn’t through journalism, but by cooking in Casa Nova.

    Amid existential questions surrounding the ills of tourism, Torres’ restaurant is an example of a concept that could create more conscious travelers.

    Conscious tourism

    Barcelona residents have been among the most restless at a resurgence in tourism across Europe, fueled by the “revenge travel” craze in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    Besides the weather and architectural wonders of the famed architect Gaudi, food tourism is a big draw for visitors to Catalonia. 

    The latter prompted locals to squirt unsuspecting dining tourists with water pistols in July while greeting them with chants of “go home” as they walked down Las Ramblas.

    Reducing tourism to levels acceptable to locals is unrealistic for many reasons, not least its employment of millions of people and relatively open borders that invite curious travelers from across the world.

    However, the ills of over-tourism persist, affecting locals’ quality of life and disposable income as a growing share of major cities’ accommodation goes towards short-term lets servicing travelers. 

    Barcelona plans to ban Airbnb short-term lets from 2029 to free up housing supply for locals, though it’s uncertain what effect that will have on traveler numbers.

    But with the dilemma between economic growth and placating frustrated locals, some cities are trying to find a compromise between starry-eyed tourists and frustrated locals.

    Where Barcelona residents used the stick approach to reign in over-tourism, the Danish capital of Copenhagen is opting for the carrot. 

    In July, Copenhagen introduced a CopenPay program, which rewards willing tourists with free museum trips, lunches, and even kayak tours if they perform community service. Fortune reported that a Surf School would provide free lessons to surfers if they helped clean beaches for 30 minutes. 

    Within the complicated autonomous region of Catalonia, Torres’ restaurant is at the heart of that growing demand for conscious capitalism.

    Torres has become popular with Gen Z visitors who have caught wind of his gastro-humanitarian activities, he told Fortune, even if they can’t always afford to eat there.

    The real target, though, is high-net-worth individuals who are able to put their money where their mouth is. Several traveling foodies will come to Torres’ restaurant thanks to the positive reviews, but will often get caught up in conversation with the chef about the origin of their meals.

    Torres says one unnamed wealthy diner made a donation to allow Torres to build a bunker for school children in Ukraine, taking cover from seemingly endless bombardment from Russia’s military operation. 

    He says several other philanthropic diners will use the dinner to decide whether to support Torres’s humanitarian ventures.

    He also recounted a recent experience where a table of Russian citizens and a separate table of Ukrainians could discuss the fallout of the conflict over dinner.

    Torres thinks more restaurants in Europe need to focus on sustainability, explaining where their food is coming from and giving tourists an insight not just into the local ecosystem, but the global one too.

    If this became the norm, hungry tourists might leave with more than a full stomach.

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    Ryan Hogg

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  • Across Oceans Group Partners With DigiValet to Elevate Luxury Guest Experiences in the Cruise Industry

    Across Oceans Group Partners With DigiValet to Elevate Luxury Guest Experiences in the Cruise Industry

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    MIAMI, October 2, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Across Oceans Group (AOG) is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with DigiValet, the global leader in smart guest experience technology. This collaboration is set to revolutionize luxury guest experiences in high-end hotels, residences, resorts, and the rapidly expanding cruise industry.

    By leveraging AOG’s extensive industry expertise, DigiValet aims to penetrate the vibrant cruise ship market, utilizing its innovation center in India and offices in key cities worldwide, including New York, Las Vegas, London, Dubai, Riyadh, Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, and Shanghai. With a prestigious clientele that includes the Ritz Carlton, Bulgari Hotel Paris, Aman New York, Wynn Las Vegas, and Raffles Singapore, DigiValet’s advanced solutions have set new benchmarks for total guest experience in luxury hospitality and are now poised to make a significant impact in the cruise sector.

    This alliance will enable AOG to offer a groundbreaking state-of-the-art digital concierge solution to the 67 cruise vessels currently on order, totaling $57 billion, while also supporting hundreds of legacy ships. The DigiValet platform provides a comprehensive suite of functionalities, including room controls, seamless check-in and check-out processes, lighting adjustments, safety protocols, and personalized service requests—all accessible through an intuitive mobile app and sophisticated in-room technology.

    The partnership aims to expand DigiValet’s innovative technology into cruise lines, offering travelers an exceptional experience characterized by advanced in-cabin controls, bespoke service options, and streamlined communication—ultimately enhancing the overall guest journey on luxury cruises.

    “Our collaboration with DigiValet marks a significant advancement in our commitment to delivering unparalleled guest experiences,” stated Douglas Diggle, President of Across Oceans Group. “With decades of experience in air-sea technology, I have previously provided in-room entertainment and guest revenue solutions to industry leaders such as Celebrity, Disney, Seabourn, and AIDA.”

    “We are excited to partner with Across Oceans Group, a leader in luxury hospitality, as we strategically enter the global cruise industry,” remarked Rahul Salgia, President of DigiValet. “Their unmatched expertise will be crucial in tailoring our technology to meet the specific needs of cruise travelers, driving our mission of delivering exceptional, personalized experiences.”

    About Across Oceans Group:
    Founded in 2007, AOG specializes in guiding senior executives and leaders across the cruise, marine, air-sea transportation, seaport, offshore, and travel industries toward new revenue growth and product transformation. Our dedicated team is recognized as a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of shipboard innovation and technology. With a robust portfolio featuring over 60+ multi-national corporations, including numerous Fortune 500 companies and government entities, we deliver change management leadership and innovative sales strategies tailored to the unique needs of each industry.

    About DigiValet:
    Established in 2008, DigiValet has consistently pioneered innovative digital experiences for hotels, hospitals, workspaces, residences, membership clubs, and smart cities. With over 300 integrations, DigiValet’s products empower operators to maintain seamless and efficient operations.

    For more information, please visit www.AcrossOceansGroup.com or connect https://linktr.ee/AcrossOceansGroup

    Source: Across Oceans Group

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  • Opposition prompts town to cancel hearing to allow resorts on farmland | Long Island Business News

    Opposition prompts town to cancel hearing to allow resorts on farmland | Long Island Business News

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    The Riverhead Town Board has cancelled a public hearing on a controversial zoning change that would allow hospitality development on North Fork farmland. 

    The hearing, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, August 20, was to give the public a chance to weigh in on a proposal to create a specially permitted use, Agritourism, Inns and Resorts in RA80 Zoning Use District, which would allow the development of inns and resorts on larger parcels of land north of Sound Avenue. 

    However, opposition to the plan has prompted town officials to cancel the public hearing and instead schedule a “public forum” at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18 in Town Hall. 

    “In response to the unusually high volume of opposition and commentary received by all members of the Town Board – whether that be emails, calls or texts – regarding the topic of Agritourism, Inns and Resorts, some of which may reflect a misunderstanding of the intent and/or extent of the proposed change, Supervisor Hubbard and the entire Town Board have agreed it would be beneficial and productive to host a public forum on the subject,” read the statement posted Thursday on the town website. 

    The proposed change to the town’s zoning code would allow for the development of resorts and inns on a minimum of 100-acre parcels of land north of Sound Avenue. It would require that 70 percent of the land be preserved for agricultural use, and no more than 30 percent used for hospitality development that would not be visible from Sound Avenue. 

    The agritourism proposal drew opposition from local residents and groups, including the Greater Jamesport Civic Association, which urged people to send letters to town officials and sign a petition against the plan. The civic association also pointed out that a developer already has plans to build a resort on a 105-acre parcel north of Sound Avenue. 

    On the website of Harrison, N.Y.-based Alfred Weissman Real Estate, the developer touts that the site “offers the potential to build a truly unique campus beach resort experience. The property has a private beach with over 600 linear feet of coastline and a 70-acre organic farm, that will allow for the offering of an organic farm to table experience. AWRE is looking to build a 5-star resort, taking advantage of the property’s natural beauty, proximity to NYC, the Hamptons and the North Fork wine trail.” 

    As of Friday, the petition on Change.org opposing the agritourism zoning change has garnered 1,180 signatures in four days, along with comments that railed against development and advocated for preserving the Sound Avenue corridor and its rural character. 

    “Riverhead has changed so much in the 25 years we’ve lived here, and not for the better,” posted Riverhead resident Jennifer Eager. “We’re sick and tired of the town board destroying our way of life and giving endless tax breaks to useless developers who do nothing but desecrate the environment and bring more and more traffic and tourists to the already overcrowded North Fork. Enough is enough, and we say NO!” 

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    David Winzelberg

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  • Hormel Introduces New Chili Formula For Mothers Who Can’t Produce Own Chili

    Hormel Introduces New Chili Formula For Mothers Who Can’t Produce Own Chili

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  • Disney Made It More Difficult to Ride What You Want, Just in Time for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

    Disney Made It More Difficult to Ride What You Want, Just in Time for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

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    If you’re going down the bayou to ride Walt Disney World’s Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, there’s a few things you need to know to make sure you’ll be able to experience the Magic Kingdom’s newest exciting attraction. It won’t have a traditional “wake up early and rush to the line” queue, but rather an online virtual queue you’ll have to wake up early to enter on the MyDisneyExperience app (with a second shot in the afternoon)—or as a pay-as-you go Lightning Lane, which has replaced Genie+ just in time for the in-demand ride’s opening.

    Florida Family Takes NASA to Court Over Home Damaged by Space Trash

    When Does Tiana’s Bayou Adventure open?

    Disney’s Orlando theme park has officially opened the long-needed replacement for the dated and problematic Splash Mountain with a property that fans love. The Princess and the Frog universe expands with a continuation in ride form following Tiana’s adventures through the swampy, magical land of New Orleans with the bones of Disney World’s iconic log flume ride. Soft previews in the past few weeks and first-day reactions are flooding the internet with praise celebrating the incredible animatronic work, sets, and music with Disney Animation’s original cast—including Tiana herself, Anika Noni Rose, singing the ride’s finale song. So if you’re heading to Disney World this summer, it’s not to be missed if you want to keep cool on a water ride and see Princess Tiana’s fairytale continue before her Disney+ animated series Tiana arrives.

    Image: Sabina Graves/Gizmodo

    How to Ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

    Here’s the spice: in order to ride without any additional costs beyond park admission, make sure you have the MyDisneyExperience app downloaded before your trip. On the app, ensure that your entire party’s tickets are saved under the trip planner’s profile (pick the most tech-savvy person in your group to handle this)—but multiple people can try to book on the Virtual Queue for the entire group at the same time; you just have to make sure they select all party guests for your boarding group lottery.

    Walt Disney World’s Virtual Queue is available twice a day, once at 7 a.m.(which can be done at your leisure from anywhere on property) and then at 1 p.m.—the catch at Magic Kingdom is that TRON Lightcycle/Run currently still only has virtual boarding groups, so you have to choose between Tiana and Tron. If you want to do both, you can try for Tiana in the morning but not get it, and then have a hard choice at 1 p.m. to try to secure the free boarding group pass for Tiana’s again (not guaranteed) or Tron (also not guaranteed). It’s worth noting that in order to try for a second time at 1 p.m., your party has to be inside of Magic Kingdom to be eligible—and you can only hold a boarding group once per day during the park’s operating hours.

    It feels tricky—it is tricky!—but there’s another way to make sure you’ll get to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Tron, or any high demand ride like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind which is restricted to the Virtual Queue and does not have standby lines currently available.

    What is the new Lighting Lane option at Walt Disney World?

    Genie+ is gone! Poof! Disney Experiences’ pay-as-you-go option has streamlined the process by rebranding as simply Lightning Lane, the line that used to contain the free fastpass (RIP to that feature). It’s had multiple names since becoming a financial add-on at both Disney World and Disneyland but will now be known as Lightning Lane, broken down into Lightning Lane Multi Pass (a three-ride package) or Lightning Lane Single Pass for an individual ride.

    Purchasing a Lightning Lane Multi Pass allows you to make up to three Lightning Lane selections in a theme park. If you’re staying at a Disney hotel or a participating neighbor hotel, you will be able to access this up to seven days before your trip to make selections, and you’ll be able choose available times as you make your ride choices. If you’re purchasing the Multi Pass the day of your visit, your selections will vary on availability. Your three ride selections will come from three levels: one from rides that have the highest demands like an E-ticket new attraction (think Tiana or Tron), and two that will be lower in demand level (think classics, i.e. Haunted Mansion). The cost of a Lightning Lane Multi Pass will vary depending on when you go, scaled between peak vacation days and the off-season.

    If you only want to secure a single new Lightning Lane for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure or other in-demand rides or attractions, the same booking rules apply—and day of availability will vary, with the stipulation that you’ll only be able to buy into two single Lightning Lane options for your party.

    This is what the options look like on Day 1 in the afternoon at Walt Disney World.

    Image for article titled Disney Made It More Difficult to Ride What You Want, Just in Time for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

    Image: Sabina Graves/Gizmodo

    Don’t miss out on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure by not being in the know—and make sure you plan your Disney World vacation with the above in mind. And if you miss out or have a Disneyland trip planned this year instead, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also open on the West Coast soon in Walt Disney’s original park in Anaheim, CA.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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    Sabina Graves

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  • Santa Monica Hotel Unveils Remarkable Transformation With Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

    Santa Monica Hotel Unveils Remarkable Transformation With Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

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    SANTA MONICA, Calif., June 20, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    The newly rebranded Santa Monica Hotel, located at the vibrant intersection of Grant Street and Lincoln Boulevard, has officially opened its doors after an extensive remodel. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by local officials and community members, marked the hotel’s transformation from the former Santa Monica Motel into a modern, upscale establishment.

    A Visionary Leader in Hospitality

    Jon Farzam, the visionary owner of Santa Monica Hotel, has led this remarkable transformation. With a wealth of experience in the local hospitality industry, Farzam’s innovative approach has redefined the property, showcasing his commitment to exceeding guest expectations. “The transformation from a motel to a hotel reflects our dedication to providing an environment that goes beyond guest expectations,” stated Farzam.

    Enhanced Amenities and Unique Features

    The remodel of the 30-room hotel includes a brighter color scheme, a captivating mural by a local artist, and strategically placed lighting that accentuates the central palm tree. The revamped courtyard now serves as a welcoming lounge, complete with breakfast service and access to electric bikes, enhancing guests’ experiences as they explore the local area.

    Guestrooms have been thoughtfully redesigned with stunning palm frond wallpaper and exquisite rattan furniture, creating an instant vacation ambiance. Modern amenities such as LED mirrors, Nespresso machines, and device charging stations in every room, along with table-top games on the patio, ensure a blend of comfort and entertainment.

    Innovative Event Space

    A highlight of the transformation is the repurposing of the hotel’s parking lot into a dynamic outdoor event space. This new addition promises to provide the Santa Monica community with a versatile venue for art exhibitions, movie premieres, and red carpet events. “We’re excited to offer our space to the community, envisioning a hub for local events and celebrations,” said Farzam.

    Commitment to Guest Experience

    To further enhance the guest experience, Santa Monica Hotel has introduced a new texting service, allowing guests to seamlessly communicate with guest services for any requests, including ordering snacks and drinks directly to their room. This service ensures that guests’ needs are met promptly and efficiently, providing an even more relaxed and catered stay.

    Strategically located near the famous Third Street Promenade, the hotel offers guests immediate access to this renowned outdoor shopping and dining esplanade, enhancing their stay with convenience and local culture.

    Looking Ahead

    As Santa Monica Hotel embarks on this new chapter, Farzam’s enthusiasm for collaboration with local event organizers and the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce is palpable. The hotel’s intimate size fosters a cozy, personalized atmosphere, where the staff’s dedication to service shines through in thoughtful gestures, including hand-written notes for special occasions. “Our aim is to make every stay memorable, treating our guests to unparalleled hospitality and comfort,” Farzam asserts.

    For more information on the transformed Santa Monica Hotel, its updated amenities, and booking details, please visit SantaMonicaHotel.com.

    Contact:

    Santa Monica Hotel
    2102 Lincoln Boulevard
    Santa Monica, CA 90405
    Email: info@santamonicahotel.com

    Source: Santa Monica Hotel

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  • Stalky Mountains

    Stalky Mountains

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  • Grandfather’s Eyes Light Up While Describing Memories Of Old Country Buffet

    Grandfather’s Eyes Light Up While Describing Memories Of Old Country Buffet

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    ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL—Describing the serene smile that spread across the 87-year-old’s face, sources reported that local grandfather Murray Lowe’s eyes lit up Wednesday as he recalled his halcyon days as a regular at his town’s Old Country Buffet. “There was a sparkle in his eyes as he talked of all the good times he had back then, when he was younger and hungrier and always grabbing a fresh plate to go back through the line at his favorite all-you-can-eat chain,” Lowe’s granddaughter Kelly Williams said during a visit to his assisted-living facility, reportedly becoming emotional as her grandfather reminisced about his old haunt and the trays piled high with boil-in-a-bag macaroni and cheese, green beans, and mashed potatoes. “He’s never opened up about it before, probably because of how painful it must be knowing those days are gone forever. But today it was like he went back in time, feeling the warmth of the steam trays and the heat lamps as he stood in line for another serving of dried-out pot roast or fried chicken. I could almost see the buffet-goer he used to be, marveling with his head cocked upward at a mountain of wet coleslaw, and beaming with pride at the opportunity to provide us grandkids with limitless soft-serve ice cream. I think a part of him may still be there, you know?” Williams added that her grandfather later asked her to cut his prime rib extra thick and “pour a little bit of the beef juice on there if [she] wouldn’t mind,” having apparently mistaken her for an employee working the buffet’s carving station.

    Day In My Life As A Noncorporeal Transdimensional Orb

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  • Qstay Secures $4.6 Million in Pre-Series A Funding to Revolutionize Hospitality Industry

    Qstay Secures $4.6 Million in Pre-Series A Funding to Revolutionize Hospitality Industry

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    Total Funding Reaches $11.1 Million as Qstay Expands Its AI-Driven Platform to Enhance Guest Experience and Optimize Property Management Returns


    DUBAI, Arab Emirates, June 5, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Qstay, a revolutionary hospitality and rental investment property management platform, today announced that it has successfully raised $4.6 million in a pre-Series A funding round. This latest round brings the total amount raised by the company to $11.1 million. The funding was secured through a combination of conventional and convertible debt, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Qstay’s innovative approach to the hospitality industry.

    Co-founded by Artur Khayrullin and Alec Redelman, Qstay is transforming the global landscape of hospitality with its technology-driven platform. The company leverages AI-powered customer service and digital concierge services to significantly enhance the guest experience while reducing operating costs by up to 50%.

    “We are thrilled to have secured this additional funding, which will enable us to accelerate our growth and continue to innovate in the hospitality sector,” said Artur Khayrullin, Co-founder of Qstay. “This investment is a testament to the strong market demand for our tech-centric, design-led hotel-style experience and the compelling economics we offer to property owners.”

    Alec Redelman, Co-founder of Qstay, added, “The support from our investors is a strong endorsement of our vision to redefine the guest experience and optimize returns for property owners. We are committed to expanding our footprint and enhancing our platform’s capabilities.”

    Qstay currently operates over 300 properties across nine markets in four countries, with plans for further expansion into additional markets between 2024 and 2026. The platform has already facilitated more than 130,000 nights booked and hosted over 60,000 guests, highlighting its growing popularity and success.

    The company’s innovative platform not only provides superior comfort and affordability for guests but also delivers hands-off management and higher ROI for property owners. With projections of $63 million in revenue by 2025 and an 18% EBITDA margin, Qstay is well-positioned for continued growth and success.

    Source: Qstay Hospitality Technologies

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  • Solmar Hotels & Resorts Celebrates 50 Years of Luxury Hospitality Excellence

    Solmar Hotels & Resorts Celebrates 50 Years of Luxury Hospitality Excellence

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    Since 1974, Solmar Hotels & Resorts Has Built a Legacy of Luxury and Hospitality, Breathing New Life Into Los Cabos


    BAJA CALIFORNIA, Mexico, May 29, 2024 (Newswire.com)
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    Solmar Hotels & Resorts, a leading luxury hospitality group in Cabo San Lucas, is proud to announce its 50th anniversary celebration. Founded in 1974 by visionary entrepreneur Don Luis Bulnes, the group has become synonymous with luxury, exceptional service, and natural beauty. From its first property, the Solmar Hotel, to its most recent addition, Grand Solmar Pacific Dunes Golf and Spa, the group has established itself as a leader in the tourism industry of Baja California Sur.

    “We are thrilled to commemorate this significant milestone in our company’s history,” said Mauricio Salicrup, Director of Operations. “For five decades, Solmar has been the pinnacle of excellence in hospitality, welcoming guests from around the world. Our success is owed to the dedication of our team, the loyalty of our guests, and the allure of Cabo San Lucas.” 

    Solmar’s journey began in 1948 when Don Luis Bulnes moved from Asturias, Spain, to Cabo San Lucas, which was then a small village lacking basic services. After various investments, he began his hotel enterprise with the construction of the Solmar Hotel in 1972, opening in 1974 with 20 rooms and two suites. His innovative efforts spearheaded essential infrastructure development in the area, such as water, electricity, and connectivity, pivotal in transforming Los Cabos into the vibrant tourist destination it is today.

    Throughout the years, the hospitality group has expanded to include six luxurious properties, including Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort & Spa, Grand Solmar Pacific Dunes Resort Golf & Spa, Grand Solmar The Residences, The Ridge at Playa Grande, Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa, and Solmar Resort. Each property offers unparalleled luxury, world-class spas, gourmet dining, crystal-clear pools, and diverse activities, making them preferred destinations for travelers worldwide. Additionally, Grand Solmar Pacific Dunes Resort Golf & Spa is home to Solmar Golf Links, one of the biggest golf courses in Mexico and the Caribbean, offering unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.

    In 2011, the group established its philanthropic arm, entitled the Solmar Foundation, aimed at supporting and empowering local communities through educational, social, and environmental initiatives. From scholarship programs to environmental conservation projects, the Foundation has made a lasting positive impact, highlighted by the unveiling of a statue in honor of Don Luis Bulnes in 2018 at Marina de Fundadores in Cabo San Lucas.

    In 2021, Charo Bulnes, daughter of Don Luis Bulnes, took over leadership of the group. Under her tenure, Solmar Hotels and Resorts has employed over 2,000 community members and initiated renovation and expansion plans while maintaining her father’s vision. As Solmar Hotels & Resorts celebrates its 50th anniversary, it renews its commitment to leading the tourism industry in Los Cabos and offering unforgettable experiences that showcase the best of Baja California Sur.

    Source: Solmar Hotels & Resorts

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  • Oyo, once valued at $10 billion, shelves IPO plans for second time | TechCrunch

    Oyo, once valued at $10 billion, shelves IPO plans for second time | TechCrunch

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    Oyo, the once high-flying Indian budget hotel chain, has withdrawn its IPO application from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for the second time in a fresh blow to its already diminished ambitions.

    The Gurugram-headquartered startup, which at its peak commanded a valuation of $10 billion, pulled the plug on its IPO plans on May 17, according to a disclosure on the regulator’s website. Oyo had initially filed paperwork with SEBI in 2021 for a public listing but withdrew it and refiled in 2023.

    SEBI has yet to approve either of Oyo’s applications, which raises questions about the startup’s readiness to face public scrutiny. Oyo has been scrambling to secure a new round of funding at a valuation of $3 billion or less, TechCrunch reported earlier this month. Oyo had denied that it was raising capital at that valuation.

    However, the company is now attempting to raise money at a valuation as low as $2 billion to $2.3 billion, a source familiar with the matter told TechCrunch. It has raised more than $3 billion in equity and debt to date.

    Oyo, backed by SoftBank, Peak XV, Lightspeed, Airbnb and Microsoft, was once hailed as a disruptor in the budget hotel industry. But in recent years, the startup has been criticized for its business practices, and in 2020 even laid off thousands of employees to cut costs.

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    Manish Singh

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  • Las Vegas’ Mirage Hotel And Casino Closing

    Las Vegas’ Mirage Hotel And Casino Closing

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    After 34 years, the iconic Mirage Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas strip will close its doors after it was bought by Hard Rock Las Vegas, which will completely renovate the building, removing its tropical theme and volcano attraction. What do you think?

    “Gentrification rears its ugly head once again.”

    Khalil Kavanagh, Window Defroster

    Who Can Stay Dead Longest Challenge

    “Good luck getting all the white tigers out of the air ducts.”

    Steven Odling, Barista Trainer

    “They had the nicest security protocol to escort you from the premises.”

    Chiara Mccray, Unemployed

     

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  • British Sculptor Unveils Memorial Statue Of Queen Elizabeth Surrounded By Her Beloved Slugs

    British Sculptor Unveils Memorial Statue Of Queen Elizabeth Surrounded By Her Beloved Slugs

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  • CSI DMC Awarded Platinum Certification by Green Business Green Business Benchmark

    CSI DMC Awarded Platinum Certification by Green Business Green Business Benchmark

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    WASHINGTON, April 18, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    CSI DMC, Inc., the leading Destination and Event Management Company clients trust to transform their events into exceptional experiences, is honored to have been awarded Platinum Level certification from Green Business Benchmark° for its commitment to sustainable business practices. This certification reflects CSI DMC’s determination to prioritize sustainable practices within its operations and reflects growing changes within the events industry. 

    Green Business Benchmark°, a trusted authority in green business, assists organizations in implementing sustainable initiatives through tailored solutions, while its parent company, Clearyst, provides integrated support to align, plan, and expedite ESG priorities within business operations. Paul Ghiz, Chairman of the Board at Green Business Benchmark°, shares, “Green Business Benchmark° is pleased to have awarded CSI DMC platinum-level certification, recognizing their organizational commitment to sustainable business practices. We look forward to supporting their continued growth in this realm with measurement tools and resources that help them do so.” 

    Amberlee Huggins, CSI DMC’s Chief Marketing Officer, shares, “Receiving the certification from the Green Business Benchmark° is a significant kickstart to our journey. It reflects the dedication of our employees to integrating environmental sustainability into their daily lives. It propels CSI DMC further along the environmental, social, and governance path to which we are committed. As a Destination Management Company, we also have a pivotal role in creating more sustainable event experiences. This benefits our clients, supports our local business communities, and fosters a sense of collective environmental stewardship. We are inspired to continue innovating and exploring new ways to make a positive impact for all and the planet we love.” 

    About CSI DMC: CSI DMC is the destination management company clients trust to create exceptional experiences. Since 1987, CSI DMC has transformed events into unforgettable memories for organizations worldwide. Driven by talented designers, destination experts, and experienced event professionals, we support our clients’ success with boundless creativity, deep destination knowledge, extensive local relationships, global resources, and proven logistical expertise. Our award-winning company reflects a culture of innovation, shared values, quality, and collaboration. Today, CSI DMC serves over 65 destinations annually, with regional offices in Arizona, Baltimore, Boston, California, Chicago, Colorado Springs, Denver, Las Vegas, Nashville, Newport, RI, Orlando, South Florida, Texas, Washington, D.C. and globally with CSI International.  

    Source: CSI DMC

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  • Nation’s Moms Announce Salads Can Be Very Filling

    Nation’s Moms Announce Salads Can Be Very Filling

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    WEATOGUE, CT—Delivering the message just as their daughters were getting ready to order lunch, the nation’s moms called a press conference Wednesday to announce aloud to no one in particular that salads can be very filling. “Maybe order one and see if you’re still hungry after that—you can always order more,” said Lane Peterson, speaking on behalf of all mothers in the United States as she gestured toward the salad section of a restaurant menu and remarked upon how tasty each of them looked. “I don’t even think I could finish a whole Caesar by myself. Not that there’s any pressure to finish the whole thing. I wonder who would need to add chicken breast to all that lettuce? Ooh, look! The spinach one with raisins has dessert built right in! I’m going to get the Cobb salad, though—as long as I can get it without the cheese, bacon, egg, or dressing. It’s much too early in the day for anything heavier. That’s just me, though. You should get whatever you like.” At press time, the nation’s moms were overheard making sure the servers knew that under no circumstance should a crouton appear on any dish at their table.

    Green Giant Unveils New Lettuce That You Can Put Wig On And Pretend Is Your Wife

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  • Morgan Wallan Arrested For Throwing Chair Off 6-Story Bar

    Morgan Wallan Arrested For Throwing Chair Off 6-Story Bar

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    Country music singer Morgan Wallen was arrested after throwing a chair off the roof of a newly six-story bar in downtown Nashville, with the chair landing three feet from police officers. What do you think?

    “You’re telling me they’ve been allowed to arrest white men this whole time?”

    Diego Gardner, Vibe Supervisor

    This Week’s Most Viral News: April 5, 2024

    “Great scientists are always persecuted in their own time.”

    Ian Salazar, Aspiring Doorman

    “We should count ourselves lucky nobody got killed by those police officers.”

    Regina Friedman, Gravel Tycoon

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  • Ernie Hudson on Filming Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire and the Fan Base

    Ernie Hudson on Filming Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire and the Fan Base

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    Artem Golub and Germain Lussier

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