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Malibu Popoyo to offer surf resort experience along the Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast

Malibu Popoyo, an all-inclusive boutique surf resort opened its doors on December 1. Located along one of the best surf regions in the world known as Nicaragua’s Costa Esmeralda, Malibu Popoyo aims to revitalize the mind, body and soul through an intuitive and immersive experience that caters to surfers, yoga enthusiasts and adventure travelers.

Opening with six guestrooms that combine natural, raw materials and culturally significant elements to create a luxurious yet minimalistic boutique hotel experience, Malibu Popoyo will undergo an immediate expansion to add an additional six guestrooms; a new beachfront area featuring an intimate yoga palapa doubling as an entertainment area for live music; an upgraded spa experience; a beachfront bar; bonfire pits and much more. The expansion is set for completion in spring 2019, just before peak surf season, and will offer a truly unparalleled experience for surf and wellness enthusiasts.

“Travel to Nicaragua has increased drastically over the past few years and the destination is quickly becoming a much sought-after travel destination,” said owner Jade Chang Sheppard. “As a surfer, the surf culture, world-class waves in this area and the amazing hospitality of the Nicaraguan people, really spoke to me. When I first visited, I immediately felt connected to this community and look forward to making Malibu Popoyo one of the most authentic surf and wellness experiences in the world.”

Saul Fonseca announced as Director for Sales for Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection announced the appointment of Saul Fonseca as Director of Sales. In this role, Saul will continue to cultivate partnerships with travel advisors, key accounts and consortia, as well as increase awareness of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection experience and generate excitement for the inaugural season.

With more than 16 years in the travel industry, Saul joins the team from World Travel Holdings, where he was the Director of Sales. Prior to joining World Travel Holdings, Saul spent time representing cruise lines such as Silversea, Oceania, Regent and Royal Caribbean.

SOURCE: Ritz-Carlton

Iberostar opens its first hotel in Rome

Situated in the heart of the Italian capital, in a historic building next to Rome’s most famous fountain, the Iberostar Fontanadi Trevi will be opening with five-star status following comprehensive renovation work.

The opening of the company’s first hotel in Rome, set for 2019, is the latest action in its strategy to boost its city hotels segment.

The Iberostar Fontana di Trevi will showcase a large mural by Daniel Buren, a leading artist and major figure on the contemporary art scene for more than 50 years.

Palma de Mallorca, October 29, 2018. 2019 will see the opening of Iberostar Hotels & Resorts’ first hotel in the center of Rome, the Iberostar Fontana di Trevi. The company has set its sights on Italy to boost its city hotels segment with this five-star boutique hotel.

The new hotel is situated on one of the main streets in Rome’s historic center, between the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, two of the city’s most outstanding architectural treasures. Standing just off Via del Corso, the hotel boasts a prime location in one of the city’s most popular shopping areas, offering easy access to all the Italian capital’s major tourist attractions.

The Iberostar Fontana di Trevi is housed in a magnificent six-story, 19th-century building that combines Renaissance and Neo-Renaissance style elements. In addition to 67 rooms and a wide range of exclusive services, the hotel also features a spectacular rooftop terrace, the perfect venue for admiring Rome’s spectacular skyline.

World-famous artist Daniel Buren is responsible for one of the hotel’s greatest attractions: a masterpiece of contemporary art that will be unveiled on November 9th during an event to be held in Rome. The French master was commissioned for this project due to his outstanding work on creating a connection between modernity and classical architecture, two concepts that will form a quintessential part of the hotel’s identity.

The Iberostar Fontana di Trevi in Rome brings the number of properties in the company’s city hotel portfolio to 10, joining those located in New York City, Miami, Lisbon, Havana, Madrid, Barcelona and Budapest. It also represents a further move forward in its city hotels expansion strategy, designed to boost the company’s presence in the world’s leading tourist capitals with hotels offering prime central
locations that reflect the authenticity and charm of the cities they are located in, providing guests with unique experiences.

“We are really excited about this new project. Rome is one of the top international destinations attracting both business and leisure travelers, and Iberostar Fontana di Trevi is designed as a boutique hotel tailored to cater to both types of guests. The building is truly unique and boasts an unparalleled location, and we are working hard to offer first-class services and facilities to provide guests a memorable stay with us in Rome,” said Aurelio Vázquez, Iberostar Group’s Chief Operations Officer.

ABOUT IBEROSTAR

The Iberostar Group is a 100% family-owned Spanish multinational company based in Palma de Mallorca (Spain) that has been operating in the tourist sector since 1956 and whose business activity dates back to 1877. Its sales network covers 35 countries, it has a staff of more than 32,000 employees and handles 8 million customers a year. Hospitality is the company’s core business, with a portfolio of more than 120 four and five star hotels located in 18 countries on three continents. In addition to the hotels, the Group has a further three business units: travel and incoming activities, a holiday club and real estate.

Iberostar Group is owned by the Fluxá family and chaired by Miguel Fluxá Rosselló, founder of the Group’s current hotel unit and the Iberostar Hotels & Resorts brand. His daughters Sabina y Gloria are the Company’s two Vice-Chairwomen. Sabina is also the Group’s CEO and Gloria holds the post of Chief Sustainability Officer.

Source: Iberostar

Hispanic Leaders to Gather at UN for the First Hispanic Leadership Summit

We Are All Human, the global non-profit organization devoted to championing our common humanity, announced today that it is hosting its first-ever Hispanic Leadership Summit on December 10, 2018 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The Hispanic Leadership Summit will explore ways in which to better unify America’s Hispanic and Latino communities.

“It was imperative that we used our organization’s mission to unify this community and promote greater awareness of its vitality and future, especially at a time when negative rhetoric about American immigrants, particularly from Central and South America, have risked alienating the Hispanic and Latinx Americans who make up $1.7 trillion of America’s spending power,” Claudia Romo Edelman said, founder of We Are All Human Foundation.

The Summit is a nonpartisan event that plans to go beyond sectoral interests and insights from the November midterm elections to discuss and reflect on what unites America’s many Hispanic and Latino communities and what should be done to ensure their importance to the U.S.’s future is understood.

Joining Romo Edelman as co-hosts of the summit will be the following Hispanic and Latino leaders:

– Sol Trujillo, co-founder and co-chairman of the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), a nonprofit organization devoted to reframing and advancing the public perception of Hispanics and Latinos in American society. He also is the former CEO of U.S. West, Orange SA and Telstra, Australia

– Henry Cisneros, also co-founder and co-chairman of LDC, and the former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the former mayor of San Antonio, Texas

– Patricia Menéndez-Cambó, vice chair of Greenberg Traurig, the Miami-based international law firm

– Cid Wilson, president and CEO of the Hispanic Association for Corporate Responsibility, which promotes the inclusion of Hispanics in Corporate America

Romo Edelman also noted the recent findings of We Are All Human’s “Hispanic Sentiment Study,” conducted by Zeno Group. The study further affirms the importance of convening leaders of Hispanic and Latino communities to explore the future of an economic force that represents $2.3 trillion of annual U.S. GDP, as Hispanics and Latinos launch more new businesses, achieve higher levels of education and reach the C-suite of Fortune 500 companies in greater numbers.

“I’m optimistic that the value of America’s Hispanic community will continue to be recognized by citizens of all walks of life,” Romo Edelman said, “but as our organization’s work has shown, much work is needed to dispel misperceptions and to unify this community of 55 million that is so important to America’s future.”

“It’s time for perceptions to catch up with the many significant contributions we’re making to this country,” said Menéndez-Cambó of Greenberg Traurig. “There is an urgent need for the Hispanic Community to unify its strengths and efforts to unlock its potential.”

Summit sponsors include Greenberg Traurig, Ulta Beauty, Dairy Management, Inc., HARMAN, Aflac, the Alumni Society, Chevron, Cultura Colectiva, Hispanic Executive, Western Union and Zeno Group (Sponsorship opportunities are still available).

This Summit is in coordination with the Latino Impact Summit on December 11-12, 2018.

SOURCE We Are All Human

Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa Reopens

HILTON MARCO ISLAND BEACH RESORT & SPA REOPENS FOR WINTER HOLIDAY SEASON 2018/19 FOLLOWING $60 MILLION TRANSFORMATION

Olshan Properties, one of the country’s leading private owners, developers and managers of commercial real estate today announced that the AAA Four Diamond Award winning, Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa will reopen its doors to guests in time for the Thanksgiving holiday following completion of an expansive $60 million interior and exterior transformation. The beloved 310-key resort enjoys an irreplaceable beach front location on Marco Island, which, with its unique blend of sugar white sand, crystal clear blue waters, award-winning dining.

“We’re thrilled to be reopening our doors to generations of holiday makers at the Hilton Marco Island,” commented Olshan Properties’ CEO, Andrea Olshan. “Having spent many of my own childhood family vacations at this unique oasis, the resort has a very special place in my heart. Now, showcasing a refined boutique-hotel style design and amenities completely reimagined for 21st century tastes, we’re excited to welcome guests of all ages to experience the exciting transformation of this cherished resort and to begin building their own long lasting memories.”

Added Olshan Properties’ Head of Hospitality, Ernie Catanzaro: “The entire team here at the Hilton Marco Island and myself are incredibly excited to unveil our newly reimagined resort to the local community, holiday makers and business groups alike. Throughout the renovation, even as the resort was closed to overnight guests, our team members –many of whom are the most talented managers in their fields in the country –have worked tirelessly above and beyond their professional responsibilities, taking on advanced training, and obtaining the highest level certifications in all their necessary fields to ensure the ultimate in service standards. It is therefore with immense pride that on behalf of the team here we today re¬introduce the Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa as the leading resort on the West Coast of Florida and one of Hilton’s preeminent American properties.”

Tapestry Collection By Hilton Announces its first property in Illinois

THE ROSE HOTEL CHICAGO O’HARE

Located in Rosemont, just one mile from O’Hare International Airport, the new build hotel offers tasteful design and amenities for business and leisure travelers

Tapestry Collection by Hilton welcomes its first property in the state of Illinois to its portfolio of upscale, unique hotels, with the opening of The Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. The new build hotel will be operated by Chicago-based Janko Hospitality.

Designed by The Gettys Group, The Rose Hotel is a 165-room hotel that incorporates fine art-inspired elements, coupled with a contemporary design and unique features. The lobby encompasses a Zebra wall that is 44 ft. long and over 11 ft. high, as well as two abstract wallcoverings featuring the Chicago skyline leading to eight, modern meeting and event spaces – each named after roses – totaling 6,000 sq. ft. of functional, flexible space.

“The Rose Hotel is a fantastic addition to Tapestry Collection and Rosemont’s newly developed Pearl District mixed-use complex, featuring eye-catching elements and a stunning design that genuinely embodies the local spirit,” said Jenna Hackett, global head, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. “As the 14th Tapestry Collection property, the opening of The Rose Hotel is a monumental moment for the growth of the collection in a key destination, and we look forward to welcoming guests, residents and Hilton Honors members to this stunning new hotel.”

Located in Rosemont’s Pearl District and just one mile from O’Hare International Airport, The Rose is one of the closest properties to the airport, second to Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport, and also offers a complimentary shuttle every half hour from 5:00 a.m. to Midnight to the airport, as well as regular shuttles to nearby public transit for guests looking to explore downtown Chicago and beyond. On the go business travelers, meeting and event attendees and guests traveling for leisure can each enjoy on-site amenities including a large fitness center as well as locally-inspired dining and drink options, including R Bar, offering new American cuisine, craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails, in-room dining or enjoy grab and go options at The Market.

“With hundreds of thousands of business and leisure travelers arriving at O’Hare from across the globe, it is an exciting time for The Rose Hotel,” said Chief Operating Officer, John Brooke. “We look forward to offering travelers a modern new boutique hotel in Rosemont, where local business is supported by such a strong community.”

Until December 31, 2018, guests can purchase a ‘Snack, Shop and Slumber with The Rose’ Shopping Package that includes complimentary breakfast for two, shuttle to/from The Fashion Outlets of Chicago as well as passes for coat/bag check with The Fashion Outlets Concierge, and a Fashion Outlets Savings Pass (worth up to $800 in exclusive savings). Additionally, The Rose is offering a special group rate in December 2018 and January 2019 for those enjoying holiday parties in the Pearl District. For booking information, please visit https://tapestrycollection3.hilton.com/tc/the-rose-chicago.

Launched in 2017 with Hotel Skyler in Syracuse, New York, Tapestry Collection by Hilton has since added 13 additional hotels to the portfolio, with 43 in the pipeline. In just over a year, the brand has experienced impressive growth, including the recent announcement of its first international signings of two hotels in Lima, Peru, slated to open in 2021. This growth reinforces Tapestry Collection by Hilton’s commitment to expanding its portfolio to provide travelers with the opportunity to stay in original, unique hotels both domestically and internationally, that are backed by the reassurance of Hilton and connected to its award-winning Hilton Honors program.

Source: Hilton Hotels

Geraldine Zaragoza has been named hotel manager of Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta

Geraldine Zaragoza has been named hotel manager of Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. In her new role, she is responsible for the adults-only hotel’s 80 designer suites with luxury amenities, celebrated cuisine and special gourmet happenings. A member of SLH (Small Luxury Hotels of the World), Casa Velas is the only boutique hotel on the Mexican Pacific coast to hold Four Stars from Forbes Travel Guide. A member of the Velas Resorts’ team since 2010, Geraldine Zaragoza most recently served as Director of Groups and Conventions at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. With a background with other luxury hotels and resorts including the St. Regis, W Hotels and the JW Marriott in Mexico City, she focuses on ensuring high quality standards of service and facilities. She will also bring her special expertise to bear on planning, organizing and developing tailored unique experiences. Casa Velas is a luxury all-inclusive boutique hotel and ocean club for adults only, reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda.

Source: Velas Resorts

Johnson Appointed Regional Sales Manager- East Coast Division For Mexico’s Velas Resorts

With world-class meeting venues in Los Cabos, Vallarta – Nayarit and Riviera Maya, Mexico’s Velas Resorts announces it has appointed Heather Johnson as Regional Sales Manager – East Coast Division. The appointment is effective immediately.

“With a genuine passion for travel, Heather has a consistent track record of meeting and surpassing sales goals in both onsite and remote roles and possesses demonstrable knowledge of working with meeting and incentive planners, wedding planners, travel advisors and wholesalers,” says Cynthia Kunz Global Sales Director – Meetings & Incentives. “She is passionate about excellent service and has thrived on curating bespoke luxury experiences for the most discerning of clients.”

With over 12 years of sales experience in the luxury market, Johnson most recently served as Sales Manager for Malliouhana, An Auberge Resort in Anguilla. She has also spent time in the sales departments for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in the Caribbean and Latin America and Morgans Hotel Group in New York City. Now based in Connecticut, she graduated from New York University with a Master’s degree in Tourism and Travel Management.

Velas Resorts consists of Casa Velas and Velas Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta and the Grand Velas Resorts in Los Cabos, Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit.

Velas Resorts has catered to MICE Industry needs for over 25 years with resorts that feature excellence in service, world-class hospitality, beautifully appointed accommodations, signature Luxury All-Inclusive, superb facilities and expansive Convention Centers. For more information on Velas Resorts Meetings or to make a reservation, please call 1-888-505-8399, email info@velasmeetingsmexico.com or visit http://velasmeetingsmexico.com/.

Source Vleas Resorts

Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas announces the opening of a new ALOFT Hotel in Lima

Peru’s most distinguished hotel group, Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas, is pleased to announce the opening of the 164-room Aloft Lima bringing innovation, modern style and a vibrant new social scene to the Miraflores district. This will be the first Aloft hotel in Peru and will feature bold and stylish design throughout as well as tech-forward features such as SPG Keyless entry.

Guest rooms are gracefully spread among 10 floors with a variety of intriguing social spaces located on the mezzanine and two relatively small stylish restaurants, Quinoa and Barrio, on the ground floor. The reception and lobby areas are seamlessly connected as a multifunctional open space that serves as a welcoming breakfast and lounge area or as an ideal co-working place during the day.

Designed to serve the increasing number of hyper-connected global business and leisure travelers visiting Peru’s buzzing capital, the hotel is located in the heart of Miraflores and is part of a new pedestrian friendly multi-use complex. Additional dining options include Re:fuelSM by Aloft, a café created for breakfast and lunch “on the go” and signature cocktails and light bites can be found at the WXYZ® Bar.

Other onsite amenities include Aloft’s signature Re:chargeSM fitness center and a splash pool to unwind and relax. Aloft Lima guests will be able to enjoy programming unique to the Aloft brand, including access to exciting emerging artists and musicians via Live At Aloft Hotels. There is also 278 square feet of meeting space.

“We are pleased to introduce the first Aloft in Peru, which will significantly change the hospitality scene in Miraflores in so many inspiring and vibrant ways,” said Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas CEO Jorge Melero. “The Aloft is in an unbeatable location and will serve as an excellent complement to the Westin Lima Hotel & Convention Center in the city’s central business district of San Isidro.”

Source: Libertador Hotels

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