RESERVATIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE AXIOM HOTEL

Enjoy a stay in San Francisco’s Union Square at the high-tech Axiom Hotel opening in fall 2015

(San Francisco, CA; September 1, 2015)—The Axiom Hotel, owned by Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. and located at 28 Cyril Magnin Street in San Francisco’s Union Square, is now accepting reservations to welcome guests to the property’s eagerly-awaited late fall 2015 opening. Travelers and locals alike may now reserve rooms at www.axiomhotel.com for stays beginning in January and beyond. Special opening rates start at $259 per night and vary based on time of year and availability.
 
“The launch of online bookings takes us another step closer to bringing our vision of the Axiom Hotel to life – a seamless hospitable experience, which caters to the new generation of design-forward and tech-minded travelers,” says General Manager Garry Cox. “We look forward to opening to the streets of San Francisco and meeting each of our future guests.”
 
Located steps from the Cable Car turnaround, the Axiom Hotel will open as San Francisco’s newest digital-meets-lifestyle hotel. The property will offer a new food and beverage concept, a fitness center, a customizable state of the art meeting Hub, and a vintage arcade center on the Cloud level. Featuring 152 guestrooms with contemporary design from Stonehill & Taylor, there will be four room styles available, each named after tech dimensions including Nano, Mono, Meta, and Mega.
 
For a chance to win a free night stay along with a variety of amenities, visit the Axiom Hotel on Facebook and Instagram to enter the “#AxiomCenterofNext” contest by sharing what you think the next big thing for hotels will be. One winner will be selected at the end of each month from now until opening.
 
About Axiom Hotel
Scheduled to open in fall 2015, the Axiom Hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, two blocks from Union Square, three blocks from the Moscone Convention Center, and steps from the cable car turnaround. Developed by Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. and managed by Kokua Hospitality, LLC, the hotel will feature 152 rooms and tech-forward amenities unrivaled to any other property in the city. For more information, please visit www.axiomhotel.com. For up-to-date news about the property, follow the Axiom Hotel on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
 
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UNLOCKING HISTORY: THE CHARMANT HOTEL NOW OPEN IN THE 19TH CENTURY JOSEPH B. FUNKE CANDY COMPANY

Weber Holdings and Aparium Hotel Group breathe life into La Crosse’s newest, old gem where a local’s destination becomes a traveler’s dream

(CHICAGO; August 25, 2015)— Chicago-based Aparium Hotel Group and owner Weber Holdings proudly announce the opening of The Charmant Hotel (101 State Street, La Crosse, WI), a 67-room upscale independent property, where guests will be welcomed beginning on Tuesday, September 15, 2015.  The groundbreaking restoration of the iconic 1898 Joseph B. Funke Candy Company, led by Simeone Deary Design Group and The Kubala Washatko Architects, Inc., began in October 2014 with the goal of refurbishing and resurrecting one of the most prominent and historically significant landmarks in the heart of downtown La Crosse.
 
“This was an opportunity for us to create a natural extension of our community and commemorate the city of La Crosse for all it has provided our locals,” The Charmant Hotel Owner Don Weber says. “Our goal was to bring life back to this historical building, which we hope will create community growth with upscale dining options and hospitality careers.”
 
"We are proud to work alongside such passionate owners as well as a talented team that has restored this historical asset in La Crosse,” Aparium Hotel Group COO Kevin Robinson says.  "After visiting the town over the past three years, we are confident that our ‘Trans-local’ approach, where great hotels are a destination sought out by travelers and a favorite place for locals, will create an exciting place for the local market to enjoy for generations."
 
As part of the opening celebration, and in commemoration of its candy company history, the hotel will give away five “Golden Tickets” for visitors to receive a complimentary stay. Throughout the first week of business, five guests dining at the restaurant, can unroll their silverware and be surprised with a golden ticket redeemable for a one-of-a-kind Charmant Hotel experience.
 
Located alongside the Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the hotel boasts five stories comprised of 67 chic guestrooms, including four top-floor suites that provide guests with a wrap-around outdoor balcony featuring views of the Mississippi river and downtown La Crosse. In collaboration with owner Weber Holdings, Aparium Hotel Group is leading the programming, positioning, and ongoing management of the new hotel project. The joint venture led the $30 million dollar renovation and restoration and enlisted The Kubala Washatko Architects, Inc. and Simeone Deary Design Group to transform the historic 19th century building into a locally-curated destination for visitors and locals alike, while paying a nod to its original “golden era” charm through deliberate design, food and beverage offerings, and in-room amenities.
 
The ground floor invites hotel visitors and locals to enjoy multiple food and beverage offerings including: a market-driven restaurant with rustic French influence; cocktail bar and lounge; and coffee and dessert parlour featuring a wood burning fire place. Most notably, the hotel boasts a rooftop terrace serving up pizzas from a wood burning oven and a selection of regional craft brews.
 
The Golden Ticket prizes are offered from Tuesday, September 15 through Monday, September 21, 2015. To make a room reservation, please visit www.thecharmanthotel.com. The Charmant Hotel can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
 
About The Charmant Hotel
Scheduled to open in the late summer of 2015, The Charmant Hotel is the second property managed by Aparium Hotel Group in Wisconsin. The Charmant Hotel, La Crosse, WI, is a representative of a “four” star boutique property with exceptional service standing above and beyond any other property within Wisconsin and the Midwest. The Charmant Hotel is taking reservations beginning immediately, which can be made by visiting www.thecharmanthotel.com. The Charmant Hotel can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
 
About Weber Holdings
Weber Holdings (102 Jay St., Suite 400, La Crosse, WI) is a leading real estate development company in Western Wisconsin. The company is responsible for many of La Crosse County's major development and redevelopment projects and have forever changed the downtown La Crosse skyline.  Weber Holdings is led by President Don Weber and Vice President Nick Weber. In addition to the firm's industry changing projects, Weber Holdings has a long-standing commitment to economic development, job creation, and a proven track record of forging lasting public and private partnerships.  The company is deliberate in its approach and reliable in its commitments.  For more information about Weber Holdings, inquiries can be directed to nick@weber-holdings.com.
 
About Aparium Hotel Group
Aparium Hotel Group is a company founded and controlled by experienced professionals in hotel development, management, and marketing who hold the belief that great hotels are a destination sought out by travelers and a favorite place for locals – a philosophy Aparium calls Translocal Hospitality. Aparium’s passion and expertise centers on independent hotels and resorts in distinct cities and unexpected resort destinations. Each locale is built on the belief that it should be a brand in and of itself – a true celebration of independent identity and a product of its setting. The company is committed to and engaged in a visionary partnership with independent hotel owners who are intimately knowledgeable of their communities and, as such, view their properties as a source of pride. By fostering collaboration, Aparium delivers measurable and sustainable return on investment with transparency and accountability at all stages of operation. Aparium Hotel Group properties include: The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee, WI; The Charmant Hotel in La Crosse, WI; Hotel Covington in Covington, KY; and The Foundation Hotel in Detroit, MI. The group currently has several additional projects underway to be announced in the coming year. For more information about Aparium Hotel Group visit, www.aparium.com.
 
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Cruise into the sunset on the Niagara Belle

Niagara Sunset Cruises offers wine and dine experience on the Niagara River

 

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ONT. (JUNE 2015) – A new Niagara boat tour allows passengers to soak up the beauty and history of the stunning Niagara River from the decks of a fully restored New Orleans-style paddle wheeler.

 

The Niagara Belle, which previously operated as a cruise boat in Toronto Harbour on Lake Ontario and in the Upper Niagara River, has been given a new lease on life by Niagara Sunset Cruises, a sister company to Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

 

Niagara Sunset Cruises bought the boat in 2013 and gave it a complete overhaul, including more than $1 million in renovations.

 

After running private charter trips last summer, the Niagara Belle is offering cruises for the general public for the first time ever this season. Departures are available to passengers on both sides of the Niagara River from docks in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. and Lewiston, N.Y. Dinner cruises depart from both the Canadian and American docks, while lunch, wine tasting and a special Sunday Captain’s Cruise are offered from the Canadian side only.

 

“The Niagara Belle offers a unique opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery along the Niagara River like Fort Niagara, Fort George, General Brock's Monument and the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge,” says John Kinney, President of Niagara Sunset Cruises and Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours. “Whether it’s a dinner or wine tasting cruise, guests will get to taste and experience some of Niagara’s best offerings in one excursion.”

 

The Niagara Belle takes visitors on a leisurely cruise down the Lower Niagara River, through Queenston and Niagara-on-the-Lake, to the mouth of Lake Ontario. The ship can accommodate up to 80 people for a seated dinner and about 140 for cocktail cruises.

 

Niagara-on-the-Lake departures include:

 

·         Dinner Cruise – Watch the sunset over Lake Ontario on a three-hour cruise that includes a buffet-style dinner prepared by the award winning culinary team, followed by post-dinner dancing to the professional sound system.

 

·         Lunch Cruise – Spend a relaxing afternoon on a two-hour sail of the Niagara River that includes a delicious buffet-style lunch.

 

·         Sunday Captain’s Cruise – Enjoy a two-hour afternoon ride featuring a unique surf and turf lunch of Beef Tenderloin and Lobster Tail available only on Sundays.

 

·         Wine Tasting Cruise – Sample some of the finest VQA wines, from rich reds to robust whites and world-famous ice wines, made on the shores of the Niagara River in the heart of Ontario’s wine country. This 90-minute cruise includes a wine tasting flight paired with a complimentary bar snack.

 

Lewiston, NY departures include:

 

·         Dinner Cruise – Enjoy the three spacious decks and take in the sunset and sites along the Niagara River as you enjoy a buffet-style dinner prepared fresh by Waterstreet Landing.

 

Along with public cruises, Niagara Sunset Cruises also offers private and corporate charters on the Niagara Belle in Canada and the U.S., which can be booked in advance for events such as birthday parties, banquets, fundraisers, team-building retreats or VIP events.

 

Thrill-seekers can also try the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, which provides the exhilaration of getting soaked by Class 5 whitewater while speeding along the Niagara River in custom-built jet boats.

 

For more information on Niagara Sunset Cruises, visit www.niagarasunsetcruises.com, follow @NiagaraBelle on Twitter and Instagram and Like Niagara Sunset Cruises on Pinterst and Facebook. To learn about the Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, visit www.whirlpooljet.com, follow @WhirlpoolJet on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest and Like Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours on Facebook.

 

About Niagara Sunset Cruises:

 

Niagara Sunset Cruises is a sister company to Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, offering leisurely cruises on the Lower Niagara River aboard a New Orleans-style paddle wheeler called Niagara Belle. Tours depart from docks in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario and Lewiston, N.Y. Dinner cruises depart from both the Canadian and American docks, while lunch, wine tasting and a special Sunday Captain’s Cruise are offered from the Canadian side. The cruise takes visitors along the Niagara River between historic villages of Queenston and Lewiston. The genesis of Niagara Falls, the human struggles to reach the western frontier, the battles between the French, British, First Nations and U.S. colonies all occurred in this 11-mile-long corridor. 

 

About Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours:

 

Celebrating its 23rd anniversary this year, Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours has been giving passengers a taste of adventure on the white water of the Niagara River since 1992. Passengers experience a thrilling and educational one-hour guided tour, where they can take in the awe-inspiring scenery of the Niagara Gorge, feel the rush of the Class 5 Devil’s Hole rapids and marvel at the power of the Niagara Whirlpool. Headquartered in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the tour company’s fleet of custom-built jet boats depart from three locations: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls, Ont. (shuttle bus from Niagara Glen Nature Centre check-in to Queenston dock) and Lewiston, N.Y.

 

 

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Chicago’s leading luxury hotel enhances guest experience through new PressReader service

Chicago’s leading luxury hotel enhances guest experience through new PressReader service

Chicago, Illinois (July 29, 2015) – Guests staying at the world-renowned Peninsula Chicago can now access over 4,300 newspapers and magazines during their stay at the Windy City’s most romantic, glamourous and stylish hotel.

Incessantly focused on providing the utmost style, sophistication, and elegance to its guests, Peninsula Chicago has combined the graciousness of Asian hospitality with the excitement of a great American metropolis. The integration of PressReader reinforces it as a travel standard, and an addition to an already extensive collection of luxurious amenities offered at Peninsula Chicago.

 

“We’re proud to offer an eco-friendly newspaper and magazine service to meet the global needs of Peninsula Chicago with the immense selection of content we provide,” said Igor Smirnoff, chief commercial officer for PressReader. “Our platform offers guests access to a portable newsstand where they can get full editions of their favorite international newspapers or magazines downloaded to their own device. Guests can wake up and read their hometown paper in their native language from the comfort of their room, even before the issue hits their doorstep at home.”

 

PressReader has publications from more than 100 countries and in 60 languages. Popular titles include: Chicago Tribune, The Washington Post, Hong Kong Tatler, USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes, Martha Stewart Living and more. PressReader makes it easy for guests to read publications by connecting to the hotel’s Wi-Fi. 

 

About PressReader

PressReader is an all-you-can-read digital media platform that reaches more than 250 million readers who use PressReader to read, share and talk about news. Full issues of 4,300+ global magazines and newspapers can be read online, in print or downloaded via the app. PressReader Hotspots offer sponsored access to the platform at thousands of libraries, hotels, corporate offices, airport lounges, airlines, cruise lines and cafes worldwide. PressReader also partners with more than 4,500 publishers in over 100 countries, to help them monetize and distribute their content and the multi-channel digital platforms to grow their global reach and readership. For more information visit pressreader.com or about.pressreader.com, and follow us on Twitter,Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Google+.

 

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For PressReader images, please visit: http://about.pressreader.com/media-centre/image-library/#tab2

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S BEST BY TRAVEL + LEISURE READERS

NEW YORK (Jul. 28, 2015) – Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism is proud to announce that the Galapagos Islands have been honored as “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure magazine. This consumer-based nomination recognizes the best of the best in travel across various categories including airlines, cities, destination spas, hotels, islands, tour operators and safari outfitters among others.  The Galapagos Islands were not only ranked first on the list of Best Islands, but were the only ones in the American continent to be profiled.

“We are so proud of all that our country has to offer and are thrilled that Travel + Leisure readers recognize the beauty, diversity and culture that can be found in the Galapagos,” said (INSERT NAME AND TITLE). “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who voted for us and encourage consumers to visit Ecuador and experience the Islands for themselves.” 


Situated in the Pacific Ocean 600 miles from the Ecuadorian coast, the archipelago and marine reserve known as the Galapagos Islands offers a natural paradise showcasing unique species and biodiversity not found anywhere else in the world. In 1978 the Galapagos Islands, which have been described as a “living museum and showcase of evolution,” were declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Highlights of the Islands include the Charles Darwin Station, a scientific investigation center; the Galapagos Marine Reserve, an underwater wildlife spectacle with abundant life ranging from corals, sharks,  penguins to marine mammals; as well as Tortuga Bay, a white-sand, turquoise water beach that welcomes hundreds of turtles each year during nesting season.

Media interested in speaking with the Ministry of Tourism, please contact FORMULATIN atecuador@havasformulatin.com or (212) 219-0321.

 

About The Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador
The Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador is the institution entrusted with the direction, regulation, control, planning, management and promotion, in order to position Ecuador as a preferred touristic destination in view of its exceptional cultural, natural and living diversity within a responsible tourism as an activity leading to sustainable social and economic development.  

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Ain’t Life Grande? Florida Fun for Families this Summer at Naples Grande Beach Resort

Iconic Southwest Florida property announces new Everglades Package, Cabana Summer Reading Nook and more for families 

 

Naples, FL, June 11, 2015 – Southwest Florida’s newest, independent, luxury property, Naples Grande Beach Resort, is kicking off summer with a sizzle by introducing a unique series of seasonal offerings and amenities designed to make Naples Grande the ultimate family summer destination. Revel in a quintessential Florida experience by soaking in the natural wonders of the Everglades National Park or kickback poolside and take advantage of a pop-up Summer Reading Nook or Dive-In Movie Night. 

Naples is the gateway to one of America’s largest and most pristine wilderness areas - the Florida Everglades. Make Naples Grande your home-base before venturing out to experience the indigenous natural beauty of the region in an expertly guided tour along with several other package perks. The family-fun Everglades National Park Packagefeatures:

-       a 3.5 hour guided tour excursion into the Everglades

-       a deluxe “pack n’ go” Floridian-inspired lunch prepared by the Naples Grande culinary team

-       a copy of the brand new A (mostly) Kids' Guide to Naples, Marco Island & The Everglades by local author Karen Bartlett 

-        Superior overnight accommodations (Package rates start at $759 per night for up to four guests. Booking code: EVERGLADE) 

 

Back on property, parents and children of all ages can beat the heat by taking advantage of some aquatic adventures and poolside play to the likes of: 100-foot twisting waterslide at the mangrove pool, paddleboarding, kayaking or taking a short open air tram ride through a 200-acre protected Mangrove Estuary to three miles of powdery white sand beach.  Weekdays throughout the summer, Naples Grande has also transformed one of its plush poolside cabanas into a pop-up Summer Reading Nook, designed to keep kids in a summer state of mind even when tasked to summer reading responsibilities.  Naples Grande has also helped to lighten guests’ luggage load by outfitting the cabana with a curated selection of Scholastic titles for grades 4-9.  Of course, BYOBook is also welcome while kicking back poolside in the nook which will also be outfitted with an array of other perks like artisanal flavored water.

At night, Naples Grande has reinvented the classic summer drive in experience by launching a poolside “Dive-In Movie Night,” taking place at the resort’s Mangrove Pool on Saturday evenings at 8:15pm. Anchor your crew in a float in front of a 13-foot screen and enjoy family flick favorites like Big Hero 6, Penguins of Madagascar, The Lego Movie and Despicable Me. Movie-goers can order eats from the Gulf Coast Oasis surf-shack themed pool bar, which also offers the ‘rents some libations like Oasis Punch, Upside Down Margarita, or the Sangria Fresca.  

Youngsters have the chance to showcase their culinary creativity with several hands-on workshops at Naples Grande. Mixology is no longer reserved for martinis with the launch of the hotel’s newly launched Lemonade Lab taking place Wednesday and Saturday afternoons on Sunset Veranda, where kids can concoct their very own signature lemonade creation using a variety of fresh seasonal fruits. After hand-picking their ingredients, they muddle the mix, combine with ice and pour into a chilled Naples Grande shaker, which is theirs to take home so they can remake their sweet summertime treat. Additionally, kids can showcase their inner chef with the hotel’s Little Chefs Pizza Class, where children are welcomed into the kitchen to learn how to make pizza alongside the resort's chefs. Kids delight in this educational activity where they work the dough, dress the pizza with their choice of toppings and then help get it into the oven. Pizzas are served to families in Aura Restaurant at the conclusion of these Saturday classes and each Little Chef receives a special embroidered apron and chef hat to keep.  

Naples Grande is a family mecca whose additional features include:

·       15 Har-Tru clay tennis courts

·       Naples Grande Golf Club, a highly acclaimed, Rees Jones-designed, 18-hole, 6,955-yard, par 72 course 

·       Naples Grande Spa, an indoor-outdoor spa village where teens can experience their first facial while pre-teens enjoy the Berry Sweet Manicure & Pedicure offering 

·       A protected mangrove estuary with a long boardwalk composed of recycled milk jugs that provides an eco-friendly path where families can get in touch with nature 

·       Two new restaurants:  The Catch of the Pelican, which celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Gulf Coast with fresh, local seafood and vegetables from local organic farms & Rhode’s End, a beach bar and grill serving lunch and dinner Mediterranean style

·       Brand new accommodations in tower guestrooms and suites with balconies offering stunning views of the Gulf. Alternatively, Garden Villa Suites offer a split floor plan for families looking for extra space. 

Follow Naples Grande Beach Resort on Facebook and Twitter. For reservations or more information please visit www.naplesgrande.com or 855-923-7376.

Quick look at Naples Grande’s Family Programming for Summer:

Summer Reading Nook

Where: Mangrove Pool

When: Monday – Thursday

Hours: Pool open – pool close

Cost: Complimentary

 

Dive-in Movie Night

Where: Mangrove Pool

When: Saturday

Hours: 8:15pm

Cost: Complimentary

 

Lemonade Lab

Where: Sunset Veranda

When: Wednesday & Saturday

Hours: 3pm

Cost: $10 per child

 

Little Chefs Pizza Class

Where: Kitchen

When: Saturday

Hours: 11:30am

Cost: $29 per child

 

About Naples Grande Beach Resort

The resort has 474 guestrooms including 29 gulf view suites and 50 bungalow suites plus more than 83,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Every room features a private balcony with direct views of the Gulf. Guests of the hotel have access to five on-site restaurants and bars, three heated outdoor pools, a full-service luxury spa, 8,000-square-foot fitness center, business center and an award-winning tennis facility with 15 courts. The property is surrounded by 200 acres of a protected mangrove estuary intertwined with a system of bridges and elevated walking paths that afford access to three miles of beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico. The property is also immediately proximate to the renowned Waterside Shops, Southwest Florida’s most luxurious shopping mall.

 

About Northwood Hospitality

Northwood Hospitality manages a growing hotel portfolio of independent luxury hotels and resorts. Properties currently under management by Northwood Hospitality include: the New York Palace Hotel in New York (www.newyorkpalace.com), The London West Hollywood in West Hollywood, CA (www.TheLondonWeHo.com,) Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, FL (www.cheeca.com), Parrot Key Hotel and Resort in Key West, FL (www.parrotkeyresort.com), and Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort in Marathon, FL (www.tranquilitybayresort.com)

GRANDE LAKES ORLANDO ANNOUNCES NEW CULINARY EXPERIENCES AND VALUE-SEASON RATES FOR SUMMER

GRANDE LAKES ORLANDO ANNOUNCES NEW CULINARY EXPERIENCES AND VALUE-SEASON RATES FOR SUMMER

Orlando’s luxury leader debuts cooking classes & summer brews, alongside poolside holiday weekend fun and spa relaxation

Orlando, Fla. – June 23, 2015 – Grande Lakes Orlando announces the resort’s summer programming lineup, featuring family-friendly activities, locally based culinary experiences, and keep-cool spa treatments at the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando. Comprised of The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott Orlando, the 500-acre resort offers a renowned farm-to-fork culinary program and plenty of value added fun in Florida this summer.

What’s Cooking in Orlando

Whisper Creek Farm: The Brewery, an on-site nano-brewery which debuted in April 2015 at the JW Marriott, offers signature summer seasonals: Orange Creamsicle Wheat, Golden Harvest, and Cherry Pick’n Dubbel made with Surinam Cherries picked right on The Ritz-Carlton Orlando’s Greg Norman-designed golf course, a certified Audubon Sanctuary. Highball & Harvest at The Ritz-Carlton is now offering cold drip coffee, a process that takes 5-8 hours to brew and retains all the flavors that are usually lost during hot brewing.

The JW Griffin Cooking School allows guests and locals alike to receive hands-on training from the resort’s award-winning culinary team. This summer’s classes include a Dessert Class highlighting the Italian desserts served up in Primo by Chef Melissa Kelly at JW Marriott Orlando (Saturday, August 22).

Debuting July 31 – August 2, the first-ever Fun & Dine Weekend showcases the new critically acclaimed Highball & Harvest Restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando. The weekend includes a “Pub Crawl” throughout the resort’s varied dining outlets, a Southern BBQ Class (craft specialty cocktails to pair with Beer Can Chicken and Cedar Plank Salmon), and the weekend caps off with a White Apron Culinary Competition for all attendees.

What to Book This Summer

Even luxury rates cool down as temps heat up in Florida—the Celebrate The Summer promotion includes 15% savings on room rate and a $25 nightly resort credit, with nightly room rates at the JW Marriott Orlando starting at $169, and $199 at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando from June to September. Families who book a suite-stay or Club Level accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando can now also enjoy complimentary Ritz Kids Club access, which is home to Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment nature-based children’s program.  July 4 and Labor Day weekends at Grande Lakes include a complimentary fireworks show over Grande Lake and poolside fun at the popular JW Marriott Orlando lazy river.

And no trip to Grande Lakes Orlando is complete without a visit to the resort’s 40,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa. The signature summer Artic Berry Peel with Cold Stone Facial treatment is best to cool down from the summer heat. This anti-aging facial uses arctic plants and berries to restore skin’s radiance after a day in the sun.

 

To learn more about summer at Grande Lakes Orlando, visit www.GrandeLakes.com.

 

 

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About Grande Lakes Orlando

Grande Lakes Orlando is a 500-acre resort with a luxury 582-room Ritz-Carlton and deluxe 1,000-room JW Marriott hotel situated at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Orlando’s luxury leader provides an authentic, local experience from its farm-to-fork dining offerings to its Grande Lakes Adventures Experiences, which include kayaking, eco-tours on Shingle Creek, and a fishing school. Grande Lakes presents the culinary mastery of award-winning Chefs Norman Van Aken and Melissa Kelly’s PRIMO. The resort’s renowned farm-to-fork culinary program showcases its on-site apiaries and 18,000-square-foot Whisper Creek Farm in its newest dining outlets, The Kitchen at JW Marriott Orlando and Highball & Harvest at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, as well as The Brewery, an on-property nano-brewery and Chef’s Table.


Guests at both hotels can enjoy all the facilities and services at Grande Lakes Orlando, including the 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Greg Norman, the 40,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa with total-wellness treatments and a rooftop eco-space. The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott are connected by a robust conference center, with more than 150,000 square feet of meeting space, 6 ballrooms, 46 breakout rooms, and over 107,000 square feet of outdoor space. The estate is located 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport, five minutes from the Orange County Convention Center and minutes from the major theme parks. Membership offerings are also available through The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes Members Club. For more information about Grande Lakes Orlando, visit www.grandelakes.com. Follow Grande Lakes Orlando on Twitter at @RC_Orlando and @JW_Orlando.

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About JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts 
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 73 JW Marriott hotels in 28 countries; by 2020 the portfolio is expected to encompass more than 100 properties in over 30 countries. Visit us online, on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and #experiencejwm.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 89 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean.  More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, and for the latest company updates, visit news.ritzcarlton.com.  The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR ).

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) for company information.

 

VIKING OCEAN CRUISES UNVEILS FOUR NEW ITINERARIES AND OPENS 2017 SAILING SEASON

Nearly Sold Out Maiden Season and Strong Demand Lead to Additional Options 
in 2016 and 2017  

 

Los Angeles (June 18, 2015)—Fresh off the christening of its first ship, the 930-passenger Viking Star®, Viking Ocean Cruises® (www.vikingoceancruises.com) today announced that four new itineraries and 2017 departures for Viking Star—and sister ships Viking Sea® and Viking Sky®—are now open for booking. The 2017 program includes sailings on Viking’s most popular itineraries in the Mediterranean, Western Europe, Scandinavia and the Baltic. Viking’s guests now have even more opportunities for destination-focused cruises in 2016 and 2017 that span from ancient empires to the towering fjords of Norway and beyond. 

                 “We are encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive response Viking Star has generated among our guests and travel industry partners,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking Cruises. “We made a commitment to reinvent ocean cruising, and we are well on our way. By 2017 we will have two more ships designed to enable our guests to better experience their destination. We will also have four new itineraries that offer our guests more time in port and enriching, cultural experiences at a better value than our competitors.”  

New Mediterranean & Holy Land Itineraries

                Not only is Viking adding sailing dates to existing itineraries, but the company has also created four new enrichment-filled programs that will take guests from the sun-soaked region of the Mediterranean to the cultural capital of St. Petersburg. 

·         NEW FOR 2016: Ancient Empires & Holy Lands (15 days; Rome to Istanbul)—This 15-day itinerary offers the opportunity to explore historic destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean and experience some of the sacred sights of the Middle East while traveling through the heart of the Holy Land. Guests will have the chance to spend three days in Israel, making stops in Jerusalem and Haifa, gateways to Bethlehem and Nazareth, and will also be able to explore the ancient cities of Rome, Athens and Istanbul. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $4,199 per person with discounted airfares from $695 per person.  

·         NEW FOR 2016: Bergen to the Bosphorus (15 days; Bergen to Istanbul)—This epic journey begins in beautiful Bergen before cruising south to the Mediterranean, stopping in Paris and Lisbon along the way. Once in the Mediterranean, travelers visit Tunis, Valletta and Athens before concluding the trip in the ancient cosmopolitan city of Istanbul. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $3,699 per person with discounted airfares from $895 per person.  

·         NEW FOR 2017: Secrets of the Southern Mediterranean (8 days; Rome to Barcelona)—Guests will set sail through the southern Mediterranean, departing from glorious Rome and continuing on to some of North Africa’s most historically significant destinations, including Tunis, a dazzling city that mixes North African tradition and French colonialism, and Algiers, home of the Notre Dame d’Afrique. The itinerary also stops in Valletta, Sardinia and Valencia before concluding the trip in beautiful Barcelona. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $1,999 per person with discounted airfares from $595 per person. 

·         NEW FOR 2017: Barcelona, the Baltic & Beyond (22 days; Barcelona to Stockholm)—This voyage travels through the waterways of Western Europe and the Baltic, giving guests the opportunity to explore iconic world-class cities such as Barcelona, Lisbon, Paris, Amsterdam and St. Petersburg. Introductory 2-for-1 pricing starts at $5,999 per person with discounted airfares from $695 per person.  

Viking Star, Viking Sea and Viking Sky

                Recently christened in Bergen, Norway, the 930-passenger all-veranda Viking Star—as well as her two sister ships under construction, Viking Sea (2016) and Viking Sky (2017)—is engineered at a scale that allows direct access into most ports, so guests have easy and efficient embarkation and disembarkation. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean fleet features understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design. Highlights include:

·         All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from a 270 sq. ft. Veranda Stateroom, all with private verandas, king-size beds, large showers and LCD TVs.

·         Explorer Suites: The ships feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. that offer sweeping views from wraparound private verandas as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category on board.

·         Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable dome permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a glass-backed Infinity Pool off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination.

·         The Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air.

·         Explorers’ Lounge and Wintergarden: Spaces designed to facilitate mingling and storytelling, the two-deck Explorers’ Lounge at the bow is the perfect spot for taking in scenery through double-height windows over a glass of aquavit or pint of local craft beer; and the Wintergarden is a serene environment in which to relax and enjoy afternoon tea service complete with a hand-selected teas.

·         Dining Choices: Viking’s ships offer multiple restaurant locations and food choices—from The Restaurant and the World Café, serving a variety of global cuisines and regional specialties and Mamsen’s, which serves Norwegian deli-style fare—to intimate dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant and The Kitchen Table, all serving meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ocean ships offer more al fresco dining than any other ships.

·         Enriching Entertainment: Connecting guests to their destinations through authentic experiences is central to Viking Cruises, and onboard venues include a dramatic three-deck atrium where guests can enjoy musicians playing regional and classical music; the Theater, home to enrichment lectures from scholars and experts; an onboard cooking school where guests can learn how to prepare local specialties; and Torshavn, a piano lounge where guests can relax, mingle, and exchange stories after a day of exploring.

·         Sustainable Features: Designed with the environment in mind, Viking’s ocean ships feature energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydro-dynamically optimized streamlined hulls and bows for maximum fuel efficiency, onboard solar panels, and equipment that minimizes exhaust pollution and meets the strictest environmental regulations.

For more information, images and b-roll, contact vikingpr@edelman.com. For additional details, contact Viking Cruises toll-free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464).

 

About Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises offers destination-centric river and ocean cruising designed for experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history. Featuring onboard cultural enrichment and included shore excursions, Viking’s journeys are competitively priced for genuine value. Debuting its maiden season of ocean cruising in 2015, the sophisticated state-of-the-art Viking Star will host 930 guests on itineraries in Scandinavia and the Baltic; the Western and Eastern Mediterranean; and the British Isles. Two additional ocean ships, Viking Sea and Viking Sky, are also on order. As the world’s leading river cruise line, since its 1997 inception the company has grown to a fleet of 60 river vessels (in 2015) offering scenic cruising along the rivers of Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Egypt, China and Southeast Asia. Viking has been honored multiple times in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards and Condé Nast Traveler’s “Gold List” as well as recognized by the editors of Cruise Critic as “Best River Cruise Line,” with the entire Viking Longships® fleet being named “Best New River Ships” in the website’s Editors’ Picks Awards. The travel trade has ranked Viking as the “Best River Cruise Line” by Travel Weekly, Recommend and Travel Agent magazines, “Best Cruise Line for Luxury River Cruises” at the Luxury Travel Advisor Awards of Excellence and as “Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising,” “Best New River Cruise Ship” and for the sixth consecutive year, “Best River Cruise Line for Travel Agent Support” in the 2014 TravelAge West’s WAVE Awards. For additional information, contact Viking Cruises at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or visit www.vikingcruises.com. To join the Viking Cruises community online, visitwww.facebook.com/vikingcruises, www.facebook.com/vikingoceancruises and www.facebook.com/vikingrivercruises.

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HYATT PALM SPRINGS KICKS OFF ‘AQUA LIBRE’ 2015 SUMMER POOL PARTY WEEKENDS

Hotel To Debut Palm Springs’ First Ever ‘Silent DJ’ Parties With Wireless Headsets

PALM SPRINGS, CA (June 8, 2015) – Hyatt Palm Springs today kicks off its summer season announcing a series of lively and exciting “Aqua Libre” summer pool party weekends.  Now part of a trend taking the country by storm, the party weekends will feature, for the first time ever in Palm Springs, Saturday evening “Silent DJ” parties.

The season’s hottest pool parties will debut on Saturday, June 20th and continue throughout the summer, concluding with a huge Labor Day weekend finale. Palm Springs’ splashiest pool party weekends will feature dynamic DJ performances non-stop from 1pm to 5pm every Saturday.  Once a month on Saturday nights, the outdoor excitement will continue from 8pm to 11pm with the area’s first ever ‘Silent DJ’ parties. Wireless headsets will be provided to each guest, with one channel featuring hits from the DJ’s live set and a second channel with a different playlist available for party-goers.  Accompaniments such as cold towels, water misters and cold cocktails will keep guests cool and comfortable.

“We are very excited to kick off our pool party weekends this summer season” remarked General Manager, Dene Nui. “Hyatt Palm Springs is especially proud to be the first hotel in the area to feature the ‘Silent DJ’ parties as part of these summer monthly weekends and guests can look forward to a great time!”

Pool party weekends are open to the public as well as to hotel guests.  There is no cover charge or dress code.  All attendees must be 21 and over.  Reservations are recommended and can be made at 760.322.9000. 

“Aqua Libre” Summer DJ pool parties:

Every Saturday, June 20th – Labor Day (1pm-5pm)

“Silent DJ “parties (8pm-11pm):

Saturday, June 20th

Saturday, July 4th

Saturday, August 8th

Saturday, September 5th

For more information, please contact the hotel directly at 760-322-9000. Hyatt Palm Springs is located at 285 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262.

About Hyatt Palm Springs

Centered in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, surrounded by the natural beauty of the San Jacinto mountains, and the energy and excitement of Palm Canyon Drive, Hyatt Palm Springs sits at the crossroads of one of the most memorable vacation destinations in Southern California. The hotel offers stunning views of the San Jacinto mountains, is footsteps to hiking trails and within easy access to all the diverse experiences the Coachella Valley offers.

The only all-suite hotel in the area, Hyatt Palm Springs features 197 spacious suites, including VIP suites and poolside cabana suites. Hyatt Palm Springs’ “Hyatt Has It” program provides guests on the go with smart travel essentials to borrow from curling irons to phone chargers. The hotel offers more than 12,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space and is the only hotel with an outside café with entertainment in downtown Palm Springs. With Hyatt’s eConcierge program and in-room request cards, guests can arrange to have their room provisioned with special requests and amenities so their stay is designed uniquely around a guest’s preferences. Well-known Hyatt programs, including in suite YogaAway, 24 hour StayFit and pet program are offered, in addition to complimentary shuttle to/rom the airport and throughout downtown, including the Convention Center. For more information visit: www.hyattpalmsprings.com or call the hotel directly at 760-322-9000.

About Hyatt

Hyatt hotels are smaller-sized properties conveniently located in diverse business and leisure areas. Hyatt hotels offer guests the opportunity to experience authentic hospitality in a vibrant environment. Customers include individual business and leisure travelers, and Hyatt hotels can accommodate smaller scale business meetings and social gatherings.

 

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ATLANTIS, PARADISE ISLAND SETS THE SCENE FOR SUMMER WITH MUSIC, MAGIC, AMUSEMENT & MORE

Summer Fun for Everyone at the Premiere Destination Resort in The Bahamas

 PARADISE ISLAND, THE BAHAMAS (April 24, 2015) – Is the whole family in need of some fun? It’s more like Summer Fun at Atlantis, Paradise Island! Designed to delight guests of all ages, Atlantis’ summer programs bring comedy and concerts, illusions and amusement, and unforgettable experiences to guests all summer long. Whether adults or adolescents, the ultimate family vacation only gets better at Atlantis.

Take a sneak peak at what’s in store for Atlantis guests beginning this May…

-       Chelsea Handler: Memorial Day Weekend - Saturday, May 23

This holiday weekend, Atlantis LIVE presents Chelsea Handler and her never-ending laughs! Giving guest a taste of summer and sass, Chelsea Handler – known for her best-selling books, E! Network Show Chelsea Lately, and recent Netflix special – will bring her fearless honestly and tongue-in-cheek commentary to paradise. You won’t want to miss this hilarious performance.  Tickets start at $80; to book, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/events/chelseahandler

-       Lady Gaga & Tony Bennett: Kick off summer with the best in the business – June 13

Did you know: Atlantis is starting summer early and to celebrate, Atlantis LIVE is bringing you legendary artists Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga. These multi-Grammy Award winning artists will perform an intimate convert with hits from their Cheek-to-Cheek concert tour. Tickets start at $125; to book visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/events/tony-bennett-br-lady-gaga

-       Cartoon Network at Atlantis: June 19 – August 22

Fun fact: Cartoon Network has bragging rights to 20+ years of awesome TV programming – and now, five years of fun at Atlantis! Cartoon Network brings the family-favorite, 9,000 square-ft. Obstacle course back to Paradise Lagoon, plus the all-new NERF SUPER SOAKERSFlood Zone! A summer of awesome is certainly in store with Costume Character Parades, Screen on the Green movies, and more. Complimentary to Atlantis guests; www.atlantisbahamas.com/cartoonnetwork

-       The Magic of Rob Lake: June 24 – September 6

Magic, illusions, and splendor – oh my! Rob Lake, International Magician of the Year, is bringing his spectacular acclaimed show to Atlantis, all summer long. To the delight of kids and adults alike, families can catch Rob in action Wednesday – Sunday nights at 8 PM for even more fun after dark. Tickets pricing: 3 and under are complimentary, $9.50/child (ages 4-11), $39/adult; to book, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/events/rob-lake-june

-       Fourth of July with R5:  Saturday, July 4

The 4th of July at Atlantis just got even better…adding to the food and fun is fan-favorite R5, bringing their summer soundtrack to the sand in paradise! From Colorado to California and now the Caribbean, R5 will celebrate All Day, All Night with a complimentary concert and beachfront fireworks display. Complimentary to resort guests; for details, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/events/r5

-       Miss Teen USA: August 21-22

This August, the Confidently Beautiful Miss Teen USA contestants will compete in paradise! Having hosted the Miss Teen USA Pageant for the past eight years, Atlantis invites guests to watch K. Lee Graham, Miss Teen USA 2014, crown her successor. For special pageant room rates, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/missteen

-       Keith Urban: Saturday, September 5

Atlantis will round out its summer over Labor Day with an Atlantis LIVE performance by music superstar Keith Urban. Urban’s career has seen a long list of groundbreaking firsts and accomplishments reserved for the music industry’s elite including Country Music Association’s Horizon Award Male Vocalist of the Year, and the coveted Entertainer of the Year as well as being a four-time GRAMMY® Award winner, winning eleven Academy of Country Music Awards, and has had 16 #1 songs and five consecutive platinum or multi-platinum albums. Tickets start at $105; to book, visit www.atlantisbahamas.com/events/keith-urban

About Atlantis, Paradise Island resort

Atlantis, Paradise Island is a unique, ocean-themed destination located on Paradise Island, The Bahamas, and features a variety of accommodations, all built around a 141-acre waterscape comprised of over millions of gallons of fresh and saltwater lagoons, pools and habitats.  Home to the largest open-air marine habitat in the world, there are over 50,000 marine animals in lagoons and displays, including The Dig, a maze of underwater corridors and passageways providing a journey through ancient Atlantis.  Atlantis is home to Aquaventure, a non-stop water experience consisting of thrilling water slides, a mile-long river ride with high intensity rapids and wave surges..  Dolphin Cay, the resort’s interaction and education center, was created with the goal of enlightening visitors about the wonders of these remarkable ocean inhabitants. 

The Cove Atlantis, a 600-room resort, features oversized rooms with a step down living space, spectacular designs by acclaimed interior architects Jeffrey Beers and David Rockwell, unprecedented services and amenities, private all-adult and family pools, lavish cabanas and breathtaking views of the ocean.  Atlantis is also known as THE culinary destination in The Caribbean with a collection of restaurants from world-renowned chefs including Nobu Matsuhisa, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Todd English.  The resort boasts an impressive collection of luxury boutiques and shops, casino, and the largest conference center, meeting and convention facilities in The Caribbean.

For further information about Atlantis, Paradise Island; call 954-809-2000 or visit AtlantisBahamas.com.  For reservations, call your travel agent or 800-ATLANTIS.

Both low and high resolution color photography of Atlantis, Paradise Island is available at news.atlantis.com.  If you are new user to this site, please complete the online registration to be granted access to the online newsroom. Atlantis can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Atlantis, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AtlantisResort, and Instagram at www.instagram.com/AtlantisResort.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOTEL PALOMAR CHICAGO ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH SHRED415

Contacts:

Jennifer Borders
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Chicago & Minneapolis 312.325.7192 jennifer.borders@kimptonhotels.com

HOTEL PALOMAR CHICAGO ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH SHRED415

Hotel Guests Can Maintain Their Healthy Lifestyles While Traveling with Chicago-Based Shred415 Inspired Workouts on the Terrace and In-Room

CHICAGO (June 2, 2015) – Kimpton’s Hotel Palomar Chicago, located in Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood, is teaming up with the local favorite high intensity interval training fitness studio, Shred415. The partnership will launch on June 3 offering guests and locals a Shred Summer Workout Series on Hotel Palomar’s 17th floor outdoor terrace while enjoying sweeping views of the city. In addition, Hotel Palomar will host exclusive Shred415 workout videos in guestrooms for easy access 24/7.

“We are continuously looking for ways to emerge our guests into a local Chicago experience,” said Nabil Moubayed, General Manager of Hotel Palomar Chicago. “Shred415 which is a Chicago based fitness studio, is perfect for our wellness-minded guests and gives them a taste of a local favorite.”

Shred415 inspired classes will be held every Wednesday morning at 6:30 a.m. through the end of September, weather permitting. Hotel guests may sign up at the front desk for the complimentary class while locals can book the paid class through Shred415’s website. Class sizes are limited so early registration is encouraged.

Guests unable to attend the alfresco class are able to access exclusive Shred415 workouts directly from the on demand menu of their TV in each guestroom. The channel will offer a series of three exclusive 15-20 minute videos guests can choose from. The hotel concierge will have a stash of Shred415 bands guests can use with the video routines during their stay. Following their stay, guests can visit www.BonnieandTracy.com to purchase bands and access additional digital workouts.

“As fitness continues to be a growing trend in the travel industry, standard gyms and pools are the norm nowadays,” said Nabil. “That is why we strive to go above and beyond by offering customized services like the Shred415 workouts on the terrace and in-room programming for those that can’t make the class or aren’t comfortable working out in groups.”

In addition, to the new Shred415 programs, Hotel Palomar also offers guests the following wellness amenities:

  • Guided runs with a hotel manager every Tuesday at 6:30 a.m. along the iconic Chicago lakefront

  • Complimentary bikes guests can borrow along with art-centric bike map routes that take guests to iconic and under the radar art sites in the city

  • Complimentary yoga mats with an in-room yoga channel

Hotel Palomar is also offering a special Palo-Shred package from now until the end of September. Guest that book this package will enjoy:

  • One Class at Shred415 Studio (Old Town Studio)
  • Shred415 Water Bottle & Ankle bands
  • Healthy Snacks: Bottled Water, Fruit, Nuts & Protein Bars 3 Day Advance booking required

Hotel Palomar Chicago is located at 505 N. State St., Chicago, IL, 60654. For more information or reservations, please call (312) 755-9703 or visit http://www.hotelpalomar-chicago.com / www.facebook.com/Palomar.Chicago / https://instagram.com/palomarchicago.

ABOUT KIMPTON’S HOTEL PALOMAR CHICAGO

Located in Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood, Palomar is Kimpton’s newest addition to its Windy City collection, built in 2010. Designed by Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, the hotel celebrates “Art in Motion,” and features pieces that pay homage to Chicago’s 1893 Columbian Exposition and Fair. The evolved boutique concept features 261 guest rooms and suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop indoor pool, 5,800 square feet of stunning meeting and event space, and an adjacent dining experience, Sable Kitchen & Bar. In addition to an eco-friendly green roof, the hotel operates with more than 80 sustainable practices as part of Kimpton’s brand-wide EarthCare program. Palomar is convenient to many of Chicago’s most popular attractions, including The Magnificent Mile, McCormick Place, Navy Pier and Merchandise Mart, as well as family favorites such as the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Willis Tower Skydeck. The hotel is located at 505 North State Street, Chicago, IL, 60654. For information please call (312) 755-9703 or (877) 731-0505 toll free or visit www.hotelpalomar-chicago.com / www.facebook.com/palomar.chicago / www.twitter.com/kimptonchi.

ABOUT KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is a leading collection of boutique hotels and restaurants and the acknowledged industry pioneer that first introduced the boutique hotel concept to the United States. In 1981, Bill Kimpton founded the company that today is renowned for making travelers feel genuinely cared for through thoughtful perks and amenities, bold, playful design and a sincerely personal style of guest service. Out to help people live full, balanced lives, Kimpton aims to inspire with touches like yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, hosted evening Wine Hour, in-room fitness programming and complimentary bike rentals. The award- winning restaurants and bars are led by talented chefs and bartenders that offer guests a chance to dine like a local. Kimpton is consistently ranked as one of the top companies in the Market Metrix Hospitality Index, Upper Upscale Segment, for Customer Satisfaction. The company is highly-regarded for its innovative employee culture and benefits and has been named a FORTUNE magazine “Best Place to Work” six times since 2009. Kimpton is continuously growing and currently operates over 60 hotels and 70 plus restaurants, bars and lounges in 30 U.S. cities. In January 2015, Kimpton was welcomed into the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) family of hotel brands, bringing together two special cultures and sets of values to create the world's largest boutique hotel business. For more information, visit www.KimptonHotels.com.

ABOUT SHRED415

Opened in April 2011 by Certified personal trainers and fitness experts Bonnie Micheli and Tracy Roemer, Shred415 provides an instructor-led, calorie-burning, high intensity interval training class designed to target all muscle groups and guarantees to shred your body. Each studio offers childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 10 years during select class times in a Kids’ Room outfitted with WII entertainment and toys. Located in Lincoln Park at 2156 North Clyborn and in Old Town at 230 West Division, along with five other locations in Chicago and St. Louis. For more information and complete pricing, please visit www.Shred415.com .

 

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THE LANGHAM, CHICAGO’S NEWLY INSTALLED “GENTLEMEN” COMPLIMENTS EXISTING PORTFOLIO OF RENOWNED ARTWORK

River North luxury hotel invites locals and visitors alike to pose for professional photography with prestigious statues on the AMA Plaza

The Gentlemen Statues

 (CHICAGO, IL; May 15, 2015)—The Langham, Chicago (330 N. Wabash Ave.) announces the addition of “Gentlemen,” a series of installed statues created by renowned Taiwanese sculptor Ju Ming and purchased by Great Eagle Holdings, the parent company of Langham Hospitality Group. The original artwork, prominently displayed as a permanent fixture on the AMA Plaza, is part of Ju’s “Living World Series,” featuring eleven bronze plated figures draped in trench jackets and holding umbrellas. 

In celebration of The Gentlemen’s newly installed presence, The Langham invites visitors and locals alike to the AMA Plaza on Friday, May 22 from 3 to 5 p.m. to pose for a professional photograph with the gentlemen, which will be shared on The Langham, Chicago’s Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook pages. Guests will be provided with a take-away image and encouraged to share the snap shot on their social media channels using the hashtag #thegentlemen.

“The statues are an ideal representation of the hotel and demonstrates the important part that art plays in our brand and overall company culture,” says Dr. K.S. Lo, chairman of Great Eagle Holdings. “We’re thrilled with the reception that our gentlemen have received from the public thus far and are looking forward to it becoming a renowned attraction for visitors and Chicagoans alike.”

Upon entering the doors of The Langham Chicago, guests are immediately exposed to the marriage between fine art, architecture and interiors prevalently displayed throughout the hotel. Architect and renowned interior designer Lauren Rottet selected the majority of the hotel’s pieces, while the artwork in Travelle was curated by the Art Production Fund in collaboration with the restaurant’s designer, the Rockwell Group.

Inspired by Mies van der Rohe and his relationship with the Bauhaus School, Rottet selected American artists of Bauhaus descent, incorporating both well-known and emerging artists into the collection. More than 140 artists are showcased throughout the hotel including: Jaume Plensa; Judy Ledgerwood; Anish Kapoor; Monique Prieto; and emerging artists Michele Grabner; Jan Ticy; and Molly Zuckeran-Hartung.

Langham Hospitality Group

As the wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Eagle Holdings, Langham Hospitality Group encompasses a family of distinctive hotels under the Langham Hotels & Resorts, Cordis and Eaton brands that are located on four continents. The Group takes its name from the legendary Langham in London which was widely recognized as Europe's first Grand Hotel. For almost 150 years, this flagship hotel has represented sophisticated and gracious hospitality, a philosophy that reflects elegance in design, innovation in hospitality, genuine service and captivation of the senses across all properties. For reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.langhamhotels.com.

 

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I|O GODFREY HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL AWARD WINNING KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY ON SATURDAY, MAY 2

 River North hotel celebrates award for hosting the best promo party of the year

    I|O at The Godfrey Hotel Chicago

(CHICAGO, IL; April 20, 2015) – Rain or shine, you can bet on Chicago’s premier Kentucky Derby Party at I|O, located on the fourth floor of The Godfrey Hotel Chicago (127 W. Huron St. at LaSalle). Held in partnership with Woodford Reserve and The Goorin Bros. Hat Company, the Kentucky Derby Party offers a day filled with contests, chef-inspired cocktails, and a special Derby Day menu on Saturday, May 2 from 12:00–8:00 p.m. Guests are invited to sign up on the day of the event and reserve their seat for an exclusive Bourbon 101 tasting class, taking place at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. As a special treat, the first 100 guests to arrive at the event receive a commemorative Woodford Reserve copper cup. 

Donned in traditional Derby attire, attendees are invited to watch the Kentucky Derby from Chicago’s urban roofscape, featuring a retractable roof with sweeping views of Chicago’s south-facing skyline. Diners can choose dishes from a special Derby Day menu and carving station, as well as springtime cocktails to appease Derby lovers during the greatest two minutes in sports history. 

Derby Day isn’t complete without the token animated attire and fashion staple hats. Cue the Goorin Bros. Hat Company, located onsite with hats available for purchase to give outfits the necessary Derby look. Guests also have the opportunity to win prizes for the “Best Dressed,” “Best Couple,” and “Best Hat” at the party.

I|O’s annual Kentucky Derby Viewing Event was recently named 2015 Promo, Party or Event of the Year, by the Nightclub & Bar Awards following last year’s celebration. The Nightclub & Bar Awards is the industry’s premier program for recognizing and applauding excellence in bar, nightclub and lounge concept development, operations, promotion, innovation, and success.

Guests must RSVP to attend this year’s event and space is limited. Interested attendees can visit: http://iogodfrey.com/events/woodford-reserve-derby-party/ and are encouraged to use hashtag #IODerby during the event.

 About The Godfrey Hotel

The Godfrey Hotel Chicago is a hotel project of Oxford 127 Huron Hotel Venture Property Company, LLC, an Oxford Capital Group, LLC-led venture that includes Quadrum Group, a $1.3 billion global alternatives investment manager. It is managed by Oxford Hotels & Resorts, LLC. The Godfrey Hotel opened February 1, 2014 and is currently taking reservations at a rate of $159, non-inclusive of tax and gratuity, subject to change. The name Godfrey has a meaning of ‘peace’ and ‘welcome’ to travelers. To make a reservation, please visit www.godfreyhotelchicago.com. For up-to-date news about the property, follow the hotel’s Facebook and Twitter. 

 About Oxford Capital Group, LLC

Oxford Capital Group, LLC is a diversified national real estate investment and development firm, focused on complicated, large scale acquisitions, redevelopments, and operational turnarounds, with an emphasis on hotels, resorts, conference centers, senior housing and other operationally intensive forms of real estate. Oxford's geographic focus includes high barrier-to-entry markets around the country, including Chicago, New York City, Washington D.C., Boston, Charleston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other select markets. Oxford and its affiliates have been involved in approximately $2.5 billion of real estate and private equity transactions, including approximately 13,000 hotel rooms. For information, visit www.oxford-capital.com.For information, visit www.oxford-capital.com.

 About Quadrum Group

Quadrum is a global private equity investment and advisory group focusing on real estate and asset-backed investment strategies.  Through its network of 9 offices and affiliates worldwide the firm is currently targeting distressed and repositioning opportunities in developed markets of US and Europe as well as development in select emerging markets of the former Soviet Union and Southeast Asia. The group currently has over US$400 million of equity capital invested in real estate projects with the overall value in excess of US$1bn. Quadrum was initially part of Cube Capital Group until it was spun off and became independent in 2013.  

Extraordinary Culinary Weekend with Celebrity Chefs at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

The Lodge at Torrey Pines and the James Beard Foundation to Host Extraordinary Weekend of Celebrity Chefs and Culinary Experiences

Food Network Star Chef Beau MacMillan to collaborate with The Lodge’s Chef Jeff Jackson and James Beard Foundation Award winner Carrie Nahabedian; Proceeds will benefit the James Beard Foundation.

La Jolla, CA -- The Lodge at Torrey Pines has partnered with the James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour for a comprehensive culinary weekend taking place Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31, 2015. This over-the-top event will provide guests the opportunity to experience an elite James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour Dinner prepared by celebrity chefs, taste superb California wines, enjoy an exclusive tour of Point Loma Farms paired with a locally-sourced lunch, relax to live entertainment and more – all during a luxurious stay at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, renowned as one of San Diego’s most sought-after resorts. Proceeds will benefit the James Beard Foundation.

This exceptional weekend is designed to showcase San Diego’s best produce, wine and culinary abilities, and will be highlighted by an exclusive James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour Dinner held Saturday, May 30 featuring The Lodge’s Executive Chef Jeff Jackson, who has been a guest chef at the esteemed James Beard House in New York City; Food Network star Beau MacMillan of Iron Chef fame and who has since appeared on several television shows; and James Beard Foundation Award winner Carrie Nahabedian of Chicago’s Michelin starred NAHA. The five course farm-to-table menu will be prepared tableside and paired with wines from a trio of California wineries: Nickel & Nickel and Far Niente (Napa Valley) and EnRoute (Russian River Valley).

“The art and the thought that goes into preparing quality dining experiences is central to what I do, and I have been inspired by the James Beard Foundation for many years,” said Executive Chef Jeff Jackson. “This is such an incredible opportunity for everyone involved, and I’m excited to work with Chefs Beau MacMillan and Carrie Nahabedian to create not just a dinner, but a culinary experience.” 

Guests may participate in the festivities by reserving either a one or two-night stay package at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. The two-night package, extending from Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31, is offered at the all-inclusive price of $1,995.00. Guests who reserve their stay prior to March 15 will receive an early booking price of $1,800.00. In addition to two coveted seats at the JBF Celebrity Chef Tour Dinner on Saturday night, this package includes a cocktail reception and dinner for two at the award winning A.R. Valentien on Friday, breakfast for two at the Golfer’s Grill and an interactive tour of Point Loma Farms with lunch for two on Saturday, and Sunday brunch for two at The Lodge.

A one-night hotel package is also available on May 30, 2015 at a rate of $1,495.00 and includes the JBF’s Celebrity Chef Tour dinner for two as well as Sunday brunch for two. Reservations booked before March 15 will receive an early booking price of $1,350.00. Both packages include accommodations in one of The Lodge’s well-appointed Signature rooms.

“We are delighted to partner with the James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour and host such a remarkable event,” said Bill Gross, General Manager of The Lodge at Torrey Pines. “The luxury of The Lodge combined with the prestige and mission of the James Beard Foundation is a natural pairing, and we cannot wait to see - and taste - the results.”

Interested parties can reserve the one or two-night hotel packages at The Lodge at Torrey Pines by calling (858) 453-4420 or visiting www.lodgetorreypines.com.

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About The Lodge at Torrey Pines:

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a AAA Five Diamond award-winning property offering more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space with views of the world renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean. Guests of The Lodge can take advantage of the near perfect weather while hiking the Torrey Pines State Reserve, golfing on Torrey Pines Golf Course or relaxing at the spa. The Lodge pays tribute to the California Craftsman Movement and is modeled after Greene and Greene’s famed Gamble and Blacker houses in Pasadena, California, two of the finest example of early 1900s Craftsman-style architecture. The Lodge features 169 spacious guest rooms and suites, a 9,500 square-foot full-service spa and two restaurants serving contemporary California cuisine. The Lodge is owned and operated by Evans Hotels and is in proximity to the San Diego International Airport, downtown San Diego and downtown La Jolla. For reservations, call (858) 453-4420 or visit www.lodgetorreypines.com.

About the James Beard Foundation (JBF)

Founded in 1986, the James Beard Foundation celebrates, nurtures, and honors America's diverse culinary heritage through programs that educate and inspire. A cookbook author and teacher with an encyclopedic knowledge about food, James Beard, who died in 1985, was a champion of American cuisine. He helped educate and mentor generations of professional chefs and food enthusiasts, instilling in them the value of wholesome, healthful, and delicious food. Today JBF continues in the same spirit by administering a number of diverse programs that include educational initiatives, food industry awards, scholarships for culinary students, publications, chef advocacy training, and thought-leader convening. The Foundation also maintains the historic James Beard House in New York City’s Greenwich Village as a “performance space” for visiting chefs. In September of 2012, JBF launched the Diplomatic Culinary Partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Protocol and helped create the American Chef Corps as a way to champion American chefs abroad, promote American food products, and foster an interest in American culinary culture and history through international programs and initiatives. One such project is the next world’s fair, Expo Milano 2015, for which the James Beard Foundation is co-leading the effort for the State Department to design and produce the USA Pavilion, a global gathering of 147 countries addressing the challenges of how we will feed ourselves in the future. The pavilion, whose theme will be “American Food 2.0: United to Feed the Planet,” will showcase America’s contributions to global food security and gastronomy. For more information, please visit jamesbeard.org. Find insights on food at the James Beard Foundation’s blog Delights & Prejudices. Join the James Beard Foundation on Facebook. Follow the James Beard Foundation on Twitter and Instagram.

The Langham's Chuan Spa & Health Club Receives Chicago's Only Five-Star Rating

THE LANGHAM’S CHUAN SPA & HEALTH CLUB RECEIVES CHICAGO’S ONLY FIVE-STAR RATING BY FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE

 Wellness-focused spa earns prestigious award from renowned luxury travel resource

Chuan Spa Treatment Room

(CHICAGO, IL; February 11, 2015)— Chuan Spa & Health Club (330 N. Wabash), located in The Langham, Chicago, today announced it has received a Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. The wellness-focused destination, seamlessly integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies and treatments, is the only spa in Chicago to receive this prestigious status, as showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com. Chuan Spa is the latest addition to the luxury travel ratings that have been the gold standard in the hospitality industry since 1958.

“We are thrilled to receive the top ranking—the first in the state of Illinois and in the city of Chicago—from such an admired travel resource, setting the benchmark as a luxury spa industry leader,” said William Wesley Myers, Director of Spa at The Langham, Chicago. “This acknowledgment truly reflects the quality of product and services that we provide at Chuan Spa – we couldn’t be more excited to be the first spa to earn this elite status in the great city of Chicago.”

Chuan Spa & Health Club features an exclusive curated collection of products and treatments rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – an ancient modality that assists in rebalancing one’s whole being. The spa’s menu provides guests with a progression of wellness offerings – from novice to advanced –  beginning with a series of classically refined spa treatments, followed by a selection of 21 specialty Chuan Signature Services, topped off by four foundational advanced TCM services, with oversight by our Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Additionally, Chuan Spa & Health Club features a modern fitness studio and adjoining group class studio outfitted with state-of-the-art strength, endurance, and cardio equipment. The centerpiece of the wellness oasis is a 67-foot swimming pool with its shimmering spotlights reflecting off the water from above and below. A heated hydrotherapy Jacuzzi complements the welcoming, contemporary space and exclusive Chuan Members can relieve tension with a gentle water massage.

“Our Star Ratings recognize the finest hotels, restaurants and spas in the world. These ratings serve as the most authoritative guideposts for guests seeking exceptional travel experiences. Our primary mission is to contribute to excellence in hospitality, serving the global tourism industry as well as the guest,” said Gerard J. Inzerillo, Chief Executive Officer of Forbes Travel Guide. “We’re proud to be associated with the new additions to our global list.”

For a detailed explanation of how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star ratings, visit

www.forbestravelguide.com/about/ratings. Follow Forbes Travel Guide on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Chuan Spa & Fitness Club

The Chuan Spa values are based upon the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), yin and yang, the meridian system (jing luo) and the five elements (wu xing – wood, fire, earth, metal and water,) all of which place a strong emphasis on rebalancing the elements and providing a journey into wellness. Chuan Spa has exclusively developed over 20 signature treatments with the guidance of the in-house TCM doctor to ensure the highest levels of authenticity and conceptual integrity. To compliment these services, a comprehensive Chuan branded retail and professional spa product range was created, which included the 5 Element Massage Oils and Essential Oils.  As the spa brand of Langham Hospitality Group, the first Chuan Spa was opened in 2005 at Langham Place, Hong Kong; other locations around the world include The Langham hotels in Auckland, Boston, Chicago, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Ningbo, Shanghai and Shenzhen.  For more information, visit www.chuanspa.com.

The Langham, Chicago

The newest North American addition to Langham Hospitality Group’s luxury profile, The Langham, Chicago resides within the landmarked, 52-story riverfront IBM building  (renamed AMA Plaza in September 2013) designed by the renowned architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe at 330 North Wabash Avenue. Offering 316 guest rooms and suites, this is the company’s first purpose-built hotel in the United States and fourth property in the U.S. The Langham, Chicago features a 22,000 sq. Health Club housing Langham’s signature Chuan Spa; Travelle restaurant, lounge and bar serving breakfast, Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner; the Pavilion Lounge for afternoon tea; a 4,000 sq. ft. Langham Club with butler service, light meals and business facilities and 15,000 sq. ft. of meeting space including the elegant Devonshire Ballroom. The hotel features a fine art collection with more than 150 pieces of distinctive art. Reservations for Langham hotels can be made online at www.langhamhotels.com. For further information about The Langham, Chicago, visit www.chicago.langhamhotels or dial 312-923-9988.

Langham Hospitality Group

As the wholly-owned subsidiary of Great Eagle Holdings, Langham Hospitality Group encompasses a family of distinctive hotels under The Langham, Langham Place, and Eaton brands that are located on four continents. The Group takes its name from the legendary Langham in London which was widely recognized as Europe's first Grand Hotel. For almost 150 years, this flagship hotel has represented sophisticated and gracious hospitality, a philosophy that reflects elegance in design, innovation in hospitality, genuine service and captivation of the senses across all properties. For reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.langhamhotels.com.

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide, formerly Mobil Travel Guide, is the originator of the prestigious

Five Star Rating system, and has provided the travel industry’s most comprehensive ratings and reviews of hotels, restaurants and spas since 1958. Forbes Travel Guide has a team of expert inspectors who anonymously evaluate properties against up to 800 rigorous and objective standards, providing consumers the insight to make better informed travel and leisure decisions. Forbes Travel Guide is the gold standard for luxury hospitality ratings worldwide. For more information about Forbes Travel Guide, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

ForbesTravelGuide.com combines the objectivity and heritage of the Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating system with insightful recommendations from a hand-selected group of travel experts, tastemakers and Forbes Travel Guide inspectors. ForbesTravelGuide.com is the sole online destination for Forbes Travel Guide’s list of Star Rated hotels, restaurants and spas, and gives its registered members exclusive access to special offers and curated experiences from select Forbes Travel Guide partners.

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