W Hotels Electrifies the Shanghai Skyline with the Debut of W Shanghai – The Bund

Flagship Hotel Marks the Brand’s First in Shanghai and Third in Mainland China

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, today unveiled W Shanghai – The Bund, located in the heart of one of the world’s most energetic cities. With limitless views overlooking the Huangpu River, W Shanghai will set the scene on the North Bund. Owned by Sinar Mas Group, the hotel features a blend of bold design and decadent style which combines to create a captivating contrast of Shanghai’s past and its avant-garde present.

“Shanghai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, and its engaging nightlife, spirited fashion scene and passion for what’s new/next makes it an ideal destination for the W brand,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our hotels across the world are incredibly unique- each reinterpreting its destination through design that is both hyper-local and yet, clearly W. The electrifying design of W Shanghai – The Bund is no exception, solidifying its position as a global flagship for W that is sure to attract both guests and savvy locals alike.”

Exterior shot of the W Shanghai – The Bund

Designed by the acclaimed G.A Design, the hotel showcases an exciting combination of historic and modern influences, such as Hai Pai – the art of combining the old and the new, East and West. This is evident in both the hotel’s location, perfectly positioned between the Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, as well as the surrounding locale, where Art Deco buildings sit alongside opulent Chinese mansions. W Shanghai – The Bund draws upon colonial glamour and futuristic motifs, with nearly all guestrooms featuring views of the Huangpu River due to the uniquely curved frame of the building’s edifice.

The W Shanghai – The Bund, overlooking the Huangpu River and featuring a blend of bold design and decadent style.

“Over the past few years we have seen incredible growth worldwide across our brands, with the China market becoming increasingly important for Marriott International,” said Stephen Ho, Chief Executive Officer, Greater China, Marriott International. “The opening of the W Shanghai – The Bund underscores the ambitious expansion of Marriott International’s Luxury Brands in Greater China.”

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by neon light installations throughout the hotel’s Living Room (the W brand’s take on the staid hotel lobby). For centuries, Shanghai-locals have honored the Lilong tradition, in which wet laundry is hung on lines to dry at varying heights down narrow laneways. This installation was designed as a modern reinterpretation of this classic scene. The Welcome Desk (reception area) features a kaleidoscopic fixture, mirroring the constant flow of guests through the area. The ‘Melting Qipao’ pattern, a representation of Shanghai as a melting pot of cultures, can be seen on the walls of the WC (restroom).

Let’s Rise: Westin Hotels & Resorts Reveals a Powerful Rally-Cry for Travelers To Regain Control of Their Well-Being While on the Road

$30 Million Brand Campaign Underscores How Westin Tackles The Travel & Wellness Trends Unveiled In New Global Survey

Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc., today unveiled its first global brand campaign in more than five years, taking on the disruptions, distractions and unpredictability of travel and empowering travelers to embrace well-being as a way to regain control of their routines and be their best while on the road. The $30 million dollar, integrated advertising campaign – called Let’s Rise – communicates Westin’s commitment to its guests’ well-being before, during and after their stay. Beginning today, the Let’s Rise campaign will be featured in broadcast, digital, radio and out-of-home channels, with print placements to follow later this year. The Let’s Rise mantra will also serve as an anchor for the wellness programs and partnerships that roll out for guests and associates throughout the year.

Westin – Let’s Rise (Photo: Business Wire)

Westin’s Let’s Rise campaign is inspired by and illustrative of the wellness and travel trends fueling the future of both industries, as articulated in a new global study*** conducted in partnership with StudyLogic that surveyed travelers in North America, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and China. The results show a seismic shift in the way today’s travelers prioritize their well-being. With less time and more disruptors on the road, they are reinventing business and leisure travel to put things like fitness first with new vigor to pursue mindfulness and adventure.

“Let’s Rise is perfectly positioned to connect with travelers as more of a rally-cry than a brand campaign, given today’s over-scheduled and always-on culture,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Around the world, we are seeing travelers realigning their priorities to put their well-being first, and Westin is proud to empower our guests to rise to the occasion and be their best selves on the road.”

Brand Campaign Challenges Travelers: “Will You Get Up, or Will You Rise?”

Westin worked with San Francisco-based Venables Bell & Partners to develop the multi-faceted campaign, consisting of multiple executions in which travelers take control of their well-being. Illustrating guests enabled to wake up early for a run, stay on track with healthy eating goals, and find time to revitalize with an incredible night’s sleep, the campaign aims to connect consumers to the signature programs inherent in Westin’s DNA – from the iconic Westin Heavenly Bed to its workout Gear Lending program in partnership with New Balance® – all designed to embody the brand’s Six Pillars of Well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well.

Because morning is the first and best opportunity to take control of the day ahead, the campaign uses morning light as a consistent creative device to speak to the potential that the morning holds. Overall, the campaign calls consumers to answer a simple question, “Will you get up, or will you rise?”

Global Study Shows Seismic Shift in Travelers’ Well-being:

1. Unpredictability of Travel Sees Stress Skyrocket in 2017: Guests around the Globe Turn to Wellness to Regain Control

In the last three years, rising wealth and digital connectivity have prompted a significant spike in global travel and the unpredictability that accompanies it. It is no surprise then that nearly 3 in 4 travelers report they have trouble maintaining their routine on the road. More than 60% say they sleep less, 65% say they exercise less, and 15% report increased stress levels on vacation, a time traditionally thought of as downtime for rest and relaxation.

Travel & Accommodations: Marriott International Announces Plans to Double Its Luxury Footprint Across Eight Distinct Brands

Newly Formed Marriott International Luxury Brands Group Reinforces the Company’s Commitment to an Unmatched Variety of Luxury Experiences in More Than 60 Countries

Marriott International, Inc. announced that the company continues to grow its leadership position in luxury, doubling its portfolio of luxury hotels through the recent merger with Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Providing global travelers an unrivaled selection of diversified, high-end experiences in 61 countries, the Marriott International Luxury Brands group now includes the iconic St. Regis, The Luxury Collection and W Hotels brands, in addition to the company’s world-renowned hospitality hallmarks The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, EDITION and JW Marriott. Looking ahead, Marriott International is scheduled to open nearly 30 luxury hotels in 2017 and has a total of 180 luxury hotels in its development pipeline, representing 20 new countries, from Iceland and Nepal to Cuba.

“Spanning the world from the most iconic hot spots to the ultimate undiscovered gems, the unmatched breadth and depth of our luxury portfolio uniquely positions us to cater to the increased demand of the rapidly-expanding cadre of affluent travelers,” said Tina Edmundson, Global Brand Officer, Marriott International. “With luxury travel up nearly 50% over the past five years, we see a long runway for growth at the high-end and have a world-class, dedicated luxury structure in place to nurture and strengthen this coveted portfolio of eight diverse luxury brands.”

Multi-national and cross-generational, mobile and jet-setting, Marriott International’s luxury traveler is comfortable moving across the company’s luxury brands portfolio for business and leisure. Edmundson continued: “Our guests’ approach to luxury is decidedly less formal, entirely more personal, and defined more by their interests and mind-set than their geography and demographic.” This global luxury tribe selects a hotel experience based on their trip purpose, heading to W South Beach for Art Basel Miami Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi for Formula 1, The London EDITION for London Fashion Week and The St. Regis New York for the United Nations General Assembly.

Traveling well beyond tried and true locations, to destinations from the Philippines to Peru, and all points in between, luxury travelers look to Marriott International for authentic experiences deeply rooted in the destination. “They want to learn how to kitesurf at The St. Regis Mauritius, discover cherry blossom season at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, drink bellinis on the terrace at the iconic Gritti Palace during the Venice Biennale and go heli-skiing at W Verbier,” said Edmundson.

The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis Further Define the Luxury Landscape in 2017

The Ritz-Carlton, the legendary hospitality brand with 92 hotels around the world, will continue to set the standard in luxury in 2017 with four scheduled debuts, including The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi and The Ritz-Carlton, Astana, creating indelible marks for its guests as they discover the best of the locale. St. Regis, with 38 hotels today and 21 in the pipeline, continues to reinterpret the legacy of the original St. Regis hotel in New York for today’s luxury traveler. The brand unveiled the spectacular St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort in early November and is slated to make debuts in five destinations in 2017, including Shanghai, Changsha and Cairo.

Luxury Rebel W Hotels Opens 50th Hotel

Known to turn the conventional hotel experience upside down wherever the iconic W sign lands, W Hotels continues to ride the wave with the recent opening of W Punta de Mita, the ultimate surfer escape. The brand sits alongside luxury, not confined by it, and celebrated the opening of W Las Vegas last week which helped W Hotels hit the landmark 50th hotel milestone. W Goa is set to make its much-anticipated debut on December 12th and the brand has 33 hotels in the pipeline. 2017 will be a strong year for W Hotels with six anticipated openings, ranging from Tel Aviv and Panama City to Shanghai.

W Tel Aviv (Rendering)

EDITION further expands its global influence in Asia and Europe in 2017

EDITION defines a new generation of luxury by balancing sophisticated design and personalized, attentive service with one-of-a-kind food, beverage and entertainment offerings reflecting the best of the cultural and social milieu of each location. Showcasing its luxury-lifestyle experience with hotels in London, New York and Miami Beach, EDITION most recently premiered The Sanya EDITION on Hainan Island in Southern China, the brand’s first hotel in Asia, and will debut additional properties in Bangkok and Barcelona by the end of 2017.

The Luxury Collection Surpasses 100th Hotel Milestone with Robust 2017 Pipeline

An incredible ensemble of 102 hotels in more than 30 countries around the world, The Luxury Collection provides global explorers true, indigenous experiences, impossible to replicate anywhere else. From former palaces in Venice and Vienna to contemporary masterpieces such as the Frank Gehry-designed Marques de Riscal in Spain’s Rioja wine region, the brand continues to rapidly expand its footprint. 2017 will see the opening of Hotel Inglaterra in Havana, Cuba, which will join the brand after a complete renovation. The Luxury Collection is set to debut in nine destinations next year, including California’s Napa Valley, Singapore and Panama City.

After Marquee Openings in Venice and Los Cabos, JW Marriott Continues to Soar

JW Marriott, the brand inspired by its legendary namesake, is an expression of approachable, modern luxury. With 79 hotels and resorts today in 27 countries, including the recent openings of JW Marriott Venice and JW Marriott Los Cabos, the brand is looking forward to its much anticipated 2017 resort debut in Vietnam with the opening of JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa. Additionally, JW Marriott will open JW Marriott parq Vancouver by the end of next year.

Hotels and Accommodations: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Opens The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane

For The Distinctive Art Deco Hotel, A New Era Begins After 90 Years Of Moving History

Extending the reach of Sheraton Grand, a new premium classification for the brand, the Sheraton Hotels & Resorts (a brand of Marriott International) has launched the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane after a several million pounds extensive renovation and redesign of the 303 rooms. The comprehensive renovation also comprised of work on the public spaces, including the famous The Palm Lounge Court, the Ballroom* and the opulent foyer Silver Gallery.

The interior architects of MKV Design are responsible for the extensive renovation project, in collaboration with the Sheraton Global Designteam, combining the history of the building and its impressive location opposite the Green Park with modern, stylish elements and details. The profound renovation was followed by the redesign to the Sheraton Grand, the premium classification of the Sheraton brand for hotels characterized by particularly attractive locations, exclusive design, excellent service and outstanding customer experiences. The Sheraton Grand London Park Lane is the first hotel in London to meet this exquisite portfolio of currently 35 Sheraton Hotels worldwide.

“As one of the global travel hubs, London is a crucial market for Sheraton, the internationally most widely-used brand of Marriott International. That’s why we should be one of our flagships, “said McGuinness, senior vice president and global brand leader for Sheraton Hotels and Resorts. “The Sheraton Grand Park Lane London and its extravagant refurbishment gives the Sheraton brand a very special glow and serves as a great model for the transformation we are striving for the brand.“

Sheraton London Park Lane Hotel (Photo By Rept0n1x (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)%5D, via Wikimedia Commons)

Since its heyday as the first choice for personalities of society, public life and the aristocracy, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane has maintained the tradition of bringing people together in the heart of the Mayfair District. The design concept builds on the Art Deco heritage and this social influence, creating a wealth of spaces and an interior in which business and leisure can be easily combined. The 303 rooms have been completely redesigned in an elegant and luxurious style, breathing the spirit of Art Deco. 43 newly created Sheraton Club rooms and suites offer exclusive access to the Sheraton® Club Lounge, a private retreat where guests can enjoy breakfast, drinks and snacks during the day, as well as an afternoon tea in the style of The Palm Court , While in the evening, a varied selection of drinks and canapés are offered. For business travelers, this category also includes the use of a private conference room in the Sheraton® Club Lounge, which can accommodate up to eight people.

Grand Suite Living Room – Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel. (Image courtesy of Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel)

Grand Suite Bathroom – Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel. (Image courtesy of Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel)

Grand Suite Bedroom – Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel (Image courtesy of Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel)

The 21 suites of the hotel have been redesigned in such a way that the indoor space is optimally utilized and the view outside on the laubbowers of the Green Park can be enjoyed to the fullest. Many suites can now be connected to neighboring suites, so that large families and groups can get enough space. The Grand Suite of the hotel is a commitment to luxury and opulence and includes a representative entrance area, a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, as well as various living and dining areas. The rooms are interconnected with double-width sliding doors, so the Grand Suite can be opened to a single spacious room.

Sheraton Hotel & Resorts – Sheraton Grand London Park Lane – Art Deco Suite (Photo: Business Wire)

Renovated Park View Suite at The Sheraton London Grand Park Lane Hotel

“The new design of the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane marks a milestone for Sheraton in the United Kingdom,” says Even Frydenberg, Chief Operations and Franchise Support Officer Europe, Marriott International. “Thanks to a successful collaboration with Sir Richard Sutton Limited, this newly refurbished hotel represents the grand category of the brand and is a strategically immensely important home for the Sheraton portfolio.”

The Palm Court at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane Hotel

The Palm Court at the Sheraton London Grand Park Lane Hotel

The Palm Court at the Sheraton London Grand Park Lane Hotel

The renovation brought forth modern meeting places for city dwellers and world travelers alike. The prestigious The Palm Court Lounge, with its elegant furnishings and a magnificent stained glass roof, is the perfect backdrop for meetings in an aesthetic and lively atmosphere. Following the tradition of the Grand Hotel lounges of the 1920s and 30s, here breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner and cocktails, a special menu called serving and Paired , Sheratons creative culinary offerings, the small dishes and delicious bar snacks excellently combined with premium wines and local craft beers.

Mercante Restaurant, Sheraton London Grand Park Lane Hotel

The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Makes Singapore Debut

Following an Extensive Renovation with Design Direction from Internationally Acclaimed Interior Designers Anouska Hempel and Jacques Garcia, The Duxton Club Is Expected to Open in the “Garden City’s” Historic Tanjong Pagar District in 2017

The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, announced it will debut the brand’s first-ever hotel in Singapore in early 2017. In partnership with boutique developers Harpreet and Satinder Garcha, The Duxton Club, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore will showcase the island’s rich history with stunning redesigns from Anouska Hempel and Jacques Garcia of traditional shophouses–a prevalent building in Singapore’s architectural heritage–in the Tanjong Pagar conservation district. Both preserving the past and offering guests a contemporary luxury experience, the multi-million-dollar renovation will bring to life Singapore’s roots in an authentic and indigenous way.

Rendering of the lobby at The Duxton House by Anouska Hempel Design

The Duxton Club will reside in two pre-war colonial shophouse buildings within walking distance of one another: The Duxton House on Duxton Road and The Duxton Terrace on Murray Street. Strategically situated in the Duxton area, the two buildings are adjacent to the emerging Central Business District of Tanjong Pagar and border the culturally rich Chinatown area. In recent years, the neighborhood has enjoyed a revival, emerging as the epicenter for today’s global traveler as one of the island’s most stylish leisure and dining neighborhoods. The Duxton House is expected to open in early 2017, while The Duxton Terrace is slated to open in July 2017.

“We are thrilled to bring The Luxury Collection to Singapore,” said Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President, Acquisitions & Development, Marriott International Asia Pacific. “We are confident that The Duxton Club will make its mark on the country’s highly competitive hospitality market, and we’re proud to work with Harpreet and Satinder Garcha, who are passionate about design and adaptive-reuse heritage projects.”

Originally constructed in the early 19th century, The Duxton House features 50 guestrooms in eight adjoining three-story buildings reimagined by celebrated designer Anouska Hempel, whose comprehensive interior design background spans hotels, restaurants, retail spaces and luxury residential projects including the Hempel Hotel and Blakes Hotel in London, and high-end retail stores around the world such as Van Cleef and Arpels and Louis Vuitton.

Under the strong interior design identity of Hempel, The Duxton House will be restored to its former glory with rich oriental influences that honor the property’s unique heritage and timeless sense of luxury and glamour. Once completed, the hotel will include a destination restaurant, signature bar and private cigar room – all offering refined experiences for discerning guests seeking authentic, indigenous experience deeply rooted in the destination.

Just 600 feet away, with convenient access to the upscale establishments of Tras Street and Club Street, The Duxton Terrace comprises fourteen adjoining three and four-story colonial-era buildings with 138-guestrooms. Originally, completed in 1929, the structure likely served Chinese merchants before being converted to army barracks. Since then, the building has been adapted for different purposes, from housing a hawker food alley to restaurants and office space. The property’s most recent renovation project received the Architectural Heritage Award from the Urban Redevelopment Authority, further solidifying the building as a cherished and historic landmark.

The Duxton Terrace will be restored to its original grandeur by renowned architect and designer Jacques Garcia, whose extensive design portfolio includes the restoration of The Louvre and The Palace of Versailles. The hotel will house five captivating food and beverage venues including a signature bar and lobby bar, an all-day dining restaurant, a poolside bar and an exclusive member’s club. Additional facilities will include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and cigar room. Guests of The Duxton Club will enjoy full use of the facilities at both premises.

Marriott International Celebrates The Opening of The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Marriott International, In Partnership With The Smithsonian National Museum Of African American History And Culture Celebrates The Women Who’ve Paved The Way At The EncouragHERS Luncheon Featuring Common, Jazmine Sullivan And Special Guests

Marriott International’s sponsorship of the museum is in commitment to its mission to honor African American history and culture

Marriott International has announced its partnership with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), and its role as the grand opening hospitality sponsor. To kick off the weekend, Friday, September 23, 2016, Marriott International is hosting EncouragHERS, a luncheon recognizing women of character, courage and commitment, hosted by Common, with a performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jazmine Sullivan. The celebratory event will shine a light on the contributions of women to the African American community and their role in making the new museum a reality.

Marriott International, Inc. logo. (PRNewsFoto/Marriott International, Inc.) (PRNewsFoto/)

The National Museum of African American History and Culture was established as the 19th Smithsonian museum by an Act of Congress through legislation signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003. Groundbreaking occurred in 2012. The museum occupies a prime location in Washington, D.C., on the National Mall at the corner of Constitution Avenue at 14th Street, across from the Washington Monument. Opening Sept. 24, the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum will be the nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American experience.

“The National Museum of African American History and Culture has been a long time in the making, and all of us at Marriott International are truly honored to be kicking off the weekend with the EncouragHERS luncheon,” said Erika Alexander, chief lodging services officer, the Americas at Marriott International. “EncouragHERS are the women who recognize when their communities need her support, when their protégés need encouragement, when their families need her strength or when friends just need an ear, act as an inspiration to us all, and that’s why Marriott is here to say thank you.”

The EncouragHERS luncheon will recognize the influence and brilliance of women who use their energy to uplift and empower women leaders from across all industries of business, entertainment, sports, politics and more. Each attendee has demonstrated support for the African American community or made impactful contributions to NMAAHC, which reflects Marriott International‘s 80+ year commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“I am looking forward to being a part of this incredible event with Marriott International and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, celebrating the contributions of strong African American women and kicking off such an important and historic weekend in Washington, D.C.,” said Oscar and Grammy winning artist Common. “As the son of a single mother, I am proud to honor the women who came before us, and to do my part to nurture future generations of strong African American women.”

The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture provides the opportunity for Marriott International to welcome guests traveling from throughout the United States and around the world to witness the historic opening of the Smithsonian’s newest cultural institution. Marriott International looks forward to hosting Washington, D.C. visitors for years to come, as the museum continues to be a sought-after destination. Visit www.marriott-nmaahc.com and follow the Marriott International Twitter and Instagram handles (@MarriottIntl) for additional information about EncouragHERS and Marriott International‘s support for the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Marriott International Creates Two Epic Super Bowl 50 Fan Experiences

In anticipation of SUPER BOWL 50 in February 2016, one of the biggest events in the history of the NFL, Marriott International is changing the game for lucky fans with an epic season long SUPER BOWL 50 CAMPAIGN. Courtyard by Marriott, the Official Hotel of the NFL for the past four years, is adding to its tradition of unique NFL experiences by hosting the world’s first SUPER BOWL “SUITE STADIUM CONTEST” SLEEPOVER in Levi’s Stadium.

Marriott Rewards, the company’s award-winning loyalty program, launches its “50 TO 50” CAMPAIGN that includes a sweepstakes which gives members in three countries a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take a group of 50 of their friends and family to attend the game and enjoy an exclusive VIP Super Bowl 50 weekend in the San Francisco Bay area.

Marriott Rewards is making it possible for the winner to take a group of 50 friends and family to SUPER BOWL 50 in the San Francisco Bay area with its 50 TO 50 SWEEPSTAKES on Facebook (www.Marriott50to50.com).  The trip includes flights, hotel, tickets to the game and an unforgettable VIP weekend experience at the biggest game of the year. Members can enter today for a chance to win through November 30, and non-members will be able to sign up instantly for Marriott Rewards which is free to join.  Visit the Marriott Rewards Facebook page for info and follow the conversation with #50to50. The sweeps is available to residents of the United States, Canada (excluding Quebec) and the United Kingdom

As a part of Marriott International’s worldwide sponsorship with the NFL, Marriott Rewards will participate in the League’s International Series “NFL On Regent Street” Fan Fest Event on October 24 in London, providing an interactive Football Challenge, surprise visits from special VIP guests and chances to enter the 50 to 50 sweepstakes. To extend the exclusive experience, a few lucky Marriott Rewards members will also be invited to watch the Jacksonville Jaguars and Buffalo Bills square off at Wembley Stadium from a private suite on October 25.

“The NFL is the powerhouse of professional sports, and our long-standing sponsorship gives us an opportunity to tap into a passionate group of travelers, bringing the breadth and depth of our brand offerings to fans,” said Karin Timpone, Global Marketing Officer, Marriott International. “Similar to our relationships with global leaders in the music and entertainment industry, our NFL sponsorship represents the company’s ongoing effort to bring exclusive and memorable experiences for our guests and the 52 million members of our Marriott Rewards program.”

“Marriott provides unique and interactive experiences that have resonated with football fans across the country,” said Renie Anderson, Senior Vice President Of Sponsorship, NFL. “We are pleased to work with Marriott to reach our fans in authentic and innovative ways, especially leading up to Super Bowl 50.”

Courtyard by Marriott offers the SUPER BOWL “SUITE STADIUM CONTEST” an unforgettable overnight stay at Levi’s Stadium the night before Super Bowl 50 in a suite transformed into a Courtyard guest room. Following the slumber party of the century, the winner and three guests will continue to party as they cheer during the epic Super Bowl 50 game. The contest is now open and the winner will be determined through a series of social media challenges before closing in November. The prize also includes flights and tickets to the game. Visit Courtyard.com or follow the conversation with #SuiteSB50Contest.

Courtyard will also build momentum with a season-long “JOURNEY TO SUPER BOWL 50” ROAD TRIP that travels through NFL markets across the country before reaching its big, final stop in San Francisco. Each stop brings a fun-filled fan fest complete with NFL-themed games, NFL legend appearances, samples from the brand’s Bistro and special connections to brand contests and Marriott Rewards gifts. Fans can track the journey with #CourtyardNFL or Courtyard.com/NFL.

Courtyard has also launched its newest NFL television campaign starring NFL anchor Rich Eisen. In the spots, the brand invites Eisen to test their latest NFL-themed hotel innovations that go to humorous, overzealous extremes to please their guests. The spots will air throughout the season and can be viewed at the Courtyard YouTube page.

Travel and Hospitality: The Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, California Joins Marriott International’s Autograph Collection Hotels™ Global Portfolio

The Hotel Joins The Growing List Of More Than 85 Passionately Independent Hotels Worldwide.

The Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, California, which was recently acquired by Platinum Equity, is the latest addition to the Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s exclusive portfolio of properties recognized for celebrating individuality. The Citizen is truly a unique establishment, located within walking distance to the most powerful building in California and offering modern amenities with historic old-world charm.

Located less than half a mile from the California State Capitol Building, The Citizen occupies the historic California Life Insurance Building, California’s first sky-scraper, built in 1925. Guests of the hotel will be treated to a truly one-of-a-kind experience, as no two rooms are exactly alike and each offers a different view of downtown Sacramento. On the historic thirteenth floor, for example, gorgeous tile mosaics adorn each bathroom.

The Citizen seamlessly marries the historic with the modern, offering amenities such as iPod sound systems and LCD high-definition televisions in each room. Boasting 9,000 square

The Citizen Hotel logo

feet of meeting space, including a beautiful 3,000 square foot tented roof deck with city views, the hotel is the perfect destination for any meeting, wedding or special event.

The Grange Restaurant and Bar, located on the grounds, incorporates farm fresh ingredients from the local farms of Central California into delicious seasonal menus. The Grange is also terrific choice for intimate gatherings, offering a private dining room for up to twenty guests. To learn more about the hotel or to book your next stay in Sacramento online, please visit TheCitizenHotel.com.

“Our goal is to give guests of the Citizen an upscale luxury experience with a location convenient to all that downtown Sacramento has to offer,” said Michael George, President and CEO of Crescent Hotels & Resorts. “The partnership with Autograph Collection has positioned us to present this superb and unique property to business and leisure travelers alike.”

The Autograph Collection Hotels celebrates a collection of independent leaders in film, art, design and literature by curating one-of-a-kind travel experiences at 89 luxury lifestyle hotels found in the world’s most desirable destinations. Exactly like nothing else, each hotel has been hand selected for its distinction as an iconic landmark, for its remarkable design or for its best-in-class resort amenities.

Crescent Hotels & Resorts is a nationally recognized, top-5 operator of hotels and resorts. Crescent currently operates over 100 hotels and resorts in 36 states in the US and 4 provinces in Canada. Crescent is one of the few elite management companies approved to operate upper-upscale and luxury hotels under the brand families of Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Hyatt and IHG. Crescent also operates a collection of legendary independent hotels and resorts. Crescent’s clients are made up of hotel REITs, private equity firms and major developers.

Marriott International, Inc. is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 4,300 properties in 81 countries and territories. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands. Marriott Rewards is Marriott International’s award-winning loyalty program spanning 16 brands and 4,000 properties worldwide. Marriott Rewards is free to join and has no blackout dates, and members can earn and redeem points at Marriott properties around the world and at Marriott Rewards exclusive luxury partner The Ritz-Carlton®. Members can also redeem points for frequent flyer miles, cruises, car rentals, merchandise and more. To enroll and for more information about Marriott Rewards, guests can visit MarriottRewards.com.

Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with more than $6 billion of assets under management and approximately 30 operating companies that serve customers around the world. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy it calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation and logistics, equipment rental, metals services, media and entertainment, technology, telecommunications and other industries. Over the past 20 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 150 acquisitions.

Marriott International Celebrates 2014 Gay Pride Month and Inclusion with Powerful LGBT Portraits by Noted Photographer Braden Summers

Whoever You Are, Wherever You Go

Marriott International today launches #LoveTravels, a multicultural campaign that conveys the company’s commitment to make everyone feel comfortable being who they are, everywhere they travel. To bring #LoveTravels to life, Marriott has partnered with photographer Braden Summers to share exclusive and powerful images celebrating inclusion as part of its new Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) social media and marketing campaign. Summers’ unique ability to capture warmth and emotion perfectly communicates the company’s welcoming approach to hospitality.

Classically trained in drawing and painting, photographer Summers uses his fine art sensibilities to compose photographs with elements and scenes that visually tell a story. Throughout the process he strives to inject inspiration into his narrative style. Whether shooting celebrities for the Tony Awards, or a lifestyle series of modern couples for the MoMA, his work remains instantly recognizable with his unique styled treatments.

Marriott International Celebrates Inclusion with Powerful LGBT Portraits by Noted Photographer Braden Summers.

Marriott International Celebrates Inclusion with Powerful LGBT Portraits by Noted Photographer Braden Summers.

#LoveTravels features visually stunning images that will be displayed as building wraps at five hotels in Washington, D.C., a series of print ads in LGBT media, an online portrait gallery and display ads in cities throughout the U.S. A key element of the campaign includes portraits of Jason Collins, professional basketball player; Geena Rocero, fashion model and social advocate; and Talisha Padgett-Matthews, a Marriott associate. More about their inspiring stories and other images from the campaign can be found at LoveTravels.Marriott.com, including behind-the-scenes video.

Autograph Collection Celebrates 50th Hotel Milestone − Raises The Bar On Sustainability With Inauguration Of Hotel Punta Islita In Costa Rica

All Images provided by www.hotelpuntaislita.com/

Luxury Retreat Joins Exclusive Portfolio of Independent Hotels

The Autograph Collection, Marriott International’s exclusive portfolio of independent hotels announced the addition of its 50^th location with the inauguration of Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica. (www.marriott.com) The milestone is a significant one for Autograph Collection, having reached 50 hotels in 13 countries in less than three years. In keeping with the inspiration of Autograph Collection to offer extraordinary travel experiences and Marriott International’s global commitment to sustainability, Hotel Punta Islita holds the highest certification rating in sustainable tourism from the Costa Rican Tourism Board, among numerous other ecological accolades, making it a leader in environmental hospitality in the region.

Representing the first hotel to join Autograph Collection in Central America, Hotel Punta Islita rests on 85 picturesque acres along the Nicoya Peninsula in the southwestern part of Guanacaste province. Recently named one of Travel & Leisure magazine’s Top 100 Hotels in 2013, the unique design of the hotel affords each of its 57 guest room stunning views of the Pacific coast line.

Owned and operated by Grupo Islita, the secluded sanctuary specializes in sustainable tourism and programs involving guests on items including reforestation, animal protection and water conservation, Support for local arts and education are signature elements of the Hotel Punta Islita experience, and the hotel’s Villafranca-Zurcher Foundation (Fundacion VZ) has championed ground breaking programs including the Islita Contemporary Art Museum and the Islita Creative Center. With a passionate dedication to help alleviate poverty and reverse environmental degradation in the region, local residents comprise more than 85% of the hotel’s staff, resulting in a deep and heartfelt connection to the local community.

Hotel Punta Islita Casa Spa

Hotel Punta Islita is one Costa Rica’s most awarded, off the beaten path destinations, catering to sophisticated travelers who value authenticity, uniqueness and connection to the local community. Amenities include a nine-hole executive golf course, two swimming pools, Spa, a secluded beach front with beach club, two restaurants, and small group meeting space. The hotel also has a private landing strip for small commuter aircraft, with commercial flights operating from San Jose on a regular schedule throughout the year.

The Metropolitan at The 9 To Bring A New Cosmopolitan Residential Lifestyle To Downtown Cleveland

COMPLEX WILL INCLUDE THE METROPOLITAN HOTEL, A NEW (MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL) AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION PROPERTY

A distinctive, new complex, called The 9, being constructed at the intersection of E. 9th and Euclid in downtown Cleveland will soon become an urban luxury destination that will redefine the way locals and travelers live, stay, work and play in the city. At its peak, the $250 million project will employ 1,000 construction workers. The hotel, residences and restaurants are all scheduled to open simultaneously in the fall of 2014.

When it opens in late 2014, the former AmeriTrust tower and historic Cleveland Trust Rotunda will be transformed into a modern-meets-historic luxury hotel called The Metropolitan at The 9, high-end urban residences, the Adega restaurant (featuring modern Mediterranean cuisine and downtown’s largest outdoor dining area), a theater (The Alex Theater) that features live entertainment and film screenings, 12,000 feet of meeting and event space, a Heinen’s grocery store and marketplace, plus  a host of other amenities.

Among those amenities will be Azure Sky, downtown’s largest rooftop bar and sun deck, an indoor dog park, plus a spa and fitness club. Residents will also be able to rent a bike or charge the batteries on their Tesla, visit The 9’s speakeasy or have a pastrami sandwich at the New York-style deli.

Rendering of The 9, new cosmopolitan complex being constructed in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. The space will occupy the former AmeriTrust tower and historic Cleveland Trust Rotunda. (PRNewsFoto/GEIS Companies)

Residents of The 9 can choose from 105 spacious luxury apartments, including one of 16 custom-designed Sky Suites with massive windows that provide panoramic views of downtown Cleveland. All residences will have access to The Metropolitan Hotel’s guest services, including housekeeping, 24-hour room service and valet parking.

Cleveland-based GEIS Companies has teamed up with Sandvick Architects of Cleveland (a consultant on the project that specializes in adapting historic structures) to bring new life to what has long an overlooked area of the city. The team plans to preserve and interlace iconic architectural features with modern technology and design concepts.

“The 9 will be like no other hotel or residence in the city – or the country for that matter,” said Greg Geis, CEO of GEIS Companies. “From the old bank vaults that we are turning into private dining areas and the magnificent Tiffany glass dome of the rotunda building, to the bellmen and intuitive technology that will recognize and anticipate our visitors’ needs, The 9 will be a marquee destination that rivals anything in the country – but also celebrates what’s great about Cleveland and its rich history.”

Marriott International Continues Global Growth of Autograph Collection with the Signing of The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo

THE PRINCE SAKURA TOWER BECOMES COLLECTION’S SECOND HOTEL IN ASIA.

Marriott International and Prince Hotels, Inc, of Japan announced that The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo became Japan’s first the Autograph Collection hotel – a portfolio of independent hotels, with the re-opening of the newly renovated property in September.

Sakura Ribbon Cutting (l to r) – Ryu Kosaka, A.N.D. Creative Director; Takashi Goto, Seibu Holdings Inc., President and Chief Executive Officer; Masanori Kobayaski, Prince Hotels, Inc., President; Simon Cooper, Marriott International president and managing director, Asia.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Tokyo, Simon Cooper, Marriott International’s president and managing director in Asia, said: “Today we celebrate the inauguration of The Prince Sakura Tower into Autograph Collection, marking the first Autograph property to open in Japan and only the second Collection hotel to open in Asia. The vision and inspiration behind Autograph Collection was to create an evolving ensemble of strikingly independent hotels and this hotel certainly meets those criteria with its wonderful new design and inspiring gardens.

“I want to personally thank everyone involved with creating this wonderful hotel for their passion and commitment to providing an exceptional hotel experience which is sure to add enormous value to Autograph Collection here and around the world. Tokyo is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world, and we could not be more proud to introduce Autograph Collection to this great city with the conversion of The Prince Sakura Tower – and the timing could not be better with this great city having just won the 2020 Olympic bid.”

Originally opened in 1998, the 288-room Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo has gone through an extensive refurbishment and renovation under the direction of interior designer Ryu Kosaka of Aoyama Nomura Design, whose work is highly acclaimed both in Japan and overseas. All of the hotel’s rooms, lobby area, restaurants, and other areas were designed to convey a modern sense of harmony, blending the spaces with the seasonal landscapes of hotel’s Japanese garden.

The hotel has at its heart the concept of ‘Japanese style hospitality at the center of the city’ and is centrally located just a 3-minute walk from Tokyo’s Shinagawa station. The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo also boasts a spacious Japanese garden of approximately 2 hectares (5 acres) where guests can enjoy the ever-changing natural beauty of the garden from season to season – and especially during the cherry blossom season as the hotel’s grounds are blessed with more than 200 cherry blossom trees which showcase the amazing sakura blossoms – reflected in the hotel’s name.

The Prince Sakura Tower Tower Tokyo guestroom

The Prince Sakura Tower with its newly enhanced facilities is expected to host an increased number of international travelers, and this will further be supported by in the future with government tourism promotion, the economic growth of countries in the region, and the implementation of a robust MICE strategy by Prince Hotels.

Seeking to Enhance their Guests’ Beauty and Body Care Regimen, Marriott Hotels Partners with THANN and Acca Kappa Green Mandarin Collection for New Amenities Launch

Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand of Marriott International and THANN, a natural Thai skincare line, recently announced a partnership to reinvigorate the guestroom beauty experience by rolling out a new amenities line in Marriott properties throughout the Americas and Asia. The partnership marks Marriott’s continued dedication to improving every touch-point that allows guests to “Travel Brilliantly” at their hotels. While THANN amenities are rolling out in Marriott hotels in the Americas, Latin America and parts of Asia, Acca Kappa, an Italian amenities line, will simultaneously roll out their Green Mandarin Collection in Marriott Hotels properties in Europe and the Middle East.

Propelled by growing consumer demand of its customers for undiscovered high-end products, Marriott Hotels selected THANN for its increasing global appeal, leading its expansion in the US market. Formulated through artful natural therapy and modern dermatological science, the THANN amenities are made from high quality raw materials and botanicals and presented in imaginative packaging.

Today’s world travelers are sophisticated and savvy – they expect touches of luxury that reflect their inspirational lifestyle

Acca Kappa Green Mandarin Collection

and sense of style and exploration. Marriott will offer guests such an aspirational and uplifting sensory experience through THANN’s Aromatic Wood Collection – a line that balances Nutmeg essential oil with the sweetness of Orange and Tangerine essential oils. THANN’s high-end amenities will be available in all Marriott Hotels properties throughout the US and Canada by the end of October 2013 and in Latin America and Asia by the end of 2013. In addition to being featured in Marriott Hotels’ guestroom bathrooms, the Aromatic Wood Collection will also be available for purchase on www.shopmarriott.com.

The THANN Aromatic Wood Collection consists of the following:

Aromatherapy Shampoo (8.45 fl. oz.) – $26.00

Aromatherapy Conditioner (8.45 fl. oz.) – $26.00

Body Lotion (11.15 fl. oz.) – $36.00

Aromatherapy Shower  Gel ( 11.15 fl. oz.) – $29.00

Rice Bran Oil Soap Bar (3.5 oz.) – TBD

Aromatherapy Hand Wash (8.45 fl. oz.) – $19.00

Marriott’s partnership with THANN adds to the brand’s effort to reimagine the future of travel on a global scale. Re-designed lobbies and public spaces known as Greatrooms are being rolled out for the next generation of travelers who seamlessly blend work and play in an increasingly mobile and global world. With the expansion of mobile check-in feature on the Marriott Mobile App, guests can now check-in to most Marriott Hotels properties in the United States and Canada using their smartphones. As the industry leader in hosting meetings, Marriott is introducing new concepts designed for the new mobile worker including Workspring at Marriott, Red Coat Direct and Workspace on Demand. Additionally, Marriott Hotels has recently unveiled its innovation lab, “The Underground,” located beneath the company’s headquarters in Bethesda, MD where work is underway on a revolutionary new guest room.

“Marriott Hotels is on a journey to reimagine the future of travel and THANN amenities will elevate the guest experience at our hotels,” said Matthew Carroll, vice president, Brand Management, Marriott Hotels. “Our research shows that customers rank bathroom amenities among the top five most important influences on their overall guest room experience. Partnering with THANN will also enable Marriott to meet another customer desire for the introduction of new amenities on a regular basis. As THANN’s products continue to become available in North America, we are excited to be among the first to offer the brand’s products to our guests.”

Marriott International’s Autograph Collection Expands Portfolio with Debut of New Travel Experiences This Fall

THE LEXINGTON NEW YORK CITY IS THE THIRD NEW YORK CITY HOTEL TO JOIN, ALONG WITH NEW OFFERINGS IN FLORIDA AND NORTH CAROLINA

The Autograph Collection, an exclusive portfolio of passionately independent hotels from Marriott International, continues to grow with the inauguration of four new distinct travel experiences this Fall in the United States and Europe. Nearing its 50th hotel milestone, the collection proudly introduces its third hotel in New York City, The Lexington New York City, the luxurious Siena Hotel in North Carolina and the boutique Castle Hotel in Florida. Most recently Autograph Collection made entrée into the United Kingdom with the induction of the majestic St. Ermin’s Hotel in London.

Exactly like nothing else, the Autograph Collection is an upscale portfolio of hand selected independent hotels each offering its own unique identity. Autograph Collection hotels fall within diverse categories of travel experience including Urban Excitement, Indulgent Escape, Culinary Delight, Artistic Getaway, Historic Exploration and more and each hotel is thoughtfully chosen based on quality, character and individuality.

Detailed information on the below additions and their signature experiences is showcased in its own unique way on Autograph Collection’s award winning web site, www.autographhotels.com.

The Lexington, New York, NY

After a multi-million dollar renovation aimed to restore the property’s former jazz age glamour, The Lexington New York City features 725 stylish guest rooms and suites designed to cater to the luxury business and leisure traveler. An icon of the jazz era, the hotel presents a new design style that blends the property’s legacy with a modern expression of classic New York.

The Lexington New York City

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s midtown district, The Lexington New York City originally opened in 1929 at the height of New York’s hotel boom and has played host to some of the country’s most notable personalities and exclusive groups; the hotel was also home to American icons Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe, who lived in a suite on the 18th floor – currently being relaunched as the Centerfield Suite.

The newly renovated Lexington New York City welcomes guests through an elegantly draped entrance and into a grand two-story lobby. The reception desk, crafted in bronze and black lacquer, guards a pronounced feature wall that hosts a three-dimensional sculpture by Alba Clemente, a stand-out piece in The Lexington New York City’s art collection commissioned by industry insider and former confidante of Andy Warhol, Paige Powell. The Mixing Room, the hotel’s new jazz-inspired bar and lounge concept radiates from the main lobby, along with a library area that presents a place for gathering.