SCOOP

Around Town – November 2011

2011-12-01T17:20:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s another collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.
Keep in mind as you move into the Christmas/Hanukah season that hotel stays and restaurant certificates make wonderful gifts for friends and family. Think hospitality!

Southeast Florida:

The Yachts of Seabourn have brought their newest vessel to Port Everglades for its U.S. debut. The Seabourn Quest began sailing in June in the Mediterranean, then crossed the Atlantic and arrived in Fort Lauderdale in November. It will operate a series of 13- and 14-day roundtrip Caribbean cruises. Like its sister ships, the Quest houses an 11,400-square foot spa -- the largest spa on any luxury vessel. The Quest features four dining venues, six bars and lounges, two swimming pools, six whirlpools, and a marina with a variety of water sport activities.

Kolter Commercial has purchased the Hyatt Place Ft. Lauderdale Airport North located near Port Everglades Cruise Terminal, the Broward County Convention Center and the International Airport. The hotel has been renamed the Hyatt Place Ft. Lauderdale 17th Street Convention Center.

Congrats to The Pillars Hotel, a Superior Small Lodging, for being voted one of the 50 best small hotels (#14 to be exact) in the US for 2011 by readers of the Conde’ Nast Traveler magazine.

The growth in hotel occupancy for Greater Fort Lauderdale continues (for the past 23 months), with the highest October hotel occupancy since 2004, outpacing Florida and the U.S. Second highest occupancy in the state at 66.8%.Year-to-date hotel occupancy is up 5.4% over 2010. Average Daily Rate has grown in past 8 months, with October ADR at $102.93, the highest October rate since 2008. Year-to-date, ADR is up 1.3% over 2010.

The Fort Lauderdale-International Airport welcomed more than 23 million visitors in FY2011, up 6.8% over FY2010. Domestic traffic was up 6% and international traffic saw double digit growth, up 11% over FY2010. The combination of larger aircraft and higher load factors were the drivers behind passenger growth for the year.

Congrats to the Breakers in Palm Beach for it’s inclusion in Fodor’s “Legendary Hotels with Superlative History and Service” list. It was one of the world’s 12 most “iconic” hotels that took into account not only rich history but also its recent performance – superlative service, timeless style, and pampering amenities.

Congrats to Dana Beth Hagendorf who was appointed CMO and Vice President of Marketing at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Most recently, Hagendorf was Founder and Principal of Gallant Media Group, a brand consulting firm.

Spanish hotel chain Room Mate Hotels, which already has 14 properties in its portfolio, now includes new Miami boutique hotel the Waldorf. On Ocean Drive in the renovated Waldorf Towers, the South Florida property opened September 16 and is the chain's second in the U.S., per BizBash reports.

The Shelborne South Beach, a 70-year-old Art Deco property was recently re-imagined to the tune of $20 million and reopened. Some of the new features: a Morris Lapidus-inspired floating porte cochere (the robotic garage will take it from there); 200 beachy-pink guest rooms; and the glass-railed catwalk from the infinity pool to a new elevated sundeck.

The Tides, which opened in 1936—and, at 10 stories, was once Miami's tallest building—underwent a makeover as recently as 2007. King & Grove, the boutique hotel group is the new management company for the hotel. It will introduce its trademark blend of luxury and casual-kitsch while building on The Tides' nostalgic vibe. Changes to guest rooms, cuisine, and public spaces—including the pool area—are all in the works.

Kimpton's has a new property debuting next month. Spanning 200 feet of oceanfront real estate in the heart of the Art Deco District, the Surfcomber Miami, opening on December 1, has rates that start as low as $149 a night. For the atmosphere and extras at the 186-room hotel—including rooms outfitted with ultra-luxe Frette linens—sounds Kimpton has two other Florida hotels, the EPIC in Downtown Miami as well as the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa.

Congrats to Miami Beach’s Soho Beach House Miami for being included in the Top 9 Picks of Fodor’s “Year’s Best New and Reinvented Hotels” list. According to Fodor’s, the property “introduced 50 oversized rooms.. cleverly uniting mint-condition period furnishings to create a modern incarnation of old Hollywood glamour.”

Miami Beach's Ritz Plaza Hotel will reopen next spring as the 142-room SLS Hotel South Beach after the renovation of the 72-year-old beachfront property is completed.

Miami International Airport’s passenger count for October was up 6.8 percent, year-over-year, to 2.85 million passengers. Year-to-date figures were up 7.21 percent. Domestic passengers were up 4.07 percent in October, while international passengers were up 6.8 percent.

Southwest Florida:

The Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande and the Tortuga Beach Club Resort on Sanibel Island earned spots on the annual list of Top 150 Large U.S. Mainland Resorts compiled by Condé Nast Traveler magazine from its Readers’ Choice Awards survey.

Ocean’s Reach Condominiums on Sanibel Island has declared January 2012 Birding Month with incentives for “empty nesters,” snowbirds, and other fly-ins to become involved with the local wildlife on-property and at J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Guests who make a donation to the refuge’s friends group receive a matching discount on their reservation (up to $400) on stays Jan. 1 through Jan. 31, 2012.

The November 2011 issue of Golf Digest, ranked the Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande #37 on its list of the 75 Best Golf Resorts in North America, and #2 within the state of Florida. The Gary Galyean’s Golf Letter also includes the inn on its 2011 list of the 10 Best Golf Hotels in the World.
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To submit items for future blog columns, please send info to jwfranklin1@gmail.com Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Around Town – October/November 2011

2011-11-14T17:20:00.006-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s another collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:
Best wishes to Valerie Burgess, former Business Development Manager at The Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale. She recently transferred (in August) to the Embassy Suites in Piscataway, NJ where she is the Corporate Sales Manager. Stop by to say hello if you’re ever up in the northeast.

Ronnie Shoua, the former GM for the Holiday Park Hotel in Deerfield Beach, now has a new company to help hotels "fight" against bed-bugs. The company is using advanced technology with a machine that disperses Cryonite in order to freeze and kill bed bugs. (Cryonite is carbon dioxide snow. It’s the same substance as dry ice, sitting at a very cold temperature of about -108 degrees Fahrenheit). You may contact Ronnie at (954) 918-9573 or check out his website: http://www.bedbugspc.com/

Sandra Edwards, the former Director of Sales of Jungle Island, has left the company. We wish her well and know she will find a new “home” in the very near future.

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau reports that September monthly figures showed 22 consecutive months of tourism growth for Broward County. Occupancy rates were 57.7% in September 2011 vs. 53.8% in that month in 2010.

The GFLCVB was in Toronto for their Santa Claus Parade, to launch “Defrost Your Swimsuit” campaign. In addition to the Toronto newspaper, radio and TV advertising and public relations efforts, three beach getaways were offered in an online contest with the Toronto Star. The CVB will also be in NYC and London this winter with the "Defrost Your Swimsuit" campaign.

The Wine Spectator's 2011Award of Excellence was presented to 3030 Ocean Restaurant at the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa for their fine selection of wines. 3030 Ocean joins the list of elite eating establishments whose wine lists offer interesting selections and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Int’l Airport announced that American Airlines will begin service to Los Angeles in November and additional Chicago and Dallas service in February; Vision will begin service to Freeport in November; and Southwest will begin service to Milwaukee and Manchester (MA) in February.

The following South Florida hotels/resorts were mentioned in the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards. Nine South Florida resorts ranked in the “Top 50 Mainland U.S. Resorts”: #18 The Breakers (Palm Beach); #44 Brazilian Court (Palm Beach); #44: Ritz-Carlton Ritz-Carlton (Palm Beach); #83 W South Beach Hotel & Residences; #85 ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa; #88: Omphoy Ocean Resort (Palm Beach); #97 Biltmore Hotel (Coral Gables); #102 Ritz-Carlton-Key Biscayne; #121: Ritz-Carlton-Fort Lauderdale;

Seven South Florida hotels were listed in the “Top 200 U.S. Hotels” list: #32: The Setai (Miami Beach); #50: Epic Hotel Miami); #75: Mandarin Oriental-Miami; #106: Four Seasons-Miami; #161: W Fort Lauderdale ; #165: Ritz-Carlton, Miami Beach; and the Seagate Hotel & Spa (Delray Beach).

For the Top 50 Small U.S. Hotels, South Florida had three mentions in the “Top 50 Small US Hotels” category: at #14: Pillars Hotel, Fort Lauderdale; #15: The Tides, Miami Beach; and #23: Sundy House, Delray Beach.

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants will reopen the Surfcomber in Miami Beach on Dec. 1 after a multimillion-dollar renovation of the 63-year-old art deco hotel.

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort will open on Jan. 19, in affluent Bal Harbour, Fla.

Hersha Hospitality is buying the Courtyard Miami Beach Oceanfront. The 263-room Art Deco hotel is at 3925 Collins Avenue and originally opened as the Cadillac. In 2004, following a renovation, it reopened as the only Marriott-franchised hotel on Miami Beach. The property has approval for adding 93 rooms in a new tower. The company also plans on expanding meeting space and parking. Construction on the additions should start in 2012.

Southwest Florida:

The Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande and the Tortuga Beach Club Resort on Sanibel Island earned spots on the annual list of “Top 150 Large U.S. Mainland Resorts” compiled by Condé Nast Traveler magazine from its Readers’ Choice Awards survey.

The November 2011 issue of Golf Digest, ranked the Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande #37 on its list of the “75 Best Golf Resorts in North America”, and #2 within the state of Florida.

The Lee County Port Authority has been honored with three recent awards at both the state and international levels. First, the Florida Public Relations Association presented the port authority with an Award of Distinction in the 2011 Golden Image Awards, for statewide recognition of its internal United Way campaign. Second, the Florida Airports Council honored the port authority with the General Aviation Airport Environmental Excellence Award for Page Field’s Pollution Prevention Program and its commitment to voluntary prevention measures during the last seven years. Lastly, RSW was honored with an award from Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) in the 2011 Excellence in Marketing and Communications Contest for its “Fly Me to the Moon” art exhibit brochure.

The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) announced that the fiscal year completed in September (October 2010 – September 2011) represents the highest bed tax collection on record with revenue of $24.2 million.

During the month of September 2011, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel hosted 252,000 visitors, who spent $95 million. Visitors staying in paid accommodations contributed $68.2 million to the total – a 1.8 percent increase year-over-year. Total visitor expenditures for calendar year-to-year continued to show improvement over last year with a 12.7 percent gain. Average occupancy rate rose 4.7 percent year-over-year for September. RevPAR was up 2.0 percent from September 2010 to September 2011.

During September 2011, 351,881 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), a decrease of 6.1 percent compared to September 2010. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 2.7 percent from the same period last year
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To submit items for future blog columns, please send info to jwfranklin1@gmail.com Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – October/November 2011

2011-11-07T15:19:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are some recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Many hotel brands are redefining and redesigning their conference and/or lobby areas to meet the needs and expectations of a new breed of traveler looking for social spaces that serve multiple purposes, particularly networking and impromptu meetings. The Hotels are trying to modernize their public spaces to be extremely flexible, to encourage meeting and mingling.

Hotel companies are racing to create a better room key. The big selling point of the new keys is that they let travelers skip the front desk and go straight to their rooms. Some chains are adopting permanent keys that repeat guests can carry in their wallets and use for multiple trips at a variety of properties. Other establishments are doing away with physical keys altogether; instead, guests can open their room doors by holding their cell phone next to the lock. Hotels don't see much cost savings from the changes but expect the moves will help them stand out in customer service. So far, tests of new types of keys have been limited and it is unclear how widespread the new technologies will become.

Running on radio frequency identification technology, Smart Check-In caters to a new generation of guests on the go who are more interested in high-tech than high-touch service. This works on radio frequency id technology. Starwood Preferred Guests can use this in certain properties. On their check in day, they receive a text message to their mobile device with their room number. This allows them to skip the check-in lines and go straight to their room. Aloft Hotels, part of Starwood Hotels, was the first tech-savvy hotel group in the industry to try an automatic-check in program. They had such great success that they have expanded this service to others in their program.

Travelers are turning to personal devices instead of forking over fees for hotel-based services. Phone calls, movies, Internet access - hotels are learning that guests want to do anything but pay when it comes to in-room add-ons. The number of people bypassing hotel-based Wi-Fi has been tough to quantify. Even as more hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi — it's more prevalent at lower-cost hotels than high-priced ones — the proliferation of Web-enabled devices is a trend to watch.

High-end hoteliers' investments are shifting away from fancy freebies like lotion and soap and toward expert service that reflects a real understanding of the guest's preferences. The recession caused luxury hotels to look at what it offered in each room and decide what current items guests would not miss.

Hotels have used scent, art and food to set themselves apart. New on the horizon: To use indie musicians as a way to define itself. The musicians can be found on playlists created by hotel groups (like Morgans or W Hotels). The playlists are meant to match emerging independent bands with each of its hotels. On the playlist for the Delano in Miami, for example, they aimed for “sexy and sophisticated” music.

Online hotel guest experience surveys have been growing in popularity recently across the industry. It is sent to guests after they have stayed at a hotel, making it very easy for them to give their feedback direct to the hotelier. If there is something they would like to say, they are able to do so when it is convenient to them and after they have completed the hotel experience. This type of survey helps hotels evolve and anticipate changing guest needs.

Travelers rated hotels nearly 3% higher than last year in the American Customer Satisfaction Index, which measures travelers' satisfaction with products and services during the first quarter of each year. Low rates and more perks such as free Wi-Fi and upgraded exercise facilities have increased satisfaction. But the rates and perks haven't made guests more loyal as more people still shop around for the best deal rather than staying loyal to one brand.

Stayed at a rundown Holiday Inn, a lackluster Sheraton, or a '70s-era Hilton? The owners of several chains are revamping their classic properties to appeal to a new crop of business travelers—and hopefully ward off brand extinction. Surveys reveal that business travelers like hotels (and pretty much despise airlines). Their decisions usually come down to one word: choice. Airlines don't give you any, but hotel chains are all about choice. But all that "segmentation” has come at a high cost. The middle ground of the hotel business has turned murky. Some big hotel chains are struggling to redefine their once-iconic full-service lodging brands.

Banish any preconceived notions you may have about retired senior citizens as merely bargain hunters, says a new Amadeus analysis of the travel market. In 2011 and in the future, this burgeoning demographic will be a driving factor in the luxury tourism industry. Amadeus also identifies senior citizens as an “important source of future income” for travel agents including the lucrative luxury travel segments. Here are some other insights into this market segment: Today’s seniors—ranging from age 50 to 90-plus—are physically fitter, healthier, have more disposable income, and are increasingly interested in experience- and destination-based journeys; Agents should cultivate face-to-face business with retired seniors by becoming “lifestyle managers” who provide high-margin, tailored services. Agents who focus on “superior” customer service and listening to what their customers have to say are likely to be the ones who prosper in the future.

There had been a dramatic increase in women business travelers and addressing the needs of this market segment has become increasingly critical for hotel companies. According to a new Cornell study, Managers should focus on how combinations of services, amenities, and facilities contribute to the desired affective responses sought by the growing women business travelers segment. Women are developing a clear and consistent message about the need to feel safe, comfortable, empowered, and pampered.

One of the easiest ways that every small business can compete with their competition is by reaching out to and soliciting business from current and past customers. In most cases, a repeat business strategy can be implemented by the company directly without the need for outside consulting. It can be as simple as calling or emailing a past-customer. This method is also very inexpensive with very little overhead. It also allows you to directly engage a large group of extremely targeted buyers who have previously purchased your services.

According to data from PKF Hospitality Research demand for U.S. hotel rooms in 2011 will increase a solid 4.9 percent, while the average daily room rate (ADR) paid by guests will rise a modest 2.4 percent.

HSMAI-SOUTH FLORIDA CHAPTER’S 28TH ANNUAL GALA – 2011 -- PART 2

2011-10-26T13:36:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s some additional info regarding the Annual Gala. Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

As previously mentioned, Mike Hampton, Dean of the School of Hospitality & Tourism Management , FIU, received the 2011 Hospitality Legend of the Year” Award.
Other awards included:
General Manager of the Year: Heiko Dobrikow, Riverside Hotel;
Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year: Mari Garcia, Hilton Worldwide;
Revenue Manager of the Year: Denease Butt, Riverside Hotel;
HSMAI South Florida Rising Star on the Board: Alicia McCrae, SpringHill Suites Boca Raton; and the HSMAI South Florida Lifetime Achievement on the Board: Stacie Faulds, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

A new award, this year, the President’s Award, was given to Silvia Camarota, Senior Market Manager, Expedia – Miami.

We’d like to thank this year’s Event Sponsors:
Expedia
Hyatt Pier 66
Florida Atlantic University
MDG Advertising
Antares Wine

And a special “thank you” to the Chapter’s “Year-Round” Sponsors who were also honored at the event. These include:
Canmark Printing Solutions
FotoArkitekt
PSAV

Congratulations, Thanks for your support, and Best wishes to all!

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.
Reminder: To send info for the “Around Town” column, please forward to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Please use same the contact info if you are interested in participating in the “An Interview with..." column.

A Conversation With….Carlos Molinet

2011-10-25T18:49:00.001-04:00

(This is a new occasional feature of our Chapter’s blog, spotlighting key members of our hospitality industry. If you are interested in participating, please contact Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider, at jwfranklin1@gmail.com)

Name: Carlos M. Molinet, CHA
Title: General Manager
Company: Hilton Worldwide – based at Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina

HSMAInsider: How Long Have You Been at Your Current Job at This Location?
Carlos: 5 years and 2 months

HSMAInsider: Where Were You Before?
Carlos: Area GM for Hyatt Pier 66 and Bahia Mar

HSMAInsider: How Did you Get Started in the Industry?
Carlos: I started as a Front Office Cashier in NYC

HSMAInsider: What is your Favorite Thing about your job?
Carlos: The ability to mentor and develop the future leaders of our industry as well as the interaction with our guests and creating memories for their stays.

HSMAInsider: What advice, if any, would you have for someone starting out in the Hospitality Industry?
Carlos: Engage your guests daily and always look for opportunities to seek out mentors to help guide your career. Additionally, involve yourself with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, as this will help you network and build your base of contacts for future success. Finally, I would say live up to a mantra of some kind, mine is from Conrad Hilton “To fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality”

HSMAInsider: When guests/friends visit and ask you what not to miss in South Florida, you tell them not to miss:
Carlos: The Water Taxi, The beach, The Everglades, Sawgrass Mills, and a show at either the Broward Center for the Performing Arts or in Miami at the Arsht Center.

HSMAInsider: Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
Carlos: The hospitality business is richly rewarding especially if you adopt the servant leadership model and truly serve your hotel and community. My philosophy of life is based on the Success Poem – “To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or redeemed social condition: To know that one life has breathed easier because you have lived – this is to have succeeded” - Additionally, you have the key to unlock your possibilities in life and choose to do anything that you want with this.

HSMAI-SOUTH FLORIDA CHAPTER RECOGNIZES MIKE HAMPTON AT 28TH ANNUAL GALA

2011-10-25T16:09:00.001-04:00

In a 28-year tradition, the South Florida chapter of the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) welcomed South Florida tourism industry members for its annual Gala and auction, this year benefiting hospitality student scholarships.

A highlight of the event, held at Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six, was the presentation of the
2011 “Hospitality Legend of the Year” Award to Mike Hampton, Dean of the School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University.

Dr. Hampton was appointed Dean at FIU in January 2011. He previously was the Dean of the College of Hospitality Management for Lynn University from 2005 to 2011. With over 20 years of direct experience in the hospitality industry, he has served as a professional speaker, trainer and educator. He founded HSA International, a global training and education management organization specializing in the hospitality industry in 1986. Through his experience and educational pursuits he has become recognized as an expert in human resources development, strategic planning and sales development.

Dr. Hampton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Florida State University; a Master of Science degree in hospitality management, and an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) degree in adult education and human resources development from Florida International University. He has also received the designation of Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) as granted by the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Dr. Hampton has been active in industry associations, including the American Resort Development Association; the American Society for Training and Development; the Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers, where he has served as president and a member of the association’s Board of Directors; the American Hotel & Lodging Association; the Hotel Electronic Distribution Network Association; and the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). He has also been involved in the Institute of Food Technologists and the American Statistical Association.

The Chapter’s “Hospitality Legend of the Year” Award is given for outstanding contributions to the local tourism/hospitality industry.

Other awards presented:

General Manager of the Year: Heiko Dobrikow, Riverside Hotel

Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year: Mari Garcia, Hilton Worldwide

Revenue Manager of the Year: Denease Butt, Riverside Hotel

HSMAI South Florida Rising Star on the Board: Alicia McCrae, SpringHill Suites Boca Raton

HSMAI South Florida Lifetime Achievement on the Board: Stacie Faulds, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Congratulations and Best wishes to all!

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.
Reminder: To send info for the “Around Town” column, please forward to jwfranklin1@gmail.com

Around Town – September/October 2011

2011-10-17T16:02:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s another collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congrats to Melody Dixon, CHSP, on her new position as Group Sales Manager at the Comfort Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport Cruise Port on Stirling Road in Hollywood. Best wishes!

Congrats to Rod Kukurudz, the new Vice President of Event Sales, at ME Productions.
Prior to immigrating to the US, Rod was co-owner for 18 years of a marketing and event agency in France, creating and producing events with up to a half-million spectators.

Bahia Mar Beach Resort & Yachting Center, which recently gained approval for a Waldorf Astoria hotel, is in the middle of a multimillion-dollar upgrade of the existing landmark hotel building. The renovated hotel will be gaining the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel brand. In addition to the rooms, the resort’s 8,200 square-foot Commodore Ballroom will also be updated, including lighting, sound and internet connectivity.

The Atlantic Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale soon will be home to a new French bistro. Executive Chef Steve Zobel is opening East End Brasserie in the former Trina space on Oct. 27. The restaurant is being designed to reflect an authentic Parisian bistro.

Greater “Fork” Lauderdale celebrates its fifth consecutive year of Dine Out Lauderdale, a six-week culinary event promoting the area’s gourmet restaurants and renowned chefs. From October 1 through November 10, three-course meals are available at a $35 prix fixe at more than 35+ restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale-based IBC Travel has launched scheduled air service between West Palm Beach and Marsh Harbour, Bahamas. The flights are scheduled to operate year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays with roundtrip fares from $359, including taxes and fees.

JetBlue Airways announced new nonstop service between West Palm Beach and Hartford, Connecticut. Beginning January 12, travelers can fly direct between West Palm Beach International Airport and Bradley International Airport in Hartford. JetBlue will offer a 2:30 p.m. flight from West Palm Beach that arrives in Hartford at 5:15 p.m., and a flight departing Hartford at 6 p.m. and arriving in West Palm Beach at 9:10 p.m.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Brickell Downtown opened in late September with more than 3,800 square feet of meeting space, comprised of five rooms, each of which is named after types of birds. When combined, the meeting space can accommodate 300 people in their joint space of 2,300 square feet. All rooms feature audiovisual equipment and complimentary Internet access.

Starwood’s eco-friendly Element brand opens at the Miami International Airport in December. Traveler-friendly amenities at Element Miami International Airport will include a 24-hour grab-and-go gourmet pantry, a laundry room, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms have work spaces and kitchens. There will also be a palm-lined pool outside.

The recently renovated Shelborne South Beach now has the Starlight Ballroom and three other event areas that offer flexible meeting space accommodations. Designed by ADD Inc., the 3,500-square-foot ballroom has an Art Deco theme and can hold 370 guests.

A multi-million dollar renovation is currently underway at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Miami Airport & Convention Center, which boasts more than 155,000 square feet of meeting space.

The Regent Seven Seas is moving from Port Everglades to the Port of Miami in Fall 2012 to join its sister company, Oceania Cruises to berth at the Port’s newly renovated Cruise Terminal J. Both companies are owned by Prestige Cruise Holdings. The move to Miami was cited due to the popularity of Miami as a homeport for cruise passengers globally and the increased international airlift offered at MIA.

In November, Sun Air International Airlines will begin 18 weekly flights from MIA to five destinations in the Bahamas. In addition, Mexican low-cost carriers VivaAerobus and Interjet will also begin service in November. VivaAerobus will launch two weekly non-stop flights from Monterrey, Mexico every Monday and Friday. Interjet will offer daily non-stop service from Mexico City.

Southwest Florida:

MLT Vacations awarded Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa and Outrigger Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach 2011 Quality Assurance Awards at a special ceremony in St. Paul, Minn. The Quality Assurance Award recognizes a very select group of hotels that achieve a 99 percent customer satisfaction score and 99 percent delivery of product performance.

The American Bus Association (ABA) announced that Edison & Ford Holiday Nights, Dec. 2-31, 2011, has been designated as one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2012 by an experienced expert tourism industry selection committee.

The Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) earned a “Henry Award,” the highest award for imaginative destination marketing, along with three Silver Awards, at the 44th Annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism Flagler Awards Competition.

During the month of August 2011, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel hosted 304,174 visitors, who spent about $157.4 million. Total visitation decreased 22.2 percent from August 2010, but calendar year-to-date 2011, paid accommodations visitation was almost 8 percent ahead of the same period last year. Total expenditures are up by 13.5 percent over the same period last year.

During August 2011, 420,105 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), a decrease of 5.5 percent compared to August 2010. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 3.3 percent from the same period last year.
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To submit items for future blog columns, please send info to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“12 Things to Do Before 2012” Per the GFLCVB

2011-10-13T17:46:00.002-04:00

Today’s 2012 Marketing Plan Presentation by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau was attended by a who’s who of the area’s hospitality industry movers and shakers. In addition to presentations on public relations, highlights on destination sales, and an overview of advertising plans, handouts were distributed of their various printed guides and marketing plans.

One of the featured items was a little card entitled, “12 Things to Do Before 2012”.
Here is a summary of the items listed:

1. Nominate – The 2011 Sunsational Service Courtesy Awards will be held on December 1st. There will be 12 winners recognized at that time. Attendees were urged to nominate someone on their “frontline” staff for going above and beyond. The forms are on their website at www.sunny.org/nominate

2. Get Sporty – This year’s Broward County Sports Hall of Fame will take place on Tuesday, November 8th at the annual banquet. Tickets can be ordered by contacting Saskia at sfisher@broward.org

3. Collaborate – Special offers and deals as well as pre/prost cruise offers are listed on their site. To be included, send your “deals” info to Justin at jflippen@broward.org

4. Get Social – The CVB wants everyone to “like” them on Facebook (VisitLauderdale).

5. Say Cheese – In addition to liking them, they are soliciting photos to be posted on their Facebook page, too. These can be of staff or of visitors. Pictures also will appear on their site at the SunnysideUp page.

6. Retweet Us – They’d like us to retweet their posts on Twitter. (Everyone is following the CVB already, right?)

7. Check In on Foursquare – Make sure your business is listed as a venue, leave tips, engage with your mobile customers, update your descriptions, and add your specials. Foursquare.com/VisitLauderdale

8. Co-op With Us and Split the Cost: There are opportunities for shared advertising. See sunny.org/coop for details.

9. 'Tis the Season – Get included in various media stories by sending your holiday specials (Halloween too) and events to Jessica at jtaylor@broward.org

10. Freshen Up – If you haven’t done so recently, make sure your sunny.org listing is current. These listings also appear on their mobile site and iVisitLauderdale app. For a how-to-do-this guide, see sunny.org/PartnerLogin
11. Share the Sun – They are seeking to get donations for 3-night stays and for meals that can be used in promotions on Radio, TV, and online. They need certificates good through December 2012 (with any restrictions/black out dates). Contact Kim at kcanter@broward.org

12. Go MOBI – Promote to your friends and guests the new sunny.org mobi site which appears on Android, iPhone, Blackberry, and iPad. (Put this on YOUR cell phone if you haven’t already done so…)

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.
Reminder: Please send info for our “Around Town” column to jwfranklin1@gmail.com

September 21, 2011, HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2011-09-21T17:16:00.000-04:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.
(By HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick, jwfranklin1@gmail.com)

What a nice turn out (over 70 people attended) for the Chapter’s luncheon meeting at the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruiseport Hotel in Dania Beach. Mr. Jean Elie, Senior Cruise Services Manager for Port Everglades, discussed the status of the Port and its cruise growth plans as well as its relationship with the hospitality industry.

Don’t you love meeting new people and learning about them and their companies?
I try to sit with a different group each month. How nice it was to meet Jared and his colleague from Luckey’s Management Group. We should be hearing soon from Luckey’s about some new hotel developments. Jared handles e-commerce for the company. Also at my table was Cindy Chifari with Worth International who told me about Worth’s current publications. In the “small world” department, I learned that she used to work with Cheryl Ricossa (now with Expedia), who I first met many years ago during my Grand Bahama Vacations/Princess Communications tenure, when she was with Hotel Travel Index. Seated next to Cindy were Matt Cooper and Liane Lowy from the New York Times Media group. Also got to meet and chat with Tom Mulroy, GM, of our host hotel and say hello, again, to Gerry McFarland, Director of Sales & Marketing (we worked together when I was at the Chamber and he was with the Renaissance SE 17th Street).

As always, there will be different things that people may remember from a presentation that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes:

Mr. Elie stated that, overall, 16 million passengers will take a cruise in 2011. This represents a 6.6% increase compared to 2010. Since 1980, there has been an average annual growth rate of passengers of approximately 7.4%.The average length of a cruise is nearly 7 days. Most cruise passengers have an average age of 50+ and more than $40,000 HHI. Cruisers are frequent vacationers and see cruising as part of the travel mix as well as for “special” trips.

Port Everglades is expecting to realize 3.9 million passengers for 2011 with 17 cruise vessels operating from the Port. The Greater Fort Lauderdale area is quite attractive for cruise passengers especially for pre-cruise packages. The Port serves as the number one entrée to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. To attract additional passengers, the Port has expanded their facilities to handle more and larger cruise liners. One result of the larger ships (like the Allure and the Oasis) has been to attract additional international tourists to our area. Some 5000 foreign visitors came, predominantly Brazilians, since the introduction of these new, larger ships. The Port will be continuing to do additional terminal renovations next year. There is more work to be done on post-cruise hotel packages, as well as area tours. (Note: The CVB is working on some new developments in this area to be unveiled at their October 13th meeting.)

Look for the PowerPoint slide presentation from today’s luncheon meeting to be posted on the chapter’s website: hsmaisouthflorida.org in the near future.
Thank you again, Jean for your informative presentation.

P.S. Just a reminder to send in your industry news/updates for the “Around Town” column for the HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s blog, “Scoop”, to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – September 2011

2011-09-19T17:25:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note:
Here are some recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Expect to see more chic, 100-room or less, boutique hotels over the next few years. Today they represent about 3 percent of all U.S. Hotels. It is estimated that this could grow to about 6 % of all U.S. hotels, (maybe even 10% in large urban markets), in 10 to 15 years. Why? To provide for those travelers looking for the different/offbeat who are reacting against “cookie cutter” sameness in large chains.

Corporate buyers are having a more challenging time this year getting high-end and luxury hotels to waive fees and surcharges. With pricing power returning to hotels, as business travel has increased, there is an expected record amount of revenue for fees/surcharges predicted for this year – most likely to exceed the $1.75 billion that hotels made in 2008.

In addition, with hotel occupancies up, business travelers are having more challenging times v.v. availability at their hotels of choice. Business travelers will need to be booking earlier to secure space at desired rates.

Some times simple is better. Don’t overlook the use of a hotel newsletter or blog to keep your property regularly visible to your customers/prospects. The more you communicate, the more you establish loyalty and an emotional bond. As soon as guests have booked, send them a thank you note with additional information. This could include local events, upgrade opportunities, or services you can provide for them (tours, dinner reservations, etc.). A simple thank you note after they have stayed with you allows you, again, to build rapport as well as allow for feedback.

For many years, it looked as though travel agents were going to be just a memory. But now, travel agents have rebounded. Customers who are confused and frustrated by new airline fees or overwhelmed by social media are seeking help/direction. Some don’t have the time to spend hours on research comparing flights, hotel packages, etc., so they are turning to professionals. An ASTA survey showed that 44 percent of agents said they had more clients in 2010 than in 2009 with the strongest rebound in rail and hotel reservations. Are you including travel agents in your sales plan?

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – August/September 2011

2011-09-07T16:17:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are some recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Several of the top hotel operators – brand like Marriott, Hilton, and Starwood Hotels are incrementally upping average daily rates. Rooms in the top 25 lodging markets were still under what they were in peak 2007. There is motivation to raise rates as leisure and business travelers have returned and there is a relatively fixed supply of hotel rooms. This may change as new construction ramps up again.

TripAdvisor surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. accommodation owners who revealed their plans to attract travelers and increase repeat customers. According to the 2011 survey, most hoteliers were planning renovations to the interior of their properties (61%), with exterior renovations planned by 42%. To attract guests, most hotels will offer discounts on rooms (61%), or special amenities, followed by reward points, deals on nearby attractions, or a free night’s stay with booking. Almost all (94%) have no plans to charge visitors any additional fees for amenities. In-room internet access, which is a key consumer demand, will be offered as a free amenity by 91% of those surveyed.

There is a debate in the market place over the value of “hip” hotel design. Consumers are, in some cases, negatively reacting to cutting-edge features like party lounge lobbies, extra-low slung seating, complicated control panels, and dim lighting. Travelers initially intrigued by the unique and cutting edge, can be turned off when reality shows them that their hotel choice may be too hip for their comfort.

Most properties have some sort of loyalty program or reward system in place to acknowledge frequent guests/users. Many brands offer a points-based loyalty system. Some companies want to offer more unique rewards to members of their programs. Interestingly enough, some of the luxury properties are offering items that are standard to the economy brands already: complimentary breakfast and comp internet access. In addition to the ability to earn free nights, early check in or late check out and room upgrades, some brands are trying to be more creative with their welcome gifts, special rates, concierge service, and by adding-in off property opportunities.

There’s a “battle” going on among hotels to outdo their competition; however, as soon as one hotel brand introduces something “new”, another one does something similar and the uniqueness is lost. Hotel guests like brand-name amenities. Some of the better hotels are now offering spa lines, without their own logos/imprints. Research shows that people have more trust in a product that they may be somewhat familiar with and that they regard them as having higher “status” or value.

Although not a current big producer for Florida, more properties are looking to tap into the burgeoning Asian market, especially the Chinese travelers. According to Carlson, there were around a half million visits to the United States (compared to their 3 million to Europe). Some estimates indicated that outbound Chinese traveler numbers could reach more than 100 million a year in the next decade. Starwood has launched a booking engine in Chinese and added marketing materials in Chinese and English. Other properties are adding Chinese menus and signage.

A Travelzoo survey found that 64% of people said hotel prices are more important than the destination when choosing holidays. The survey, which examined consumer behavior, found that most holiday planning was based on price and user reviews.

With the increased emphasis on online marketing, social media, mobile marketing, et al, it behooves hoteliers to not overlook the basics of voice selling. A recent article pointed out how many consumers research a property online, and then call the front desk with one specific question that they had trouble with or can’t find the answer to in their online viewing. Many front desk or customer service people didn’t know how to handle these calls; nor did they take the opportunity to convert the calls into bookings. Bottom line: Don’t overlook proper basic training and staff education. You might be losing easy sales.

HSMAI – Headquarters – Recap – August 2011

2011-08-31T14:52:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s some selected information previously sent by our Association headquarters that you may have missed... HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

The Adrian Awards – Celebrating its 55th year!

This competition has evolved into the worlds most renowned and prestigious advertising, public relations, and digital marketing event specifically tailored for the hospitality, travel, and tourism industries. The Awards honor creative brilliance and best practices in hospitality, travel, and tourism-related marketing.

Just a reminder that the early entry deadline is September 2 and the final deadline is September 16th. For more information on the Adrian Awards Competition, contact Desiree LaFont at (703) 506-3297 or email AdrianAwards@hsmai.org

In addition, HSMAI is also accepting nominations for the 2011 HSMAI Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales & Marketing.

Barry Brown Receives Award:

HSMAI named Barry Brown, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, the Del Coronado and La Costa Resort & Spa, the 2011 Resort Marketer of the Year. The award, presented by HSMAI and LivingSocial, was awarded to Brown for exemplifying the highest degree of excellence and commitment to the hospitality industry.

Affordable Meetings becomes MEET National:

This “new” meetings event takes place September 7-8, 2011 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington, DC. Meeting and event planners get to take advantage of the latest educational updates, increase their professionalism and their contacts, attend planner-supplier scheduled meetings, etc., all in a new format. Will you be there?

HSMAI Insights Newsletters - An exclusive benefit of membership in HSMAI

Have you seen these weekly newsletters? Each issue is chock full of useful details and tidbits. These are divided into several sections including: “Fueling Sales”; “Inspiring Marketing”; “Optimizing Revenue”; “Update”; Pictures; and “On The Move”. It includes news briefs from around the media, with access to in-depth articles, columns, reports and multimedia on eConnect (which is a one-stop portal to global information and resources on hospitality sales and marketing topics provided by the HSMAI Foundation).

HSMAI and VIZERGY: Best Practices

HSMAI has partnered with VIZERGY to provide a white paper on best practices for integrated marketing. The paper provides an in-depth look at why travel marketers should move away from a singular focus on campaigns toward a more integrated marketing approach. In addition it addresses best practices for Establishing cross-functional teams; Defining appropriate goals; Matching consumer-preferred channels to defined goals; and Focusing on the right success measures. The white paper can be found online by visiting http://www.hsmaieconnect.org/index.html

Around Town – August 2011

2011-08-30T17:17:00.003-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s another collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congratulations to Alice Land who started her new position with Marriott on August 8th. Alice was previously the Director of Sales & Marketing at the Mayfair Resort and a past Board member of our South Florida HSMAI chapter.

Congratulations to Anna Russo, Director of Sales & Marketing at the Ocean Sky Hotel & Resort (Fort Lauderdale) on attaining her CHSE designation!

The Bahia Beach Hotel at 3030 Harbor Drive in Fort Lauderdale has new owners. It was sold in July to a Miami company.

Greater Fort Lauderdale will host the 2011 Superior Small Lodging Annual Conference, at the Broward County Convention Center, Sept 27-28. Superior Small Lodging members from the around the state will gather to share ideas and plan for the year ahead.

The fourth annual Lauderdale Spa Chic runs from September 1-30. Enjoy spa treatments for $99 (up to 50% savings) and Spa Chic Stays, including spa treatments and overnight accommodations, starting at $239 at one of 14 participating spas (many at top hotels in Broward). For details and info on the CVB’s Spa Chic contest visit www.sunny.org/spachic.

According to Smith Travel Research reports, South Florida hotel occupancies and room rates rose in June. The region’s hotel occupancy climbed to 65.7 percent from 61.7 percent in June 2010. The average daily room rate rose 5.1 percent, to $108.67 from $103.41.

The number of passengers at South Florida airports rose in June. Total passengers at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport increased 8.6 percent, year-over-year. The number of domestic travelers rose to 1.6 million (vs. 1.47 million). International passengers also went up 8.6 percent (273,788 vs. 252,146).

In July, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport had its 23rd month of passenger growth in July 2011. Total passengers climbed 4.4 percent, year-over-year, to 2 million from July 2010’s 1.95 million. The number of international passengers rose to 339,332 from 335,031. And Domestic travelers increased 5.1 percent, to 1.7 million from 1.6 million.

Miami International Airport saw similar passenger increases, rising 7.7 percent, year-over-year (3.2 million vs. 2.98 million). Domestic travelers in June rose to 1.68 million (vs.1.57 million in June 2010). International passengers were up to 1.53 million (vs.1.4 million).

Miami Beach’s The Raleigh Hotel successfully hosted the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim event in July where more than 12,000 people attended the five-day 2012 swimwear preview. The event showcased 24 designers under tents around the hotel's pool. Speaking of The Raleigh, the 70 year old hotel will be renovated again (last time was in 2004). The hotel will remain open during its makeover/enhancement which should be completed by December.

The Fontainebleau Resort (Miami Beach) is offering a special Florida Resident promotion through September 30th, with rates from $249 including complimentary valet parking - Fourth night free - A Little Bleau Book at check-in - kids eat free for 3 meals a day. Some restrictions apply. Promotional rate is based on double occupancy in Standard room category for Sunday - Wednesday nights only. Blackout dates apply.

Sorry to hear that The Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau and the Beaches Turks & Caicos remain closed due to Hurricane Irene. The good news? The Sandals resort will reopen Sept. 28, and the Beaches property will reopen Oct. 6.

All three of the South Florida’s major airports made Cheapflights.com's list of 101 most affordable airports, which ranked airports by average airfare:
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport ranked fourth (the highest in Florida) with an average airfare of $328, followed by Palm Beach International Airport at No. 11 with an average airfare of $346. Miami International Airport ranked in the bottom tier, at No. 85 with an average airfare of $534. (No. 22 was Southwest Florida International Airport).

Southwest Florida:

Congrats to Jack Wert, Executive Director for the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB, on his appointment to the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors as a representative of the Southwest Florida tourism industry. He was also reappointed to the International Committee.

Congrats to U, PR & Communications Manager, Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB, who has been reappointed to the VISIT FLORIDA Communications Committee.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has received Meetings Focus South magazine's "Best of the South" award, which is given annually to the finest meeting properties in the South, as selected by the magazine's readers.

Marco Beach Ocean Resort has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, which honors top-rated lodging businesses, restaurants and attractions, as reviewed by travelers on the world's largest travel site.

The Naples Park Central Hotel, formerly the Sea Court Hotel, reopened with a complete interior and exterior remodel. The Park Central was taken over by new owners and management to give Naples a new and contemporary lodging property.

Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort has launched a “Give & Get”, a volun-tourism program to reward travelers who give back to the community. Guests who spend part of their vacation helping others will receive a 15 percent savings on their stay through Sept. 30. Volunteer opportunities range from renovating a butterfly garden with Friends of Rookery Bay, building homes with Habitat for Humanity or helping out at Marco Island's first local high school. If resort visitors post photos or videos of their experience on the resort's Facebook page, they receive a $25 resort credit for a return trip.

The fourth annual Islands FallFest from September through November 2011 combines annual events and festivals with special hotel rates and value-added deals for visitors to The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.

Research Data Services showed that visitor numbers for June 2011 increased nearly 10% over June 2010, according to the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB reports.

During June 2011, 473,332 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), a decrease of 0.7 percent compared to June 2010. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 5.4 percent from the same period last year.
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To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

July 20th, 2011 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2011-08-04T19:37:00.001-04:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.
(By HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick, jwfranklin1@gmail.com)

What a nice turn out for the Chapter’s dinner meeting at the Renaissance Boca Raton for a presentation on tourism trends and visitor data by Brittany Baldwin, Sales Executive, Caribbean & Southern US, STR (Smith Travel Research).

Don’t you love meeting new people and learning about them and their companies? I was especially pleased to join Dr. Peter Ricci, Director, Hospitality Management Program, Florida Atlantic University, and some of his friends at their table. Peter, by the way, has CHA, CHSE, and CRME certifications, is a very prolific writer of scholarly articles on lodging management topics and a member of “too many to name” groups and associations (including serving on the board of our Chapter). Mark Klayman, Director of Business Development, Vizergy provides internet marketing and e-commerce solutions with reservation systems, services, and special software to help clients drive more revenue. John Bailey, the General Manager of the Hilton Boca Raton (near 441) keeps busy with duties on property and serves on the Board of the Palm Beach County Hotel & Lodging Association. Compared notes with Josh Morrone, Member Care Manager, South Central Region for America’s Best Value Inn by Vantage, and Sanja Vukik, CHA, National Travel Sales Manager, Vantage Hospitality Group. Sanja, by the way, is a 2010 FAU graduate.

As always, there will be different things that people will remember from a presentation that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes.

Ms. Baldwin spoke about her company, STR, presented an overview of US travel data and then focused in on trends for Florida and for our southeast portion of Florida (from Palm Beach to Miami-Dade).

On a national basis, 2011 showed a total US occupancy of approximately 59.2%. These are year-to-date (YTD) figures through June, 2011. In general, their survey results are showing that there is the strongest hotel demand rebound ever. The supply side is slowing down and demand is up. The ADR (average daily rate) has been very erratic during each downturn period (since 1989) and currently the industry is struggling to get hotel rates back up to where they should be. STR is not sure how long this will take, however. Ms. Baldwin noted that it took six years to get rates back up just to equal rates of inflation after 911 (Nine eleven).

Florida currently has approximate 3600 hotel properties with some 411,537 rooms. June 2011 YTD showed an overall state occupancy rate of 67.5%. Last year was a pretty bad year for the industry, but so far one can see that travelers are returning to Florida and numbers are up.

Southeast Florida is showing a better than average demand than most other destinations in the US and demand is coming back strong. Occupancy is rebounding, but the room rate is lagging behind quite a bit. Hoteliers need to realize that they have “pricing power” and can start now to get better rates for their rooms. Interestingly, the weekday occupancy rates have outperformed the rates of the last 3 years. Although, in all time periods, the ADR is showing less dollars received, it’s still better compared to what it was in 2009 and 2010.

What about the rest of 2011? Nationally, STR is forecasting increases of 3.8% for occupancy and 4% for ADR. For 2012, occupancy should be up another 2% and ADR should be up 6%. In Southeast Florida, they’re projecting an increase of 5.8% for the balance of 2011; and an increase in 2012 of another percentage point (up 1%).

Ms. Baldwin suggested that hotels familiarize themselves with the “Bandwidth” Report. This report tells you how your property is doing in comparison to your competitors/other hotels. Another useful tool is a “Revenue Positioning Matrix” (RPM). Does your hotel price positioning strategy make sense? Can you provide more value and clearly make customers understand why you charge more? Studying these various matrices, can lead to a higher ADR index and a higher occupancy index. If you have meetings/conference space, another suggested report to check out is the Meeting Planner Survey which tells you what planners think about your destination.

I’m sure everyone brought at least one really good statistic or useful piece of information back with them to their companies after the program. Thank you, again, Brittany.

(Note: Ms. Baldwin also spoke at our HSMAI Chapter’s luncheon the next day at the Holiday Inn–Fort Myers Airport for our west coast members with targeted data relating to Lee and Collier counties.)

Mark your calendars:
On Wednesday, August 17th, the Chapter’s speed networking meeting will be held
at the Clevelander Hotel, Miami Beach. 6 pm including wine and hors d’oeuvres.

PS Just a reminder to send in your industry news/updates for the “Around Town” column for the HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s blog, “Scoop”, to jwfranklin1@gmail.co

Palm Beach County's 2011 Providencia Award

2011-07-28T17:12:00.001-04:00

The Providencia Award is Palm Beach County’s most important symbol of recognition for the local tourism industry that employs more than 50,000 people, and adds $2.8 billion annually to the local economy. The Public Relations Committee of the Palm Beach County Convention & Visitors Bureau bestows the Providencia Award annually to a local individual or an organization that has made an extraordinary and positive impact on local tourism.

Key Dates:
July 29, 2011 – Deadline for Providencia Award Nominations
August 10, 2011 – PR Committee Selects Three Final Candidates
September 2011 – Public Invited to Vote on Top Three Finalists
October 20, 2011 – Presentation of Providencia Awards and CVB Scholarship

Helpful Links:Providencia Award Application and Guidelines-->Providencia Award Application and Guidelines Providencia Award Press Release

Previous Providencia Award winners have included:
The Delray Beach International Tennis Championships, The Colony Palm Beach, The Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens of Delray Beach, The Breakers Palm Beach, Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Boca Raton Resort & Club, Norton Museum of Art, Burt Reynolds, Ritz-Carlton, Moroso Motor Sports, SunFest, Jack Nicklaus, Marathon of the Palm Beaches, Delta Airlines, Alex W. Dreyfoos, Jr., and the Palm Beach Kennel Club.

Around Town – July 2011- PART 2

2011-07-25T18:41:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s another collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Fort Lauderdale was the lowest tax burdened city in a recent study by the Global Business Travel Association. The study looked at 50 U.S. cities with the lowest and highest tourism taxes. Fort Myers was second and West Palm Beach was third. All are in both general sales tax and travel-related services such as car rental, hotel and meals. (Detroit #4; Portland, OR #4).The 5 highest-tax imposing cities on travelers were, in order, #1 Chicago, #2 New York City, #3 Seattle, Boston #4 and Kansas City, MO #5. This information is of extra special interest to all travel managers planning meetings and conferences.

Greater Fort Lauderdale has been marketing to the GLBT visitor for the last 15 years. Now that New York is allowing gay marriages, the GFLCVB is launching a new webpage featuring the area as a GLBT honeymoon destination. In addition, they are sponsoring a contest to win a gay honeymoon on Fort Lauderdale beach called the “Honeymoon with Pride”. Prizes include a five-night stay at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa, couples massage, candy, roses, and dinner for 2 or the “Preferred Pride” package at the Atlantic Resort & Spa with a couples massages, welcome cocktails. For more information and/or to enter to win, visit www.sunny.org/honemoonwithpride.

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts and Kolter Group LLC have broken ground on a new 134-room Hyatt Place hotel in downtown Delray Beach.

Florida Atlantic University will be offering a Hospitality Management Certificate Program. Dates are Saturdays April 14 thru May 12th, 2012 from 10 am to 4 pm, on their Boca Raton Campus, College of Business. The program will benefit participants from all segments of the industry who desire to move into a supervisory role, wish to move up within their organization, seeking formal training, are new to the industry, or have a formal education in another discipline. The 5-module program covers core components required for success as a hospitality professional. For more information, contact Sarah Gaffney at sgaffne3@fau.edu

Southwest Florida:

The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples announced the appointment of George Fistrovich to the position of executive chef. Chef Fistrovich will lead more than 100 culinary professionals in overseeing all food and beverage operations and culinary services for the 10 dining venues and group banquets at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples beach resort and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples.

Several members of the Collier County hospitality community have been accepted into the Leadership Collier Class of 2012. Congratulations to Jenny Foegen from the Naples Princess, Clark Hill from Hilton Naples, and Tom White from Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Naples.

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB’s ad agency, Paradise Advertising & Marketing, announces the hiring of Scott Johnson as their new Creative Director.

Starwood Hotels has presented Four Points by Sheraton in Punta Gorda Harborside with its most prestigious award, the “Starwood North America 2010 Four Points Hotel of the Year Award”. Stephen Svecak, GM, and John Zaccari, CEO of A2Z Hospitality Management, accept the award on behalf of their hotel. In addition, the property had earlier in the year won awards for the “Highest Ranking Guest Service Score” and “2010 Overall TripAdvisor Ranking” for the four Points by Sheraton Brand. Congratulations!!

Charlotte County area residents are participating in a series of discussions about the future of tourism in their County. Teams have been formed on various tourism-related topics. Recommendations will be presented to the Charlotte VCB in late August/early September.

Renovations to the Holiday Inn Downtown Historic District in Fort Myers will start soon as part of a plan to focus on business travelers and corporate conferences. The project will renovate guest rooms, expand the business center, add retail lobby space, and reinvent the onsite restaurant.

Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in south Fort Myers is offering an Island Drive special savings package that comes with $25 in free fuel, a free rental car, and a free bike rental on Sanibel Island or kayak rental at the hotel. Available through Oct. 31, 2011, the package features a 15 percent savings, with rates from $126 per night.

Several Lee County Hotels are currently offering girlfriend vacation packages. These include the Casa Ybel Resort on Sanibel Island; Gulf Breeze Cottages on Sanibel Island; the Hyatt Place Coconut Point in Bonita Springs; the Outrigger Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach; and the Sanibel Arms West on Sanibel Island

In its June 2011 issue, the Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s 2011 Spa Poll named the Gasparilla Inn Spa in Boca Grande as one of the Top 25 U.S. Hotel Spas. The spa operates now on its special summer schedule: Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during July and August.

TripAdvisor has presented the Tarpon Tale Inn on Sanibel Island and the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers each with a 2011 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, an honor given to properties that consistently receive excellent ratings from the travel website’s members.
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To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Around Town – July 2011

2011-07-18T10:18:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:
Congrats to Gail Spier who was recently appointed Ad Director at THINK Magazine and Lucky Fan. THINK Magazine is a regional lifestyle magazine direct mailed to 42,000 high end homes and found at local area businesses. Lucky Fan is a groupon like company featuring luxury amenities and services at value rates starting in August. Gail was formerly Account Manager at City & Shore. She currently serves as Advisor to the Board of HSMAI-South Florida and was also a past Chapter President.

Congrats to Tony LeFebvre recently appointed/promoted to Sr. VP and COO of Spirit Airlines. Best wishes on your new job!

Congrats to the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Bureau won five 2010 National Association of County Information Officers (NACIO) Awards, including: Best of Class for Mild to Wild GLBT mobile site, Superior for Vacation Playbook, Excellent for Super Bowl, Meritorious for Sunny in the City campaign in NYC and Learn to Dive Month.

The Village at Gulfstream Park is continuing to offer its Wine Walk Wednesdays during the month of July. They take place the first Wednesday of every month from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., rain or shine. For $10, you receive a commemorative wine glass and the chance to sample 5 wines and hors d’oeuvres at various shops throughout The Village. The participation fee benefits a different charity each month. More info: www.thevillageatgulfstreampark.com

Greater Fort Lauderdale’s new “Super Summer Savings” package promotion is in effect through September 30, 2011. Visitors can receive more than 30 options. When combined with summer hotel value rates and low-fare air service from over 50 U.S. destinations, summer in Greater Fort Lauderdale is “super” easy and “super” affordable. More info is available at the GFLCVB’s website: sunny.org

The Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport reports that: Air Canada has begun using an Airbus330 plane for flights between Fort Lauderdale and Toronto. This is the largest aircraft (265 seats) of any scheduled airline operating from FLL on a daily basis.

The average hotel occupancy in the Fort Lauderdale market rose to 68.4 percent from 63.8 percent in May 2010. The average daily rate climbed 3.7 percent, to $105.68 from $101.92 per Smith Travel Research reports.

The number of passengers at Fort Lauderdale International Airport rose in May. Total passengers climbed 4.6 percent, year-over-year, to 1.91 million. The number of domestic travelers rose to 1.65 million from 1.58 million. International passengers increased 8.2 percent, to 266,745 from 246,616.

Urgo Hotels, an operator, developer/owner of upscale hotels, has acquired two landmark Miami Beach properties in a joint venture with The Carlyle Group. The hotels are the 75-room Blue Moon Hotel and the 71-room Winterhaven Hotel. Both properties are scheduled to undergo significant renovations over the next 6 months including upgrades to public spaces and guest rooms.

Miami’s only marina-front hotel has just reopened after a two-year, $31 million renovation. The Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay has 20,000 square feet of event space.

Welcome to the recently opened Dream South Beach (a sister to outposts in New York, Bangkok and Cochin, India). Two low-rise Art Deco buildings along Collins Avenue have been “fused” into one 108-room boutique hotel.

The Related Group sold the Viceroy Miami Hotel. The 148 unit hotel was located in the Icon Brickell project and was known for its water lounge and 2-acre outdoor park on the 15th floor.

In May, compared to Broward and Palm Beach, Miami-Dade County had the largest year-over-year hotel occupancy gain: to 73.4 percent from 67.3 percent. Average daily rate climbed 8.4 percent, year-over-year, to $144.52 from $133.35 (according to Smith Travel Research).

Miami International Airport ranked first in the nation for international passengers boarded on U.S. airline carriers per March 2011 data. Enplaned international passengers at MIA rose 5 percent, year-over-year, in March, to 446,100 from 424,700, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics at the US Department of Transportation.

Ground was broken on the new Hyatt Place in downtown Delray Beach last week. This is the first new hotel project in Palm Beach County in 2 years.

For a limited time, stay 3 consecutive nights and get a fourth night free at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort. Offers end September 29, 2011.

Air Canada will add a seasonal daily flight from Toronto direct to Palm Beach International. These added 17,000 airline seats between December and April could bring up to $8 million in new spending to the Palm Beaches.

Good news! Hotel occupancy rates in Palm Beach County have been climbing for 17 consecutive months according the PBCVB.

Southwest Florida:

This summer, Florida Residents can stay at any of Sun Stream’s Hotels in Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Naples and receive 15% off the best available rate with no minimum night stay.

Residence Inn Fort Myers Sanibel Beach Hotel is offering a new promotion called “Shop Until You Drop”.
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To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – June 2011

2011-06-20T03:33:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Luxury hotels in major markets are copying tour operator methods to focus on travel not just as a destination, but as an entire experience. Since high-end customers aren’t as influenced by that free spa treatment or extra-night free stay promotion, upscale hoteliers are trying to find something special to add and not just on the hotel property. These items might be a dinner at a top local restaurant, theatre tickets, or a private tour. (Put your thinking caps on South Florida! I’m sure you’ll come up with something innovative.)

Some of the “must-have” and “most searched” for amenities that drive a consumer’s decision to book a hotel in 2011 included promotional offers or discounts. In this category, according to an Orbitz survey, free parking and airport shuttle service were the top items searched. Swimming pools were one of the most important hotel amenities, overall. Beyond the basics, rising number of searches included hotels that welcome pets, provide spa services, and have fitness centers. Astute hoteliers will anticipate and meet these consumer needs.

In a study of business travelers, Travel Leaders looked at what was most important to this group when choosing a hotel. The top five selections were: Location – near business meeting (82.8%), Rewards program – frequent guest points (54.4%), Free Wi Fi (31.4%), Location – near airport (17.7%), and Free breakfast (13.2%).

According to an NBTA report, annual U.S. business travel spending should climb about 5 percent in 2011 and 6.4 percent in 2012, to $254.5 billion. They also projected that the number of business trips this year would surpass 2010 levels.

Part of hotel marking is also managing consumer reviews on sites like TripAdvisor. Don’t overlook the basics. You should be asking your guests during check-out to review your property on social networks and/or booking sites. In your “thank you for your stay” emails to your guests, ask for positive reviews to be posted. Make sure you show your guests that you care by monitoring your hotel’s reviews and answering all negative comments. If there is a negative comment, after your apology have you offered an incentive for these guests to come back to your hotel?

How to Get a Response from Your Sales Emails?

2011-06-15T16:54:00.001-04:00

Note: This comment/article appeared in LinkedIn on the “Visit Florida” Group site and was written by Matthew Barnes, who is the Golf Sales Manager at Sawgrass Marriott (in the Jacksonville, FL area). With his permission, I have reprinted it here for your review and amusement. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.
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The One Email Guaranteed to Get You a Response!
My Director of Sales & Marketing gave me this little tip:
Ever have a client or prospect never get back to you?

Because you're in sales, then I know it's happened to you (or is happening with several of your clients or prospects right now!).

If you ever find yourself in a place where you've qualified a prospect, sent information to them on your hotel, and then find that they just won't return your calls or emails, then I've got a guaranteed email that will get you a response.

OK, so if you're ready to learn and use this technique, here it is:

Subject of your email: "Should I stay or should I go?"

" Mr. Smith While I've tried to reach you, I haven't heard back from you and that tells me one of three things:

1) You've already chosen another hotel for this event and if that's the case please let me know so can I stop bothering you,

2) You're still interested but haven't had the time to get back to me yet

3) You've fallen and can't get up and in that case please let me know and I'll call 911 for you...

Please let me know which one it is because I'm starting to worry...

Thanks in advance and I look forward to hearing back from you."

This works on so many levels including using a "Clash" song everyone can relate to in the subject line, to giving them options and an out in case they've decided not to work with you. And, of course, you give people a reason to smile and that always relieves the pressure from the sales situation.
Use it this week and see for yourself how it works to get your prospects to get back with you and how it gets you deals.

NEW LOGO/REBRANDING FOR HSMAI

2011-06-09T11:39:00.001-04:00

(Note: In case you missed this, here is the press release announcing the new logo and new mission for HSMAI. Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

HSMAI ANNOUNCES REBRANDING AS REFLECTION OF NEW
MISSION AND FOCUS:
New Logo Illustrates the Association’s Commitment to Sustainable Hotel Revenue Growth

(MAY 10, 2011) – The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), the travel and hospitality industry’s leading professional association, unveils a new logo that encapsulates the organization’s renewed commitment to growing business for hotels and their partners. The logo’s modern design and color palette offer a fresh look and feel that symbolizes HSMAI’s three core pillars: fueling sales, inspiring marketing and optimizing revenue. The new logo, which was developed by the award-winning branding agency Panzano & Partners, will serve as the basis for rebranded materials and resources representing HSMAI’s Americas Region, Chapters, Foundation, University, and Adrian Awards.

Feedback from members, customers, and industry leaders helped shape HSMAI’s new direction. By providing a well-rounded picture of the landscape and challenges faced by the hospitality industry’s sales, marketing and revenue management professionals, HSMAI developed a new mission statement: "To grow business for hotels and their partners by fueling sales, inspiring marketing, and optimizing revenue."

“Our new logo and mission reflect our longtime roots of inspiring growth and innovation in the hospitality and travel industry, as well as our commitment to the future development of the industry,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHA, president and CEO of HSMAI. “Our continuous commitment to innovation and global collaboration will provide industry professionals with the resources to inspire intelligent, sustainable hotel revenue growth through education, high-level industry information and innovative leadership.”

To further the new mission, HSMAI is developing Expert Communities to leverage insights and industry trends. Advisory boards for sales, marketing, and revenue optimization are being created to provide input to the strategic direction to their dedicated discipline. The advisory boards are chaired by these industry leaders: Sales: John Washko, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, The Broadmoor; Marketing: John Moser, Chief Marketing Officer, Denihan Hospitality; Revenue Optimization: Scott Roby, CRME, Vice President, Revenue Management, Evolution Hospitality.

As part of the new vision, HSMAI is restructuring its digital newsletter, HSMAI Insights, to deliver the most relevant and timely insights to members on a weekly basis, with sections specifically focused on fueling sales, inspiring marketing, and optimizing revenue. HSMAI plans to use the newsletter as a vehicle to deliver exclusive, relevant content to members including articles, webinar and roundtable recaps, and conference presentations.

HSMAI also will continue to develop innovative powerful programming such as its Affordable Meetings tradeshows, Adrian Awards, C-level roundtable discussions, revenue management conferences and publications, industry-wide relationship building opportunities, and professional development education and certification through the HSMAI University. These programs, in addition to innovative chapter events and resources, ensure professionals are consistently collaborating to move the travel and hospitality industry forward.

HSMAI’s new mission and logo foreshadow additional changes and enhancements that will be revealed throughout the year, including a re-engineered web site and revamped trade show, all to serve the goal of assisting the world’s leading hospitality and travel professionals in continuing sustainable growth.
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To send info for inclusion in Scoop, the blog of the Southeast Florida Chapter of HSMAI, please email jwfranklin1@gmail.com

Here's the logo (jpeg file):

Around Town – May/June 2011

2011-06-03T16:54:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congrats to Anna Russo, Director of Sales and Marketing, Ocean Sky Resort, on achieving a “Competent Communicator Award” from Toastmasters International.

Congrats to ME Productions. For the seventh consecutive year, ME Productions has been recognized by Special Events Magazine as one of the nation's top Destination Management Companies.

“Vacation Like a VIP” package is being offered June 1 through October 15 with a two night minimum stay. Spearheaded by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, the program offers guests staying at one of the upscale hotel properties within the Lauderdale Luxe Collection a room upgrade, complimentary valet parking, $25 American Express gift card and $100 resort credit. In addition, guests receive a Super Summer Savings 2-for-1 card valued at $200 with options including water sports, nature activities, boating, local museums, golf/spa treatments.

June is “Learn to Dive Month” in Greater Fort Lauderdale. The program features online training and certification through local dive operators/shops. Participants can go from training to graduation to their dive vacation in a few simple steps: Begin the pre-certification process online before leaving home; Conduct an open-water dive; Stay a minimum of three days in Greater Fort Lauderdale to complete the certification process (a minimum of four days required for those who fly); Take advantage of special hotel rates and a free fourth night when staying a minimum of three nights at a participating hotel; Enjoy a free congratulatory graduation dive. Bookings can be made through the GFLCVB’s website sunny.org

The Ocean Sky Resort on Galt Ocean Mile in Fort Lauderdale is offering a “Summer Suite Sizzle Sale”. With advanced reservations, the offer includes a $50.00 gas credit, free overnight parking, and two Tiki Bar welcome cocktails. A minimum two night stay is required. Just valet park at the hotel and present a gas receipt before departure to receive up to $50 gas credit to your bill redeemed at check-out time. The offer is based upon availability, and cannot be combined with any other promotions, discounts or negotiated rates.

Port Everglades recorded an 18.4% increase in multiday cruise activity for the first six months of its fiscal year. 2.5 million cruise passengers embarked and debarked through the port for the period ending March 31, up from 2.1 million passengers the prior year (not including one-day cruises). The increase was driven by the addition in late 2010 of Royal Caribbean's 5,400-passenger Allure of the Seas.

Passenger numbers to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Intl Airport were up in April. Total passengers rose 9.3 percent to 2.15 million from April 2010’s 1.97 million. International passengers rose to 341,064 from 313,507. Domestic travelers saw the largest jump in April up 9.4 percent (over last year) to 1.81 million from 1.66 million.

Beginning Thursday, June 16, 2011, Gulfstream Park and The Village at Gulfstream Park will be the home to the official ‘Racer’s Village’ during the 4th Annual Offshore Powerboat Challenge Weekend. This four-day event will consist of several activities including the Miami-Bimini Ocean Challenge, the Florida Powerboat Club 20-year anniversary run and the Offshore Performance Association (OPA) season opener. All off-water events and festivities will take place at The Village of Gulfstream Park. The Racer’s Village will be open to the public on Friday, June 17th and Saturday, June 18th from 10:00 am – 11:00 pm and on Sunday, June 19th from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Gray Line Miami in conjunction with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau has introduced five double-decker tour buses. The buses will run two loops, covering both the beach and the city. Also, Gray Line Miami will operate a hop-on/hop-off tour, which enables passengers to spend time at attractions and then re-board at any of the 20 stops where buses arrive on 15 minute intervals. The hop-on, hop-off tour will make stops in Miami, South Beach, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables and Little Havana.
Congrats to the Ritz Carlton-Key Biscayne on celebrating its 10th Anniversary. In honor of this milestone, the Ritz is holding a contest for 10 lucky winners to win hotel stays for only $10.

The Royal Palm Hotel at 1545 Collins Avenue has been bought by KSLA Capital Partners. It will be managed by New York-based Deniham Hospitality Group. The 407-room property will be rebranded as the James Royal Palm.

A joint venture between Weston-based InSite Group and London-based Cube Capital bought the Continental Oceanfront Hotel in South Beach. The buyers plan to do an extensive renovation and repositioning of the 251-room hotel. It will be re-launched in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Miami International Airport set a record for the first quarter of 2011. More than 9.3 million passengers passed through MIA from January through March. That’s up 6.1 percent from the same quarter a year ago.

According to Smith Travel Research, South Florida hotels in April had their best gains so far this year with their average hotel occupancy up 11.6 percent to 76.8 percent (from 68.8 percent in April 2010. Average daily rates rose 10.2 percent to $149.20 (from $135.42). West Palm Beach area hotels experienced the highest year-over-year occupancy growth, rising to 74.2 percent. With Miami-Dade having the largest year-over-year gain in average daily rate: up 13.1 percent, to $170.73 from $150.97. Hotel occupancies in the Fort Lauderdale market increased 12.2 percent to 76.4 percent (from 68.1 percent in April 2010); with average daily rates up 8.6 percent to $122.87 from $113.12.

Southwest Florida:

Southwest Florida International Airport reported an increase of 7.7 percent compared to March of 2010. The CVB also just received the Collier County visitation report for April. Visitation was up 3.7 percent over April 2010. Throughout April, 907,686 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport, an increase of 11.6 percent compared to April 2010. This is the second largest monthly passenger count for April in the airport's history. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 6.1 percent from the same period last year.

Nonstop service from Aalborg (AAL), Denmark to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) will begin on June 21, 2011 and will run for five weeks through July 19, 2011. The flights will be operated once a week on Tuesday by the Scandinavian tour operator, Comefly, between Fort Myers and Aalborg. This will be the first time RSW has offered nonstop service to Scandinavia and will be the only nonstop flight between Aalborg and the United States.

Congrats to Robert M. Ball, executive director of the Lee County Port Authority, who was named the 2011 Airport Professional of the Year by the Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives at the SEC-AAAE Annual Conference in Mobile, Ala.

Congrats to the Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa. They recently earned the AAA Four Diamond Lodging designation for the eighth consecutive year.

Statewide:
U.S/Worldwide:

HSMAI’s upcoming Revenue Optimization Conference (ROC) that will take place on June 20 in Austin, Texas. The one-day interactive conference features industry thought leaders and topics within various revenue management sectors. It is organized by HSMAI’s Revenue Management Advisory Board and will allow attendees to take away strategies and practical applications to address the latest industry trends and best practices for their own companies.

At ROC, HSMAI also will present its award for Revenue Management Professional of the Year, which recognizes excellence among hospitality professionals in revenue management. Recent past winners of the Revenue Management Professional of the Year include: Imtiaz Ali (2010, Morgans Hotel Group); Beverly Fidel (2009, Outrigger Hotels Hawaii) and Angie Belknap (2008, Radisson Fort McDowell Resort & Casino).

ROC will be followed this year by a one-day Certified Revenue Management Executive (CRME) Prep Course on June 21, which is designed to prepare revenue management professionals for the CRME certification exam. Details on the CRME Prep Course are available online.

The U.S, Commerce Department reported 60 million visitors to the U.S. last year, an increase of 8.7% over 2009 and a new record. Arrivals from overseas (countries other than Canada and Mexico) also set a record, rising 11% to 26.4 million and finally eclipsing the pre-9/11 peak reported in 2000. Foreign visitor spending was also on the rebound in 2010, rising 12% to $134 billion, generating a $31.2 billion travel-related trade surplus.

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To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – April 2011

2011-04-19T15:45:00.000-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Some mid-market chain hotels are getting rid of their traditional front desks. Feeling that these counters may be too “imposing”, they are switching to more welcoming desks or to kiosks using virtual check-ins.

Train your front desk/reservations staff to “take the booking”. Most people do research online first, but then will call a hotel directly for a variety of reasons. Make sure your front desk knows what rates are online (and not to match certain exclusive agreement rates), and what fees you have to pay those other booking sources. This will encourage “best practices” at your hotel, keep costs down, and ensure your callers don’t book at another property.

In 2011, Smith Travel Research (STR) is projecting increases in all three key performance metrics. Occupancy is expected to rise 1.6 percent to 58.3 percent, ADR to increase 3.9 percent to US$101.73, and RevPAR is projected to end the year up 5.5 percent to US$59.35.

At a fall AH&LA meeting, it was suggested that now is the time to bring hotel rates up in small increments. As corporate travel, et al, has rebounded, hotel guests recognize that the cost of business is going up and therefore rates will too. Once a consumer sees that they can’t get what they want when and where they want it, they conclude they have to pay more. Key phrase here is “small” increments. At an HSMAI/Amex roundtable meeting, it was noted that raising rates to meet demand is important, but hotels must keep in mind, at the same time, the need to remain competitive in the marketplace.

Everyone knows that proper pricing is more critical than ever for hoteliers, today. The importance of revenue management doesn’t need to be stressed. More than just setting prices, however, is to make sure revenue managers are “customer-centric”. That is, RM’s must make sure their prices are “fair.” If buyers perceive your price is fair, they will become loyal, repeat customers.
Another challenge, now that the recession is over, is to get the public weaned off deals, the “rock-bottom” price, and get them to focus more on value. Consumers are still conscious of how they spend their money. But will spend it where they think they can get the most value.

Corporate/Business Travel is on the increase again. A recent survey of business travelers found that the “overall hotel experience” is important to the majority of them. They often work in their room and they also expect a lot more from a hotel than just a clean room and comfortable bed. Important decision factors include amenities as well as technology (wifi; room set up/fees to access internet, etc.).

With so many hotels these days seeking new ways to please increasingly tech savvy guests, USA Today surveyed readers re: which electronic device they'd like to borrow from the front desk. The winner was the iPad by a 61% vote. It seems a growing number of hotels have been buying the iPad for their guests to use – either at the concierge desk (e.g., InterContinental Hotels) or in their suite (e.g. upscale Peninsula Hotels).

Our “International” South Florida Chapter of HSMAI?

2011-04-18T09:16:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: This information was passed along by Ellen Serra, Chapter Board Member. Julie Wernick, HSMAinsider)

“The Chapter’s Program Committee met in Aventura (last Thursday) to discuss the (meetings) program for the rest of the year. What's interesting is that there were 6 of us – all from a different country:

Haydee Casanova -- Puerto Rico;
Stella Quintero -- Columbia;
Ellen Serra -- Canada;
Gail Spier -- USA;
Carlene McLeod -- England; and
Saul Sarmiento -- Bolivia.”

Ellen’s email got me wondering what OTHER countries are represented by our HSMAI-South Florida Chapter’s members. Won’t you send in your country names/origins? You can either post this as a comment on the blog or email the information to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

Women in Distress can use your amenities!

2011-04-11T10:36:00.000-04:00

HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick, says:
This is a good time during spring cleaning to look through your hotel or home and get rid of old logoed items or amenities you may have collected in your business travels and aren’t planning on using. What better way to help someone else in need than by donating to Women In Distress? Travel size toiletries go very quickly there and are always needed.

When possible, all donations should be brought to the location below:

Women In Distress Jim and Jan Moran Family Center (Temporary Location)
Northridge Medical Center is located at 5757 N. Dixie Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 (That’s between Commercial Blvd. and Cypress Creek Rd.)
Parking is on the north side of what had been the main hospital entrance (but if you have heavy boxes you can pull up temporarily in front of the entrance to unload). Their hours are Monday - Thursday: 9am to 9pm, Friday: 9am to 5pm
Donations Accepted: Any new donations are only accepted at the Family Center, as well as small gently-used items. Large donations of gently-used items and furniture are accepted at the Thrift Store.

You can also mail them to: Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc.
P.O. Box 676, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33302.

Have other items you wish to donate? Here's a list of the needed items and all the information: http://www.womenindistress.org//others-ways_32_3058584791.pdf

Please mention when you make your donation that you heard about them through our HSMAI-South Florida Chapter. On behalf of Women In Distress, thank you!

Around Town – March/April 2011

2011-04-04T17:18:00.003-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA: Welcome! ME Productions has hired Noëlle Liger-Burton as Director of Inbound Destination Management to provide service to international clientele in the MICE market (meetings, incentives, conference and events) in South Florida as well as throughout the US. Prior to joining ME Productions, she held the position of Director of Meeting Operations at JMT Events in Miami, Florida.

Congrats! Jay H. Guttveg, owner/operator of Creative Focus Inc., has been published once again, in the prestigious Florida Connects Magazine, a Joint Publication of Meeting Professional International, Florida Chapters. Jay has been offering photographic services for social and corporate events for more than 26 years.

Welcome! The Howard Johnson Plaza in Deerfield Beach is now a Wyndham resort. The 172-room hotel recently completed a multimillion dollar renovation and modernization.

Welcome to the following “new” Broward folks: Joseph Maijala, Director of Sales, the Pelican Beach Grand Resort; Jamie Jordan, Director of Group Sales, the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa; Yvette Pallens, Marketing Manager, the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa; Susan Aichele, Director of Sales and Marketing, along with Andrew Volkmann, Sales Manager at the Atlantic Resort & Spa.

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau was recognized by Coastal Communications Corporation for outstanding service from the respective subscribers of Corporate & Incentive Travel, Insurance & Financial Meetings Management and Association Conventions & Facilities.

Congrats to The Seagate Hotel & Spa (Delray Beach) on being voted “Best Beach Getaway by Southern Living Magazine’s “Best of the South Travel Awards”.

Congrats to Expo Convention Contractors! Two of their clients: FIME International Medical Expo and Jewelers International Showcase (JIS) won the Trade Show Executive Magazine’s Fastest 50 Tradeshows Award.

Congrats to The Tides – South Beach (Miami Beach) for placing at #14 in the “Top Hotels in the U.S.” part of the Travelers’ Choice 2011 Awards by TripAdvisor travelers.

The Clevelander (South Beach) has a job opening for a Director of Sales and Marketing. For more details and information, contact Karlene Palmer-Mcleod, Marketing Manager, at kpmcleo@clevelander.com

The Village at Gulfstream Park is hosting a variety of events in April. On Wednesdays (April 6, 13, 20, and 27) they will be holding a Green Market from 4pm – 9pm in Champions Plaza.

Outpacing the rest of Florida, Greater Fort Lauderdale recorded a 2.6 percent increase in total visitors in 2010, according to year-end estimates. Spending in the local economy by the 10.84 million visitors also rose from $8.47 billion to $8.69 billion.

Traffic at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport jumped 6.4 percent. Statewide, Florida saw a 2.1 percent increase in visitors. Fort Lauderdale Airport reported a 5.1 percent year-over-year increase in passengers in January. The airport had 16.3% growth in international passengers and 3.1% growth in domestic passengers.

Miami Airport report a 4.7 percent increase in January, led by a spurt in international passenger growth. The airport had 1.59 million arrivals this January, up from 1.51 million in January 2010. International arrivals were up 5.8 percent, hitting 791,553. Domestic arrivals were up 3.6 percent, to 794,601. Miami was among the top U.S. cities where demand for luxury hotels has seen an increase at five-star properties in 2010, according to a report released by Hotels.com Hotel Price Index. The year-over-year increase for Miami was 10 percent (following #1 Boston at 21% and Chicago at 20%).

Miami International had 8.03 million international passengers in 2010, up 3.4 percent, to continue its second-place ranking behind New York's JFK, which had 11.26 million passengers, according to the US Department of Transportation.

PKF Hospitality Research (PKF-HR) said it expects higher occupancy levels and room rates across South Florida this year. West Palm Beach should see: 1.2 percent increase in occupied rooms, to 62.6 percent occupancy; 4.9 percent increase in average daily room rates (ADR), to $137.54; Fort Lauderdale: 3.1 percent increase in occupied rooms, to 69.6 percent occupancy; 2 percent increase in ADR, to $115.70; and Miami: 4.4 percent increase in occupied rooms, to 72.5 percent occupancy; 2.2 percent increase in ADR, to $150.79.

SOUTHWEST Florida:

Congrats! The Business Research & Consulting Firm Frost & Sullivan presented Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) with a 2010 U.S. Air Travelers' Choice Award in the category of Most Problem-free Airport for Travelers Arriving by Surface Transportation in early January.

The Inn on Fifth (Naples) recently released its 2011 Super Summer Meetings Deal. Throughout the summer, meeting planners will receive a host of benefits including holding their meetings at the Inn on Fifth.

The Doubletree Suites by Hilton (Naples) won Hilton Hotels' top performance awards again for 2010, marking this boutique hotel as the only Doubletree in the world that has achieved more than two of Hilton's top "Connie" awards. This is the seventh "Connie" for the hotel. The hotel also received the Annual CARE Cup, a Pride Award, the Housekeeping Award of Excellence, the Hospitality Award of Excellence, and the Environmental CARE Award.

Statewide:
WORLDWIDE: Some of you, who have been in the area for awhile, may remember Bernadette Dennis when she was with the Marriott in Fort Lauderdale and active in our HSMAI chapter. After a number of years at various properties, she “returned home” to Australia. Happy to announce and offer congratulations to Bernadette who is now the Managing Director, HSMAI Asia Pacific, the newly inducted third global region in HSMAI’s worldwide network (joining Europe and the Americas). --------------------------------------

To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

You Too Can Be A Certified Hospitality Sales Executive (CHSE)

2011-04-03T07:20:00.005-04:00

The following information on the CHSE designation comes from Peter Ricci, Director, Hospitality Management Program, FAU, and HSMAI-South Florida chapter Board Member. Editor’s Note by Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider. --------------------------------- It's a pleasure to let all of you know that HSMAI is offering a new designation, the Certified Hospitality Sales Executive (CHSE). As a member of the South Florida HSMAI board, I offered to take the certification earlier this year and go through the process so that I can, in turn, assist our members who wish to obtain the CHSE. To make sure it was feasible, I ordered the materials, read the study guide, and took the modules (before the actual exam) AND the actual exam all within one week. The actual course content is suitable for someone with short-to-medium tenure in an actual sales, marketing, or related role. However, anyone will pick up a few useful pieces of information along the way. Also, I took some minimal notes as I was reading and created a study guide. This study guide is available from the local chapter as a resource for you. Lastly, here is a link to the HSMAI web site that has information regarding the CHSE and the application process: http://www.hsmai.org/resources/chse.cfm Our goal is to have as many of our local chapter members join me in becoming a CHSE. I'm happy to assist you with any questions you may have, putting together a study group if necessary, providing the study guide via Judy who is our chapter manager, etc. I found the process easy to do on my own and I completed the entire process from application to approval of experience to study materials to on line modules to actual exam all within ONE week. Please let me know if I may be able to help you in the journey toward receipt of the CHSE! Cheers, Peter Dr. Peter Ricci, CHSE, CHA, Director, Hospitality Management Program Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Road; 320 FH, Boca Raton, FL 33431 (561) 297-3666 (phone), PRICCI1@fau.edu

March 16, 2011 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2011-03-23T16:54:00.002-04:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.
(By HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick, jwfranklin1@gmail.com)

What a nice turn out for the Chapter’s luncheon meeting at the Renaissance Resort in Plantation for a presentation on Customer Service by Roberta Nedry, Founder & President of Hospitality Excellence. For the past twelve plus years, the company has been working with industry leaders on how to generate repeat, referral and additional business based on exceptional service. Ms. Nedry has more than 30 years of executive training and experience. Previously she served as the GM for the International Concierge Institute and the International School of Tourism for the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. Trained in Guest Relations through Walt Disney Productions, she was a two time Disney “Ambassador to the world” finalist. She writes an international business column on service excellence and guest service in the Hotel Business Review among many other publications. With all her activities, HSMAI-South Florida was fortuitous in being able to have the benefit of her expertise.

More on the presentation later…

Do mark your calendars for these upcoming dates:

On Wednesday, April 13th, the Chapter’s luncheon meeting will be held in Fort Myers from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. The Topic is: Working with Your County and State DMO’s.
On Wednesday, April 27th, there will be a networker meeting and fashion show at Sawgrass Mills Mall, The Grand Luxe Café Patio, from 6 to 8 pm.

As always, there will be different things that people will remember from a presentation that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes.

Above all, making a good first impression (especially within the first 7 to 10 seconds) is the most important contact with a guest. These first contacts (by phone, in person, online, etc.) and how you are made to feel about them, stay with you longer than what is actually said during that contact. If you can create a memorable moment, you will deliver the best service and that will increase your revenues.

Even before you reach this point, you should set up some service standards to assure consistency. There are a number of key “impression points” that affect making the “good” first impression. These include: appearance (grooming), courtesy (consideration), voice tone (sincerity), language (no slang, no swearing, no acronyms), knowledge (knowing the info about your products and services establishes trust), ambiance (surroundings set the emotions), timeliness (acting quickly but accurately), attitude, and professionalism.

Remember, it takes 11 good impressions to overcome one bad impression.
As Oscar Wilde said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

I think everyone brought at least one really good idea back with them to their companies after the program. Thank you, again, Roberta.

PS Just a reminder to send in your industry news/updates for the “Around Town” column for the HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s blog, “Scoop”, to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

GFL CVB is Conducting Eco-Friendly Survey

2011-03-22T14:40:00.000-04:00

Dear Hospitality Industry Partner,

The GFL CVB is conducting a survey on eco-friendly practices by the Greater Fort Lauderdale area hospitality industry businesses. Findings of the survey will be publicized in a national press release being prepared for Earth Day, April 22, 2011.

Please take a few minutes to let them know what you are doing to make green initiatives an important part of your marketing and business operation.

They need your responses by: Monday, March 28, 2011.

The survey can be accessed by the link below.http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GVRLCH2

Thank you!
Passed along to you by:
Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider,
jwfranklin1@gmail.com

Community Charity Event benefiting: A Child is Missing

2011-03-17T10:01:00.000-04:00

Friday, March 18th from 6 pm to 8 pm at the St. Lawrence Gallery, 3556 North Ocean Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL, will be a complimentary “Arts, Wine & Hors d’oeuvres” reception benefiting A Child is Missing. This Fort Lauderdale based non-profit program exists for locating missing children, the disabled, and the elderly during the crucial first hours of disappearance.

This free event includes wine, hors d’oeuvres and raffle prizes. The raffle proceeds and 10% of all sales benefit A Child is Missing. You can purchase raffle tickets at the Gallery, by phone, and at the door. Parking is available in front and rear of the gallery and meters are free after 6 pm. More information by calling the organization at 954-763-1288.

Linda Sue Marsh, longtime active board member of HSMAI, has invited the members of the hospitality industry community to attend this charity event.

Around Town – February/March 2011

2011-02-28T16:01:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congratulations to Anna Russo, who became Director of Sales and Marketing at the Ocean Skye Hotel and Resort (Fort Lauderdale) in December 2010

Welcome to Valerie Burgess, Business Development Manager, Embassy Suites (Fort Lauderdale – 17th Street) who is “new” in town from the Northeast. Valerie started working for Embassy Suites late December prior to the New Year. Before that, she worked for GWL Resorts a full-service franchise resort located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, servicing the tri-state area NY/NJ and PA as Sr. Sales Manager.

Congrats to Joe Van Eron and Jack Zimmerman. For the fourth year in a row, their property, Liberty Suites, was the recipient of a “Pink Choice Award”. They are one of 22 gay and lesbian hotels worldwide chosen as the 2010 winners by reviews from the group’s 9000 members. Just announced, the awards also included from South Florida for the first time, the Alcazar Resort in Fort Lauderdale, as well as Pineapple Point and the Villa Venice.

Congrats to the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Coral Springs Hotel & Golf Club who ranked #10 out of 329 Marriott hotels on their Event Satisfaction Survey.

Congrats to the Village at Gulfstream Park for being honored by the prestigious Shop America Alliance at its ONE Travel Conference last month with a SASI-ONE (Shop America Salutes Innovation) 2011 Merit Award for their Gulfstream Park Visitor Outreach Program. The Village at Gulfstream Park was the sole shopping destination in Florida to receive a SASI-ONE Award which recognizes prominent leaders and destinations in the tourism industry for their vision and commitment to developing shopping and cultural tourism.

John U. Lloyd Beach Park at Dania Beach was named one of the “Top 25 Most Popular Florida Parks in 2010” by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Biz Bash listed their “South Florida’s 10 Most Anticipated New Venues”. Number 3 on the list was the “new” B Ocean Hotel (Fort Lauderdale).

Speaking of events, during their Florida Expo, Biz Bash is holding their “Event Style Awards” on April 12th at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. The Awards recognize talent in 16 categories ranging from event concepts, designs, sets, marketing to technology, etc.

The Village at Gulfstream Park has introduced “Wine Walk Wednesdays” on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 to 10 pm. The next two dates are: March 2nd and April 6th. Cost is $10 and includes a commemorative wine glass and chance to sample wines and cheeses at 15 different shops throughout the Village. A different charity will benefit from the fee each month. There’s more info at thevillageatgulfstreampark.com

The Betsy Hotel in South Beach (1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach) is hosting a new industry night in B Bar beginning on Wednesdays. No cover at 10 pm; plus “complimentary spirits” between 10 and 11 pm. Call for more info.

Urgo Hotels, based in Maryland, recently purchased the Ocean Point Hotel (Pompano Beach). Plans are to renovate the property and reopen under a new “flag” (full service or select service) in the late fall of 2011.

Vision Airlines, based in Atlanta (but with an office in Miami) announced that it was launching service between Fort Lauderdale and Louisville, Ky., starting March 25, with rates starting at $99 one way. They will operate nonstop flights four days a week from Fort Lauderdale to Louisville International Airport.

Amazon ranked Miami number 4 out of its top 20th “Most Romantic Cities in America” based on book orders; and it’s “Sexiest” City in America for the second year in a row.

Port Everglades reported that cruise traffic in the last quarter of 2010 was up 25 percent, to 1.17 million passengers. In other cruise news, the Port of Miami reported a 20 percent increase, to 1.14 million passengers.

The Water Taxi celebrated the grand opening of their new service in Hollywood. They have 16 stops in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, and service 5 days per week to South Beach.

Sun Trolley expanded their current A1A and Las Olas service on Fort Lauderdale Beach. They operate 9:30am–6:30pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and (now) Monday. Sun Trolley’s A1A route is from 17th Street Causeway/Cordova Road to The Galleria Mall. Their Las Olas route runs from Marriott’s Beach Place to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

Southwest Florida:

Congrats! WeddingWire announced the Hilton Naples Florida Hotel was selected to receive the annual WeddingWire Bride's Choice Awards 2011 for Best Ceremony and Reception Venue in Naples.

The Lee County Port Authority announced that nonstop service between Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Denmark will begin on June 14, 2011. The flights will be operated twice weekly by the Scandinavian tour operator, Comefly, between Fort Myers and Copenhagen (CPH) and Aalborg (AAL), Denmark. This will be the first time RSW has offered nonstop service to Scandinavia.

The Paradise Coast recently announced its 2011 “Paradise Priced Perfectly” campaign. The campaign offers the best hotel deals along with extra savings on dining, shopping, spas, golf, attractions, etc., to visitors of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades. Throughout the year, visitors can take advantage of deals and savings to plan the perfect Paradise Coast vacation. An extension of the former Values in Paradise (VIP) card, the Preferred Pass offers the best hotel deals along with extra savings.

The Paradise Coast has (once again) been recognized for communication excellence by the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA), this time with one silver and one bronze award. Destination Video - Marketing Budget Greater than $400,000
Silver: Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, Paradise Coast Destination Video; Visitors' Guide - Marketing Budget Greater than $400,000
Bronze: Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, Paradise Coast Visitors' Guide

The LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort has brought back its "Frostbite Relief," where guests earn valuable credits the longer they stay, and can use those credits towards spa treatments, dining or golf at the resort's luxurious course. Packages start at $409 per night.

The Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa is offering its “Escape! Golf Package”, beginning at $419 per person per night. Included is a deluxe tropical view room, two rounds of golf including cart at The Rookery at Marco, bag storage, bag tags, range balls, a golf gift item and 10 percent off at the Golf Pro Shop.

Statewide:

Florida Tourism Day 2011 will be held on Tuesday, March 22. The purpose of Tourism Day is to educate the legislature, media and Floridians about the importance of Florida’s tourism industry and the rationale for the public funding request to increase tourism marketing efforts. It’s the perfect day to let your lawmakers know just how vital tourism is to our state and how crucial it is for them to support Florida’s No. 1 industry.
To reserve your spot on this important day, you will need to register by March 7th. For more information, please contact dia@visitflorida.org

An estimated 82.6 million visitors came to the Sunshine State last year, up 2.1 percent from 2009, according to Visit Florida. Domestic visits increased by 0.5 percent, year-over-year, while Canadian travel to Florida increased by 16.2 percent and overseas travel to Florida increased by 13.6 percent.
(NOTE: Outpacing the rest of Florida, Greater Fort Lauderdale recorded a 2.6 percent increase in total visitors in 2010, according to year-end estimates. Spending in the local economy by the 10.84 million visitors also rose from $8.47 billion to $8.69 billion.)
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To submit items for future blog editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Job Opportunity – February 2011

2011-02-18T05:48:00.001-05:00

(Editor’s Note:
Here’s a local job opportunity that we were asked to pass along.
Important: Please make sure if you apply that you mention HSMAI-South Florida Chapter.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

The Clevelander is still looking for a suitable candidate for Director of Sales and Marketing. If anyone has any questions, they can call Karlene Palmer-McLeod, Marketing Manager. Here’s her info:

CLEVELANDER
1020 OCEAN DRIVE
MIAMI BEACH, FL 33139
T 786 276 1417
C 305 467 6556 F 305 531 3953
kpmcleod@clevelander.com
W CLEVELANDER.COM
--------------------------------------------
Director of Sales and Marketing

Date Revised:
December 1, 2010
Department:
Sales and Marketing
FLSA Status:
Exempt
Reports to:
General Manager

Summary:
Responsible for all Sales & Marketing strategies and revenue reporting for the hotel.

Duties and Responsibilities:
· Create and oversee the Hotel business and marketing plans to maximize hotel revenue among market segments to include retail, corporate and tour and travel groups.
· Responsible for the management of hotel room inventory and pricing strategies for all distribution channels.
· Responsible to develop and successfully manage the Sales and Marketing departmental budget and forecasts.
· Review and develop advertising strategies including placement, social media direct mail/email campaigns.
· Develop/Drive market share revenue performance through implementation of effective transient and group pricing strategy.
· Develop and implement promotional programs and packages as needed to impact occupancy and revenue results.
· Monitors weekly sales backlogs and adjusts selling strategies to maximize short and long term goals.
· Review all group contracts and monitors all room contracts i.e., confirmation, deposits, cut off dates, arrival and production.
· Conduct rate negotiations and coordinates contracting for consortia and handle a portfolio of key accounts in defined territory.
· Conduct /monitor competitive market rates in order to develop sales strategies and campaigns to gain occupancy and maximize revenue.
· Conduct sales and prospecting activity and defines local corporate accounts for small groups.
· Organize and coordinate FAM trips and hotel site inspections for prospective clients/business.
· Produce weekly/monthly reports, i.e., call productivity reports, corporate account production (GRC).
· Develop and monitor trace system for existing and new accounts.
· Maintain accurate database of corporate accounts and travel agents.
· Ensures PMS profiles are regularly monitored, updated and accurately recorded i.e., Rockstar Loyalty program.
· Conduct weekly Sales and Marketing meetings to review existing business as to develop new strategies and promote growth.
· Conducts weekly revenue strategy and events meetings and disseminates information to ensure optimal revenue and operational success.
· Responsible for the development, revisions and compliance of the Sales and Marketing Standard Operating Procedures.
· Coaches and mentors management staff and establishes short and long-term development plans.
· Conducts reviews for direct reports on a monthly and quarterly basis to discuss performance and observations.
· Develops, manages and measures performance of the the Sales and Marketing direct reports including sales action plans, volume goals, tactical implementation and assigned deliverables.

Other Functions:
· Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:
· Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 5 years of Director level experience in Sales and Marketing.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:
· Strong working knowledge of Word, Excel programs.
· Strong financial and analytical skills.
· Strong knowledge of Hotel, Entertainment and Marketing Industries.
· Strong interpersonal, managerial and leadership skills required
· Strong organizational and time management skills required

Working Conditions:
· Work is not performed in an office environment and requires evening and weekend hours. Uses personal computer and other standard office equipment

Around The (Travel) Websites: What Consumers Are Reading…

2011-02-16T14:41:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: A collection of items from various sources. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

In a Trip Advisor’s “Your Guide to Choosing the Right City Escape” article, Miami Beach was featured as one of the “shopping mecca” cities under “Best for Shopping” designation.

In a Trip Advisor’s “Supreme Hotel Splurges” article on the world’s most expensive hotels, The Setai (South Beach) was featured for their $10,800 a night, 2-bedroom loft suite.

Trip Advisor featured the following Lauderdale area hotels in recent Member updates:
The Premiere Hotel: "WHAT A DEAL!”
Lago Mar Resort and Club: "Great for tropical relaxation"; “nice, very nice”
The Atlantic Hotel: “Great Hotel”
Westin Beach Resort: “Relaxation…Great location”
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort: “Excellent service and absolute cleanliness”
Pelican Grande Beach Hotel: “Best beach hotel in Fort Lauderdale hands down”
Hyatt Place –Fort Lauderdale Airport North: “Convenient location. Good value for the money”; “pleasantly surprised”;

Conde Nast Traveler’s 2011 Gold List of the “best places to stay in the world” from their survey of readers just came out in January. Here are the South Florida properties that were included:
Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Miami (Score: 88.3)
The Setai, Miami Beach (93.4)
Brazilian Court, Palm Beach (89.5)
The Breakers, Palm Beach (90)
Omphoy Ocean Resort, Palm Beach (91.1)
Sundy House, Delray (88.2)
Ritz Carlton, Naples (90.9)
Ritz Carlton Golf Resort, Naples (90.6)

Concierge.com World Beat(Conde Nast Traveler’s online newsletter) featured the October opening of the Soho Beach House, a private club, hotel, and spa on 43rd and Collins in Miami Beach.

In Fodor’s Choice 2010 Gold List category, Best Design Hotels -- U.S. properties that boast the most stunning architecture and décor – the following South Florida properties were featured: The Delano Hotel, Miami Beach and The Fontainebleau, Miami Beach.

In a Fodor’s Newsletter article entitled “10 Totally Over-The-Top Romantic Getaways”, one of the places featured was The Villa by Barton G, Miami, FL, for its “Fantasy Versace Weekend”.

Reminder: Send your hospitality news, updates, etc to HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick, at jwfranklin1@gmail.com

January 19, 2011 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2011-01-19T19:07:00.003-05:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.

What a nice turn out for the Chapter’s luncheon meeting at the Renaissance Resort in Fort Lauderdale for a presentation on Tourism by Alfredo Gonzalez, Vice President of Tourism and International Business, and Fernando Harb, Director of Sales, with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. This program has become an almost annual event for the Chapter. It’s always educational and enjoyable and looked forward to eagerly by the hospitality community. We were not disappointed.

More on the presentation later…

Do mark your calendars for these upcoming dates:
On January 27th, at 10 am, there will be a GFLCVB hosted industry preview of the Vatican Splendors exhibit at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art. On February 8th, at 11:30 am, as part of International’s HSMAI Leadership Meetings, there will be a luncheon at the PGA Resort in Palm Beach. South Florida is the host chapter. Transportation will be provided from a central location (to be announced).The program is by Vail Brown with Smith Travel Research.
On February 16th, from 5-7 pm will be the Chapter’s first “Networker” (business after hours meeting) of the year at the Grateful Palate Restaurant on SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale. Cost is only $10. Check the Chapter’s website (hsmaisouthflorida.org) for registration information for all these events and more details.

In self-introductions, we learned that Ellen Serra is now serving as Director of Sales & Marketing, for the Holiday Inn Express-Convention Center (on SE 17th Street), in addition to the Comfort Suites-Airport & Cruiseport; Lori Jacoby, formerly with Florida Trend Magazine, and now with Ambit will soon be taking on a new job (details to come); Haydee Casanova is now working for Worldwide Limousine (lucky Julio!); The Riverside Hotel is celebrating its 75th year of operation – a legend in Fort Lauderdale. Robin Melvin announced that the Hard Rock Hotel is celebrating 40 years of Rock ‘n Roll and will be doing a number of related promotions. The Atlantic Resort (home of one of my faves, Trina) was voted one of the top 50 resorts in the U.S. Sorry if I missed your info, was jotting notes as fast as I could!

As always, there will be different things that people will remember from a presentation that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes. (BTW, the presentation will be posted on the Chapter’s website in the near future.)

Alfredo provided a recap on international tourism. He noted the effects of the recession in 2009 and the global recovery in 2010. Other parts of the world recovered stronger than the US (except for Ireland and Greece). We were shown U.S. arrivals in 2010 and forecasts through 2015 where arrivals will be double that of the great years of 2007/2008. Importantly, international tourists stay longer and spend more money than others. A number of the top international news stories were reviewed v.v. their impacts on international tourism.

Fernando provided a recap on domestic tourism. He noted the tough years of 2008/2009 with the biggest drop in these types of arrivals. Broward County was still relatively strong but average hotel rates were quite low. He reviewed the top domestic stories affecting travel. In 2010, however, there was a positive increase in domestic arrivals in every single month of the year. Overall, the average, statewide, was a 5% increase for 2010; and average room rates began to climb slowly. It was noted that drive traffic into Florida went up, even though overall visitor numbers to Florida declined. More families “hit the road”. The positive effects of the arrival of mega ships in Port Everglades, saw the cruise market sparking increased pre/post stays. In fact, 38% of the increases in hotel bookings were due to the (new) cruise lines.

Two new buzz words describing upcoming trends are: “engagementcations” – which is where engagement parties are taken on the road. Three of the top ten destinations for these trips are in South Florida (West Palm, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami); and “bleisure” travel – bringing one’s spouse along with you on a business trip. Again, South Florida is one of the top destinations.

Alfredo reviewed aviation developments. He noted that FLL airport is one of the fastest growing airports, both domestically and internationally. The busiest air corridor is the NY to FLL one, based on numbers of flights. Canadian travel here is up 30%. There are many new domestic flights as well as new international flights. He cited a number of the new connections and new carriers. Low fare carriers, combined, make up over 50% of the air traffic at FLL. The new Terminal 4 and South Runway project (currently under design) will mean a large increase in gates and service by around 2014.

Thank you, Alfredo and Fernando, for your time and expertise and for providing a wealth of useful information!

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

PS Just a reminder to send in your industry news/updates for the “Around Town” column for the HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s blog, “Scoop”, to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

Around Town – January 2011

2011-01-10T15:25:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congratulations to Albert Tucker and Bruce Appel who were recognized on Dec 16 by Broward County for their 10 and 15 years, respectively, of service at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Congrats to Cindy Malin and Ben Antipuna. ME Productions has named Cindy Malin Head of Business Development and Benjamin-Michael Antipuna Director of Creative Services. Cindy will champion ME Productions as South Florida’s premier event production and destination management company that offers clients “everything under the sun”, even an in-house floral department. Ben will provide ME Production with an introduction to the “rarest talent event entertainment has to offer.”

Congrats to Christine Duffy who was named the new head of the Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA). Christine is currently the CEO of Maritz Travel. Her new role at CLIA is effective February 1st. Christine replaces Terry Dale, who stepped down as CLIA’s top executive after seven years at the helm, and is the new president of the U.S. Tour Operators Association. (CLIA’s headquarters are on SE 17th Street in Fort Lauderdale.)

Congrats to Linda Hamburger of On Call PR who has joined with the team of PTT of Florida, providers of temporary labor for live event productions, to enhance and expand the company's marketing communications and outreach. Projects to date have included a new look for the web site, much stronger use of new media (including but not limited to LinkedIn; Facebook; Wordpress, etc.),new brochures, and more.

FAU is offering a number of Executive Continuing Education courses that may be of interest to our members. These include a Certificate in Marketing Management (24 hrs, 2.4 CEUs; 8 Wednesdays; Jan. 26 - March 23, 2011; Time: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm); a Certificate in Sales Management (30 Hours, 3.0 CEUs;10 Saturdays; Jan. 22 - April 9, 2011;9:00 am - 12:00 pm); a Meeting & Events Management course (35 Hours, 3.5 CEUs;7 Saturdays; Jan. 22 - March 19, 2011;Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.). Each course is being offered on the Boca Raton Campus, has no prerequisites, and costs $799 which includes instruction materials and parking.

For info: http://www.fauexecutiveprograms.com/ApplicationFiles/web/WebFrame.cfm?web_id=133 For other questions, please contact Sarah Gaffney, Florida Atlantic University,
Executive Continuing Education at 561-297-2366 or email: sgaffne3@fau.edu

The Port of Miami cruise season opened with a record 346,513 cruise passengers transiting its facilities in October, up 29 percent from the year-ago month, the port reported.

Hollywood commissioners gave their blessing last month for Margaritaville, a 17-story resort hotel that promises to change the face of the beach. The Jimmy Buffett-themed resort won’t break ground for another year.

Southwest Florida:

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Southwest Florida is offering a new golf package. The deal starts at just $124 per night for single occupancy, or from $149 per night for double occupancy. In addition to accommodations in a newly renovated room, this package includes complimentary greens fees, golf cart fees, complimentary tennis, complimentary parking, and access to the resort's spa/fitness center.

Marco Island Lakeside is one of only 80 locations in Florida to be named by the Superior Small Lodging organization to receive its prestigious Donald A. Dermody White Glove Award for housekeeping excellence for 2010. "This is the third year in a row that we have been given this prestigious award after the thorough inspection," said General Manager Marcia Mandel.

The Hilton Naples is now active with its oft-updated “Naples Best blog” and with its Facebook page, which has featured numerous impromptu contests to win free nights at the hotel.

The Inn on Fifth has announced an array of enticing packages for the coming year, including the “Experience Naples” and “Romance on Fifth” packages.

The five star, five diamond Ritz-Carlton, Naples beach resort celebrated its 25th birthday on December 3, 2010.

AirTran Airways started new Saturday nonstop service between Fort Myers and Rochester, N.Y. on Nov. 20, 2010. The flights between Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) depart Fort Myers at 10:23 a.m. and arrive at 11:15 a.m.

Statewide:

VISIT FLORIDA has been asked by the Florida Historic Capitol Museum in Tallahassee to put together an exhibit on Florida attraction souvenirs entitled “Remembering Paradise: Souvenirs of Historic Florida Attractions.” The exhibit will run from April through September 2011. The temporary exhibit will focus on souvenirs from historic and important tourist attractions and how they help enhance the impact of tourism in Florida

VISIT FLORIDA is looking for your help! They need your old Florida souvenirs for the exhibit, in particular those that are fun, unique, odd, unusual, bizarre and even rare for our exhibition. Smaller items are preferred; however there is limited space for a few larger items such as T-Shirts, posters, etc.

Here is how you can help:
Step 1: Dig through that old trunk (or office storage file) and dust off your treasure from your favorite Florida attraction.
Step 2: Take a photo of the souvenir and send it to museum@VISITFLORIDA.org along with a brief description of your souvenir
Step 3: Souvenirs will be selected for the exhibit by the end of January 2011.
Step 4: VISIT FLORIDA will contact you with information on how to ship your Florida attraction souvenir to the exhibit.
Step 5: Tell everyone about the exhibit; encourage them to send in any of their old souvenirs.

Your souvenirs will be handled with the greatest of care and will be cataloged and returned at the end of the exhibit in September 2011. David Dodd, Vice President of Visitor Services, will be coordinating the exhibit and any questions you may have on the Florida attraction souvenir exhibit. He can be reached by phone at 850.205.3817.

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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – December 2010

2010-12-16T18:51:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

--According to a recent study, 25% of all Americans who travel (within the US and overseas) do so alone. The travel industry has been slow in recognizing this fact and has continued to base most rates on double occupancy. Some forward thinking companies are now changing to a flat rate (e.g., the hotel room rate is the same for a single or double).

--Most hoteliers understand that loyal guests are important because it costs three to five times as much to attract new guests than to retain existing ones, and because previous guests strongly influence others by “word of mouth”. Companies that have more satisfied guests experience higher guest loyalty, and companies with higher guest loyalty, perform better financially.

--A recent study by Cornell University showed that there are four key performance indicators that particularly affected guests’ evaluations: reservation was accurate, check-in was completed within five minutes, no problems were experienced during the stay, and no billing errors occurred. Guests who experienced all four of these performance indicators were most likely to grant the hotel a top satisfaction rating.

--Another survey stated that the most important amenity for hotel guests today is wireless internet access. (Note: there’s even been a growing backlash against paying for guest-room Wi-Fi at upscale hotels. A number of full-service hotels are starting to offer their VIP guests free WI-Fi or their regular guests a menu of rates for their daily internet access - accessing your email at one price point, and letting you do things like watch movies at another cost.)

-- Hoteliers have lost revenue in recent years from in-room telephone charges and in-room movies. A Chicago Tribune article talked about ways that local hoteliers are trying to substitute for these previous revenue sources. They mentioned spa services, live music venues, adding Sunday brunches, etc. What creative ways have South Florida hoteliers used to supplement income? Are you up selling guests to higher priced options?

--There’s so much info out there about social media, that I don’t usually include anything in these summaries. One item caught my eye -- Hotels that have Facebook pages and Twitter accounts need to publicize this fact within the hotel. Have signs at the check-in desk. Put the symbols on every printed collateral piece in-house (and on marketing materials too; Don’t think I have to say: put the links on your website, but you never know.)

----A new trend in lodging is the small, specialized and unique “boutique” lodging concept. Now, even the big hotel companies are jumping on the band wagon to have a boutique brand concept as part of their property mix. And we’ll be seeing more of this in the future as more chains want to compete.

Around Town – December 2010

2010-12-07T16:37:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and the South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

Congrats to Cindy Malin who was named as Head of Business Development at ME Productions. She will be promoting ME Productions as South Florida's premier event production and destination management company. Cindy previously held positions of
Communications Manager and Marketing Consultant for the Seminole Tribe of Florida; Communications Manager at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau; and assisted SportsMark in providing destination management services to the U.S. Olympics' "Dream Team" and Americans attending the games.

The Miami Beach Convention Center was ranked first on the South Florida Business Journal's list of largest convention and meeting sites, as published Oct. 8th. The Miami Beach Convention Center was first on the list based on its 627,000 square feet of total meeting space. Also in the top 5 are: Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center; Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa, Hollywood; Miami-Dade County Fair Expo Center; The Doubletree Hotel; and the Miami Airport Convention Center. The complete list included 25 convention and meeting sites with contact information.

The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau said 10,000 attendees were at the Jewelers International Showcase, which took place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Oct. 8-11. The event had an estimated $595,700 economic impact.

BizBash reported that the University of Miami celebrated the grand opening of the Robert and Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center in Coral Gables. The 72,000-square-foot building, which houses the university's alumni relations department, can be booked for private events by alumni and non-alums alike. There are six spaces suited for meetings, cocktail parties, dinners, and other special events for groups of 35 to 500.

NCL’s Norwegian Sun, which was based in Miami was moved (in October) to Port Canaveral. NCL had based its biggest ship, the Epic, in Miami this past summer. In fact, the arrival of the Epic helped the Port of Miami breaks its own record for cruise traffic in a fiscal year. The port processed 4,145,053 passengers in the year ended Sept. 30, up from 4,110,100 for the prior year – an increase of 34,953. The July-September quarter was up 10 percent, which coincided with the arrival of the Epic.

After six years at Sawgrass Mills Mall in Sunrise, Wannado City announced it would be closing in the near future.

According to officials at the Fort Lauderdale International Airport: FLL will have 7.7 percent more seating capacity during the first quarter of the 2011. FLL will then be the fastest-growing airport in Florida, and the fourth-fastest-growing airport in the U.S. for capacity. Capacity will begin ramping up in the fall to correspond with the high travel season. There will be an additional 6,200 roundtrip seats a day in January, 2011.

In other FLL airport news/statistics: The airport handled 10.3 percent more passengers in September than it did during the same month last year. FLL grew total passengers to 1.44 million from 1.31 million last year.

From January through September, the airport handled 5.1 percent more passengers than during the same time last year. The rise in September marks 13 straight months of passenger growth, which started in September 2009 after 14 straight months of losses that began in July 2008. Overall, the number of international passengers has grown at a faster percentage rate than domestic passengers this year.

October marked the second month in a row that FLL Airport had double-digit percentage passenger growth. The airport added 164,000 passengers in October, growing 10.7 percent over October 2009, according to airport data. That was the largest percentage gain so far this year, exceeding September’s growth.

In other airline news, American Eagle added two daily non-stops from MIA to Cleveland in November and Delta announced it would begin MIA – Jacksonville service in March 2011.

According to STR (formerly Smith Travel Research): Occupancy and rates grew at local hotels in September, compared to the prior year period. Miami Dade: 59.3 % (up from 52.9); Broward 53.6% (up from 49.5%); Palm Beach 46.4% (up from 44.3%). Occupancy across the U.S. grew to 59.9 %.
Occupancy and rates grew October: Occupancy in Broward County grew to 66.5 % from 60.6 percent in the prior-year period. Occupancy in Miami-Dade grew to 68.2 % from 62.3 %. In Palm Beach County, it grew to 55.1 % from 50.7 %.

Southwest Florida:

According to the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB, lingering misperceptions about the Gulf Coast oil spill continued to cause some risk aversion impacts to visitation to Collier County, according to the September visitation report from Research Data Services. Visitation for September 2010 was down 1.0 percent from September 2009. On the positive side, the economic impact from visitors for the month increased by 1.2 percent to $37,743,323.

Congrats to the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club who received a prestigious honor as it was presented with "The Green to Gold Award" by the Economic Development Council (EDC) of Collier County, Florida, for "best exemplifying green leadership." The award was presented to the Southwest Florida resort during the EDC's "27th Annual Excellence in Industry Awards."

Three Paradise Coast resorts appeared in the Conde Nast Traveler 2010 Readers Choice Top 100 List for Mainland U.S. Large Resorts. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples beach resort is number 14; The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples is number 18; and the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa is number 70 on the list. The designation is reached by surveying readers of Conde Nast Traveler.

The Hawthorn Suites of Naples was honored as the Hotel of the Year for 2010 by the Wyndham Hotel Group. The boutique all suites hotel was honored with the award during a dinner at the Wyndham Hotel Group's global conference in Las Vegas.

The Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) was recently recognized by Airline and Airport News & Analysis with a U.S. Annie Prize 2010 for the "Fastest Growing Airport in the 5 to 10 Million Passenger" category.

The Naples Botanical Garden opened its new cultivated gardens of Asia and Florida and a new water garden on Nov. 13. This marked the final stage of the major redevelopment of Naples Botanical Garden as a new area attraction.

Naples Bay Resort, a Four Diamond property on Florida's Paradise Coast, has announced a special winter spa package ideal for couples looking to refresh, renew and relax. Named Blissful Intervention, included is pampering at Naples Bay Resort's Spa, lounging at the resort's pool complex in a private cabana, lunch poolside, and guest accommodations.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Florida Department of Law Enforcement: Florida Hotel Security Initiative

2010-11-30T11:36:00.003-05:00

(…and just in time for the holidays…Best, Julie Wernick,HSMAInsider)

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are joining together to conduct a Hotel Industry Security Forum on December 2, 2010 in Orlando, Florida. Federal, State, county and local law enforcement will provide our lodging partners in Florida the opportunity to receive information briefings on lodging security threat dynamics and protective measures. It will also provide a great opportunity for the hotel industry in Florida to develop partnerships with government agencies.

If you have properties in Orlando or the State, please share this information with your Loss Prevention Directors and Security Leaders.

Please follow this link for additional details, the official invitation and instructions on how to register: http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Content/BusinesSAFE/Menu/About-BusinesSafe.aspx

For more information contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Office of Domestic Security, P.O. Box 1489 - Tallahassee, FL 32302.

Around Town: The Village at Gulfstream Park

2010-11-19T13:55:00.002-05:00

The holiday season is being kicked off with a “Symphony in Lights” free show at The Village at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale. The show runs from November 20 through December 31st nightly at 6, 7, 8, and 9 pm.

More than 250,000 LED lights strung on trees, buildings, light posts, etc., strobe twinkle, and sparkle. The show is computer programmed and the dancing light effects are choreographed to music. It’s a fun spectacle for kids and adults, alike, and the start of a new holiday tradition.
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The South Florida Hospitality Alliance Industry Holiday Party will be held at The Walking Ring at Gulfstream Park on Tuesday, December 14th from 6 to 9 pm. The event is sponsored by The Village at Gulfstream Park and Gulfstream Racing & Casino. Participating organizations collaborating are: ISES, HSMAI-South Florida, the South Florida Chapter MPI, Site/Florida, and the Association of Wedding Professionals.

Make your reservations now. And, while at the Holiday Party, you can also check out the “Symphony in Lights” show.

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Best wishes for an enjoyable Thanksgiving!
Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Marketing Medley” – October/November 2010

2010-11-15T14:21:00.002-05:00

(Editor’s Note: Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

Every web savvy hoteliers knows that the Internet has changed the way in which customers plan and purchase travel. Hoteliers need to tailor their online marketing strategies to include these initiatives and evolve with changes in the travel purchase process.

It is no longer a question of whether your target markets are engaging with these initiatives or are active on Facebook and Twitter. Statistics show that social media is popular even among the older generation. If you are not reaching the hyper-Interactive traveler, then you are going to quickly lose market share.

Visual imagery is becoming increasingly important on your hotel’s website. The photos need to appeal to the emotional as well as intellectual side of your viewers. Potential visitors need to be able to imagine themselves potentially staying at your hotel. This “bonding” will change viewers to bookers. Photos also need to be able to down loaded fast as website visitors have limited patience.

Positive reviews are an extremely powerful marketing tool. By extending the customer voice across all marketing channels, brands and retailers can drive incredible value from their customers' opinions. In other words, customer input creates great ad copy. (It’s important to respond to negative reviews, but don’t forget to respond to the positive ones, too. Shows you are “paying attention”.)

There are 5 basic ways that travel companies are using social media successfully. These are: 1. Relevant Customer engagement; 2. Crisis Communications (to keep customers informed; avert disasters); 3. Discount Deals; 4. Building Online Communities; and 5. Real Time Monitoring and Responding.

On the other hand:
According to an American Express survey, more than one-third of travelers turned to offline resources, including travel agents, for planning and booking.

According to Fast Company, “live” travel agents deliver service that online travel agents have never been able to replicate much less replace, despite endless claims to the contrary. This is especially true in times of crises (when cancellations occur; weather related problems, etc.).

Trends from the retail sector?
Taking a lead from department store retailers, hoteliers are luring guests by offering “special” private sales that save as much as 60 percent on rooms, to get through the rough times of low occupancies and economic downturns.

And: Coupon sites are now offering discounts on travel. (Any South Florida hoteliers using these effectively?)

Meeting Segment:
As we learned from our recent September 2010 meeting planners’ panel presentation, sustainability and conservation are becoming more important to meeting planners and to attendees. Starwood Hotels has introduced sustainable-meeting guidelines at their properties. The guidelines range from menu choices and bottled water alternatives to using potted plants as centerpieces (instead of cut flowers). In addition a “Meeting Impact Report” will be generated for clients demonstrating the impact of their meetings on the environment.

Personal Service/Quality:
Setting your hotel apart from the crowd has always been a challenge. One way to do this is by providing personal service that can make a visitor want to return. For larger hotels, a concierge can be your number one salesperson. If they provide excellent service, people will remember this and want to come back.

According to SQInsight Hospitality, Guest satisfaction is a direct result of quality. And quality is more important than price in telling hospitality companies apart from one another. Though no agreed definition of what service quality is exists, it is generally accepted that service quality is dependent on guest’s needs and expectations. Guest perceptions can be measured effectively through carefully designed surveys.

Travel Trends/Research:
According to Smith Travel Research, for June, 2010, U.S. hotel occupancy climbed to 65 percent, up 6.9 percent from its levels in June of 2009. Average daily rate increased by 1 percent, and revenue per available room was up 8 percent. Upper hotel tiers increased rates year over year in June, while lower tiers continued to see rates fall.

Research intensity has been increasing steadily. Travelers are consuming more content online before booking a trip. Google has seen a 15 percent increase in site visits and 30 percent increase in search clicks prior to booking.
Over half of business and personal travelers interact with online travel videos in all stages of their travel planning.
Consumers are booking their trips online closer to the travel date.
Travelers are searching more for local, point-of-interest-based information around a destination while planning for and during a trip.

Google has seen a 66 percent growth since 2004 in “Near +” and “Close To +” terms in the Hotels & Accommodations Category on Google.com.

Around The (Travel) Websites: What Consumers Are Reading(?) …

2010-11-05T16:32:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: A collection of items from various sources. Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

In the August “World Tourism Barometer” from the World Tourism Association, global international tourist arrivals grew by 7 percent in the first six months of 2010…Despite the 7 percent growth in the first half of the year, total international tourist arrivals worldwide are still 2 percent below record totals reached in 2008.

TripAdvisor is now featuring special hotel offers by Business Listing subscribers in their weekly emails to more than four million TripAdvisor members who have requested updates on a specific destination and are, therefore, highly targeted potential purchasers.

Smarter Travel Media, a TripAdvisor Media Group company, launched SniqueAway, where a members-only site offer is endorsed by the people. All hotels featured on SniqueAway have earned a minimum four-star rating classification and four out of five review ratings on TripAdvisor. Corresponding hotel reviews are shown alongside limited-time, members-only offers providing a quick view into how other travelers view the hotel making it easy to book a room before they sell out.

TripAdvisor recently suggested “Strip down to your smile on these beaches members recommend”. Haulover Beach Park in Miami was one of the nude beaches featured.

TripAdvisor featured the followed member updates on Fort Lauderdale Hotels in their TripWatch newsletters recently:
Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel: “Fantastic Trip”;
Atlantic Hotel: “Exactly what I needed”;
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort: “The best hotel to stay in Fort Lauderdale”; “bathtubs are amazing”; Premiere Hotel: “Another enjoyable stay”; Pillars at New River Sound: “Definitely gotta go back”; Westin Fort Lauderdale: “Nice one night getaway”;
Harbor Beach Marriot: “fantastic once again”; Westin Beach Resort: “Nice beach resort”; Ramada Airport-Cruiseport: “Service was very good and I would stay at this hotel again”;
Sun Tower Hotel: “Value oceanfront king”; Bahia Mar Beach Resort: “short but enjoyable stay”.

If you book your New York hotel room through Expedia or Orbitz, you may face higher prices. State lawmakers recently passed legislation requiring the booking industry to collect sales tax on lodging. Other states will be watching closely. NY travel agents are fighting these proposed taxes.

HSMAI RECOGNIZES JERRY FABER AT 27TH ANNUAL GALA & CHARITY AUCTION

2010-11-01T15:38:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Below you will find Stacy Fauld’s press release being sent out by the South Florida Chapter regarding the award winners at the annual gala/auction held on Wednesday, October 20th. I've added some underlines and bolding of type.
Congrats to all! Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)
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In a 27-year summertime tradition, the South Florida chapter of the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) welcomed more than 130 South Florida tourism industry members for its annual gala and charity auction, this year benefiting PACE Center for Girls Broward.

A highlight of the event, held at Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six Piertop, was the presentation of the 2010 Hospitality Legend of the Year Award to Jerry Faber, longtime president of Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises and tourism pioneer.

The Hospitality Legend of the Year award is given for outstanding contributions to the local tourism/hospitality industry. Jerry Faber has been an active and enthusiastic tourism supporter over the years, holding leadership roles and board positions with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Marketing Advisory Committee, Beach Council, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Barnett Bank Board of Directors, and many other tourism-related boards and activities. Jerry has generously supported many charitable organizations and presently serves on the Board of Directors for P.A.C.E. Center for Girls. Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and continues to be a Fort Lauderdale tradition.

Other awards presented:
General Manager of the Year: Anthony Franzone, Hilton Hotels Corporation
Revenue Manager of the Year: Chris Crenshaw, Loews Hotel Miami Beach
Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year: Ellen Serra, Comfort Suites Airport & Cruise Port, Fort Lauderdale
HSMAI-South Florida Sponsor of the Year: Jay Guttveg, Creative Focus Photography
HSMAI-South Florida Rising Star on the Board: Donna McCarthy, Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruises
HSMAI-South Florida Lifetime Achievement on the Board: Linda Sue Marsh, Days Inn Bahia Cabana

Around Town – October 2010

2010-10-29T14:50:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items from our industry members and South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Scoop, the HSMAI-South Florida Chapter’s online blog, has just celebrated its third anniversary. Congrats!

Southeast Florida:

Sam Nazarian, founder/CEO of Los Angeles-based SBE, plans a $65 million redevelopment of the (closed) Ritz Plaza Hotel at 1701 Collins Ave. It will reopen in spring 2012 as a boutique hotel called the SLS South Beach, with 142 rooms.

In Fort Lauderdale, B Hotels & Resorts is refurbishing the former Holiday Inn-Sunrise, along the ocean at Sunrise Boulevard, into a 240-room and suite hotel. The Fort Lauderdale hotel, which is expected to open in December, will be the first one for the company.

A new 3.4 million square foot rental car facility opened at MIA in July. It houses 16 rental car companies that were previously scattered around the airport.

The Fontainebleau Miami Beach ranked first in the South Florida Business Journal’s list of largest area hotels. The hotel has 1,504 guest rooms. Other hotels in the top five included: The Boca Raton Resort, The Westin Diplomat (Hollywood), Loews Miami Beach, and the Eden Roc (Miami Beach).

According to Smith Travel Research, for the week ended Oct. 2, occupancy in Miami-Dade County rose to 62.4 percent from 54.4 percent in the prior-year period. Occupancy in Broward County rose to 57.2 percent from 53.4 percent. Occupancy in Palm Beach County rose to 50.7 percent from 45.6 percent. Occupancy across the U.S. rose to 61.2 percent from 55.7 percent.

For the week ending September 18, 2010, occupancy rose last week for South Florida hotels, according to Smith Travel Research. Occupancy in Miami-Dade County rose to 62 percent from 54.9 percent in the prior-year period. Occupancy in Broward County rose to 54.2 percent from 51.1 percent. Occupancy in Palm Beach County rose to 44.1 percent from 42.3 percent. This compares to occupancy rates in the US which rose to 63.5 percent from 59.5 percent.

The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau reported that development taxes increased 11.8 percent in July, to $3.28 million from $2.93 million.

RCL, the world’s second-largest cruise company, reported that revenue for the 3rd quarter improved from1.8 to $2.1 billion.

Palm Beach County hotels have had 10 straight months of occupancy growth and the county leads Florida in percentage of occupancy growth – 11 percent – according to CVB President Jorge Pesquera.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection awarded a $750,000 grant to Port Everglades to cut diesel emissions as part of a federal program. Broward County, which operates the port, is also contributing $510,000. The idea is to reduce emissions from diesel engines which will result in healthier air at the port and surrounding communities.

The Village at Gulfstream Park has announced the arrival of Symphony in Lights, a spectacular, dancing light show choreographed to the holiday music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. More than 250,000 LED lights will be affixed to buildings and trees in The Village at Gulfstream Park’s Champions Plaza. Beginning Saturday, November 20th, the blinking, twinkling computer-animated extravaganza will run through December 31st.

Southwest Florida:

Three Paradise Coast Resorts made the Conde Nast Traveler 2010 Reader's Choice Top 100 list for Mainland U.S. Large Resorts: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples beach resort is number 14; The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, is number 18; and the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort is number 70 on the list.

Naples Grande Beach Resort - The Waldorf Astoria Collection, has been named as the #8 tennis resort in the country by Tennis magazine in an article on The Top 50 Tennis Resorts in the U.S

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau took home two top Henry Awards and was a finalist in an additional four award categories at the annual Flagler Awards, honoring the best in Florida tourism marketing. The CVB won Henry awards in the Mixed Media Campaign and Television categories.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is celebrating its upcoming silver 25th anniversary this coming December. The hotel has made plans for a special anniversary celebration concert featuring John Tesh.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has received the prestigious "Pinnacle Award" from Successful Meetings magazine. This marks the seventh consecutive year the resort has captured Successful Meetings' coveted "Pinnacle Award," considered one of the most prestigious awards in the meetings industry and is given only to those hotels and resorts that represent the highest standards of excellence.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

The Great VISIT FLORIDA Beach Walk – November 6, 2010

2010-10-25T08:04:00.000-04:00

(Editor’s Note: This information was sent from VISIT FLORIDA asking everyone to spread the word. Check with your local CVB to see what your area is doing.
Best, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick.)

VISIT FLORIDA®, the official tourism marketing corporation for the state of Florida, will host the Great VISIT FLORIDA Beach Walk on Saturday, November 6th.

You can find out more at this site: VISITFLORIDA.com/beachwalk.
After a summer of weather and oil scares, it’s time to show the world that Florida’s beaches are as wonderful as ever! Join beach-lovers across the state for this one-day, mile-by-mile beach walk, which will cover all of Florida’s 825 miles of beautiful beaches.

What can you do to get involved?
1) Learn more at VISITFLORIDA.com/BeachWalk
2) Sign up as a volunteer to walk the beach
3) Spread the word to others by inviting friends, family, colleagues and guests
4) If your location is beach-side, offer it as a hub for volunteers to gather before or after their walk – or even host a beach party of your own on Beach Walk Day.

So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes and join your local community for the world’s biggest beach rally, Saturday, November 6th!

Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB Presented their 2011 Marketing Plan – Part 3

2010-10-17T13:18:00.000-04:00

(Editor’s Note: This is the third part of the report – the press release issued by the GFLCVB regarding the marketing plan. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE, October 8, 2010 -- The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau (GFLCVB) unveiled details of its strategic 2011 marketing plan. Targeting a broad range of consumer and trade audiences, the plan utilizes a full arsenal of tools already proven to be highly effective ranging from creative advertising and public relations to innovative use of social networking to a variety of promotions targeting specific geographic and demographic markets.

The 2011 plan is designed to support meetings & conventions groups, multicultural, sports development, tourism and cultural tourism sales, GLBT marketing and the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward Film Commission, which, in April, was transitioned to the GFLCVB in order to maximize efforts to promote the destination as an ideal locale for the film and television industry.

The 2011 marketing plan emphasizes affordable luxury and authenticity reflecting GFL's carefree, water-centric personality. The $3.5 million advertising campaign, encouraging visitors to "find their sunny" through a digital platform embedded in the print advertising and throughout new collateral including the Playbook, Greater Fort Lauderdale's re-invented Vacation Planner for 2011. The plan also focuses more intensely on the mobile world with a mobi site, "Mild to Wild," dedicated to the GLBT market, as well as Blackberry, Droid and iPad-friendly versions of Sunny.org; and continues to play a leadership role in social media communities like Twitter, Facebook, Foursquare, YouTube and Black Planet.

Highlighted initiatives include:
The use of scan tags, a small graphic square resembling a colorful bar code, on all print advertising prompts readers to download a mobile app at http://gettag.mobi, and allows them to scan the tag with their smartphone and instantly view exclusive Greater Fort Lauderdale videos that illustrate how readers can "find their Sunny" via experiences throughout the destination.

Strategic advertising in the DLR train stations in the UK during World Travel Market, one of the largest, most attended International tourism trade shows will be integrated with a text message call to action and a grand prize including a Greater Fort Lauderdale branded Flip Video camcorder.

Continue annual winter blitz in New York City with the highly impactful outdoor NY Times Square Billboard campaign showcasing the warmth of Greater Fort Lauderdale's Blue Wave Beaches and annual 78 degree temps, as well as the Beachmobile making another run throughout Manhattan. Also, new this year, a New York Times advertising campaign including iAds on the New York Times app on iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad with banner ads expanding into full-screen once activated by readers.

The always popular Beachmobile will also tour Toronto during the well-attended Santa Claus Parade and Chicago during a holiday trade show.

Innovative advertising in new arenas including on iPad, as well as Pandora with a LauderTunes Playlist.

Participating in a VISIT FLORIDA/American Express Florida Travel & Life 30-minute television and web episode.

Expansion of the bridal and weddings marketing including a dedicated webpage, GFLCVB wedding specialist to assist brides with information and booking destination weddings, as well as a social media presence with tips on Facebook for couples considering a destination wedding in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Greater Fort Lauderdale launches its 2011 marketing plans from a position of strength, optimistic about the future. Year-end statistics for 2009 indicate that the destination exceeded both national and Florida averages for hotel occupancies and average daily hotel rates (ADR). Year to date bed tax collections (Jan-June, 2010) are up 7.7%. Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, which serviced over 21 million passengers in 2009, recorded its 11th consecutive month of positive growth in total passenger traffic this past July. International traffic was up 11% over July last year. In addition, FLL has been ranked 7th among the top US airports and first in the state of Florida. And, Port Everglades continues on its course to become the world's busiest cruise embarkation port. By the end of this year, it will be home to the two largest ships in the world as well as several other major additions to the North American cruise fleet.

Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB Presented their 2011 Marketing Plan – Part 2

2010-10-15T15:11:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: This is the second part of the report; Part 3 to come. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.)

On the back of the program (and menu) for the presentation by the Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, there was a list of “to do” items. Here are some of the key ones, in shortened form.

Save the Dates:

--Tuesday, November 9th: The 2010 Broward County Sports Hall of Fame;
--December 2nd: The 2010 Sunsational Service Courtesy Awards.

Nominate:

--Before October 18th, vote for Fort Lauderdale as the “Best US Destination” on TripOutGayTravel.com/awards.
--Vote for front line employees who go above and beyond for a Sunsational Courtesy award at sunny.org/nominate

Send In Info:

--The CVB is promoting special hotel, attraction, and restaurant offers on LauderDeals as well as pre and post offers on Cruise and Play. Send package info to: jflippen@broward.org

--Holiday specials and events should be sent to jtaylor@broward.org

Keep up with Social Media Outlets:

--Become a Facebook fan; post pictures, make comments, etc. http://faceboook.com/VisitLauderdale

--Download the free app to your Smartphone for a Mobile Tag (i4’s can use http://gettag.mobi; older 3’s can go to your app store and search for mobile tags and choose a free one from Microsoft, e.g.) You will be seeing more and more of these Mobile Tags in The CVB’s ads and in various print media.

--Make sure your business is listed on Foursquare which can be used to engage your mobile customers. Update descriptions (and see if your venue is listed) by going to http://foursquare.com/businesses. The CVB has a presence at foursquare.com/users/VisitLauderdale with consumer tips, etc.

--Update your info at the sunny.org/listing online site. Log onto the CVB’s Partner Extranet and edit your Meeting Planners Guide and Visitors Guide info. Hoteliers can follow the step-by-step guide at sunny.org/hotelpartnerlogin

Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB Presented their 2011 Marketing Plan – Part 1

2010-10-11T10:25:00.001-04:00

At a luncheon on October 7th at the Broward County Convention Center, the CVB provided information about next year’s marketing plan. Instead of the usual speeches, a panel of CVB staff, and representatives from their PR and Advertising agencies answered a series of questions. First, we were welcomed by Carlos Molinet, filling in for Nicki Grossman, President. The panel was moderated by Wil Shriner, who in a funny and comical way provided topical comments, adding to (what many attendees said) was the best format and luncheon program given by the CVB in quite a few years.

The panel included: John Webb, Sr. VP; Alfredo Gonzalez, VP Tourism & International Business; Albert Tucker, VP Multicultural Business Development; Christine Tascione, VP Convention & Group Sales; Virginia Sheridan, President, M Silver Associates; and Lisa Hoffman, Group Account Director, Starmark International.

As always, different items will stand out to different people as what is important to you, your hotel, and/or your company. Here are some selected remarks made by the panel:

Regarding the various markets:
In general, the meetings market will be focused on Associations; The theme: “meetings with a view” will be the key line. In addition to their primary markets they will be developing new (2nd/3rd) markets during their sales missions; a new area will be destination weddings including milestone celebrations.
Historically, the sports market has been good for our area and they are now seeing some “come back”.
The multicultural market is all about developing relationships. The focus will be on reunions, group business, and Caribbean growth.
In the International market, it’s generally easier for visitors to get here (new Scandinavian service coming soon); our product is excellent with luxury hotels that appeal to this market. Canadian business has been improving and additional flights have been added. In addition, local promotions like the “Travel like a VIP”, “Spa Chic”, and Dine Out programs were created to tap into the local/in-state Florida markets. The growth of the cruise market is one of the key events due to the new ships in Port Everglades (and new this fall).They are working with the airlines to expand their midweek service so hotels can be filled pre-cruise.

On the Public Relations side, they are working to support the actions of the marketing people. For the focus for 2011, they have 3 big platforms: Destination Transformation – new hotels; The Amount of Things to Do – very large number; big variety; and Value & Convenience – No hassle; easy to get here; easy to get around. It’s affordable; low fees for expenditures (compared to other locations). Regarding the markets – Meetings: Selling the Convention Center; our service culture; great vendor support; Sunsational service; Convenient Airport; Geographically: New York is still the number one geographic pull and the center for media is there; The message? We were, are, and will be free of oil.
Canada is coming back due to the exchange rate; they will be targeting the younger generation in Canada. This year the Film Commission is now in the CVB offices.

The CVB was a pioneer (and is now a leader) in the social marketing area: On FB, Twitter, Flickr, the Beach webcams, etc.
On the Advertising side, it was noted that technology has changed our industry and is changing so quickly. It is important to be able to bring the destination to people instantly. Scan tags and Four Square are being used more frequently and more effectively. Facebook is allowing for two way conversations. They are working on cooperative advertising using mobile ads on iphone apps. The film commission theme: Blue Boulevards to Concrete Jungles. The GLBT theme: “Mild to Wild”; The consumer campaign theme: “Find Your Sunny”.

Editor’s Note: The next blog post will include some of their “things to do”. Part 3 will be their press release with market plan highlights.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

September 15, 2010 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2010-10-05T11:56:00.002-04:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.

What a nice turn out for the Chapter’s breakfast meeting at the Hilton – Fort Lauderdale Marina on SE 17th Street. In attendance, in addition to our members and colleagues, there were members of MPI and GMIC. Karen Smith, Meetings Media, was the moderator of a Meeting Planners Panel that included: Dahlton Bennington, Business Meeting Services, SFM Group (formerly Spherion); Katherine Manfredi, Sr. Director of Events, Strategic Event Management; Victoria Ascione, Director, Corporate Meetings & Events, Bacardi; and Joost de Meyer, Owner, First Incentive Travel.

As always, there will be different things that people will remember from a presentation that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes.

In general the panel discussed issues facing meeting planners, what was on their minds, and what questions the attendees might have to assist them in working with meeting planners. It was noted that in the last 2 years, the meetings industry has really banded together to recognize the value of the industry. Meetings are responsible for creating $240 billion dollars in spending and 1 million American jobs.

What is the future of the meetings industry? Is business back? Are people starting to book?
It seems inbound international meetings are facing a tough year due to the European economy (the value of the Euro; Visa problems, etc.); However, outbound incentive travel is beginning to grow, although stays are mainly within the US or closer to the US (Caribbean). People seem to be booking – it’s growing, it’s coming back, but still lean and more last minute (shorter lead times, i.e. 3 – 6 months out) with lower budgets. It was suggested that hoteliers focus their marketing efforts during a company’s Quarter ends before their budgets expire or are used up for that time period.

What are the trends?
Hotels have less sales people for meeting planners to work with. It’s even more important for hotel websites to have the information planners need to work with, such as: function sheets, property maps, meeting room specs, photos they can copy and download, green initiatives, etc. In addition, BEO’s should be very specific so that anyone of any level can understand them and that it’s all written down on paper. Hoteliers need to show that they understand their customers and their expectations. Suggestion: Get input from a meeting professionals advisory panel – have them do a critique on the design of your website.

How important are “green” meetings? Hotels will have a competitive edge if they are green and provide this information to planners (even if they don’t ask for it). There are ways to do this with little or no cost. It is increasingly important to guests and meeting attendees. It was suggested that there be a part of an hotelier’s website that list this information so that it can be copied and pasted into a meeting program.

How important is CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility)? Giving back/doing good?
This trend is becoming an increasingly important part of meetings -- making for great team building and satisfaction. This is also a great chance for hotels to put these plans together in advance and offer them as optional CSR programs to a meeting planner. Hotel partners can even become involved in the activity, increasing their visibility in their own community for good deeds, using this as information in press releases.

What is the value of a face to face meeting? It has been shown that corporate meetings drive sales performance. They are strategic motivators for sales. A recent survey stated that a company would lose 17% of its profits if it eliminated business travel. $39 billion dollars in tax revenue (for the federal government) comes from business travel. MPI has some great stats on the value of meetings. Incentive meetings have been studied as well. They’ve looked at incentive programs financially from year to year in relation to revenue. They’ve assessed the impact of retaining staff, the cost of training, and re-training; reviewed the value of incentive programs to hotels and to a destination dollar wise, and to all the side companies that benefit. Hoteliers should make sure to do some sort of “feed back form” after every event and meeting to gather facts and figures.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

PS Just a reminder to send in your industry news/updates for the “Around Town” Column for the chapter’s blog to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

Marketing Medley - August/September 2010

2010-09-09T10:59:00.002-04:00

(Editor's Note: Here are some recent trends, stats, and hospitality marketing "hints" collected from various websites, press releases, etc. Best, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Finding the perfect rate to achieve larger revenue gains is an hotelier’s biggest challenge. The key is to have a flexible strategy and use accurate forecasts, consider market prices, and know which consumers are in your market. Hotels can no longer set just one rate and that’s it. Factors change – sometimes even daily!

The price elasticity of hotel rooms is generally high. So if you set a rate slightly lower than your “comp set”, you may achieve a significantly higher occupancy that other hotels in that “set”. This is a way that hotels, especially luxury ones, can reach a different segment of customers who are increasingly looking for “value” and/or are taking advantage of upscale bargains.

This summer, rates were almost what it was last summer and with a few more restrictions. Hotel seemed to be offering low rates as opposed to deals.

In June, a USAToday/Gallup Poll noted that 27% of Americans said they will travel less this year (compared to last year); 18% said they’ll travel more.

And a US Travel Association survey said more consumers are ready to take a break from home (this summer) – with 2.3% more vacation travel expected. Even though travel will not reach levels of 2006 or 2007, it will still improve.

A survey by Smith Travel Research projected overall occupancy this year to increase 3.6% (to 56.7%); ADR to end the year flat; and Revenue per daily room to rise 3% in the US (to $55.13). The luxury chains will be the best performers of the chains for REVPAR growth according to their survey results.

Lodging forecasts by Pricewaterhouse suggested moderate “recovery of demand” and the ability to increase room rates returning in 2011.

According to Travel Market Report, it is an unspoken fact that travel agents favor hotels where they know the GM or the Sales Manager. They feel this ensures that their clients will be treated well. The importance of maintaining a personal relationship with retail travel agents will be reciprocated 4 or 5 times over. This can be done via individual emails, responding to special requests, meeting the agents, etc. It was noted that happy repeat customers usually spend more money on their second trip to your property.

A recent study by SRI International showed that more than 80% of consumers are at least “very interested” in improving their personal wellness. The $2 trillion global market for spa travel and “well being” is only expected to get larger.What is a consumer most likely to do? Exercise, eat better, and visit a spa. Astute hoteliers can take advantage of these trends.

An Amadeus report noted that the relationship between guests and hotels is becoming more complex as guest knowledge and expectations increase.

Not sure if these trends translate “across the pond”, but a recent survey of business travelers in England showed that 86% of them would prefer to spend a night in a hotel rather than stay at home before an early meeting. They saw hotels as a place to get work done with minimal distractions, and to relax away from office distractions. Hotels can capitalize on these trends by giving business travelers the right location with the latest technology and the right environment to both relax and work.

Around Town - August/September 2010

2010-09-03T12:31:00.002-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items happening recently “Around Town” from our industry members and South Florida community. HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick)

Southeast Florida:

The Bahia Cabana Resort is running a special “Sun Note” package through September. The 2-night package includes an efficiency room, dinner for two with wine, kids eat free (under 12), water taxi passes, late checkout, etc.

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino recently topped off their 9-story garage which will provide 3,000 additional parking spaces. Nice to be popular!

Congratulations to:
--Susan Dennen on her “new” job with the Holiday Inn – Juno Beach; Congrats to: Scott Snipes, General Manager, and Joe Kramer, DOSM, newly appointed to the Weston Hyatt Regency Bonaventure.

--Belated congrats to the newly installed South Florida MPI Board including Christine Tascione (Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB) as the “new” President for 2010-2011;And to the South Florida ISES chapter on their installation of their Board including “new” President, Vanessa Goyanes.
--And congrats, too, to: Port Everglades Director Phil Allen who was elected the chairman of the Florida Ports Council.

-- And to: Andreas Ioannou who was promoted as General Manager of both the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and Gallery One. He is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of Gallery One in addition to continuing his role as General Manager of the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort.

According to Smith Travel Research, the first half of 2010 in Broward had a 70.9% occupancy, representing a +7.5% from last year; Palm Beach was at 67.6% (up 10.9%); Miami-Dade was at 73% (up 8.1%). The average daily room rate was down in Broward 2.6%; up in Palm Beach slightly, 1.1%, and in Miami-Dade up 2.8%.

Hotel occupancy across South Florida rose in July, according to data from Smith Travel Research. Palm Beach County had the biggest gain in occupancy, to 62.1 percent from 53.2 percent in the prior-year period. Occupancy in Broward grew to 63.7 percent from 59.9 percent. Occupancy in Miami-Dade grew to 67.9 percent from 64.1 percent.

Greater Fort Lauderdale's popular Lauderdale Spa Chic promotion which began on August 15 runs through September 30, 2010. Now in its third year, Lauderdale Spa Chic program features innovative treatments and therapeutic spa experiences at some of the top resort and day spas throughout the destination for just $99, a savings of up to 50 percent. Many participating resorts are also offering special packages and rates in conjunction with a Spa Chic stay, allowing visitors to take advantage of the great benefits of the promotion physically, psychologically, financially and socially.

The North American cruise line industry generated a $35.1 billion economic impact last year, according to a new study commissioned the Cruise Lines International Association (which is based in Fort Lauderdale). This number was down 12.8 percent. Net capacity (available bed days) among CLIA members in 2009 rose 3.8 percent, and average capacity utilization was 104.6 percent for the year. On the other hand, total gross revenue declined by 11.4 percent, a CLIA press release said.

Southwest Florida:

Congrats to Darlene Boyle of the Hilton Naples who recently received the Spirit of Hilton Award - Hilton's most prestigious award. The Spirit of Hilton is awarded by Hilton Corporation, and nominations are submitted from more than 500 hotels nationwide.

Congrats to: Tony Marino, of The Marino Group transportation company, who has been named to the board of the National Limousine Association.

Congratulations to The Ritz-Carlton, Naples and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples for making the Travel + Leisure Top U.S./Canada resorts list.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club recently celebrated the opening of its all-new $5 million beachfront pool complex, as well as the completion of the multi-million dollar renovation and remodeling of its guest rooms and suites, at a VIP Poolside Reception.

The Vanderbilt Beach Resort is offering a great price on an all inclusive fly fishing package. The special package includes: a ¾-day charter with Capt. Bill Baldus of Fly Fishing the 10,000 Islands, with all fly tackle, licenses and lunches, beachfront resort accommodations double occupancy for 2nights as well as a food credit voucher for two dinners and complimentary cocktails.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

August 18, 2010 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap

2010-08-18T15:57:00.001-04:00

“Table of Eight” – Our occasional column with comments about Chapter events.

What a nice turn out today for the Chapter’s meeting at the Hollywood Beach Marriott Resort. Will Seccombe, VISIT FLORIDA Chief Marketing Officer, discussed the state's marketing plans, the Gulf oil spill's impact on Florida tourism, and VISIT FLORIDA efforts to combat the resulting negative publicity.(FYI, Will noted that he is a long time member of HSMAI and congratulated our Chapter for being such an active one.)

Saw Hal Herman (Worth/Recommend), long time tourism guru, who I hadn’t seen since last year’s Governor’s Conference; a number of current and past members of the HSMAI-South FL Board; Sandy Mukitarian from the Palm Beach CVB; Judy Erickson with the Hollywood Office of Tourism. All parts of South Florida were in attendance! It’s always great, as well, to see (and meet) a number of “new” people in attendance. Congrats to Susan Dennen on her new position with the Holiday Inn in Juno Beach; and to Brian Hogge, now celebrating his 7th month in the tourism/hospitality industry. Wonderful to hear that tourism pioneer, Jerry Faber (Jungle Queen) will be honored at the Hospitality Awards Gala as Hospitality Legend of the Year come October 20th. Wish I could list everyone I spoke with…

As always, with a presentation, there will be different things that people will remember that may apply to their specific hotel/company. But here are a few key points from my notes:

The Oil Spill – Why should you care? We became even more aware of the fragility of our product. Our state’s growth stalled. The confidence of the consumer in booking a Florida vacation went down. (Amazingly, 6% of those out there thought there was oil in Jacksonville!) So, if consumers are going to be concerned, how do we address this? How do we reach them? 90% of Americans were getting their news about the oil spill on TV. A handout of a chronological calendar of the VISIT FLORIDA “Deepwater Horizon Crisis Response” outlined the large number of activities that were put into effect since the beginning of May.

There were 5 key response elements by VISIT FLORIDA to the Spill: 1. Info Platform; 2.Advertising Campaign (open for biz) 3.PR/Earned Media 4. Industry Outreach and 5.Crisis Assessment & Planning.

They began “Florida Live” on May 11th. They wanted to be open and operate it in real time. They used live web cams around the state, Google maps, and posting of real time photos by Floridians. Over 2000 photos were shared by Florida residents. They initiated the “Share A Little Sunshine” campaign – where photos could be posted on Facebook, and then streamed into the Florida Live sites. Later on they added Video, Blogs, and more photos.

In Paid Advertising they set up tags for partners, they created 900 impressions in the marketplace. In Earned Media, they promoted Memorial Day. They set up a Fishing Co/op with e-blasts, fishingcapital.com, as well as adding this info on Florida Live TV starting August 1st. Will noted that visitflorida.com is the most visited destination website in the U.S. There was a 46% increase in visitors to the site comparing June of this year to last year.

What’s ahead? Moving forward, the state is still surveying Americans every 3 weeks to test the markets --.to see if their advertising has been invested wisely/if it’s working. Unfortunately, there is still misinformation out there (“10% of Americans may pause when considering Florida for a vacation.”) On the positive side, the 2011/12 marketing plan has been approved. In the “Social” area, there will be more blogging, twittering, and Facebook activities. Two more “insiders” have been added this year. Partners can now link their websites to VISIT FLORIDA’s site. In the near future, a mobile version of Visitflorida.com is being launched. They are now allowing anyone in the tourism industry to be on their website for free (not just partners). They are encouraging everyone to sign up at visitflorida.org. They will continue to offer real content on a regular basis in a relevant manner. They have increased coop marketing opportunities. And they are encouraging everyone to increase the reach of the “Share A Little Sunshine” program.
(If you haven’t done so already, please pull this video and post it on your Facebook and your company’s website and ask others to do so as well. Send “postcards” to out of state friends and invite them to Florida. You can get the link at:
Sharealittlesunshine.com)

Next month, the HSMAI-South Florida Chapter is hosting their Meeting Planners Panel program. This year, it will be a breakfast meeting on September 15th. Information and registration will be posted on the Chapter’s website at www.hsmaisouthflorida.org
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

PS Just a reminder to send in your news/updates for the “Around Town” Column for the chapter blog to jwfranklin1@gmail.com.

Around The (Travel) Websites: What Consumers Are Reading …

2010-08-10T10:23:00.001-04:00

(A collection of items from various sources... Editor’s Note JWF)

Orbitz is offering a summer hotel sale where travelers who book a hotel get two coupons worth up to $300 for future travel.

Expedia has opened a website for gay travel featuring “welcoming” hotels. In partnership with the Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, it features 10 domestic destinations (including South Florida) and 5 international ones.

Expedia research shows that 16 percent of people worldwide book online on a Monday (the most popular day). Sunday is the “quietest” day for bookings.

Priceline reports a 52.5% gross travel bookings increase for the first quarter of this year, 2010.

Priceline has a new “Big Deal Guarantee” offering a $25 “bounty” to hotel customers who find a lower price (than what they paid) for their reservations through Priceline.

TripAdvisor launched TripAdvisor for Business, a new “B2B” marketing division.
They have also started a new free iphone app to access reviews which can be sorted by rating, distance, and price and can also send reviews from the road.

TripAdvisor was started in 2000. Now, ten years later, they have launched Trip Friends where people can get advice (through Facebook) from friends who have previously visited a destination.

Fort Lauderdale Hotels, featured recently on TripAdvisor, include:
The Lago Mar (“Way more than I expected”);
Embassy Suites (“Best part of the trip”);
W Hotel (“Best W Hotel stay ever – pleasantly surprised”).

Fodor’s article on “Best US Road trips – 4 Great Drives” featured US Route 1. In their best sights along the route, they included the Florida Everglades and the Overseas Highway to the Keys.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider. (July/August, 2010)
Reminder to send news to: jwfranklin1@gmail.com

“Marketing Medley” – July 2010

2010-07-26T10:29:00.000-04:00

Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc. (Editor’s Note: JWF)

--Hoteliers should have a plan to counteract negative comments on social media websites by cultivating customer advocates. If you can find supporters in your “fan base”, they will respond on your behalf and will appear more credible in the marketplace.

--In these economic times, most hoteliers are accepting anyone who wants to book with them. From a revenue management standpoint, the key is to figure out what is the optimal price to quote to maximize your chances of getting the booking. Trends show that due to lower costs and data availability more people are turning to automated computer programs to figure out at what point more discounting won’t stimulate more demand.

--A new trend is for hoteliers to identify the guest names of online reviewers by matching locations, dates, usernames, and loyalty programs. Hoteliers can then reward positive reviews with perks (on the next stay, for example) or send the reviewer an apology or invitation for a future free stay.

--Smith Travel Research says that economic recovery (occupancy and revenue per room) is stronger in luxury hotels than in other segments of the domestic hotel industry. (Of course, this might be related to the fact that luxury hotels were also hit the hardest by the recession.)

--More hoteliers are spending money to ensure that their hotel rooms are fully-equipped for more tech-savvy guests. Other hotel chains are working to make sure that reliable, high-speed wireless internet access is a basic quality service.

--Travel Market Report indicated that booking windows have changed. Travel agents are seeing mostly bookings within 90 days of travel or very long-term bookings for travel a year or more in the future. Most agents reported very few bookings in between.(What percentage of your hotels are still booked by TA’s?)

--Two Holiday Inns are testing out a program whereby guests download an application to their smart phones. This enables them to open their room door by holding their phone to a sensor and would eliminate the need for keycards.

--Trump Hotels has customized their Facebook page to allow viewers who are interested to book right from that site. They have added a booking “widget” for convenience and to take advantage of potential hotel guests who are using social media more.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Around Town” Column – June 2010

2010-07-02T12:54:00.002-04:00

Editor’s Note: Here’s a collection of newsworthy items happening recently “Around Town” from our industry members and South Florida community. JWF

Southeast Florida:

Jay H. Guttveg has been awarded the prestigious South Florida Meeting Professionals International (SFMPI) 2009-2010 "Supplier of the Year" Award.
In MPI, he has held various committee and VP positions, most recently as VP of Leadership Development (2009/10). This year he will serve as VP of Administration (2010/2011). In addition, Jay is currently serving on our HSMAI-South Florida Board as our “official” photographer and on our Communications Committee. Congrats, Jay!

Wayne Gales, DOS for Embassy Suites Deerfield Beach and a member of the GFLCVB’s Marketing Advisory Committee, is also an author. His new novel “Doorstop on A Houseboat in Key West” has received great reader feedback. He will have his first book signing at the Doubletree Grand Key Resort in Key West on Wednesday, July 21. If you’re in the neighborhood, drop by. For more info and a sample chapter, visit his website at: http://www.keywestdoorstop.com/

The GFLCVB is promoting: “VACATION LIKE A V.I.P. IN GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE THIS SUMMER”. They are highlighting major savings, innovative packages, and indulgent extras. Consumers are directed to visit www.sunny.org/VIP for their "Vacation like a V.I.P." card and dozens of "two for one" offers from luxury spas and championship golf to Scuba diving, kayaking, and cultural events, to museums, unique attractions, etc. If they
book a value-packed hotel vacation package with JetBlue Getaways (it started 6/16) June 16 at www.jetblue.com/vacations, they will receive a free, customized "Beach Chic" vacation starter kit complete with beach towel, flip-flops, beach ball; a "Vacation Like a V.I.P" card; a $25 travel credit per booking for future travel, plus exclusive free room upgrades and much more at participating hotels. The GFL’s Lauderdale Luxe Collection of properties group include The Atlantic Hotel; Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa; Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort; Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina; Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa; Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six Resort & Spa; Lago Mar Resort & Club; The Pillars at New River Sound; The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale; Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino; W Fort Lauderdale; The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale; and The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa.

The Holiday Park Hotel & Suites in Deerfield Beach is facing foreclosure according to an article in South Florida Business Journal.

The Fairmont at Turnberry Isle will be the site of Taste of the Nation-Miami on Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 7 pm.

In February, Myles Chefetz, owner of restaurant Prime One Twelve opened the 14-room Prime Hotel adjacent to his eatery in Miami Beach's South of Fifth neighborhood. The first floor of the hotel is a lounge extension of the restaurant's dining room. Each guest room has views of the ocean or South Beach, a private balcony, an iPod dock, high-speed wireless Internet, and a 46-inch flat-screen TV. There are also fold-out desks that can accommodate six for a meeting or private dining experience.

The Daddy O Hotel opened in March, just blocks from the Bal Harbour Shops. The 46-room property has been renovated since its days as the Bay Harbour Inn & Suites hotel and now boasts Wi-Fi, bamboo floors, and Skype phones in each room.

VISIT FLORIDA is planning for the 30th Annual Florida Encounter to be held at the Fontainebleau on Miami Beach, November 14 – 17th. Florida Encounter is the premier appointment-based tradeshow showcasing all the Sunshine State has to offer meeting and incentive professional. Florida suppliers, have you reserved your booth already? Space is filling up fast. Go to FloridaEncounter.com to reserve yours. Also, there are available sponsorship opportunities and an overview on their website.

Southwest Florida:

The Paradise Coast (Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB) is promoting “Find Your Summer Paradise”. This promotion offers visitors dozens of ways to save during a trip including resort credits, low nightly rates, free golf, fabulous packages and more. On top of listing great deals, discover the Summer Fun Guide and the Days of Summer events calendar, along with the VIP - Value in Paradise card is offering thousands in savings at shops, restaurants, tours and attractions.

Dolphin Transportation Specialists of Naples has unveiled a new trolley voyage, The Historic Naples Trolley Tour, which takes passengers from Baron's cattle drives and Flagler's raw conquest of the Everglades to Glen Sample's dogged creation of Port Royal, the area's first enclave of the rich and famous.

Marco Beach Ocean Resort announced the completion of the resort's renovation project of the guest suites, corridors, fitness center and lobby. Each of the resort's 98 suites received a full makeover, including new décor, new suite and patio furniture, i-Pod docking station, flat-screen LCD televisions and wireless internet technology. Additionally, new state-of-the-art exercise equipment has been installed in the Resort's Fitness Center. The resort has also been named to the Florida Green Lodging Program by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club recently completed its all-new $5 million beachfront pool complex. The new pool area features two new whirlpools, a new pool bar with food service, new restrooms, new locker facilities and a new pool shop. The pool renovation is on the heels of the multi-million dollar renovation and remodeling of the hotel's guest rooms and suites in January. The club is offering two incentive offers to groups for meetings or programs booked and held by Dec. 31, 2010. The "Check In Meeting Offer" enables groups to receive up to $5,000 toward their program at the club. Additionally, the "Meeting Stimulus Package" includes no attrition for qualified meetings, free daily meeting room rental, a complimentary afternoon break, one complimentary guest room for every 25 paid, free entrance for attendees to the fitness center (with use of the exercise room, whirlpool, sauna and steam room), free wireless Internet access in all guestrooms, 25 percent off audio/visual services and 25 percent off golf greens fees.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Table of 8” – June 16, 2010

2010-07-01T17:41:00.001-04:00

The HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s June meeting was held recently at the Wyndham in Boca Raton, FL. A small, but enthusiastic, contingent was in attendance to hear David Atkins, Principal, Digital DNA Infusion, and the current Chair of the HSMAI-Board of the Americas, speak on Social Media and How it Impacts Revenue Management.

It was so nice to see some “old” friends as well as a lot of new faces in attendance. The Wyndham did a lovely job of hosting the event including a delicious dinner.

As ever, we all learned many things from the presentation, but here are just a few things that stuck in my mind. David covered the four types of social media (Review Sites, Photo Sharing, Video Sharing, and Blogs) and discussed the strategies for each of them. He noted that 1/3 to ½ of all purchase decisions are influenced by social media. In leisure travel planning, the second most important, influential feature is the use of photography. (Use PHOTOS!).

Another key item was to make sure you stimulate those customers who have had a positive experience at your hotel/with your company, to write a review – to talk about their good times. David explained ways to accomplish this.

The full presentation and some additional data details are available at digintaldnainfusion.com/southfljune2010. It also will be posted on the HSMAI-South Florida website (hsmaisouthflorida.org) under resources in the very near future.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Gulf Oil Spill Weekly Update from VISIT FLORIDA

2010-07-01T16:46:00.001-04:00

(Editor’s Note: Most of you have already signed up to receive this info directly, however, just in case, am reprinting this last update in the HSMAI blog for you to do so. JWF)

VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO, Chris Thompson, participated in a number of media interviews this week including USA Today, Associated Press, Collective Travel Radio, Gannett, Sunshine State News, Capital News Service, and WTXL-TV in Tallahassee. In addition, he participated in the Governor's Economic Task Force working group on Communications and attended the BP Claims Process working group meeting.

Chief Marketing Officer, Will Seccombe, addressed the Florida Association of Broadcasters during their annual meeting and highlighted the "Share a Little Sunshine" campaign. He also participated in a CNN panel discussion on the impact of the oil spill on tourism.

In this week's Florida Live TV, Kevin Mims traveled to Blackwater River, Navarre Beach, Destin, Blountstown, St. Andrews State Park, Monticello, Topsail Hill and Sandestin. He posted nine videos, several blogs posts and 100 images on Flickr. Consumer response has been outstanding with this week's videos receiving more than 4,500 views. Since launch on June 1, Florida Live TV videos have received more than 17,000 views on YouTube. See for yourself at Florida Live.

Travel Leaders, the largest travel agency franchisor in North America, promoted Florida Live to its network of 370 travel agents via its Network News, Results and Daily News internal publications. In addition, they featured a special Florida newsfeed on their Twitter and Facebook pages. We are currently reaching out to other travel trade organizations to encourage similar campaigns.

Current advertising efforts have increased traffic to VISITFLORIDA.com so much that we are seeing the largest audience numbers ever recorded on the site. Over the last five months, the site has averaged more than 500,000 visitors per month.
Together with FRLA, VISIT FLORIDA sponsored a full page, four-color ad promoting Florida's beaches in yesterday's edition of the New York Times. The "Florida is Open for Business" ad drove readers to Florida Live at VISITFLORIDA.com to, "find live beach cams, up-to-the-minute local updates, daily video, great deals, live weather and real photos of real people enjoying the Sunshine State right now. " A companion advertorial emphasized that, "most of Florida's coast is completely unaffected by the spill" and "all those unique attractions that have made Florida our country's vacation capital remain as compelling as ever." Both pages feature photographs of great Florida destinations and vacation activities.

This week, print, online and broadcast reports supported by the work of our team generated 466 million impressions from media outlets that included, among others, CNN, CNBC and CBS News. VISIT FLORIDA is now sending regular updates to our PR counterparts at DMOs and tourism related businesses, keeping them informed of our crisis response.

VISIT FLORIDA was recently honored as the first statewide destination marketing organization (DMO) to achieve international accreditation through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) with Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI). The accreditation recognizes our excellence in best practices and leadership among statewide DMOs. These are the best practices that will help carry us through this oil spill crisis.

We held an all-industry webinar yesterday where Chris Thompson, President and CEO gave an update on the Deepwater Horizon Response Campaign and Florida Live. He also spoke about our consumer research efforts, as well as our evolving Hurricane Preparedness Plan as it relates to the oil spill. We answered questions from several of the 298 participants. If you weren't able to join us, a recorded version of the webinar is available on VISITFLORIDA.org.

RESOURCES

We will continue to post daily information to www.SunshineMatters.org and encourage you to sign up to receive e-mail alerts when new posts are added.

Copyright 2010 VISIT FLORIDA® 2540 W. Executive Center Circle, Ste. 200; Tallahassee, FL 32301 850-488-5607

Around The (Travel) Websites: What Consumers Are Reading …

2010-06-16T11:35:00.002-04:00

Wish in Miami Beach was number seven on Trip Advisor’s Top Ten Romantic Restaurants in U.S. List.

Fort Lauderdale’s Lago Mar Resort, the Premier Hotel, and La Quinta Cypress Creek Inn received very good customer reviews in Trip Advisor. Majestic Hotel (Miami/South Beach) listed under negative hotel stories.

Trip Advisor’s “Travelers’ Choice 2010” Awards showed Sanibel as # 6 and Sarasota as #7 in the “Top 10 Beaches and Sun Destinations in the U.S.” category. In the “Top Nightlife Destinations in the U.S.”, Miami Beach placed at number seven.

Trip Advisor launched TripWow whereby travelers can easily put together a free travel slideshow (video) of their vacation photos. These shows can be embedded in blogs, etc. and/or shared via various social networking sites.

Google now offers live hotel rates on its popular map services.

The Fodor’s “Choice Gold Awards 2010” nominated these local hotels in the following categories -- In the “Best Design Hotels”: The Delano (Miami Beach), Fontainebleau (Miami Beach); In “Best Hotels for Kids and Families”: The Acqualina Resort (Miami Beach);
In “Best Hotel Pools”: The National (Miami Beach); in “Best Urban Escapes”: The Four Seasons Hotel (Miami).

Conde Nast Traveler’s Concierge.com World Beat featured an article (from men.style.com) on the “Worlds Best Hotel Design Details in Design and Architecture”. The article mentioned the Raleigh in South Beach for its coral pink stag filament motif light bulbs and featured the 12-foot steel black staircase at the Mondrian Hotel in South Beach.

Conde Nast’s “2010 World’s Sexiest Beach Hotels” category featured the W Fort Lauderdale. Considering most of the other nominees were in exotic locations, this was quite an honor.

Conde Nast’s “Hot List Hotels 2010” included 134 hotels worldwide that debuted in the last year and showed hotel “innovation, stylish service, technology and transporting aura.” Of the 134, 3 were in South Florida: The Betsey (Miami Beach), The Seagate (Delray Beach), and the W South Beach (Miami Beach).

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider. (June, 2010)
Send news to: jwfranklin1@gmail.com

“Marketing Medley” – May/June 2010

2010-06-07T12:49:00.001-04:00

Here are several recent trends and hospitality marketing hints collected from various websites, releases, etc.

--Despite a forecast for a continued decline in hotel rates in 2010, hoteliers will increase the total collected fees and surcharges this year according to Bjorn Hanson, NYU professor.
(How does one do this carefully and not alienate customers?)(Does this only apply to luxury hotels?)

--Studies show that those who follow a brand on Facebook or Twitter are more likely to buy or recommend products from those followed companies. Of course, getting someone to follow your company is the key. (Are you on Twitter, yet?)

--One of the keys to success in a down market is to avoid offering across the board price cuts, to instead focus on particular market segments and distribution channels, says a recent Cornell study. There are two ways for hotels to compete: either non-price methods, e.g., using quality, strategic partnerships, loyalty programs, additional revenue sources or market segments; or price-related methods, e.g., packages, opaque channels, or only offering discounted rates to selected markets. (What did your hotel do to “survive”?)

--Although in general most meeting groups are smaller and more price sensitive this year, bookings of corporate meetings are up and increasing so far in 2010 compared to 2009. (Would you agree? Is this true at your hotel property?)

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Around Town” – May/June 2010

2010-06-04T12:56:00.001-04:00

Southeast:

In the Everglades’ Big Cypress Swamp, more than 1,600 animals roam wild on thousands of acres in a park run by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Best described as controlled chaos, the Billie Swamp Safari offers visitors face-to-face encounters. The goal is to immerse visitors in the wild, but sometimes these close encounters can mean trouble for people and wildlife. It’s up to the park’s director, Ed Woods, and his tough team of self-described Swamp Men to patrol the land, relocate animals from dangerous situations and rescue animals in need.
Nat Geo WILD’s new series "Swamp Men", premiered Monday, May 3, at 10 p.m. ET/PT, and rode along with Ed and his staff as they work to maintain safety at the Safari. They are considered among the best wild animal wranglers, and each day brings new tests of their skills with bears, alligators, wild hogs and panthers that inhabit the Everglades

Bal Harbour Resort has started a kids program. As part of its rebranding efforts after separating from the Regent hotel group, One Bal Harbour Resort & Spa celebrated its new children’s program with an afternoon of activities for 200 local kids and parents. The brand, and this hotel specifically, is going through an expansion, and they’re doing a lot of new programming to make everything work as one for a complete experience from arrival to check-in.

The 250-room Crowne Plaza at Sawgrass Mills was going to be auctioned this past month after losing a foreclosure lawsuit.

The Pirates Inn (Dania Beach) has been purchased by Hank Thomas/Green Hill Development. In addition, the company will be building the Hotel Indigo on Federal Highway in Dania Beach.

Port Everglades was selected as “best U.S. homeport” by Porthole Cruise Magazine. Port Everglades gets more than 3 million passengers each year.

The New Yorker Boutique Hotel (Miami) is offering an “oil spill special”. Gulf coast hotels that refer a cancelled booking to them can receive a 10% commission. Direct bookers can receive a 50% discount when they show a print out of their cancelled reservation booked prior to May 26th.

Bluegreen Corporation, best know as a timeshare company, has started hotel management of the Sandhurst Hotel in Ft. Pierce

Construction has begun on a 221-room Hampton Inn on SW 12th Street (Miami). The 15-story hotel is expected to open at the end of 2011.

“Moonlight, Sea Turtles and You!” at the Museum of Discovery and Science (Fort Lauderdale) will be held during the months of June and July. The whole family can participate in an evening of discovery while uncovering the natural history and myths of sea turtles. Information and reservations are available at 954-713-0930, or by visiting www.mods.org.

Smith Travel Research reported hotel occupancy up in Palm Beach and Broward and down in Dade for the week ending May 22nd. All tri-county average daily room rates for this period were down. Figures are compared to same week last year. For the prior week, ending May 15th, occupancy rose in all three counties with mixed average daily rates (Dade flat; Broward and Palm Beach down).

Southwest:

Newlyweds can win a 5-night/6-day honeymoon by entering the Paradise Coast “Heart & Soul” Honeymoon Getaway Sweepstakes. Valued at $2,000, the getaway includes luxurious 4-diamond resort accommodations at the Bellasera Hotel; a romantic dinner for two at Zizi Restaurant and Lounge; two rejuvenating spa treatments at Esterra Spa at the Bellasera. The couple will be whisked away in style on a 3-hour limo ride provided by Naples Transportation, Tours & Event Planning; as well as attend a stellar performance by the award-winning Naples Players. Contest runs through August 31, 2010.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club recently completed its all-new $5 million beachfront pool complex. The much larger beachfront pool complex features two new swimming pools: a free-form pool as well as a secluded oval-shaped pool for adults. The area also features two new whirlpools, a new pool bar with food service, new restrooms, new locker facilities, and a new pool shop.

Doubletree Guest Suites Naples, Florida won four industry awards for its commitment for maintaining brand standards, performance and community involvement. The awards include the 2009 "Connie" Award; the 2009 CARE Cup, the Pride Award and Hospitality Award of Excellence from Hilton Hotels Corporation.

Naples Bay Resort Earned Triple AAA Four Diamond Designation. The resort, which is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts is Naples only property with a marina, which the resort gracefully envelops, lending the feeling of a relaxed Italian seaside village. The Marina at Naples Bay Resort features 97 slips and direct water access to Naples Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Best, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick
Reminder to send materials for inclusion to: jwfranklin1@gmail.com

Gulf Oil Spill Weekly Update from VISIT FLORIDA

2010-06-03T18:27:00.000-04:00

In order to keep the Florida tourism industry up to speed on key developments and important information related to the Gulf oil spill, VISIT FLORIDA has created the following format for a weekly update. For more up-to-the-minute details, go to www.SunshineMatters.org – VISIT FLORIDA's official corporate blog.

Original Economic Risk Fund·
VISIT FLORDA began a $2.5 million emergency response campaign in 15 of Florida's summer drive markets on May 15 with the message that consumers should visit Florida Live on VISITFLORIDA.com to watch live webcams, read Twitter feeds and view up-to-the-minute photos posted by real people in real time from beach destinations throughout Florida. The existing ad buys in those 15 markets will now shift to the new messaging currently featuring Northwest Florida.$25 Million Grant from BP

· On May 25, Governor Crist held a press conference to announce the state's receipt of $25 million from BP for an emergency marketing response to the Gulf oil spill and the creation of a work group lead by Chief of Staff Shane Strum to recommend a plan for the spending of those funds. On May 27, the Governor announced the first phase of an aggressive marketing campaign utilizing the BP funds that includes a $7 million three-week media plan, as well as a new television ad presented by VISIT FLORIDA.
· Over the weekend, Governor Crist signed Memorandums of Understanding with eight Northwest Florida counties from Escambia to Wakulla totaling $4.4 million for local tourism marketing efforts.
· On June 1, Governor Crist signed a $7.15 million Memorandum of Understanding with VISIT FLORIDA for Phase 1, which includes a three-week campaign for both Northwest Florida and statewide tourism marketing efforts.
· Through a combination of broadcast television, national cable, radio and newspaper advertising, VISIT FLORIDA's three-week media buy is expected to reach nearly 500 million consumers in Northwest Florida's traditional feeder markets. Those markets include Atlanta, Birmingham, Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Raleigh and St. Louis. Also included in the plan are the major metro markets of New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington DC, Detroit, Cleveland and Baltimore, as well as 17 key regional markets and the 65 markets throughout the U.S. covered by the national cable buy.New Resources · VISIT FLORIDA is now tracking media coverage and sharing daily highlights with the industry via SunshineMatters.org.
· VISIT FLORIDA has created "palm cards" for tourism industry employees who may be answering questions from consumers regarding the oil spill. A separate palm card was created for those working with the media. The cards are available for download and will be updated as messaging changes.
· Visitors to the Florida Live page of VISITFLORIDA.com are now able to see video shot around the state by Outdoor & Nature Insider Kevin Mims. Through Florida Live TV, Kevin will video tape, blog and photograph vacation destinations, events and experiences happening in Florida and post content daily. Web site traffic proves consumers are responding to Florida Live and this daily content will help maintain that interest with postings that include YouTube, Flickr, blog updates and a Twitter feed. Florida Live TV launched Tuesday from Pensacola. We're developing a new look for the Florida Live page to better showcase the Florida Live TV content. In the meantime, check out the first few video updates on the VISIT FLORIDA Live YouTube Channel.

Copyright 2010 VISIT FLORIDA® 2540 W. Executive Center Circle, Ste. 200; Tallahassee, FL 32301 850-488-5607

VISIT FLORIDA Launches Florida Live

2010-05-14T14:27:00.001-04:00

VISIT FLORIDA has launched an exciting new online feature, Florida Live, where users can see photos, webcams and tweets being shared in real time by people in the Sunshine State. The site features live webcam feeds from destinations around the state, Google map-based Twitter feeds that provide local updates on beach conditions, weather and activities from cities and towns across Florida, and an extensive collection of vacation deals for a variety of Florida destinations.

To view the new site, please go to www.VISITFLORIDAlive.com.
The images shown on the site are pulled as a live stream from photos posted by Share A Little Sunshine fans on Facebook. To contribute, simply become a Share a Little Sunshine fan at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSunshine and post a current photo of our beautiful Sunshine State.

Posted by: HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick

BITS AND PIECES: RATES, REV. MGT., MARKETING IDEAS,TRENDS

2010-05-07T14:32:00.001-04:00

--Hotel.com’s 2009 Price Index showed that U.S. hotel prices fell 14% during the last half of 2009 (vs. the same period in 2008). Hotel rooms in some cases were cheaper in 2009 than in 2004.

--According to Marriott, luxury (lavish) hotels/high end resorts may face a tougher recovery than the rest of the industry.

--According to a survey by “Meeting News”, most planners expect meeting expenditures to increase or remain flat in the next six months.

--Traditional revenue management has focused purely on maximizing sleeping room revenue. What’s needed is a “holistic” approach. First: Trace all revenue associated with hotel guests. Second: Apply room principals to every revenue source. Then if you provide sales with the right target tools, you will help them steer customers into the right patterns, dates, space, etc.

--Independent hotels can more easily institute changes and react quickly to the market place. Small/independent hotels need to (also) focus on gaining a better understanding of all group activities and revenues. Certain market segments are price insensitive – you may be able to marginally increase rates once you know your sources. Encourage staff to focus on up selling to arriving guests on check in. During high demand periods, separate out your VIP’s so they don’t get bumped. The key: once you’ve done your homework, you can “play to your strengths”.

--TripAdvisor surveyed travelers with children. 92% plan to take at least one family vacation this year (up from 88% last year).

--New trend? “Pay Before You Stay and Save” – An increasing number of hotels are offering discounts if you prepay in full and forego a refund if you don’t show up. Hmmmm…

--Oyster Hotel Reviews group recommends 5 ways for hotels to attract new repeat guests: 1) Don’t try to attract everyone (Find best-fit clientele).2) Offer free stuff (simple freebies, upgrades). 3) Invest in a website that works (Is it up to date?). 4) Let photos make the sale (Are they colorful?) 5) Embrace independent reviews.

"Bits and Pieces" are extracts taken from various emails, websites, updates, etc.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Greater Fort Lauderdale and Florida Tourism Fast Facts – 2009 Stats

2010-05-06T16:13:00.001-04:00

Did you know?

Over 80 million people visited Florida.
10.57 million people visited Greater Fort Lauderdale.

968,400 people were directly employed in travel related jobs in Florida.
117,515 people were directly employed in travel related jobs in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Tourism spending (tourism/recreation taxable sales) was $60.9 billion in Florida.
Tourism spending was $8.47 billion in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

64.8 million total passengers boarded a plane in Florida.
21 million total passengers were welcomed at the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. And over 12 million passengers cruised from all Florida ports.
3.1 million passengers cruised from Port Everglades.

“Around Town” – News from our Hospitality Community

2010-04-15T09:47:00.001-04:00

Southeast Florida:

This year, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau (GFLCVB) is on a mission to help end vacation deprivation by urging Floridians to get away, hit the beach and take advantage of low-state-wide airfares and the destination's "Pack Your Bags, We're Staying Home" in-state program. "Pack Your Bags" includes discounts at popular hotels, 2-for-1 offers ranging from outdoor recreation to spa treatments to golf and an opportunity to enjoy SCUBA diving through a new "Learn to Dive" program that combines e-instruction, certification, free dives and free hotel stays. For a complete listing of all deals and offers this summer: www.sunny.org/Lauderdeals.

The Palm Beach International Film Festival kicks off the 15th Annual Festival on April 22ndl with a Hollywood-style red carpet film screening. Immediately following the premiere (at Cinemark Palace in Boca) will be an opening night party at the rooftop of Worthing Place Condo’s in Delray Beach on Atlantic Avenue and SE 2nd Avenue. Partygoers will enjoy food donated by The Office and Vic & Angelos and will feature complimentary Stella Artois, Silver Dagger Vodka and Icelandic Water. Admission is $40 for both the film and party and $30 for the party only. After April 16 the price increases to $50 and $40.

The 15th Annual Wine and Culinary Celebration will take place at the Museum of Discovery and Science on Friday, April 16, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. This event is sponsored by Bank of America.

The 15th Annual Las Olas Wine and Food Festival presented by Premier Beverage Company will be held on May 14th & 15th 2010 benefiting the American Lung Association in Florida. On Saturday, May 15th the World Famous Street Festival will take place from 7:30 to10:00p.m. on Las Olas Boulevard.

The Dania Beach Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Thursday, April 22nd networking event from 5:30-7:00 pm in the patio cafe at Jimmie's Chocolate and Café. For more info call: 954-926-2323; Members $5; Future Members: $10.

According to Smith Travel Research: For the week ended March 27th, occupancy in Broward County was up 8.2 %, year-over-year. Occupancy in Palm Beach County was up 7.5 % while occupancy in Miami Dade was up 7.2 percent. Nationally occupancy rose 5.9% year-over-year. Average daily rates were mixed. Dade rose 5.15; Broward rose 2.5%; Palm Beach fell 4.8%.

Broward County Commissioners and Carnival Corporation agreed to a deal for a makeover of Port Everglades terminals. Carnival will commit to 25.5 million cruise guests to sail from the port during the next 15 years. Carnival's agreement will potentially produce $500 million in port revenue, the county said in a news release. It is expected to have an average annual economic impact on more than 6,000 local jobs with related personal income of $293.6 million over the 15-year period.

Southwest Florida:

Southwest Florida International Airport announced that Frontier Airlines' seasonal nonstop flights to Denver International Airport (DEN) have been extended to year-round service.

Everglades Area Tours has added motorboat eco and birding tours departing from Calusa Island Marina in the village of Goodland on Marco Island at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and sunset daily.

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort recently refreshed the luxurious guest rooms with new bed linens, decor and fresh paint, including the addition of an accent wall. The poolside cabana furnishings have been completely updated, and upgraded package options are available for your comfort and relaxation. The resort's signature fine-dining restaurant Baleen boasts new furnishings including new chandeliers, chairs and a big group dining table. Baleen was recently awarded the prestigious "Award of Excellence 2009" by Wine Spectator magazine.

The Hilton Naples joined Hilton Worldwide in observing Earth Hour 2010 on March 27 by turning off lights for one hour and engaging in other energy-saving activities. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida has a special Earth Day celebration planned for April 17 and Naples Zoo will have Party For the Planet on April 24. LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort has a new voluntourism package themed around Southwest Florida's sea turtles. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples offers a trip to the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge as part of its Giveback Getaway program.

The Lemon Tree Inn in Naples installed a butterfly garden on March 23 in honor of its new Pollination Package, inspired by the recent expansion of Naples Botanical Garden. The Pollination Package includes three nights at the hotel including taxes, two tickets to Naples Botanical Garden, and a guide on how to build your own garden and a packet of flower seeds to help get the garden started.

The North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) awarded the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB a First Place award for its social media marketing campaign and the annual visitors guide.

Send your news for next month to: jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Around The (Travel) Websites:What Consumers Are Reading This Month…

2010-04-09T10:25:00.001-04:00

In Trip Advisor:
“Astonishing Amenities” – Perks you thought you’d never find list included the
W-South Beach -- The “whatever whenever wish” service, you dialed "0" to make special requests or ask for things, was wonderful. Each time we called for things such as cleaning our room by a certain time or requesting more coffee, occurred in a timely friendly "you are special" fashion...

And from Trip Advisor’s various lists here are some of our local mentions:
“Top 10 Family Hotels in the U.S.” included Sanibel’s Seaside Inn at number 10.
Their “Sexiest Hotels in the U.S.” list included Miami’s Setai Hotel at number 6.
Top Ten “New Destinations For Spring” included Bradenton Beach (at number 6) and Marco Island (at number 9).

Still waiting to get some more southeast property/company news for our “Around Town Column”. Last call! Email: jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

"Ask Dr. Resort"

2010-03-31T10:42:00.000-04:00

The following is a reprint from the monthly newsletter of HSMAI’s Resort Marketing Special Interest Group. As you know, every member of HSMAI can join any of the SIG’s at no additional cost. One of the features of the Resort Marketing SIG is: Ask Dr. Resort -- an “Ask the Expert Service” available to members for advice and counsel from the Resort Marketing Advisory Board.

THE DOCTOR IS IN - drresort@gmail.com

As we move through the difficulties of the great recession, everyone has thoughts and ideas on what is happening. But what does it all mean and what should you be considering in your business plan. Below is a sample of what the Dr. is talking about and helping professionals like you get a fresh perspective on current events.

Inconspicuous Consumption…or is it stealth indulgence On one hand you have those who believe that people are readily willing to return to their old spending habits. On the other is the belief that we have become, once again, a nation of savers. While this is a valid conversation on the future of our guests, it doesn't help resorts that need to fill the occupancy void. However there is a group out there, and they are bigger than what you think, that still have money to spend on vacations but are hesitant….

The Resort Fee Outcry Resort fees have become common throughout our industry. From offsetting the costs of providing pool towels to maintain the beach, these have become part of the industry's landscape. Unfortunately, other lodging types have followed suite in adding their own version of fees (whether appropriate or not) and consumers now perceive these as part of a larger problem where companies are 'extracting every last cent from them'. So what happens when competitors lower their fees to attract guests…

If you would like to take full advantage of your HSMAI and Resort Marketing Special Interest Group membership, learn more about these topics or get your question answered by a panel of industry executives that know exactly what you are going through, please email the Dr. at drresort@gmail.com.

Note: You can explore this SIG, and several others at the main hsmai.org website.
You can join them all or select just the groups that apply to you and your company.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.

“Around Town” Column – February-March 2010

2010-03-09T17:11:00.002-05:00

Here’s a collection of newsworthy items happening recently “Around Town” from our industry members and South Florida community.

Southeast Florida:

REVPAR Guru CEO Jean Francois Mourier was recently interviewed on NPR radio: http://204.13.1.19:81/ Just scroll to January 2010, then select Tuesday January 26th, South Florida hotel industry and economic impacts, to hear his interview.

The "Award Winning" Hampton Inn Plantation, for the second year in a row has won the prestigious Lighthouse Award for service and accommodations. This was awarded in 2008 and now for 2009. They are ranked #20 out of over 1700 Hampton Inns Worldwide.

Pri-Med, a brand owned and operated by M/C Communications LLC, the leading provider of professional education solutions to a community of over 220,000 physicians held it’s 12th consecutive meeting, their 2010 Conference & Exhibition at the Broward County Convention Center on February 11 - 14, 2010.
Pri-Med South had contracted room blocks with Bahia Mar Beach Resort, Embassy Suites 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale Hilton Marina, Hyatt Regency Pier 66, and Renaissance Fort Lauderdale. Greater Fort Lauderdale expected an estimated economic impact of $5.4 million from hosting this meeting.

Southwest Florida:

“The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel” report that 36 area accommodations have been named to the Florida Green Lodging Program. These “green” accommodations are –
Fort Myers Beach: DiamondHead Beach Resort, Hampton Inn & Suites, Mango Street Inn, Pink Shell Beach Resort & Spa, and The Riviera Villas.
Sanibel Island: Blue Dolphin Cottages, Blue Dolphin Cottages, Castaways Beach & Bay Cottages, Ocean’s Reach Condominium Resort, Sanibel Inn, Seaside Inn, Song of the Sea, Sundial Beach & Golf Resort, and, The Sunset Beach Resort.
Fort Myers: Best Western Fort Myers Inn & Suites, The Crown Plaza, Comfort Inn & Suites Airport , Country Inn & Suites Sanibel Gateway, Courtyard by Marriott Fort Myers at I-75/Gulf Coast Town Center, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn Downtown Historic District, Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers, Hotel Indigo, La Quinta Inn & Suites Airport Residence Inn by Marriott, Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa, Shell Point Guest House, Spring Hill Suites by Marriott, the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel.
Bonita Springs: Holiday Inn Express, Hyatt Coconut Plantation, The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, The Inn at the Springs. Estero: Hampton Inn & Suites; Pine Island: Bokeelia Tarpon Inn, Bridgewater Inn, Matlacha.

The Crowne Plaza Fort Myers has received the "Meeting Excellence" Award for the 3rd quarter. It is also the 3rd quarter in a row that they have received this award. The award is based on responses to the meeting survey sent to all meeting planners that have held meetings at the hotel asking for them to rank their service, and food quality. The hotel is also offering a "10% discount off the Master" promotion for any meetings booked and held before June 30, 2010. Meeting Planners will receive a 10% discount off their total master bill, PC rewards points for all attendees and Bonus PCMR points for the meeting planner.

The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, Bonita Springs, has been honored as one of “2009’s Top 50 Resorts in the U.S. and Canada” in Travel + Leisure magazine’s 14th annual readers’ survey. The resort was one of only two Hyatt’s selected in the prestigious listing.

The Resort at MarinaVillage at the Tarpon Point Marina in Cape Coral is scheduled to open Nov. 1. A SunStream Hotels & Resort property, the resort is the first luxury resort in Cape Coral and offers guests 19 stories of views of the Caloosahatchee River, San Carlos Bay and the Gulf of Mexico

Residence Inn Fort Myers-Sanibel in Fort Myers has opened its all-suite, extended-stay property. Breakfast is included daily and pets are welcome.

Hotel Indigo, the Fort Myers River District’s first boutique hotel opened with 60 oversized guest rooms and seven condo-style suites, as well as a rooftop pool, lounge, spa and fitness center, valet parking, cocktail lounge and two restaurants. It is located at 2115 Main Street, Fort Myers.

Hyatt Place Fort Myers at the Forum plans a mid-October opening. The full service property includes flexible meeting space and will offer guests complimentary breakfast each day.
Gasparilla Inn & Cottages in Boca Grande has hired Chef Peter Timmons, former executive chef of the award-winning restaurant at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, WV.

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB Annual Tourism Workshop with the Collier County Board of Commissioners and the Tourist Development Council takes place Monday, March 15 from 1 to 3 pm in County Commission Chambers at the Collier County government administration complex. The main topic for discussion will be how to allocate funding for year-round destination marketing campaigns in the future. For more information on the workshop, please e-mail Jack Wert.

Frontier Airlines Extends Service -- The Lee County Port Authority is pleased to announce that Frontier Airlines' seasonal nonstop flights to Denver International Airport (DEN) have been extended to year-round service.

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has received the prestigious "2009 Planners' Choice Award" from MeetingNews magazine. The award will be presented to Jim Gunderson, general manager of the newly renovated 319-room resort.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples promoted Darryl Adams to the position of Hotel Manager. Adams was previously the Executive Assistant Manager, Rooms Division for The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples, overseeing operations for both the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples and The Ritz-Carlton, Naples.

Visitors TV Network welcomes new, local representation in the Naples/Marco Island area. Larry and Cecily Lancit are the official representatives for this service, free to area hotels.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

Congress Passes Act to Market U.S. to International Tourists

2010-02-27T13:23:00.000-05:00

Congress passed a bill this week (to be signed by President Obama as its being supported by the White House) to market the US to international visitors.

Officials in South Florida have been lobbying for the Travel Promotion Act for almost two years. This Act creates a $10 fee charged mostly to European visitors (those foreign travelers who don’t need visas) to fund up to $100 million a year for advertising campaigns and other marketing efforts. The travel industry would provide the other $100 million in joint ad purchases, donated trips for travel writers, and other in-kind contributions.

Foreign visitors account for about half of Miami-Dade's 12 million annual visitors, the biggest share of international tourism among the country's major hotel markets, and for about 20 percent of Broward’s tourism market.

The Commerce Department says foreign arrivals hit a record 58 million in 2008, but the travel industry sees the United States losing market share in the global tourism industry as other countries spend more on promotion.

Many other countries have a cabinet-level tourism ministry and large tourism marketing budgets in competition for travelers. By contrast, the United States has a small tourism office mainly devoted to research and there has not been a national tourism campaign for over ten years when promotions amounted to less than $50 million in a 3-year period.

Local tourism marketing officials feel this is a great opportunity, especially in today’s economy, to bring foreign press here to tout our benefits to the world.
Congrats to all.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

What Consumers Are Reading About Travel... - Update

2010-02-24T15:48:00.002-05:00

Conde Nast Traveler’s List 2010 with “the best places to stay in the world” as selected by readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine included some of our HSMAI-South Florida area’s hotels. These included in Palm Beach: The Brazilian Court, The Breakers, Sundy House – Delray; In Miami-Dade: Four Seasons Hotel Miami, Mandarin Oriental Miami, Sagamore Hotel-Miami Beach, The Setai-Miami Beach; and In Southwest Florida: Ritz Carlton and Ritz Carlton Golf Resort-Naples.

Fodor’s Newsletter featured an article on “6 Ways to Save on Your Warm Weather Vacation”. In #2: “Don’t Pay for Stuff You don’t Need”, the editor suggested passing on a large resort if you prefer a low key holiday. In #5: “Simply Pick a Cheaper Place”, they suggested staying a few blocks inland from the beach for lower rates and mentioned this would be true for South Beach and for Fort Lauderdale.

Fodor’s Winter Escape Photo contest: “Show Us Your 80 Degrees” ends on February 28th.

The “Free Your Florida side Sweepstakes” to win a trip for 2 to Florida (plus a chance to win a new Miata convertible) was kicked off in their newsletter the beginning of this month and runs through April 30th. The Delray Beach Marriott and the Key Largo Resort Marriott are the featured hotels.

A Fodor’s article on “Spa Retreats in Paradise” featured The Canyon Ranch Hotel and Spa in Miami as the “splurge” location and The Standard in Miami Beach as the “save” location.

TripAdvisor featured Miami Beach (as #5) in their January “Top 10 Warm Weather Escapes”.

TripAdvisor’s “Travelers’ Choice 2010” list of “Top 10 Trendiest Hotels in the U.S.” included the W Fort Lauderdale as their # 2, with #3 The EPIC Hotel (Miami) and #10 Sense South Beach Hotel (Miami Beach);
and their “Top 10 Spring Break Rental Hotspots” list included Marco Island, FL at #7.

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Table of Eight” – February 17, 2010 – Part 2

2010-02-19T17:22:00.001-05:00

The HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s monthly meeting was held Wednesday. Alfredo Gonzalez, VP of International Tourism, GFLCVB, and Virginia Sheridan, President, M. Silver Associates Public Relations, spoke about international tourism and travel trends. In addition, we heard from Biki Khurana, Managing Director of Condor. The airline will be starting flights between FLL and Frankfurt on May 14th with 540 seats weekly.

In Part 1 of our “Table of Eight” column, I highlighted Alfredo’s remarks. This is a continuation of that first column. (As previously mentioned, comments are from my notes; the presentation slides will be posted on www.hsmaisouthflorida.org under resources.)

After Alfredo spoke, we heard from Biki Khurana about the tourism potential of the German market. Some positives: the favorable exchange rate, fairly strong economy (only 3% down), their love of travel, and their 6 weeks annual vacation time. This market is increasingly using the internet (up to 56%), but most still go to a travel agent to book once they’ve done their research. For this market, it is important to work with the various tour operators (there are 5 big ones as most have consolidated). A recent travel agent survey indicated 82% sell Florida most frequently (50% of people coming to a t.a. book a trip to the U.S). In addition, Biki stressed that we should have a German language website to reach this market.

Virginia Sheridan talked about changes since her last presentation at the October GFLCVB’s marketing meeting. She noted that even experts disagree on whether we were or are still in a recession or a depression. Overall there is a general feeling of a more positive outlook for 2010. There’s some good news, but still facing some problems (tight credit; high unemployment; less time off; shorter vacations, et al). 2009 was bad for all areas of travel especially the airline industry (and hotel occupancies were down 55%).
What is the 2010 outlook? More/lot of the same; recovery in 3 to 4 years; consumer spending is stabilizing; ancillary fees are increasing which people are adjusting to in the airline industry (but don’t like in the hotel industry – creating more “shopping around”).

Some good news: some small increases in domestic/biz/leisure travel; increased travel from Brazil(Latin America);Luxury travel has increased some 5-8%;gas prices will not have much of an impact; Destinations catering to luxury vacationers will see an end to visitor declines; More “escapism” travel.

Here are some of the top tourism trends mentioned by Virginia: social groups; celebrations; hospitality industry incentives, e.g. credits, discounts, etc.; low cost airlines attracting the biz travelers; average number of hotel nights may increase; unpredictable booking cycles making it harder to forecast; consumers taking the deal – value is the #1 factor in travel; “Perkonomics” – rewarding your best customers differently than your other customers as loyalty programs become more customized; the growing importance of “doing the right thing” – social and environmental responsibility.

As buzz words come and go, we always hear them first from Virginia. Back a couple years ago, at another of her presentations, we learned the word “mancation” (and you can read about this in one of my old columns) which then became as popular (and overused) as the later phrase “staycation”. So keep your ears open for the “new normal” and for “perkonomics”, as I’m sure you’ll begin to see both these terms every where in the near future. Thanks Virginia for bringing us up to date.

Just a reminder: Send in your news for inclusion in the next “Around Town” column. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.

“Table of Eight” – February 17, 2010 – Part 1

2010-02-18T11:35:00.001-05:00

The HSMAI-South Florida chapter’s February meeting was held yesterday at the Design Center of The Americas in Dania Beach, FL. A crowd of about 100 people were in attendance to hear speakers Alfredo Gonzalez, VP of International Tourism, Great Fort Lauderdale CVB, and Virginia Sheridan, President, M. Silver Associates Public Relations, speak on international tourism and review trends for our industry. In addition, we heard from DCOTA about the facility as well as from Condor who will be introducing new nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale to Frankfurt, Germany beginning May 14th.

It was so nice to see some “old” friends as well as a lot of new faces in attendance. A portion of monies from the monthly raffle were designated from this meeting for the UNICEF Children’s Fund for children in Haiti. What a wonderful idea! A surprise drawing awarded two airline tickets on Condor to Frankfurt. Congrats to Bruno Perez (RevParGuru) on his raffle win.

Alfredo highlighted ten megatrends in International Tourism. He talked about its 1) Growth: Travel is a “right”, a necessity. 2) Energy Demand: With no other alternatives to jet fuel in the near future, airline pricing will continue to be a concern. 3) Rising Climate of Fear: Some people are making decisions based on this; triggered by the news media; more people are just adapting v.v. their travel decisions. 4) Participant Economy: Consumers are in the drivers’ seat. What do consumers want/feel? 5) Experiential economy: Consumers have “live your life” attitude; they have the basics; now they are willing to pay more for experiences than possessions. 6) Socio-Demographic Disparities: Social behavior is changing attitudes; aging population is now “hip”. 7) Urbanization: By 2020, 60% are living in a city. (Need to travel to “escape”) 8) Mobility: Traveling further and farther and more often. Decisions to travel (even in Europe) made by women. Wider use of Internet/multiple channels. 9) Global Warming – most not concerned, but… 10) Sustainability: going green becoming important and changing the way they buy travel. . (Comments are from my notes; presentation slides will be on the chapter’s website: http://www.hsmaisouthflorida.org/ under resources.)

In addition, Alfredo discussed consumer trends in Europe. What has changed in the last ten years? One of the main differences was the increased use of the internet. He mentioned the importance of not just dealing with tour operators, alone, as in certain markets consumer buying online has increased to about 50% and up. Knowing your market is important as not all behave the same (Sweden, e.g. 93% do their research online and 48% actually buy online; In Italy, however, only 17% actually buy online). There are new consumers: active seniors, extended family groups, cosmopolitan consumers, and the affluent.

To be continued... Best, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick

VISIT FLORIDA PUSHES “SHARE A LITTLE SUNSHINE” CAMPAIGN

2010-02-17T09:48:00.001-05:00

In Miami Beach on February 16th, Governor Charlie Crist joined more than a hundred Florida tourism industry representatives to re-launch the grassroots ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ campaign. The Governor and VISIT FLORIDA President/CEO Chris Thompson called on all Floridians to help strengthen the state’s economy by sending a personal invitation to out-of-state friends and family, encouraging them to visit Florida.

“Together we can let the world know how great Florida truly is, and help keep our state’s world-class restaurants, resorts, parks, and attractions strong,” said Governor Crist.

In 2008, tourism returned $3.9 billion to Florida in tax revenue and generated $65.2 billion in direct economic impact. The ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ campaign has the potential to increase visitation to the state and raise much-needed sales tax dollars.

On the ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ Web site, www.ShareaLittleSunshine.org, Floridians can select one of several free video invitations or custom e-mail postcards that can be sent to friends and family directly from the site. To encourage Floridians to send invitations, a Florida vacation package will be given away each quarter to someone who sent an invitation through the site.

In addition to the video and invitation components, the integrated campaign is supported by statewide promotions and public service announcements. Through partnerships, the message of ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ appears on TV, radio, and billboards throughout the state. Also, the Governor’s Office of Film and Entertainment, Florida Lottery, Florida Attractions Association, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, and Florida State Parks will use the ‘Share a Little Sunshine’ for advertising and promotion. The campaign is on Facebook and Twitter as well.

HSMAI HOLDS LODGING CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER ROUNDTABLE

2010-02-16T13:39:00.000-05:00

HSMAI hosted its first “Lodging Chief Marketing Officer Roundtable” in conjunction with American Express on February 1 in New York City. The invitation-only event engaged participants in an intimate forum about the “new normal” in lodging.

“The discussion was invaluable and participants shared perspectives on the various recovery scenarios and the short-term and long-term impact of the global economy in their businesses,” said Robert A. Gilbert, president/CEO of HSMAI. “Attendees also had rich dialogue regarding the new normal in media including the role and balance of print and digital.”

Lalia Rach, dean of the Tisch Center for Hospitality Tourism and Sports Management at NYU moderated the roundtable discussion. Professor Jeff Garten, Yale School of Management and an expert on global business strategy, was the keynote speaker and summarized how the global economy and consumer behavior have changed. He forecasted emerging economic trends that will likely impact hospitality and travel.

Jud Linville, president & CEO of American Express, was interviewed to identify his perspectives on “the new normal” as well as its implications on his strategic outlook, American Express brands, and the travel industry.

“We are seeing some spending come back from the depressed levels of last year,” said Linville. “We need to help remove friction and help consumers feel more comfortable. They are very attentive now to how and where they spend.”

In addition, a group of industry thought leaders discussed implications of the “new normal” in print, online, and other mediums brands use to connect with consumers and spoke about the evolution of dominant media strategies. They hypothesized about which strategies would be implemented in the next 18 months.

VISIT FLORIDA HAS NEW SLOGAN

2010-02-10T20:50:00.000-05:00

Visit Florida’s previous slogan, “Shine”, launched in 2007 has been replaced.
DDB Miami, the Visit Florida’s advertising agency, has developed a new integrated marketing campaign with a new tagline: “Your Florida Side”. This theme is aimed at recession-weary consumers.

The new $6.1 million campaign aims to target loyal Florida vacationers who have been here before. They are going to tell these former visitors to “come on back. This is the place you love.” The advertisements highlight the fact that a Florida trip is a central identifying factor of a vacationer’s identity. Look for this new slogan to appear in all their new promotional and marketing efforts.

HSMAI HONORS TRAVEL MARKETING EXCELLENCE AT ADRIAN AWARDS

2010-02-02T23:06:00.002-05:00

HSMAI presented the winners of its 53rd annual Adrian Awards at the New York Marriott Marquis on Monday, February 1st. The Adrian Awards honor the top companies and individuals in hospitality, travel and tourism advertising, public relations and web marketing. The evening also featured specialty awards from DEPARTURES Magazine, Google, TRAVELCLICK, and TripAdvisor.

The 2010 Adrian Awards received nearly 1,100 entries from around the globe. The prestigious Platinum winners were judged to be the most extraordinary entrants from a selection of 123 Gold winners. Chosen from the Platinum winners, the highest distinction of Best of Show for the divisions of advertising, public relations and web marketing went to:

BEST OF SHOW WINNERS:
Advertising: The San Diego Zoo and their agency M&C Saatchi for their entry that spread the message of conservation of the world’s animals.
Public Relations: Tourism Queensland and their agency Cummins Nitro for the “Best Job in the World” campaign that generated 34,000 candidate applications from 197 countries vying for the position of Island Caretaker, along with worldwide media coverage.
Web Marketing:”Life of a Brown Paper Bag” video by the Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau. The destination took one of its most treasured holiday traditions and added compelling content and humor to create an original holiday greeting video that was shared extensively and generated a tremendous ROI.

PLATINUM WINNERS:
Advertising (See Agency in Parentheses if applicable) --
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (R&R Partners); Lindblad Expeditions;
Maine Office of Tourism (Swardlick Marketing Group); Marriott International (McGarry Bowen); Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism (Target Marketing); San Diego Zoo (M&C Saatchi).
Public Relations --
Elite Island Resorts (Pomerantz PR); Fontainebleau Miami Beach (Weber Shandwick);
Hotel Sax Chicago (Zapwater Communications, Inc.); Moroccan National Tourist Office (Spring, O’Brien); Omni Hotels (Weber Shandwick); Pennsylvania Tourism Office (Tierney); Tourism Queensland (Cummins Nitro); VisitScotland Laura Davidson Public Relations).
Web Marketing:
Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau; Dolce Hotels and Resorts; Morgans Hotel Group (ZAAZ); The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (Weber Shandwick and phearcreative);
Tourism Queensland (Cummins Nitro); Howard Johnson (Berlin Cameron)

HSMAI Adrian Awards Gold Award winners were honored throughout the Gala and displayed during the Gold Award Gallery Reception, presented with partner Expedia Media Solutions, prior to the Gala.

In addition to its Adrian Awards, HSMAI recognized the Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing and presented two individuals with the top honor of Lifetime Achievement. The awards recognized the recipients for their significant contributions and lasting impressions on the hospitality and travel industry.

HSMAI's annual Albert E. Koehl Award for advertising and marketing was awarded to Sol Kerzner, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Kerzner International Holdings Limited. The Winthrop W. Grice Award for public relations excellence was bestowed upon Vivian A. Deuschl, Corporate Vice President, Public Relations, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

A new addition to the Adrian Awards line-up was TripAdvisor’s Travelers' Choice Best Hotels and Brand Awards. Their top brand award went to Ritz-Carlton.
The DEPARTURES Magazine Luxury Marketing Achievement Award was presented to Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club and ISM.
TRAVELCLICK paid tribute to the best integrated eMarketing program in the hotel industry with the eMarketer of the Year award, presented to Joie de Vivre Hospitality.
Google’s Wisdom of the Crowds Award, which recognizes an integrated marketing campaign that today's travelers and HSMAI members choose as the best in its class, went to the San Diego Zoo.

Florida Governor Recommends Tourism Marketing Budget

2010-02-01T16:05:00.000-05:00

Governor Crist allocated $25 million in public funding for tourism marketing for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. The budget recommendations were announced on January 29th as VISIT FLORIDA begins its advocacy and education campaign for the 2010 Session in an effort to increase awareness and demonstrate the importance of tourism marketing.

Public investment is needed for VISIT FLORIDA to continue to provide cooperative marketing programs. Tourism marketing is a catalyst to stimulate our economy, a fact proven by the $3.9 billion in total state sales tax revenue returned to the state in 2008.

Tourism marketing is of great importance to our state:
• For every $1 in tourism marketing, VISIT FLORIDA generates $55 in tourism spending and more than $3 in new sales tax is collections.
• More than 1 million Floridians are directly employed by Florida’s tourism. That means 85 visitors equals 1 Florida job.
• Tourism provided 21 percent of our total state sales tax in 2008—more than any other industry.

Christopher L. Thompson, VISIT FLORIDA’s President and CEO, released the following statement in response to Governor Crist’s budget recommendations, which includes $25 million in public funding for VISIT FLORIDA’s tourism marketing efforts:
“Governor Crist has been and continues to be a great advocate in helping Florida become the No. 1 travel destination in the world. The tourism industry deeply appreciates Governor Crist’s recognition of tourism’s strong economic impact and return on investment to the Sunshine State with his budget recommendation of $25 million in public funding for tourism marketing.”

“We look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and the legislature in an effort to demonstrate the value tourism brings to every part of Florida through the return of crucial state sales tax revenues and jobs, which benefit all Floridians.”

“Around Town” Column – January 2010

2010-01-29T11:17:00.003-05:00

Here’s a collection of newsworthy items happening recently “Around Town” from our industry members and South Florida community.

Broward County

The Liberty Suites in Dania Beach has won a 2009 Pink Choice Award. Pink Choice rates gay and gay-friendly hotels, inns and guest houses, according to the opinions and scores submitted by gay and lesbian travelers. Based on these ratings, Pink Choice Awards are presented to those properties determined to have provided the very best in guest amenities and services. These awards are presented at the end of each calendar year.

This weekend (January 29th through 31st) is the 2010 Dania Beach Folk Art and Antique Festival along with a Vintage Motorcycle Show. In addition, Dania Jai Alai is hosting the Florida Arcade and Pinball Expo this weekend. This event is being promoted as the “largest gathering of pinball machines and classic video games in Florida”.

The "Award Winning" Hampton Inn Plantation, for the second year in a row has won the prestigious Lighthouse Award for service and accommodations. This was awarded in 2008 and now in 2009. They are ranked #20 out of over 1700 Hampton Inns Worldwide. (In addition, they still have availability of Super Bowl if anyone is sold out and gets a call for reservations, would appreciate them being passed on to Susan Stern at 954-382-4500.)

Lawrence Of Florida Entertainment and Events has two new additions to their offerings: Up Lighting. As most venues have very neutral walls, they can provide new lighting packages which will change the room venue to virtually any color that a client can imagine. The second new item, which works for corporate events as well as social parties, is their version of Jeopardy. It can be set up for 3 to 6 players or an entire audience. The game is fast moving, fun and does NOT require a “brain trust” to join in the action. They bring the whole package – the Jeopardy board, the lights, sound system and the MC. According to Larry Rodkin, they can even tailor or design the questions/answers to fit a particular theme or the company’s background to personalize the event.

Miami-Dade

Karen Weiner Escalera, President, KWE Group in Coral Gables (and one of the top 25 extraordinary minds in sales and marketing in 2008 HSMAI) has had her “Reinvention Revolution” trends letter was featured in the Luxury Society’s annual Global Experts issue on luxury lifestyle trends. The European-based Luxury Society is a by invitation only online community of worldwide leaders in luxury products and services.

Southwest Coast:

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau is inviting football fans traveling to the Pro Bowl or the Super Bowl to extend their trip with a visit to the Paradise Coast. They’ve put together a number of deals under the heading “Miami Bowl Packages”. In addition, for the winter, they are promoting “Paradise Priced Perfectly” hotel packages (see my floridasavings.com).

Jorian Weiner has been appointed to be the new manager of public relations for The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples.

Sarina Buonannata has joined Sunstream Hotels & Resorts as communications specialist.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has introduced an all-new "Beach Club Card." This new gift card can be purchased in any denomination, and used at the resort's spa, golf course, beachfront restaurant, bars, in any of the resort's gift shops, and for stays at the resort.

Visitor Research for Collier Country for November 2009 saw a climb in visitation from the Northeast, Midwest and Canada. December 2009 followed with significant increases in those markets, along with Markets of Opportunity, or visitors from west of the Mississippi River.
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To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

BizBash's 2010 National Venue Guide Picks Hot Venues in 17 Cities- including Miami

2010-01-25T16:03:00.001-05:00

To provide essential information for Meeting Planners to select options (including golf courses and cruise ships, too), BizBash has put together a listing of 768 venues for all types of events and meetings. BizBash’s guide is available in digital format on their website.

The 17 major cities include Miami. It should be noted that “Miami” also covers some Broward County and Palm Beach venues, as well.

The Miami section includes:

“South Beach Stays” which is describes as 5 renovated and/new properties which are garnering attention. The hotels featured are: W South Beach, Clevelander, Riviera South Beach, The Betsy Hotel, and the Fontainebleau.

“Where to Meet and Stay in Palm Beach” highlights the Omphoy Ocean Resort for “on the ocean”; Brazilian Court for a “boutique” property; and the Doubletree Hotel Palm Beach Gardens for meetings.

“Sprawling Spaces in Broward County”, a “selection of the latest/largest event venues to open 25 minutes north of Miami featured: Whitespace (on Stirling road, Dania Beach) –for it’s bi-level space; Exit 66 – for it’s entertainment and nightlife space; and the W Hotel - Fort Lauderdale Beach for it’s 12,400 square feet of meeting space as well as the Living Room Lounge, Steak 954 (available for rentals up to 240 people).

Best, the HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick.
Reminder: Send your news to jwfranklin1@gmail.com for the upcoming “Around Town” Column. Deadline is this Thursday.

Information Requested for Our Upcoming “Around Town” Article – Jan. 2010

2010-01-22T03:08:00.000-05:00

As you know, SCOOP, our HSMAI South Florida Chapter’s Blog, contains educational tidbits, interesting observations, and summaries of some of our seminars and meetings, as well as news about you, our members, and our hospitality community.

We are currently collecting items for our upcoming monthly “Around Town” article. Have you or your property recently received an award? Reached a milestone anniversary? Renovated? Added a new feature or program to your property or company? Have you changed jobs? Want us to help you promote a special offer? Let us know.

Please feel free to submit information about yourself and your company, "people in the news" or business leads, accomplishments, and other marketing advice you wish to share.

Just send all to Julie Wernick, the HSMAI Insider, at jwfranklin1@gmail.com

Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB launches new "ivisitlauderdale” iPhone Application

2010-01-17T20:52:00.001-05:00

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau (GFLCVB) has introduced iVisitLauderdale with searchable listings, maps, and real-time event and deal updates.

Recognizing that the mobile platform is reshaping the ways in which consumers plan, book and consume travel, the free "app” is part of the GFLCVB's continued marketing efforts to reach visitors through a variety of social media avenues. The iVisitLauderdale application enhances the visitor experience with up-to-date information and the latest GPS mapping technology, video, images and other features.

iVisitLauderdale is downloadable on iTunes or from Greater Fort Lauderdale’s website, www.sunny.org/iphone. Some useful features include:
The iGuide which gives an overview of area attractions and ways to play, including SCUBA, shopping, dining, nature, and more. It also provides easy access to area weather updates, transportation information, events and special deals as well as information about our area’s beaches.

The Explore section offers must-see points of interest and up-to-date information on prices, hours and more. The GPS-based locator serves as an added bonus with maps and driving directions for hundreds of hotels, spa resorts, restaurants, shops, attractions and more. Vibrant videos and pictures of the destination can be downloaded. In addition, users can personalize their app by adding interests to their Favorites, and sharing all with family and friends.

For more information about the iVisitLauderdale application, visit www.sunny.org/iphone.

HSMAI FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES FIRST ONLINE TRAVEL AUCTION

2010-01-15T14:13:00.001-05:00

In February 2010, in conjunction with several association partner organizations, “Getaways for Good” travel auction will be launched by the HSMAI Foundation to benefit industry research, publications, educational programming, and academic scholarships. A portion of each winning bid will go to the bidder’s association and the balance will go to the Foundation.

Partner organizations include: the American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA), American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT), International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association.

HSMAI is now accepting donations for “Getaways for Good” and is seeking a select number of signature items such as: Roundtrip airfare for two; City and resort stays and packages; Unique getaways and experiences; Golf or ski weekends; Cruises; Family Vacations; and Spa Getaways.

Donors will be featured on the auction Web site, with their logo, photos and descriptive copy. Donors can specify specific terms and conditions, along with any other details for auction items. Bidding will open February 1, 2010, and run until February 15, 2010.

The HSMAI Foundation was founded in 1983, and its mission is to expand and enhance the educational opportunities available to hospitality sales and marketing executives and to increase the amount of in-depth research conducted on behalf of the profession. For more information, visit hsmaifoundation.org

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

“Golden Opportunity” – Not to be Missed?

2010-01-13T09:27:00.000-05:00

Over 100,000 visitors are expected in South Florida for the Super Bowl. There will be fans, teams, support crews, and media.

As hospitality professionals, you know how much time, effort, and expense it takes to get this many visitors to come to our area, under normal circumstances. You know how much easier it is to get a repeat customer than the first time around.

Here’s our “golden opportunity” to shine.
Here’s our chance to show off to the world.
Here’s our moment to let everyone be warmly welcomed, to make them feel we appreciate their being here, and to hope they like us enough to come back in the future.

You’ve heard the phrase “courtesy pay$”? Keep in mind that the Super Bowl is the world’s largest one-day sporting event, a $36 billion a year industry, employing more than 400,000 Floridians.

Do not let this time pass us by without taking advantage of this good fortune.
Start reminding your staff to practice being EXTRA courteous, to go out of their way, if necessary, to be hospitable; to do what we do best!

There are a lot of places these visitors can choose to travel to in the future.
Why not South Florida?

Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.

HSMAI Announces “The Top 25 Minds In Hospitality Travel Sales And Marketing”

2010-01-09T11:47:00.000-05:00

HSMAI announced its seventh annual hot list of the “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing”. The honorees, that represent the best sales and marketing professionals in the hospitality, travel and tourism industries, will be honored during a private ceremony preceding the HSMAI Adrian Awards Gala on Feb. 1, 2010, at the New York Marriott Marquis, and recognized on-stage at the Gala.

“The Top 25 is a 'hot list' that celebrates the sales and marketing leaders and innovators of our industry,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHA, president and CEO of HSMAI. “The creative strategies, passionate dedication and sharp intelligence of these professionals have not only made a difference within their organizations but have also truly raised the bar for the hospitality industry as a whole.”

Here are the 2009 HSMAI Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales & Marketing:
Peter R. B. Armstrong, Executive Chairman & Founder, Armstrong Group; Owner and Operator of Rocky Mountaineering
Laura D. Bajkowski, Principal, Bajkowski & Partners
Thomas E. Baker, Jr., President & Partner, Cruise Center
Bart Berkey, Director, Ritz-Carlton/Marriott International
Lillibeth Bishop, Publicity & Promotions Manager- USA, Hong Kong Tourism Board
Roger Bloss, Founder, President, Chief Executive Officer, Vantage Hospitality Group
Dr. Eric T. Brey, Director, Center for Resort and Hospitality Business, University of Memphis
Barry Brown, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hotel del Coronado/Beach Village at the Del
Julie Canning, President & CEO, Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Giséle Danis, Executive Director, Strategic Marketing, Canadian Tourism Commission
Chekitan Dev, Associate Professor, Cornell University
Michelle Fee, Co-Founder, Cruise Planners/American Express
Robert W. Gialloreto, President & CEO, Tourism Victoria
Sehrab Grewal, Director of Consumer Marketing, Best Western International
Erika Harms, Executive Director, Tourism Sustainability Council
Joe Hyman, President & CEO, VIZERGY
Tjibbe Lambers, Director, Marketing Analytics, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts
Michael A. Perhaes, Assistant Vice President, Marketing, MGM Grand Hotel
David William Ralls, Partner, AIR Marketing
Franck Sarrabezolles, Regional Advertising Manager, The Americas, Emirates
Adam Stewart, CEO, Sandals Resorts International
Christopher L. Thompson, President & CEO, VISIT FLORIDA
Scott J. Voeller, Vice President of Brand Strategy & Advertising, MGM Mirage
Andrew D. Wirth, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Strategic Alliances, Intrawest
Rosanne Zusman, Senior Vice President, Brand Marketing, Wyndham Hotel Group

For more information on the Adrian Awards Competition and Gala, visit www.adrianawards.com. Did you notice that Visit Florida was included? Anyone else you know? Best, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick

Greater Fort Lauderdale's ‘Sunny in the City' Tour Targets New Yorkers

2010-01-04T08:48:00.000-05:00

..”To showcase the latest and greatest that Greater Fort Lauderdale has to offer New Yorkers - our number one customer”, the GFLCVB launched “Sunny in the City” on December 17, 2009. Included in the program will be: a gigantic beach wrapped around the Toys ‘R Us building in Times Square; NYC yellow cabs topped with pink flip flops; and parades of beach-branded vehicles led by a Beach Mobile (a glass-enclosed beach scene, complete with bikini clad sunbather, scuba diver and palm tree) driving past Manhattan's top landmarks and most important events. The tour taking place January 23-28, 2010 throughout Manhattan is an ambitious multi-media promotion designed to attract winter-weary New Yorkers to the destination's sunny shores.

In addition, there will be free trip giveaways, souvenir distribution, and a "Win a Week of Warm and Comfy Car Service" to make a lucky New Yorker’s workweek commute sunnier in a beach-branded SUV designed to capture the attention of harried city residents. Street teams at the parade sites will be handing out free prizes and collateral with scan tags so consumers can register for contests instantly on the spot via a mobile device or via computer to win a "Free Beach Vacation in Greater Fort Lauderdale." The street teams will also demonstrate, for the first time, Greater Fort Lauderdale's latest visitor amenity - the free "iVisitLauderdale" iPhone application.

New Yorkers can enter at www.sunny.org/freeride from January 4-11, 2010.
In addition, all promotions and activities will be supported by media exposure, including television and radio advertising, an online campaign on nytimes.com, TimeOut New York, a print ad in the New York Times Travel section, email blasts in conjunction with Condé Nast Traveler and other media partners, plus public relations activities.

Even with South Florida’s bit of cold weather this week, we’ll seem simply balmy in comparison! Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.

Give to those less fortunate this season...

2009-12-20T13:51:00.002-05:00

Get the word out for a charity you care about in a blog post, a tweet or by sending out a message to your Facebook friends. Make them aware, get them involved.

Your donations will be "multiplied" as you use social media for a good cause this holiday season -- Just another new way to help those less fortunate. You'll feel good and your charity will benefit. Pass it on!
Best wishes, HSMAInsider, Julie Wernick.

“Pop-Up Security Warnings Pose Threats”

2009-12-18T16:17:00.001-05:00

This message from Federal Bureau of Investigations, Investigative Programs Cyber Investigations, was issued this week as a statewide alert by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Office of Domestic Security. Although this message was a consumer warning, they are passing it along to businesses whose own computer systems may be affected (or for our industry those consumers wary of visiting your website to book their future travel plans, as well).

The FBI warned consumers about an ongoing threat involving pop-up security messages that appear while they are on the Internet. The messages may contain a virus that could harm your computer, cause costly repairs or, even worse, lead to identity theft. The messages contain scareware, fake or rogue anti-virus software that looks authentic.

The message may display what appears to be a real-time, anti-virus scan of your hard drive. The scareware will show a list of reputable software icons; however, you can’t click a link to go to the real site to review or see recommendations. Cyber criminals use botnets—collections of compromised computers—to push the software, and advertisements on websites deliver it. This is known as malicious advertising or “malvertising.”

Once the pop-up warning appears, it can’t be easily closed by clicking the “close” or “X” buttons. If you click the pop-up to purchase the software, a form to collect payment information for the bogus product launches. In some instances, the scareware can install malicious code onto your computer, whether you click the warning or not. This is more likely to happen if your computer has an account that has rights to install software.

Downloading the software could result in viruses, malicious software called Trojans, and/or keyloggers—hardware that records passwords and sensitive data—being installed on your computer. Malicious software can cause costly damages for individual users and financial institutions. The FBI estimates scareware has cost victims more than $150 million.

Cyber criminals use easy-to-remember names and associate them with known applications. Beware of pop-up warnings that are a variation of recognized security software. You should research the exact name of the software being offered. Take precautions to ensure operating systems are updated and security software is current. If you receive these anti-virus pop-ups, close the browser or shut down your computer system. You should run a full anti-virus scan whenever the computer is turned back on.

Anyone experience these anti-virus pop-ups or a similar scam should notify the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by filing a complaint. Follow this link: http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx Passed along by the HSMAI Insider, Julie Wernick

32 Broward County Small Hotels Win Prestigious White Glove Award

2009-12-17T19:51:00.001-05:00

The Florida Superior Small Lodging Association (SSL) has just announced that 32 local hotels have been named winners of the organization’s prestigious White Glove Award. In fact, 40% of all statewide 2010 White Glove Award winners are located in Broward County.

While there are thousands of hotels, motels, B&Bs, travel lodges, inns, beach houses, resorts, etc. across the state, offering some 370,000 rooms to Florida’s more than 80-million annual visitors, 32 outstanding locations in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area have earned this year’s highly coveted “Donald A. Dermody White Glove Award” for housekeeping excellence. The Award recognizes hotel owners who have made outstanding contributions to the Small Lodging Association’s mission and business objective of benchmarking housekeeping excellence and exceptional service.

Broward’s award winning properties are: The Berkshire Beach Club in Deerfield Beach; Thirteen Fort Lauderdale properties: Birch Patio Motel, By-Eddy Apartments, Coral Reef Guesthouse, Estoril Paradise Inn, Flamingo-Inn Amongst The Flowers, Ft. Lauderdale Manhattan Tower, Napoli Belmar Resort, Pillars at New River Sound, Pineapple Point Guest House, Royal Palms Resort, Sun Tower Hotel & Suites, Tropi Rock Resort and the Villa Venezia. Nine Hollywood properties: Atlantic Sands Beach Suites, Curtis Inn, DeSoto Oceanview Inn, Grenier's on the Beach, Hollywood Beach Golf Resort, Manta Ray Inn, Quality Inn & Suites, Ocean Drive Villas, and the Ocean Inn. In Lauderdale-By-The-Sea five properties: Best Florida Resort, High Noon Beach Resort, Sea Lord Hotel & Suites, Sea Spray Inn, and the Windjammer Resort & Beach Club. In Pompano Beach: Bahama Beach Club, Cottages by the Ocean, Dolphin Apartments & Motel, Pelican Place Apartments, and the Pineapple Place.

Donna Boucher, the Executive Director of SSL, noted that “Properties must receive a Total Housekeeping Score of 100% in their annual review to receive this award.” For more information, visit their website: www.superiorsmalllodging.com Congratulations to all from the HSMAI-South Florida Chapter and the HSMAI Insider, Julie Wernick.

Member Benefit of the Month for December 2009

2009-12-16T16:39:00.001-05:00

(A series highlighting exclusive HSMAI member benefits to help you get the most out of your membership.)

This month’s Member Benefit is the redesigned HSMAI Foundation eConnect: your one-stop portal to global information and resources on hospitality sales and marketing topics.

Highlights of the new eConnect site include:

--Six new searchable sections of in-depth content aligned to the needs of today's sales and marketing discipline, including:
· Hotel Sales & Marketing
· Internet Marketing & Social Media
· Revenue Management
· Resort Marketing
· Destination Marketing
· Hospitality Sales & Marketing Education

-- A Member only "Toolkits" in each of the six main content areas, featuring templates and tools for everyday use on topics such as Marketing Plans, Group Booking Reports, and Public Relations.
--New blogs and forums for each of the six main content areas, allowing discussion and interaction.
-- "My eConnect" feature that allows each user to customize the news and resources from the site they want on their personal eConnect homepage.
--New "Featured Video" section with the latest clips from business and industry sources, such as CNN, CNBC and VTV.
--Expanded content from more than 150 sources offering a 360 degree look at trends and developments in the hospitality sales and marketing industry. Each section features resources relating specifically to the section topic, including blogs, forums, professional development resources, magazine portals, vendor and supplier information, market reports, columns, and video, among others.

eConnect is a one-stop portal to global information and resources on hospitality sales and marketing topics, including hotel sales and marketing, Internet marketing and social media, revenue management, resort marketing, destination marketing, and hospitality sales and marketing education. eConnect is a service provided by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Foundation. Many HSMAI Foundation eConnect® resources are available exclusively to HSMAI members.

Hope you will join today, if you're not already a member, to take advantage of these great benefits. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider

FREE Webinar:Economic Recovery/Revenue Management

2009-12-10T13:50:00.003-05:00

The Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB is hosting an HSMAI University webinar, "Economic Recovery and the Role of Revenue Management," on Tuesday, December 15 at 2pm and you are invited to watch.

This webinar will explore the slow recovery and shifting revenue management responsibilities that we can expect in 2010, including supply vs. demand, airline capacity contraction and rising prices, time share supply threats, demand management vs. revenue management, and the power shift to properties. Presenters: Bill Carroll, Cornell University; Scott Roby, Tarsadia Hotels, Warren Jahn, InterContinental Hotels, and James Ruttley, IDeaS.

Cost is FREE (but you must RSVP BY DECEMBER 14th to: jwinston@broward.org

Time is from 2pm - 3:15pm; To be held at The Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB Conference Room
100 E. Broward Boulevard, Ste 200, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

2010 LODGING REPORT AND FORECAST BY BRUNO PEREZ AND JEAN FRANCOIS MOURIER

2009-12-07T16:34:00.002-05:00

Bruno Perez, an active member of our HSMAI Chapter, and Jean Francois Mourier, recently nominated for our Chapter’s Revenue Management Professional of the year, have written an article on REVPAR GURU’s Hotel Industry Predications for the coming year. Bruno Perez has kindly given me permission to quote from their article. Here are some excerpts:

“...Although we aren’t pessimistic about the future state of the hotel industry, we also don’t believe that the New Year will bring immediate relief. There is no miracle cure; hotels and resorts will likely grapple with depressed demand, lower rates, and anemic revPAR and occupancy figures for some time to come....

Less is sometimes… less -- Despite the recovery, hoteliers should be prepared to do more with less this coming year. Guests are likely to be stubbornly slow to return, at least not at the same rate enjoyed by the industry following the early-00’s recession. …
….working capital (both operational cash flow and from borrowing activity) will be constrained…. Hotels and resorts will have to optimize what they already have in 2010; in terms of guests, this means putting a premium on incremental revenue derived from existing clientele; in terms of capital and infrastructure, it means maximizing revenue per existing square foot….

Auto, Automate, Automation --The staffing situation will highlight the importance of automation in key hotel systems….. Automation is a winning strategy for 2010.

RevPAR Resurgence -- 2009 was the year of salvaging occupancy, a trend best embodied by substantial discounts and rate cuts by the major chains. In 2010, as occupancy slowly picks back up …the emphasis will be more on revPAR, than lose-lose price wars. This follows the logic of doing more with less; the demand in the 2010 market will be such that artificial occupancy optimization measures (like deep discounting) will be unsustainable, making revPAR the metric that matters

Building for a Recovery -- Hotels should get back to making what investments they can in revenue-generating initiatives in the New Year. ….For many hotels… the recession-created lull in occupancy created an opportunity for development for the future. Look for this trend to continue into next year.
Supply Pipeline -- Lodging supply actually grew in the third quarter of 2009 ... While this indicates a trend upward, there is not likely to be a substantial upsurge in new hotel construction as 2010 opens…..and it is doubtful that 2010 will see a sudden influx of new hotels (the availability of financing for new construction is unlikely to improve until the latter half of 2010 at best, further limiting inventory increases in many markets).

ADR -- RisingUS average daily rates are, as might be expected from the published occupancy and revPAR predictions, forecast to increase slightly in 2010. Business travel, hit particularly hard by the recession, is poised to make a comeback in 2010, though probably not to 2007 levels. This, coupled with hotels’ decreasing reliance on deep discounting to boost occupancy, will lead to higher average daily rates. Higher ADRs, along with occupancy optimization through effective revenue management, will in turn lead to improved revPAR and a recovery for the industry as a whole….

As with all forecasts, our predictions for 2010 may be end up being different to reality. There is still so much uncertainly pervading the global marketplace, and the lodging industry is no exception. We may yet enter a double-dip recession, or the so-called jobless recovery may prove too tenuous to support many hotels. We maintain, however, that the New Year will be dominated by revenue management optimization, a return to healthier occupancy and revPAR levels, and weak but not nonexistent demand.

More than anything, we think that innovative properties and chains will eke out a considerable competitive advantage over their lagging peers. There are always opportunities, after all. In 2010, the key will be seizing them when they present themselves.”

To contact the writers, Bruno Perez and Jean Francois Mourier of REVPAR GURU for additional commentary or to receive the entire (uncut) article, please contact Vanessa Horwell at jrodrigues@thinkinkpr.com or 305.749.5342 x 234. Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.

Free HSMAI Webinar: “Leading A Motivated Sales Team”

2009-12-04T00:51:00.000-05:00

Attention HSMAI members, The Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau is inviting HSMAI South Florida chapter members to watch the "Leading a Motivated Sales Team" webinar from their conference room on Tuesday, December 8 at 2 pm.

There is no cost for this event as it is being hosted by the GFLCVB which is located at 100 E Broward Blvd., Ste 200, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
If interested in attending, please RSVP to sfaulds@broward.org by December 7th.

For more details on the webinar content, see the previously posted HSMAI South Florida Chapter "Scoop" blog article on December 2nd.
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider.