“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.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – September 2011
(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?
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?
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
“Hospitality Marketing Medley” – August/September 2011
(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.
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.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
HSMAI – Headquarters – Recap – August 2011
(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
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
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Around Town – August 2011
(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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider
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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To submit items for future blog editions, please send to jwfranklin1@gmail.com
Best, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider
Thursday, August 4, 2011
July 20th, 2011 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap
“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
(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
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Palm Beach County's 2011 Providencia Award
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 GuidelinesProvidencia 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.
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 GuidelinesProvidencia 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.
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