(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.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Friday, September 3, 2010
Around Town - August/September 2010
(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.
--------------------------------------
To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider
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.
--------------------------------------
To submit items for future editions, send to jwfranklin1@gmail.comBest, Julie Wernick, HSMAInsider
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
August 18, 2010 HSMAI-South Florida Meeting Recap
“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.
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.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Around The (Travel) Websites: What Consumers Are Reading …
(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
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
Monday, July 26, 2010
“Marketing Medley” – July 2010
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
--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
Friday, July 2, 2010
“Around Town” Column – June 2010
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
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
Thursday, July 1, 2010
“Table of 8” – June 16, 2010
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
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
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