Hilton Brisbane Celebrates Silver Anniversary and A$37 Million Refurbishment

BRISBANE, Australia, 2012-08-10 — /travelprnews.com/ — One of Brisbane’s leading hotels has recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking the occasion by unveiling a completed A$37 million refurbishment across the entire hotel. In one of the single biggest investments made by any of Brisbane’s CBD hotels, Hilton Brisbane has spent more than A$14 million since January 2011, upgrading every… Read the full press release

U.S. Travel Applauds Airlines for Improved Performance

Washington, DC, 2012-08-10 — /travelprnews.com/ — Statement by Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, on today’s announcement by the Department of Transportation that airline industry performance has improved: “Improved on-time performance for airlines is good news for business and leisure travelers, and we applaud the airlines for this accomplishment. But it’s just one step… Read the full press release

Dreams Become Destinations Rotating Routes for 1st Ethiopian Dreamliner

2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ — Ethiopian Airlines, which will be the first airline in the world outside Japan to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, is pleased to announce rotating destinations, primarily in Africa, for its 1 st Dreamliner. The 1st Ethiopian Dreamliner will touch down in Addis Ababa at Bole International Airport on 17 August 2012. The first… Read the full press release

PATA Connects Industry Leaders and Youth at PATA Youth Forum

Bangkok, 2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ —  The Pacific Asia Travel Association’s (PATA) Education and Training Committee, Taylor’s University and Lyceum of the Philippines University will organise the Manila Youth Forum on Thursday, September 27, 0900-1500, at Lyceum of the Philippines University as part of PATA Travel Mart 2012 (PTM2012), September 25-28, at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, Philippines. The PATA 2012 Manila… Read the full press release

Istanbul on the Rise: Travel + Leisure Names Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet #1 Small City Hotel in Europe in Annual World’s Best Awards

Sister hotels in Istanbul continue to receive accolades from travellers and industry experts around the world. Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Turkey, 2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet was named the #1 Small City Hotel in Europe in Travel + Leisure’s prestigious 2012 World’s Best Awards readers’ poll. The Hotel is set in the heart of Sultanahmet, less than… Read the full press release

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas Raises Money for Cancer Care and Research In Southern Nevada with 13th Annual Seasons 4 A Cure 5K Run, October 7, 2012

Proceeds benefit UC San Diego Nevada Cancer Institute; raffle prizes include dinners, shows, entertainment and Four Seasons stays Las Vegas, U.S.A., 2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas continues to make strides in the fight against cancer. The Hotel’s 13th Annual Seasons 4 a Cure Cancer Run & Fun Walk will be held Sunday, October 7, 2012 at the campus… Read the full press release

Marriott International Declares Cash Dividend

Bethesda, Md. – 2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ — Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) today announced that its board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of thirteen cents ($0.13) per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on September 14, 2012 to shareholders of record on August 23, 2012. Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company… Read the full press release

One year on: Signature Experiences Collection® case studies Vol. 2: Experience PEI.

With more than 30 products on offer, this small Prince Edward Island business offers travellers a glimpse into the real Canada 2012-08-09 — /travelprnews.com/ — If you’re still learning your tourism ABCs, then E is for experience. It’s at the heart of the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) Signature Experiences Collection® (SEC) program. Now into its second year and with… Read the full press release

Irish Music Phenomenon Celtic Thunder Return to Hershey

SEE THESE SIX TALENTED SINGERS AS THEY EMBARK ON THEIR 63-CITY TOUR OF AMERICA & CANADA! 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Storming onto the main stage are the international megastars Celtic Thunder, with Voyage, a brand new show that explores the diversity of traditional and contemporary Celtic music. The ensemble performances in this thrilling evening of entertainment… Read the full press release

Marriott Deals of the Week

2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Shake Things Up- San Diego Style At the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter, guests can order their specialized martinis at Altitude Sky Lounge-on the house.  Dubbed one of San Diego’s hottest bars, Altitude, is located on the roof, 22 stories up, offering breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.  Guests will… Read the full press release

Steigenberger Launching a Presence in Amsterdam

2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Steigenberger is just about to check in at Schiphol International Airport in Amsterdam. The Frankfurt-based hotel company will be acquiring representation at a further international airport by taking over the former Dorint Hotel Amsterdam-Airport with effect from 1 September 2012 and thus adding to the presence it already enjoys at Frankfurt Main… Read the full press release

HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts Forges Ahead with Eight Signings in First Five Months after Brand Launch

Strong market confidence in world’s first international hotel brand designed for Chinese consumers Shanghai, 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world’s largest hotel companies and the biggest international hotel company in Greater China, today announced its first set of signings for the new HUALUXETM Hotels and Resorts brand. Eight management contracts have been signed… Read the full press release

Hilton Orlando Welcomes Mona Ingram as Director of Sales and Marketing

ORLANDO, Fla., 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Hilton Orlando is proud to announce the appointment of Mona Ingram as director of sales and marketing. Effective August 13, Ingram will lead the hotel’s award-winning team of sales and marketing professionals with her more than 25 years of hospitality experience. “We are delighted to have Mona join our team,” said Doug… Read the full press release

IHG Interim Results to 30 June 2012

Preferred brands continue to drive outperformance Financial summary0 2012 2011 % Change YoY Actual CER1 CER & ex. LDs2 Revenue $878m $850m 3% 5% 6% Operating profit $286m $269m 6% 7% 11% Total adjusted EPS 64.1¢ 59.2¢ 8% Total basic EPS3 94.8¢ 54.0¢ 76% Interim dividend per share 21.0¢ 16.0¢ 31%4 Net debt $564m $818m… Read the full press release

Starwood Preferred Guest and Westin Hotels Serve Members Memorable Experiences at the 2012 US Open

SPG Offers Access Like No Other Through ‘GAME ON with SPG’ at the US Open. Experiences Include a Tennis Clinic with Andre Agassi, Courtside Seats, Arthur Ashe Stadium Luxury Suite, Behind-the-Scenes-Tours and More Through a Renewed Partnership with the United States Tennis Association. STAMFORD, Conn., -2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), today announced its award-winning Starwood… Read the full press release

Renaissance Hotels’ Debuts Newest Address in Turkey

Towering 212-Room Renaissance Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel Opens. LONDON,  2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Marriott International, Inc (NYSE:MAR) today celebrates the opening of its ninth hotel in Turkey, the 212-room Renaissance Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel operating under a franchise agreement with Polat Holding A.S. Offering stunning views of Istanbul’s celebrated Bosphorus River, the magnificent 20-story Renaissance Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel… Read the full press release

Travelzoo CEO to Present at the Oppenheimer 15th Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference

NEW YORK, 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Travelzoo Inc. (NASDAQ: TZOO), a global Internet media company, announced today that Chris Loughlin, chief executive officer, will present at the Oppenheimer 15th Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference. The presentation will take place on Tuesday, August 14, 2012, at 9:05 a.m. Eastern Standard Time at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston. Attendance… Read the full press release

Marriott Hotels & Resorts Announces First Hotel in Voronezh, Russia

220-Room Hotel Scheduled to Open in 2015 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — As Marriott International (NYSE: MAR) continues its rapid expansion across Eastern Europe, the company today announced the signing of a new hotel in Russia – the 220-room Voronezh Marriott Hotel.  The hotel is scheduled to open in 2015 and will operate under a management agreement… Read the full press release

Tirana International Airport inaugurates Office for Tourism Services

• Tourists will find more useful information at the Airport • TIA is constantly developing to satisfy demands of passengers and other customers 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — As of today, Tirana International Airport (TIA) is offering an addition to the services it provides inside the terminal with the opening of an Office for Tourism Services. At the initiative… Read the full press release

State’s Official Travel Planning Website Ranks 4th

Oklahoma Fares Well Compared to the Nation’s Tourism Websites 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department announced the state’s official travel planning website, TravelOK.com, ranked fourth among the 50 state tourism websites in June according to Quantcast.com, a media measurement service that tracks the top one million websites in the U.S. TravelOK.com has consistently… Read the full press release

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay Welcomes Greg Bunt as Executive Chef

Australian native brings fresh approach as Resort looks ahead to debut of new beachfront dining venue Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Indonesia, 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay announces the appointment of Greg Bunt as Executive Chef. He’s bringing a dynamic, innovative energy to dining at the Resort. Brand new to Four Seasons family, this Australian… Read the full press release

PABU at Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore Introduces Sake 101 Classes

Tuesday Sake Dinners follow Saturday Sake 101 classes Baltimore, U.S.A. 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — WHAT: A new series of hour-long, informative classes dedicated to sake at PABU. Led by Tiffany Soto and PABU’s team of in-house Sake Sommeliers, each Sake 101 class is an interactive tasting of five sakes that will explore various flavour profiles and illustrate the diversity within the genre…. Read the full press release

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai to Co-Host Waimea Ocean Film Festival

Annual festival returns to acclaimed oceanfront resort Hawaii, Hualalai, U.S.A. – 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Kaupulehu, the first and only Forbes Five-Star resort on Hawaii Island, will co-host to the 3rd annual Waimea Ocean Film Festival. Beginning January 3, 2013 the Festival will take place in Waimea and along the Kona-Kohala Coast, prior to the January… Read the full press release

Enjoy Summer Tastes at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake

The exclusive dining experience at Jin Sha Hangzhou at West Lake, China – 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — The sun sizzles the land and exuberant plants and lotus blossoms transform West Lake into a paradise during Hangzhou’s blazing summer. As the temperature keeps climbing, a light and nutritious meal is what is needed to relieve the summer heat…. Read the full press release

LAS VENTANAS CONTINUES TO “POLISH THE JEWEL” 15 YEARS AFTER PLACING LOS CABOS ON THE INTERNATIONAL RADAR

Cabo’s legendary resort unveils new deluxe beach cabanas, multi-million dollar spa renovation and numerous refreshed amenities in honor of its anniversary CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO, 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort has been among the most internationally acclaimed and recognized resorts in the world since opening in July 1997. In celebration of… Read the full press release

Wild Heaven Beer Experience at Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

Come and indulge in a “taste of heaven.” Atlanta, U.S.A. 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Mark the calendar for an evening of craft beers and bites atFour Seasons Hotel Atlanta. On Saturday, August 25, 2012 Park 75 will host the Wild Heaven Beer Experience. This private event will take place from 6:00-7:30 pm inside Park 75 Restaurant. A welcoming pour… Read the full press release

Four Seasons Hotel Austin Fetes the Fabulous Texas Fig

Local figs featured in cocktails, desserts and more in August Austin, U.S.A. – 2012-08-08 — /travelprnews.com/ — Though perhaps lesser-known than other Texas produce, the fig has been around since the early days of the state. During the month of August, Four Seasons Hotel Austin features this sweet and healthy fruit – it’s naturally high in vitamins A, E… Read the full press release

Escape to Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay This Fall

Experiene More promotion offers up to USD 200.00 daily resort credit. Hawaii, Lana’i at Manele Bay, U.S.A. 2012-08-07 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay is offering a value-oriented promotion for sunseekers in search of the ultimate endless summer escape. Designed for a guilt-free diversion this fall, the Experience More promotion includes a daily Resort credit,… Read the full press release

Incredible Fall Rates Provide Big Savings At Marriott And Renaissance Caribbean & Mexico Resorts

Book 100 Percent Chance of Savings Event until August 31 2012-08-07 — /travelprnews.com/ — The forecast calls for bright sun and even brighter savings this fall for guests who act fast to book a vacation from now until August 31 at one of the nine outstanding Marriott and Renaissance Caribbean & Mexico Resorts.  The resort collection… Read the full press release

Four Seasons Hotel Prague Unveils New Looks in Neo-Classical Building as a Part of a Six-Year Remodeling Program

New Neo-Classical rooms designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon offer unique views of Vltava River and Prague Castle Prague, Czech Republic, 2012-08-07 — /travelprnews.com/ — Four Seasons Hotel Prague, an assembly of three historic buildings and one new building on the banks of the Vltava River in the Old City, is continuing to evolve the guest experience through design with the… Read the full press release