Travel Technology, Hospitality Management
Holland America Line | September 27, 2023
Holland America Line is bringing the Great Land to Phoenix, Arizona, with the all-day Alaska Cruise and Travel Show Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, at the Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas. The free-to-attend, action-packed expo runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and invites Arizonans who are dreaming about an Alaska cruise vacation to come learn, engage and see the best ways to experience this incredible destination with Holland America Line.
Celebrating more than 75 years of Alaska exploration, Holland America Line is rolling out the red carpet with an immersive display of all-things Alaska for the event. Attendees will be able to meet the people who bring Alaska to life, make s'mores, take part in gold panning (and keep what they find!), try their hand at axe throwing, and enjoy live presentations and culinary demonstrations.
"Our Alaska cruises are ranked number one for the most Alaska glacier, wildlife and wilderness viewing opportunities," said Bill Fletcher, senior director of destination marketing for Holland America Line. "We're bringing our Alaska travel experts to Phoenix to connect with people who want to check this destination off their bucket-list but aren't sure where to start. Even travelers who have previously explored Alaska can gain insights for future visits, meet tour operators, enjoy family-friendly activities and enter to win prizes."
Those who register and attend will have a chance to win one of six $500 Holland America Line gift cards or the grand prize of an Alaska cruise for two.
Scheduled for the Alaska Cruise and Travel Show presented by Holland America Line:
Attendees can meet an Alaskan Lumberjack from the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan, Alaska, who will demonstrate axe throwing, and attendees will have the opportunity to test their own skills.
Just like the prospectors of the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1800s, attendees can pan for real gold and perhaps take home an authentic nugget.
Attendees will feel like they are at McKinley Chalet Resort's Denali Square as they roast marshmallows and make s'mores around a faux firepit.
Fleet Executive Chef Sinu Pillai will provide culinary demos featuring fresh, sustainable Alaska seafood served on Holland America Line's Alaska cruises.
Attendees will learn more about Holland America Line's enrichment and entertainment programming that brings Alaska on board through authentic experiences that focus on culture, cuisine and adventures ashore.
All who attend will enjoy live presentations from Alaska operators to see and hear about the wildlife, scenery, adventure and culture they can experience in Alaska.
Shore excursion operators — from the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway in Skagway to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan — and Holland America Line representatives will be on hand to share more about what to expect when traveling to Alaska with the only cruise line that ventures into the Yukon Territory (hint: it involves river rafting, zip-lining and going deep into the wilderness to spot grizzlies and caribou).
The Alaska Cruise and Travel Show is presented by Holland America Line and co-presented by Expedia Cruises in North Scottsdale. Other sponsors include Allen Marine Tours, a family-owned company based in Southeast Alaska.
Cruising to Alaska in 2024
From April through September 2024, guests can embark on Holland America Line's cruises to Alaska aboard Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam. The cruise line is debuting a new 28-day Arctic Circle itinerary in 2024 that includes 12 Alaska ports, longer 14-day voyages and 117 weeklong journeys, enhancing its position as the leader in Alaska cruising.
Every Alaska cruise includes a visit to one or more of Alaska's iconic glacier destinations: Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier and Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm. Holland America Line has more visits to Glacier Bay than any other cruise line.
Exclusive Cruisetours Explore Denali and Yukon
The Alaska landscape is one of the few places in the world that is best seen by combining a cruise with an overland adventure, and Holland America Line's award-winning Cruisetours offer guests 16 options that showcase remote and off-the-beaten path regions. Holland America Line is the only cruise company to weave must-see sites such as Denali National Park — the centerpiece of every Cruisetour — with the unspoiled reaches of Canada's Yukon Territory.
About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc
Holland America Line has been exploring the world for 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering an ideal mid-sized ship experience, its fleet visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Holland America Line's 11 vessels feature a diverse range of enriching activities and amenities focused on destination immersion and personalized travel. Guests enjoy the best entertainment at sea each evening and dining venues featuring exclusive dishes by world-famous chefs. A new global fresh fish program brings more than 80 types of fresh fish on board, sourced and served locally in regions around the world.
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Travel Technology
PR Newswire | October 04, 2023
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., is pleased to announce the launch of a new international marketing campaign, speaking to the continued evolution of the brand. Created in collaboration with longtime agency partner Team One, the Leave Better campaign invites guests to embark on a powerful journey of self-discovery through thoughtfully tailored experiences and the genuine comfort and care offered by a stay at The Ritz-Carlton. With the promise of a transformational experience, guests will check out of The Ritz-Carlton greater than when they arrived.
Marking a fresh new direction for The Ritz-Carlton, the multi-million dollar marketing campaign captures how travel across the brand's hotels and resorts can become a catalyst for personal evolution. Leave Better illustrates that travel not only results in enriching memories but also has the power to evolve ones' sense of self. The Leave Better campaign will roll out in several languages across international markets, including the United States, Japan, China, Germany, the UAE and Saudi Arabia through a special partnership with Condé Nast network, truly tapping into a global audience. It will be seen across digital video, print, digital display and paid social.
"We are thrilled to introduce the Leave Better Campaign, which reflects our commitment to not only honoring our heritage as a luxury hospitality icon, but embracing the desires of our discerning guests," said Jamie Kerr, Senior Director Global Marketing, The Ritz-Carlton. "Through Leave Better, we invite travelers to journey with The Ritz-Carlton to places, moments and spaces that are marked by genuine care only we can deliver, and will encourage self-growth and discovery, staying with them long after they depart."
The campaign's central question, "How will a stay leave you?", inspires consumers to envision the lasting impact of an experience at The Ritz-Carlton. It encourages guests to consider the memories they'll create, the connections they'll forge, the inspiration they'll draw, and the level of revitalization they'll experience that can only result through genuine comfort and care. Whether through enriching classes, cultural programming, hands-on culinary experiences, or more, there are endless opportunities for guests to tap into moments of exploration and discovery. Through a series of visually captivating advertisements across print and digital content, the campaign captures the brand's commitment to providing unforgettable and transcendent journeys.
Leave Better is the latest phase in the brand's thoughtful evolution, which has seen The Ritz-Carlton expand into exciting global destinations such as Mexico City, Melbourne and Fukuoka, buzzing neighborhoods including NoMad in Manhattan, and the industry redefining launch of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The new debuts have rolled-out alongside a collection of comprehensive renovations, signaling The Ritz-Carlton's ongoing transformation as it welcomes travelers across generations and geographies. The evolution has also seen the unveiling of a new website for the brand, introducing an elevated digital experience that speaks to the future of The Ritz-Carlton.
The Ritz-Carlton has long stood as the gold standard of luxury hospitality. With a steadfast dedication to providing unparalleled service and impactful getaways, The Ritz-Carlton remains rooted in its commitment to innovation and to thoughtful evolution, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the luxury travel space.
The Leave Better Campaign will roll out across various media platforms, captivating audiences worldwide with its innovative approach to storytelling. A link to the video campaign can be found here.
About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Bethesda, MD, part of Marriott International, Inc., currently operates more than 100 hotels in 32 countries and territories. For more information or reservations, visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.
AboutMarriott International, Inc
Marriott International, Inc. is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 7,600 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 133 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its highly-awarded travel program.
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Hospitality Trends
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts | October 11, 2023
Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown approaches completion of a remarkable $45 million transformation, marked as one of the largest hotel renovations in the Fort Worth area.
A dynamic five-member senior executive team, led by General Manager Damien O'Connor, is poised to steer the hotel's vision and elevate the guest experience.
The hotel, managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, is strategically located across from the Fort Worth Convention Center, near the picturesque Water Gardens, and in close proximity to numerous restaurants and entertainment venues in downtown Fort Worth.
The Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown is on the point of completing an extensive transformation, making it one of Fort Worth's most significant hospitality projects. A five-member senior executive team has been assembled to steer the hotel's vision and enhance the guest experience. This team is backed by Aimbridge Hospitality, a globally renowned hospitality management company recognized for its exceptional service. General Manager Damien O'Connor is leading the team, who joined the Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown in April 2022. Together, they bring over 80 years of collective experience to elevate the hotel's profile and provide exceptional hospitality in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.
The Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown, with 403 rooms, enjoys a prime location just across the street from the Fort Worth Convention Center, the scenic Water Gardens, and the new Texas A&M University Law School addition. It offers convenient access to numerous restaurants and entertainment venues, making it a hub in the heart of downtown Fort Worth. Additionally, the hotel is a short drive away from iconic attractions such as The Stockyards, Texas Christian University (TCU), and the Fort Worth Zoo.
The members of the senior executive team at the Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown include:
Courtney Towson, Director of Sales and Marketing, brings over 15 years of experience to her role, previously serving as Director of Sales and Marketing for The Sinclair Autograph Collection in Fort Worth. She spent over a decade with the Gaylord Texan before that.
Rosa Morakis, Director of Human Resources, has held similar roles at various hotel brands, including Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, DoubleTree, and Radisson. With a diverse background and proficiency in multiple languages, including Portuguese, English, Spanish, and Greek, Morakis is well-equipped for her role.
Bill Richards, Director of Finance, boasts more than two decades of experience in hotel accounting and finance. He has been a valued member of Aimbridge Hospitality for several years.
Kara Anderson, Director of Food and Beverage, is an accomplished professional and the first certified tea master for Starbucks. With several years of experience at the Beverly Hills Marriott, she has returned to her hometown of Fort Worth.
The Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown's $45 million renovation will mark one of the largest hotel transformations in the Fort Worth region. It was started in the fall of 2022; the project is on track to be finalized by the end of the current year. The comprehensive renovation encompasses the hotel's exterior and interior, focusing on creating a more vibrant and spacious environment based on valuable input from guests.
The redesign includes a reimagined entrance, an increased number of suites, and the addition of practical work-space studios tailored for small meetings and versatile use. Adding to the enhanced guest experience is the debut of West+Stone, a signature restaurant bar offering a range of dining options from breakfast to late-night dinners.
The hotel's in-house dining option, &More by Sheraton, will provide an all-day menu and a diverse selection of beverages, catering to both in-hotel dining and takeaway. In addition, the construction has been carried out in stages, allowing the hotel, with its nearly 30,000 square feet of conference space, to maintain operations during most of the renovation process.
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