Pharrell invites guests to stay happy in Miami
As temperatures around the world push record-breaking numbers, hotels are rethinking the way they conduct business: in Dubai, for example, extreme heat is forcing hotels to slash prices in a bid to continue to attract travelers. Meanwhile, energy-efficient underground hotels, AKA earth-sheltered dwellings, are having a moment, offering guests an uncommon experience that goes hand-in-hand with a smaller eco-footprint. -Lesley McKenzie, editor
In this issue:
🎁 Night, night with luxury hotel gifts in sight
😊 Happy Pharrell honors Art Deco
🎓 Investors score A+ with college town buys
🤩 Hotels launch the frontier of hospitality
🍸 Cheers to Sara, the AI bartender
Luxury hotels are elevating turndown service by offering extravagant gifts such as customized board games and premium apparel. Boutique hotels like Airelles provide bespoke pajamas and co-branded ski jackets, while the LVMH-owned Belmond chain tailors locally appealing items like Frette beach towels. These lavish gestures help justify high room rates and enhance the overall guest experience, particularly in high-demand destinations. (Wall Street Journal)
Pharrell invites guests to stay happy at Goodtime Hotel
The Goodtime Hotel in Miami's South Beach boasts a vibrant design inspired by the Art Deco movement, characterized by bold geometric patterns and rich colors. Designed by Pharrell Williams, David Grutman and Ken Fulk, the hotel features an eye-catching lobby and eclectic spaces like the poolside Strawberry Moon restaurant and bar, blending historical charm with modern flair. Each area, from the lively library to the colorful dining spaces, creates a dynamic and immersive atmosphere that reflects Miami’s spirited essence. (Travel Noire)
Valencia Group graduates to new heights with college town investments
Valencia Hotel Group completed its largest equity raise to acquire two boutique hotels, Cavalry Court and The George, in College Station, Tex. This move highlights a trend of increased hotel investments in stable, university-supported markets, seen as recession-proof due to the consistent influx of visitors for university-hosted events. In 2022, College Station reported $427 million in direct travel spending, a nearly 17% increase year-over-year, emphasizing the growing appeal of college towns for hotel investors. (Hotel Dive)
Quirky roles reimagine hospitality
Hotels are increasingly embracing unconventional roles to stand out and elevate guest experiences. Positions like Resort Aunty, S'mores Butler, and Instagram Concierge exemplify this trend, demonstrating how properties are incorporating unique services into their offerings. Additionally, roles such as Cactus Caretaker and Chief Flamingo Officer underscore the industry's focus on providing personalized and memorable interactions. (Thrillist)
Sara makes history as first AI hotel bartender
Sara, the AI-powered mixologist at the Wyndham Resort and Conference Center in Kissimmee, represents the first use of artificial intelligence in hotel bar service. Developed by Cecilia.ai in partnership with Casa Azul, Sara employs voice recognition and facial ID technology to interact with guests, recommend drinks and process orders. This cutting-edge bartender enhances the guest experience with its 24/7 availability and provides real-time analytics to improve inventory management and staffing. (Around Osceola)
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