News & Stories
Zurich. The "clouded skies of Switzerland" have now given way to thunder and lightening. Both hotel associations battle on...
New York. Ritz-Carlton edged out Peninsula as the most prestigious luxury hotel brand in the 2006 Luxury Brand Status Index survey of Luxury Hotels conducted by the New York City-based Luxury Institute. Small Luxury Hotels of the World placed a strong third despite its low awareness, tied with Four Seasons.
The eco boom
Frankfurt. By the end of 2007, the brand Fleming's Hotels & Restaurants wants to be present at three locations in Frankfurt. This is what the owner, Ignaz Blodinger, recently told the press. However, Fleming's is rapidly expanding in the entire German-speaking region as well.
Wegberg. Canvassing for weddings, birthdays and bowling tours for next year will already start in a few weeks. Are hoteliers keeping in mind the VAT increase as of January 1, 2007? Preparing offers for contracts with private individuals may already include traps.
New York. With room rates and occupancy rates soaring in North America, many hotels are again quietly imposing unpopular surcharges covering everything from the use of a pool to housekeeping tips.
First hotel captain to brave the bridge was Kurt Ritter, President and CEO of Rezidor SAS Hospitality with Jonathan Worsley, representative from CB Richard Ellis Hotels questioning.
London. Finally, the days are numbered in the UK of disparate and confusing hotel classifications. While 2006 will be a transition period - with diamonds running alongside stars - it is stars that will be the new common classification for all serviced accommodation across Britain going into 2007.
Zurich. The Austrian-American Norbert W. Bischofberger invented "Tamiflu", one of two medications planned to be used against bird flu. The 50-year old scientist on the dangers of the bird flu.