The occupancy projection for this year was lowered 0.2% from the previous forecast, but projections for average daily rate (ADR) and revenue per available room (RevPAR) were lifted 1.5% and 1.3%, respectively. For 2024, a 1.4% downgrade in occupancy coupled with a 0.7% lift in ADR meant a RevPAR downgrade of 0.6%.

RevPAR, the key top-line performance metric, was fully recovered in 2022 on a nominal basis but will not achieve that status when adjusted for inflation (real) until 2025. Gross operating profit per available room (GOPPAR) was also recovered in 2022 with limited growth forecasted for 2023 and more sizable gains projected in 2024. The GOPPAR projection for this year was lowered 2.7% from the previous forecast and downgraded 4.0% for 2024.

“Despite the upgrade, economic uncertainty underlines our forecast for the remainder of this year and into 2024,” said Amanda Hite, STR president. “We have always forecasted with a mild recession in mind, but we’re now looking a later timeline and the added concerns around the banking system. Regardless through the first four months of the year, hotel demand improved 4.3% with most of the gain concentrated in the upper upscale and upscale chains. These two chains, which are the segments most associated with business travel and groups, are expected to lead industry demand growth for the remainder of 2023. With everything considered, the industry has plenty of reasons to remain optimistic about top-line performance. At the same time, growing operating expenses, especially labor, continue to pressure the bottom line. Profit margins, while strong, are projected to be lower this year than last.”

“Recent stress in the banking system and tighter lending standards will add to inflation pressures and produce a relatively mild recession in the second half of 2023,” said Aran Ryan, director of industry studies at Tourism Economics. “A halting economy will limit gains in lodging demand, though we continue to anticipate returning group and business activity, international travel, and consumers’ desire for travel will sustain modest growth in room nights sold.”

The article STR, TE lift U.S. ADR and RevPAR forecast; profit growth to be limited first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“Business event professionals are looking to provide innovative experiences that break the mold for meetings and drive lasting results with their event attendees and clients,” said Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Marriott International. “Consumer patterns, behaviors, and motivators are constantly evolving, and we are excited to provide insights our customers have been asking for through this new research.”

During the research process, Marriott, PCMA and CEMA conducted more than 60 one-on-one interviews. Each interview was followed by a series of global roundtables with experts and thought leaders in experience design, who assessed how these trends should be integrated into event strategies. The research, conducted by Storycraft Labs, was synthesized into six guiding principles intended to drive experience innovation for years to come:

• Exploring Identities: Humans seek the ability to find their own individualized uniqueness but also to find where they overlap with others. These intersections are fundamental to one’s ability to connect and emphasize a need for connection to local communities. The role of the event designer will be to reimagine networking and create an environment where people feel open enough to stretch their minds and fully participate.
• Architecting Choice: Audiences desire choice and want to be involved in selecting the various pathways available to them. They also want adequate support and resources to make clear and informed choices. These tools, when leveraged effectively, can help audiences reduce complexity and make confident, informed decisions. To develop the user experience, event strategists need to understand the problem they’re solving for from the perspective of the audience. Asking the audience why they are coming to an event may be a step in the right direction.
• Designing for Belonging: A sense of belonging for attendees should be a central mission for the experiences that event strategists create. When all audiences are able to participate as they are and feel included for who they are, they can have more positive and impactful experiences. Event strategists need to design events for inclusion, considering different abilities and varying needs related to mental health. As part of Marriott International’s commitment to belonging, Marriott has collaborated with the Google Experience Institute (XI) on The Neu Project to enable more neuro-inclusive meetings and events.
• Value of Values: Audiences search for experiences that provide value beyond the dollar, prioritizing elements like sustainability, inclusion, hybrid channels, community engagement, time and uniqueness. Distinct offerings and value propositions continue to be crucial in meeting audience needs. For the time-conscious, the virtual-hybrid experience will remain essential to be connected to their communities wherever they are.
• Emotional Data: Understanding the emotional state of participants is key to driving loyalty and decision making. Event strategists need to discover how to leverage emotional data, measure it consistently and analyze it effectively. Audience segmentation tools use personalization to create dialogue and encourage preference sharing. When used pre-event as a vehicle for experience design, they can demonstrate how the emotional data collected has been used to create better experiences for the audience.
• Power of Play: The process of playing with something, breaking it apart and putting it back together creates opportunities for ideation and collaboration. Developments in AI are opening new avenues for experimenting and playing with new tech tools that can facilitate connection. Event designers may want to create play-first spaces that celebrate testing and experimentation to help audiences better understand new ideas and synthesize learnings.

“Our ongoing relationship with Marriott International further underscores our commitment to deliver innovative education and resources for business event strategists around the world,” said Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President and CEO, PCMA and CEMA. “We’re proud of this work, and hope the insights gathered from the report help drive engagement, build community and foster better business relationships.”

This year’s THE EXCHANGE: Association Masters Customer Conference theme, “Step Beyond,” was centered on breaking away from the traditional and embracing the shift toward meaningful event experiences, bringing together 750 association meeting professionals, as well as Marriott executives and sales professionals.

The three-day event highlighted Marriott’s innovative approaches to social impact and inclusion, food and beverage design and sustainability with educational and informative talks. Marriott speakers included Anthony Capuano, President and Chief Executive Officer, David S. Marriott, Chairman of the Board, Drew Pinto, Chief Revenue & Technology Officer, Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, and Julius Robinson, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, U.S. and Canada, among others. Attendees also participated in experiential activations designed to educate and communicate the intention of each of the report’s guiding principles. Following these experiential activations, attendees went to a lab where they conducted exercises to synthesize these trends and discuss how they can be applied to future meetings and events.

Further activations at Marriott International and PCMA/CEMA events around the world throughout the remainder of this year will be used as case studies, with a final report on “Guiding Principles in Experience Design” to be released in early 2024. The study will also be featured at PCMA EduCon, June 25-28, 2023 in Montreal, and CEMA Summit, August 6-8, 2023, in Salt Lake City.

The article Marriott International, PCMA and CEMA release “Guiding Principles in Experience Design” findings first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Survey data shows travelers are increasingly looking for ways to save on travel. According to a Morning Consult survey, a greater share of travelers (34%) are using points and rewards to book travel than last year (28%). With deals in Daily Getaways carrying at least a year-long expiration and many programs offering points that never expire (with an active account), travelers can secure a travel deal now to use beyond this summer.

Available Deals

Since its inception in 2010, Daily Getaways has offered travelers access to deals from top travel brands in a one-stop, once-a-year marketplace, with deep discounts on points from top loyalty programs being among the fastest sellers.

The following is a breakdown of how travelers can view and buy the deals:

• Deals Preview: Starting June 5, U.S. Travel begins previewing the Daily Getaways deals online, allowing travelers to sign up for reminders when the deals go live.
• Daily Deals: A limited number of offers will be available for online purchase in the United States and Canada each weekday beginning Monday, June 12 until July 14, or until supplies last.
• Deals Platform: To preview and later purchase the deals, consumers can visit DailyGetaways.com. Travelers can also sign up for daily alerts to be reminded of deals that interest them before limited quantities sell out.

Travelers can look forward to Daily Getaways travel opportunities from these and additional travel brands:

• Accor
• Best Western Hotels & Resorts
• Caesars Entertainment
• Choice Hotels
• IHG Hotels & Resorts
• Hilton
• Hyatt Hotels & Resorts
• Marriott International
• MGM Resorts International
• Omni Hotels & Resorts
• SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
• Universal Destinations & Experiences
• The Venetian Resort Las Vegas
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

The article Daily getaways returns with travel deals, offers from top brands first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“I am incredibly proud and humbled to bring The Junto to Columbus,” said Jimmy Merkel, Rockbridge CEO and Founder of Makeready. “Having witnessed the remarkable growth and potential of this city, we wanted to take the best parts of our other projects and bring them to life at The Junto, I think we did that. The Junto is not only a hotel—it’s a testament to the evolution and the city of Columbus which is poised for extraordinary growth. I have seen the impact our other Makeready hotels have had in other markets, and now I looking forward to bringing that same community impact to my hometown.”

To bring The Junto and its experiences to life, Merkel assembled his teams: Makeready, RBHD and RBHM have come together to develop, concept, design and operate the hotel and restaurants. Prior to The Junto, this team collaborated on the redevelopment and reimagining of several other properties including Emeline and The Ryder in Charleston, SC, Noelle in Nashville, TN, Halycon in Cherry Creek, CO, Cliff House in Ogunquit, ME, The Adolphus in Dallas, TX and more. Additionally, the group is leading the development of more independent hotels and restaurants in multiple cities including Columbus, Phoenix and Charleston.

The design of The Junto was meticulously fashioned to create a space that fosters connection, comfort, and a sense of residential warmth. With a keen focus on bringing people together, the hotel’s public spaces have been thoughtfully designed to inspire connection, gathering and creativity. Deep, rich hues and soothing blue tones envelop the surroundings, creating an inviting ambiance that is both engaging and convivial. Upon arrival, guests will find The Trade Room, a compelling take on the hotel lobby that is a place to laugh, have fun with an old friend or simply pay homage to the foundation of great conversation – commerce and trade.

The hotel’s library serves as a cozy fireside retreat, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a world of knowledge and inspiration. Every element of the design, from the carefully selected materials to the captivating artwork, works harmoniously to create an environment that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Celebrate and come together for creative business events in The Junto’s 13,000 square feet of inventive meeting space with oversized expansive windows opening to a large, wrapped balcony overlooking the surrounding greenspace and downtown city views, unlike any other venue in the area.

Featuring 198 unique guest rooms and suites, the hotel is designed for a variety of offerings to meet the needs of many who seek either a couple’s getaway, a family trip, business needs or the curious traveler. The Junto’s accommodations feature contemporary touches such as oversized custom-built window benches overlooking the redeveloped Scioto River, for versatile dining or workspace, custom art programming and well-curated materials. Spacious suite options from one-bedroom suites with extended terraces artfully dubbed “The City Escape”, to “The Apartment” a thoughtfully designed 1,200 square foot suite with a separate living area to a unique set of custom bunkbed rooms, and “The Loft” a spacious accommodation ideally situated for entertaining, offerings that were crafted for a truly different experience.

To further enrich guests’ experiences, The Junto is proud to introduce a diverse lineup of programming including outdoor activations for the neighboring community with Maudine’s Night School and The Trade Room Talks. These thought-provoking events invite our guests and community to have fun, be inspired and foster connections through experiences with influential local cultural voices. The Trade Room will also come alive with live music every Friday, providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable evenings. The Junto is excited to host a series of vibrant events that celebrate the spirit of Columbus, coinciding with the abundance of city events and festivals.

Following the opening of The Junto, the team will unveil several new culinary experiences in the summer months, such as – Little West Tavern, a wood-hearth neighborhood tavern that will deliver a menu comprised of honest wood-fired select cuts and a range of classic pours. Brass Eye, the dynamic rooftop bar is the perfect place to unwind and be inspired by one of our founder fathers who knew how to have fun and not be too serious. Benny Frank’s Drinker’s Dictionary will make you laugh and want to have one more. For guests on the go or for those looking to settle in, The Junto will also offer Maudine’s, a neighborhood coffee shop welcoming guests with morning breakfast pastries and a custom blend. End the evening with late-night naughty eats at Little West Poutine window, a craveable, walk-up window where night owls can indulge in the classic treat.

Offering an array of exciting amenities at the Gear Garage, guests can easily explore the outdoor offerings within Columbus. Inviting guests to choose their own adventure, this over-the-top amenity provides guests access to a variety of equipment. From bikes and kayaks to skateboards, scooters, GoPros, picnic kits, adventure backpacks, and more, The Gear Garage sets the stage for memorable outdoor adventures in the city’s breathtaking metro parks. Additional wellness amenities include the fitness center, offering Peloton bikes and Rogue Fitness equipment.

The article Columbus, Ohio welcomes the opening of The Junto first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

As the newly appointed General Manager, Josh Isaacs brings expertise and passion for delivering extraordinary guest experiences. With over 20 years of living in Zambia and a deep connection to the hospitality industry, Josh can guide Zambezi Grande to new heights. Josh comes from a family of chefs and guides, where hospitality comes naturally. He is passionate about using locally sourced ingredients in his culinary creations.

“I am honored to join Zambezi Grande and be a part of this incredible team,” said Josh Isaacs, General Manager of Zambezi Grande. “We aim to provide our guests with unforgettable moments, immersing them in the untamed beauty of the Lower Zambezi National Park while ensuring their utmost comfort and satisfaction. I am excited to lead the team as we create extraordinary memories and lasting connections with our valued guests.”

Zambezi Grande offers a range of exceptional experiences designed to connect guests with the wild wonders of Zambia. From thrilling game drives and walking safaris led by experienced guides to river cruises along the Zambezi River, every moment is crafted to provide a deep appreciation for the region’s rich biodiversity and unique landscapes.

“The opening of Zambezi Grande for the season is a cause for celebration,” said Julius Schuld, Head of Hospitality at Zambezi Grande. “With our new General Manager, Josh Isaacs, at the helm, we are confident in delivering unparalleled luxury experiences that showcase the natural wonders of the Lower Zambezi National Park. We look forward to welcoming our guests and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.”

The lodge is open seasonally between April and November.

The article Zambezi Grande welcomes the 2023 season with new General Manager, Josh Isaacs first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Highlighting the remarkable success that contributed to the original development’s immense popularity, CPS CEO Sebastian Dietzold proudly showcased The Soul Fumba project during the launch of the new CPS Office in Masaki near Kaffe Koffee. Additionally, he expressed sincere appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Government of Zanzibar, for their invaluable support in achieving this significant milestone.

The Soul Fumba offers 200 dream holiday apartments, strategically located on the west coast within the Fumba Town infrastructure, boasting a range of amenities such as health facilities, playgrounds, permaculture gardens, retail spaces, food courts, and office areas. The prime location near Stone Town and the airport ensures convenience for residents and visitors alike. Furthermore, The Soul Fumba promises high returns on investment by benefiting from both the thriving tourism sector in Zanzibar and the value appreciation of a fast-growing urban centre. This makes The Soul Fumba, an ideal choice for investors but also singles, couples, and families seeking a home in Africa.

As part of the Fumba Town Development Project in the Free Economic Zone, The Soul Fumba welcomes foreign buyers. In addition, attractive incentives have been announced by the Government of Zanzibar, including residency visas starting with an investment of $100,000 and tax benefits. CPS aims to create a welcoming environment for international investors interested in the Zanzibar real estate market.

The Soul Fumba apartments are sold off-plan, allowing buyers to secure their units with a 15% down payment. A generous 5-year payment plan is available, with monthly instalments starting at $1,270. Chief Commercial Officer of CPS, Tobias Dietzold, highlights that while buyers make their payments, their holiday homes will be prepared for them to move in, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

Each purchaser of The Soul Fumba apartments will receive a 99-year lease title, providing them with the rights to inherit, mortgage, sell, and rent out their property. CPS is committed to ensuring long-term value and security for buyers, allowing them to make the most of their investments.

The unveiling of The Soul Fumba was accompanied by a panel discussion featuring prominent figures, including Graham Leslie, Executive Chairman of The Hotel Association Zanzibar & President of Conservation Capital; Fred Msemwa, Managing Director of Watumishi Housing Investment; and Abdulrahman Said, Managing Partner of Bankable. The panel aimed to explore the potential opportunities in the real estate sector spurred by the thriving tourism industry.

Zanzibar has recently garnered the prestigious title of being Africa’s top travel destination, as declared by “The Travel Magazine.” Surpassing iconic locations like Mt. Kilimanjaro, Cape Town, and the Masai Mara of Kenya, Zanzibar’s tourism sector has not only rebounded to pre-pandemic levels but also anticipates a remarkable 30% growth compared to 2022. The country’s thriving economy is poised for a projected growth of over 7% in 2023.

With a progressive Government that welcomes foreign investment, the real estate sector in Zanzibar has experienced rapid growth in recent years making Zanzibar a fertile ground for growth and expansion, with endless opportunities for those up to the challenge.

CPS invites potential buyers and investors to explore the exciting opportunity presented by The Soul Fumba and join the journey of creating a vibrant community in Fumba Town. For more information, please visit the CPS website or contact their dedicated sales team.

The article CPS: Transforming East Africa’s real estate landscape first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“We are proud to introduce Novotel Living in Batumi offering extended stay services with the high standards of an international brand to our guests wishing to experience longer stays, while feeling at home wherever they are in the world. Batumi is the heart of the Georgian Adjara, a modern resort with mild subtropical climate and rapidly growing tourist infrastructure. It has potential to become a perfect venue for international tourism, business and sport events. We are confident that Novotel Living Batumi, equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay, will become popular among international guests and local residents thanks to its warm and homely atmosphere in such a picturesque place. We are grateful to our partners Mardi Holding for cooperation and are looking forward to implementing this new ambitious project,” Alexis Delaroff, Chief Operating Officer of Accor New East Europe notes.

Novotel Living Batumi will open on Iberia Street, located in the recreational area of Batumi on the Black Sea coast, within walking distance from a well-equipped private beach. Thanks to the unique combination of a healing microclimate and subtropical vegetation, guests will be able to escape the city hustle and relax in the lap of nature at any time of year. The new hotel will be located in close proximity to the most popular tourist attractions such as the Petra Fortress, the Batumi Botanical Garden and the Mtirala National Park, and just 15 minutes by car from the vibrant city center with trendy restaurants and bars.

The hotel will occupy a new building with two blocks and 13 floors each. Novotel Living will implement a “strata title” concept when rooms are owned and rented out, while the infrastructure is managed by the hotel operator. Novotel Living Batumi will offer 319 apartments of different categories – from executive studios to two- and three-bedroom cozy and functional suites with stylish furniture, featuring everything necessary for a comfortable stay. Guests planning longer stays can use fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances and in-room laundry facilities, as well as a soundproofed work area with a free Wi-Fi access.

The hotel’s infrastructure will include thoughtful public spaces that create a co-living atmosphere, a gastronomic restaurant and a 24-hour lobby bar. Guests will enjoy a recreation area with an infinity pool and a panoramic restaurant on the roof of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Black Sea coast and the mountains. Novotel Living Batumi will also feature a SPA center with a swimming pool and a modern fitness room, as well as several conference rooms equipped with everything necessary for big events and business meetings. The new hotel will offer a comfortable recreation area with a playground for children and animation program throughout the day.

“Mardi Holding is delighted to launch a world-class serviced apartment project in Batumi in partnership with Accor, a global hotel operator. Ambitious plans to develop Georgia’s Black Sea coast and turn Batumi into one of the best seaside resorts in Europe support the market development and create great opportunities for launching high quality serviced apartments. Novotel Living is only the first brand from the Accor collection that we plan to bring to the market,” Nugzar Berishvili, Managing partner at Mardi Holding, comments.

Novotel Living Batumi is scheduled to fully open in 2025.

The article Accor and Mardi Holding to open Novotel Living Batumi on the Black Sea coast in Georgia first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

“Marriott has long believed in having the right accommodations in compelling destinations at the right price point. Whether our guests are traveling for business, leisure or a mix of both, our portfolio of 31 brands offers something for everyone. As consumers look for new, flexible accommodation solutions, we are thrilled to announce our plans to launch an affordable midscale extended stay offering to meet the needs of guests seeking long-term comforts at a moderate price point,” said Marriott International President and CEO Anthony Capuano.

As the leader in extended stay lodging with brands like Residence Inn by Marriott, Element by Westin, TownePlace Suites by Marriott, Marriott Executive Apartments and more recently, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy, Project MidX Studios reflects the company’s deep experience and learnings from its guests, owners, and franchisees. Marriott incorporated this input to create a brand that will deliver a great guest experience while reducing building and operating costs for owners and franchisees.

“Based on everything we’ve seen and heard, our team is excited about Marriott’s entry into the affordable midscale segment, where Concord has been engaged for many years,” said Mark Laport, President and Chief Executive Officer, Concord Hospitality. “In collaboration with Whitman Peterson, we expect to break ground on three Project MidX Studios this year, with anticipated openings in late 2024 or early 2025. Marriott’s track record in extended stay and strong owner value proposition are compelling and driving our interest in growing this brand within our portfolio.”

“With Project MidX Studios, we are focused on enhancing the breadth of our portfolio through the creation of a product specially designed for the affordable midscale extended stay tier—from the physical product to the operating model. The team created Project MidX Studios to reach both new customers and new markets. We are excited to join forces with Concord Hospitality and Whitman Peterson on our first three projects and are in discussions with owners for more than 250 new development opportunities under this brand,” said Leeny Oberg, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, Development for Marriott International.

Benefits to Owners

Project MidX Studios, expected to be Marriott’s most affordable cost-per-room product in the U.S. & Canada, is designed to enable accelerated speed-to-market with a low cost to build. The prototype model targets a build cost of $13 million to $14 million, requiring approximately 54,000 square feet of total building area for 124 studios. The brand is also expected to have a light operational cost model for owners and franchisees.

The brand will be part of the company’s award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform with over 180 million members. It will leverage Marriott’s world class Global Sales Organization, including Marriott’s dedicated Extended Stay sales team, and strong digital platforms like Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app, to generate direct bookings. The new brand is expected to have tailored Marriott Bonvoy redemption options appealing to the target guest.

“Marriott has been working closely with owners and franchisees to develop a product that has a compelling value proposition and a highly efficient operating model,” said Noah Silverman, Marriott International’s Global Development Officer for U.S. & Canada. “With trends towards longer-stay travel and increased work flexibility, Marriott is utilizing its experience in extended stay to deliver a fresh solution to meet the needs of a growing customer base, backed by Marriott’s powerful demand engines and revenue systems. With our plans for Project MidX Studios, we will have an extended stay product in every lodging tier—from affordable midscale to upper upscale and luxury – for our customers and our owners and franchisees.”

Benefits to Customers

Project MidX Studios will deliver a streamlined, light-touch, digital-first operating model that focuses on the needs of a budget conscious consumer, with conveniences like pay-and-go retail and check-in with Marriott Mobile Key. The brand is designed for guests in search of affordable, flexible accommodations for an extended stay, typically 20+ nights or more, who are seeking to pay around $80 per night, depending on the market and demand.

With a smart, modern, and functional design, Project MidX Studios will include spacious suites offering both single or double queens, in-room kitchens and ample closet space. They will feature on-site guest laundry, gym, and pet-friendly facilities – and come with the company’s unwavering commitment to comfort, care, and cleanliness.

The article Marriott International announces plans to expand in affordable midscale segment with new extended stay lodging brand first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

Situated just five kilometers from the Samaná Peninsula, Cayo Levantado Resort officially opens its doors in the presence of Isabel García Lorca, President and Founder of Grupo Piñero, and Encarna Piñero, Executive Vice President, and CEO.

This unique resort, nestled on a captivating island, features 218 rooms spread across 10 distinct typologies, each inspired by the natural beauty of the country. From Junior Suites to private villas accommodating up to eight people, the accommodations offer diverse environments that cater to various preferences. In its commitment to delivering a distinctive and exclusive experience, Cayo Levantado Resort has partnered with Forbes Travel Guide, ensuring the highest standards of quality, luxury, and hospitality in both service and facilities.

By envisioning a new paradigm for luxury tourism, properly named “the luxury of regeneration”, Cayo Levantado Resort materializes a groundbreaking concept of luxury tourism, rooted in sustainable innovation and sophistication. The resort focuses on a triple regeneration approach, centered around guest experience, respect for and protection of the environment, and celebration of local culture.

To ensure guests have a truly personalized experience aligned with their interests and needs, Cayo Levantado Resort offers four paths to well-being: REFRESH, RESTORE, RELAX, and RENEW. These programs, designed by wellness professionals who are part of the resort’s staff, enable visitors to engage in activities that promote personal reconnection within a magical natural setting. The offerings include high-intensity activities, physical training therapies, spa treatments, nutritionist-curated menus, and meditation sessions with a focus on spiritual growth.

Taking well-being to new heights, Cayo Levantado Resort presents Yubarta, the true heart of the island, seamlessly integrated within the tropical gardens at the center of the Cayo. Yubarta offers an elevated experience of personal growth and discovery. This unique space aims to establish an atmosphere that facilitates self-reflection through tailored workshops, activities, and programs.

The culinary experience at the resort reaches unparalleled heights with six restaurants featuring diverse culinary concepts, catering to every taste. From international and healthy options to Mediterranean, fusion Nikkei, steakhouse, and, of course, traditional Dominican gastronomy, guests will savor a gastronomic journey like no other.

Sustainability is at the core of Cayo Levantado Resort’s ethos. Grupo Piñero has embraced innovation and sustainability across all aspects of this new space to protect the ecosystem, preserve flora and fauna, and minimize ecological impact. The resort features a water production and bottling plant utilizing condensation technology. The resort plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation and stands as a pivotal point in the Samaná Bay reef zone, signifying the inception of a vibrant marine ecosystem and providing a sanctuary for a diverse range of bird species, majestic whales, and delicate coral formations. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding this precious natural habitat, Grupo Piñero’s Eco-Bahía Foundation works in close collaboration with esteemed local non-governmental organizations such as CEBSE and FUNDEMAR to actively conserve and restore the delicate coral reefs that thrive in these waters.

In the spirit of resource conservation, Cayo Levantado Resort’s commitment is evident throughout the entire guest experience. The check-in process has been thoughtfully designed to eliminate the need for paper, replacing it with identification bracelets. The dedication to minimizing plastic waste is showcased in every room, which adheres to a strict zero plastics criteria. To empower all guests in managing their environmental impact, the resort has implemented a cutting-edge room control system called “RoomXperience.” This intuitive system allows each guest to actively monitor their real-time energy consumption through convenient controls for lighting, presence detection, door and window sensors, as well as precise temperature and humidity management.

The sustainability efforts of Cayo Levantado Resort extend beyond environmental initiatives. The integration and promotion of local talent play a central and essential role in their mission to provide an experience that sets a new standard for tourism in the region. The resort prioritizes engaging and showcasing local talents, fostering a vibrant and authentic guest experience. By involving the community, it cultivates a strong sense of community and cultural connection, providing guests with an immersive and genuine stay. This commitment to local talent enriches the guest experience and contributes to the resort’s mission of redefining tourism standards in the region.

The article Cayo Levantado Resort οpens the doors and welcomes its first visitors first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.

The SOC 2 Type 2 Examination is a detailed examination of design suitability and operating effectiveness for the controls implemented around the information and system security. The examination reflects the third-party testing results of Mews’ security controls against the Trust Services Criteria published by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

“In the world of hospitality, data security is critically important. We designed Mews to have the highest degree of safety and confidentiality, and we’re deeply proud to be among the few PMS providers to have passed this rigorous test ”, said Richard Valtr, Founder of Mews. “Our technology empowers properties to securely handle guest data and process real-time payments, all while minimizing potential threats.”

The successful completion of the SOC 2® Type 2 examination further strengthens the growth strategy for Mews in North America, more specifically the enterprise segment in the US market.

“With this, Mews is entering a new stage of maturity. We’re unlocking new possibilities in North America and delivering industry-leading technology to modern hoteliers and their guests,” said Michael Wesner, Chief Commercial Officer at Mews. “The data security of our customers is a point of trust that Mews will continue to protect as we grow our platform and client base.”

It comes at the same time as Mews tripled their North American business with the acquisition of Hotello.

The article Mews announces successful completion of SOC 2® Type 2 examination, proving its commitment to data security first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.