Hilton Says It Is Working To Disclose Mandatory Fees

Hilton Worldwide said on Thursday that it was working to ensure mandatory fees are displayed upfront on all its websites and apps.

Hotel operators have received criticism on how fees are displayed to consumers and been accused of engaging in fraudulent and anti-competitive practices by misleading consumers in advertisements, which prevent comparative shopping, and charging millions of dollars in hidden fees.

"The process to update and align our technology is under way," Hilton said in a letter to U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Jerry Moran.

The senators introduced the bipartisan Hotel Fees Transparency Act in the U.S. Senate in July, with the aim of cracking down on hidden fees and establishing federal guidelines for pricing.

Marriott International in May took similar action and agreed to prominently display all "resort fees" and increase price transparency in its advertisements and booking process.

Last year, Airbnb made changes to the way it displays prices on its platform after it faced customer complaints.

This comes at a time when global travel has rebounded after the pandemic.

Hilton said on Thursday it is also advocating for all platforms that advertise, distribute, and sell their inventory to display all fees to ensure the consumer sees consistent information wherever they book.

The platforms include hotel websites to online travel agencies, as well as Google and short-term rental platforms, according to the hotel operator.

Reporting by Doyinsola Oladipo in New York and Kannaki Deka in Bengaluru; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta, Reuters

Curio – A Collection By Hilton Makes Its Spanish Debut

Hilton Worldwide’s First Property in Ibiza Starts Welcoming Guests

Originally established in 1933, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is steeped in history as it was the first purpose-built hotel on the island and has been declared an asset of cultural interest by UNESCO. Credit: Curio Collection by Hilton.

IBIZA, Spain - Curio - A Collection by Hilton announced today the opening of Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza, Curio Collection by Hilton. The upscale, one-of-a-kind hotel is Hilton Worldwide's first property on the island of Ibiza.  Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is part of Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) Curio brand, a rapidly-expanding global collection of distinctive upscale and luxury hotels, Curio caters to passionate travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences.

Originally established in 1933, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is steeped in history as it was the first purpose-built hotel on the island and has been declared an asset of cultural interest by UNESCO. With its opening as part of the Curio collection, the property has been fully refurbished while maintaining its neo-colonial facade. The hotel's 33 elegant guest rooms have been decorated by famed interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán and most rooms offer views of the old town and harbour.

Open year-round, the intimate property is located in the heart of Ibiza's historic centre, just 20 metres from Ibiza's bustling harbour and steps from Dalt Vila ('Upper Town'), a UNESCO World Heritage site which features ancient buildings as well as modern markets.  Beautiful beaches such as Ses Salines and Cala Vadella are easily accessible from the hotel, and Formentera Island is a short ferry ride away.  Also nearby are nightclubs where guests can experience the island's infamous club scene.

Cafe Montesol sits on the ground floor of the hotel and has been a hub for social life in Ibiza since it was originally established in 1933. It is known among local residents as a place to gather and socialize while enjoying Spanish mediterranean cuisine and tapas specialities, and can accomodate up to 300 guests.  Its cocktail bar is the perfect place to lounge while enjoying a refreshing drink and its street terrace overlooks Vara de Rey Boulevard.

"Each hotel selected to join the Curio collection is hand-picked for its distinctive character and Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is no exception to this as it joins 23 Curio hotels open around the world, including Reichshof Hamburg in Germany which was the first Curio hotel to open in EMEA," said Dianna Vaughan, senior vice president and global head, Curio - A Collection by Hilton and DoubleTree by Hilton. "We are delighted to add this property to our growing portfolio.  With its prime location, bespoke concierge service and top restaurant, the hotel is ideal for travellers to Ibiza."

A bespoke concierge service offers a private service to help plan and manage a trip prior to or during a guest's stay. This assists guests with anything they may need during their stay in Ibiza including restaurant reservations, yacht rentals, diving experiences and more. Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza also runs a partnership which allows guests to reserve private meeting rooms at the nearby Ibiza Archaeological museum. In addition, the property can arrange meetings aboard private yachts with catering by the hotel's food and beverage team. 

"We are thrilled to open Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza. The iconic building is Ibiza's oldest hotel and with this refurbishment, its luxury and elegance has been restored to a brilliant quality," said Eduardo Miquel, general manager, Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza. "The hotel is well placed for travellers to Ibiza, particularly those who wish to organize conferences and events during Ibiza's calm winter months. As the property is open year-round and can organize unique meeting experiences, it appeals to business travellers as well as those here for leisure."

Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza participates in Hilton HHonors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide. The program is open to all guests and free to join. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including an exclusive member rate that can't be found anywhere else, free standard Wi-Fi, digital check-in and HHonors Points.

Gran Hotel Montesol Ibiza is located at Passeig de Vara de Rey, 2, 07800 Ibiza, Illes Balears. For more information, or to make a reservation, telephone: +34-871-515049 or visit here to book
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Conrad Hotels & Resorts Unveils Smart Luxury In China’s Fujian Province With Opening Of Conrad Xiamen

 –  Conrad Hotels & Resorts,  Hilton’s (NYSE: HLT) smart luxury hotel brand, today announced the opening of  Conrad Xiamen, on the southwestern coast of Xiamen Island. Owned by Shimao Group and managed by Hilton, Conrad Xiamen is the first Conrad hotel in Fujian province, the sixth in China among a portfolio that includes Conrad Hong Kong, Conrad Sanya Haitang Bay, Conrad Dalian, Conrad Macao, and Conrad Beijing, and joins the larger Hilton portfolio of over 70 hotels in China.

“Conrad Xiamen is an excellent addition to our China portfolio. It underscores our commitment to growing our presence across the top destinations of this market and our confidence in the increasing demand for luxury accommodations from a new generation of smart luxury travelers,” said Bruce McKenzie, senior vice president of operations, Greater China & Mongolia, Hilton.

Conrad Xiamen occupies the 37^th to 54^th floors of the iconic 300-meter tall Shimao Straits Tower, in the heart of Siming’s Central Business District. Designed to be a shopping, leisure, and business hub, Shimao Straits Tower is a striking sea-facing landmark with a sail-shaped design boasting expansive views of the famous Gulangyu Island. Guests of Conrad Xiamen will enjoy direct access to a shopping mall and a cinema, as well as the prestigious Shapowei dining precinct. Nan Pu tuo Temple and Xiamen University are within walking distance and Conrad Xiamen is also close to major businesses and popular attractions such as Gulangyu Island ferry terminal, Zhongshan Road and Baicheng Beach. Conrad Xiamen is 22 kilometers from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport.

“We are delighted with the debut of our Conrad Hotel & Resorts brand in Fujian. Conrad Xiamen is a great flagship hotel that epitomizes the luxurious facilities and intuitive service that will provide our guests with inspired experiences and define a new standard for luxury in Xiamen,” said John Vanderslice, global head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts.

Conrad Xiamen has 241 guest rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views. Averaging 60 square meters, the rooms have walk-in wardrobes, large flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi and wired Internet access, Nespresso machines, hydrotherapy rain showers and 400-thread count luxury bed linens. Alternatively, guests can opt for suites and executive rooms with exclusive access to the Executive Lounge on the 54th floor.

Overlooking the city from the 37^th floor is a 24-hour Health Club with a full range of cardio and strength training equipment, as well as personal trainers. The heated 25-meter indoor pool offers sea views and guests can also unwind in the Jacuzzi or enjoy personalized treatments at Conrad Spa, which uses only the purest natural products.

With over 2,000 square meters of flexible meeting space and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, Conrad Xiamen is also an ideal venue for corporate events, social gatherings and weddings. There are eight multifunction meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 210 people and a pillar-less, 760-square meter ballroom that is connected to a sea-facing 380 square meter foyer.

Conrad Xiamen delivers exquisite culinary experiences with its five restaurants and bars. Coast Bar & Grill offers the ultimate sky dining experience, with fresh seafood, grilled specialties and the highest bar in town. Lucheng serves mouth-watering Cantonese and Fujian delicacies, and has eight private rooms that are perfect for small functions. Pier 38 is an all-day dining restaurant with a buffet featuring a vast array of Asian and Western dishes, interactive cooking stations and great sea views. The sophisticated Plush serves High Tea by day and transforms into a vibrant bar in the evenings. Offering fine wines and snacks, it is a great place for socializing and relaxing. And at Parisian patisserie French Kiss, guests can expect fine pastries and Western-style meals.

To ensure that guests enjoy all that the city has to offer by way of culture, art, cuisine and adventure, Conrad Xiamen offers signature  Conrad 1/3/5experiences. Conrad Xiamen also offers the  Conrad Concierge app, which enables guests to customize the details of their stay, such as pre-selecting bath amenities, or checking-in while in transit, via a smartphone or tablet.

Conrad Xiamen participates in Hilton HHonors®, the only hotel loyalty program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® on the same stay, with No Blackout Dates on reward stays.
Along with HHonors Points, members also enjoy the lowest rates, digital check-in, complimentary internet access, and a booking fee waiver when they book directly through  www.conradhotels.com.

Conrad Xiamen is located at No. 186, Yanwuxi Road, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian Province, 361005, P.R. China. For more information or to make reservations, please call the hotel directly at +86 0592 258 6666, visit the hotel’s website at  www.conradhotels.com/xiamen, or follow the hotel on Wechat: Conradxiamen.

Hilton currently operates over 70 hotels in China, recently opening the second Hilton hotel in Xiamen, DoubleTree by Hilton Xiamen-Wuyuan Bay.

For more information about Conrad Hotels & Resorts, please visit  http://news.conradhotels.com or follow us at  www.facebook.com/ConradHotels,  www.instagram.com/ConradHotels,  http://twitter.com/ConradHotels.

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About Conrad Hotels & Resorts
Conrad Hotels & Resorts is the destination for the new generation of smart luxury travelers for whom life, business, and pleasure seamlessly intersect. Conrad offers its guests an innovative way to Stay Inspired through a curated collections of 1-hour, 3-hour, or 5-hour experiences, available through  www.stayinspired.com or through the intuitive  Conrad Concierge mobile app. Consisting of 26 properties across five continents, Conrad is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Connect with Conrad by booking at  www.conradhotels.com. Learn more about the brand by visiting http://news.conradhotels.com or following us on  Facebook,  Instagram, and  Twitter.

Conrad Hotels & Resorts Set To Debut Smart Luxury In Doha, Qatar In 2019

Expected To Open in 2019, Property Will Join Middle Eastern Conrad Destinations in Dubai, Cairo, Istanbul and Makkah

Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) luxury hotel portfolio for the new smart luxury traveller, today announced the signing of a management agreement with Assets Real Estate Development Company for the 325 guestroom Conrad Doha, expected to open in early 2019.

Carlos Khneisser, vice president of development, Middle East & North Africa, said, “Momentum for growth in Qatar’s hospitality offering continues at a strong rate, owing to the significant focus being put on the country’s future as a truly international destination, in line with Qatar’s 2030 Vision. We are delighted to have confirmed our latest Conrad hotel for the region, which joins a selection of prestigious properties in outstanding destinations worldwide.”

Conrad Doha will occupy a prime location in a rapidly evolving business area of the city and will be easily connected to the main C-Ring Road, which leads to the downtown area and the new Hamad International Airport (DOH). Comprising 295 guestrooms and 30 suites the hotel will also offer almost 1,000 square metres of events space including a Grand Ballroom for corporate events and social occasions.

Guests will be able to enjoy luxurious spa and fitness facilities, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. Dining options will include seven restaurants and bars, offering diners upscale culinary experiences.

John T.A. Vanderslice, global head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, said, “As we have expanded Conrad’s global footprint, so has the brand’s awareness. We encourage our guests to never just stay, but stay inspired, whether it’s via the Conrad 1/3/5 local experiences or the App-enabled personalized service guests can access while on-property through the digital Conrad Concierge. We now feature 24 destinations globally, and with our expansion into Qatar we fully expect the brand to resonate strongly with travellers to this rapidly evolving Gulf country.” 

Qatar is seeing major growth to its infrastructure, in advance of the 2022 Football World Cup and its ambition to become a major hub for business, industry and tourism within the Middle East.

Hilton Worldwide already operates Hilton Doha, as well as the recently opened DoubleTree by Hilton Doha – Old Town and expects to increase its Qatari portfolio with a further seven projects currently under development, including the region’s first Curio, a Collection by Hilton hotel expected to open later this year at the Mall of Qatar.

Dr. Mohammed Aba Al-Khail, CEO of Assets Real Estate Development Company, said, “Hilton’s reputation in the Middle East as a leading luxury hotel operator affirms our strategy to position Conrad Doha as a world-class hotel.  We are delighted to be working with Hilton, with their more than 55 years’ of hospitality management experience in the region, and renowned global brands.”

Conrad Hotels & Resorts is present in inspired destinations around the world, including Dubai, Hong Kong, London, and New York. Eight new Conrad hotels will open in 2016 (including Conrad Makkah, slated to open in summer of 2016), and a further 23 hotels are currently under development.

Conrad Doha will offer the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travelers the ability to customize details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it's pre-selecting bath amenities or checking-in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.

Conrad Doha will also participate in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest loyalty program where guests who book directly through www.conradhotels.com have access to benefits including the digital Conrad Concierge app and complimentary Wi-Fi at 24 Conrad hotels.

For more information about Conrad Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.conradhotels.com or http://news.conradhotels.com.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, comprised of more than 4,600 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties with more than 758,000 rooms in 100 countries and territories. For 96 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of 13 world-class global brands includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn and Instagram. 

 

About Conrad Hotels & Resorts

Conrad Hotels & Resorts is the destination for the new generation of smart luxury travelers for whom life, business, and pleasure seamlessly intersect. Conrad offers its guests an innovative way to Stay Inspired through a curated collections of 1, 3, or 5 hour experiences, available through www.stayinspired.com or through the intuitive Conrad Concierge mobile app. Consisting of 23 properties across five continents, Conrad is part of Hilton Worldwide, a leading global hospitality company. Connect with Conrad by booking at www.conradhotels.com. Learn more about the brand by visiting http://news.conradhotels.com or following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Conrad Hotels & Resorts Announces Debut Of Conrad Pune In India

 The smart luxury and intuitive service of the Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand debuts in India with the opening ofConrad Pune. Located in the heart of the central business district, the iconic Art Deco inspired Conrad Pune is the epitome of curated experience, services and sophisticated style. The hotel is managed by Hilton Worldwide and owned by Palm Grove Beach Hotels Pvt. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the K. Raheja Constructions Group.

Poised to become Pune’s most coveted address, the luxury hotel is located on Mangaldas Road near Koregaon Park, the city’s prime commercial, residential and entertainment districts. It offers easy access to the city’s IT and business hubs including Magarpatta, Kharadi, Hinjewadi and Pimpri-Chinchwad, as well as the airport.

“The introduction of the Conrad brand in India marks a significant milestone for the brand’s expansion in South Asia, and Pune enjoys a robust demand for high-end hospitality from affluent travellers from around the globe,” says Amit Midha, general manager, Conrad Pune. “We are uniquely positioned to cater to the needs of the new generation of smart luxury travellers, offering access to a world of connections and inspired experiences.”

The destination for the new generation of smart luxury travellers for whom life, business and pleasure seamlessly intersect, Conrad Pune features among the largest guest rooms and suites in the city, six stylish dining outlets, extensive business and recreational facilities and, what is anticipated to fast become, the city’s most sought-after meetings and events space ideal for exclusive social gatherings and business functions.  Providing the backdrop are expansive public spaces with 40-feet high ceilings, cascading water features, a collection of handpicked artwork, bold geometric shapes, dashes of striking colour and hints of lavish ornamentation.

Starting at a spacious 450 square feet, the hotel’s 310 luxurious guest rooms including 20 suites offer the very latest in-room technology.  These are equipped with everything a guest needs for a productive business trip or restful vacation including signature Conrad amenities, plush bedding and five-fixture marble bathrooms with walk-in rain showers and soak tubs.   These ‘Intelligent Rooms’ sense the guest’s arrival and switch from energy saving mode to occupied activating the air-conditioning system, drawing curtains and adjusting the lights to suit the time of day.

Conrad Pune offers the popular Conrad Concierge mobile app, which gives global luxury travellers the ability to customise details of their hotel stay before, during, and after each visit via a smartphone or tablet. Whether it's checking-in while in-transit from the airport, guests can access a variety of features by using the app.

The dining options at the hotel, that promise to become the city’s hot spots, include three innovative restaurants, a chic bar, a unique poolside café, delightful delicatessen and a lobby lounge. Coriander Kitchen, the all-day restaurant offers an interactive culinary journey with multiple live counters serving a range of Indian, Asian and Mediterranean street food inspired cuisine.  With a dramatic 40 feet fully-glazed wall overlooking an outdoor waterscape, this restaurant offers an inspiring venue for a breakfast meeting; and a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends, family or business partners or a quick bite with colleagues. For an indulgent evening, guests can dine at Zeera, the speciality Indian grill fine-dining restaurant, with a display kitchen and sweeping wine wall.  Koji, the Asian speciality restaurant, serves the best of Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine.  Meanwhile, the Asian-inspired chic Masu bar features a large sake wall, offering the ideal location for cocktails with colleagues and business associates as well as family and friends. For guests who enjoy the outdoors, Kabana, the poolside café that serves a classic western lounge menu and a selection of refreshing beverages and wines, offers the perfect setting.

Guests can also recharge with a quick bite and a refreshing cup of tea at Pune Sugar Box, the delicatessen that offers freshly baked pastries and savouries, as well as hand-made chocolates. It also features a live counter offering guests the choice of customising their order.

The hotel features a dedicated rejuvenation floor with the city’s first outdoor temperature-controlled pool, a dedicated kids’ pool, whirlpool, a 24-hour fitness centre, a full-service Conrad Spa and a salon.

For guests who wish to explore the city, the dedicated concierge at the hotel is happy to assist in booking a restaurant, securing tickets or organising a taxi or chauffeur driven limousine. For guests who seek inspired experiences, the hotel offers a more customised and curated collection of 1-, 3-, and 5-hour itineraries available at www.StayInspired.com and accessible via the Conrad Concierge mobile app.  Each Conrad 1/3/5 recommendation features an inspired view into each destination covering food, shopping, art and design, culture, family and adventure.

Conrad Pune will be the premier choice for exclusive meetings, private dinners and grand receptions. The 20,000 square feet of meeting and event space at the hotel features a grand ballroom, meeting rooms, seven boardrooms, dedicated entrance, indoor automotive lift, state-of-the-art audio visual technology, intelligent lighting, exceptional service and inspired catering.

The hotel  participates in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest loyalty programme that allows members to earn Points & Miles® for the same stay and redeem points for free nights with No Blackout Dates at more than 4,600 hotels worldwide.  Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton Worldwide channels enjoy access to benefits including an exclusive discounted on room rates, free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available through the Hilton HHonors app, which allows guests to check-in and choose their room.

To learn more about or connect with Conrad Pune, please visit www.ConradPune.com
 or call +91 20 6745 6745.  For more information about Conrad Hotels & Resorts, please visit http://news.conradhotels.com or follow us atwww.facebook.com/conradhotels, https://instagram.com/conradhotels, and http://twitter.com/conradhotels.

Hilton Worldwide Unveils Brand New Hotel In Egypt

The hotel offers 199 modern rooms, including 20 suites and 21 executive rooms, all designed with comfort and convenience in mind to provide a place to relax and unwind or to catch up on work. Credit: Hilton Hotels & Resorts. Hilton Hotels & Resorts today announces the official opening of Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch. The hotel marks Hilton Worldwide’s (NYSE: HLT) 18th in Egypt, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its operations and further strengthening its presence in the country.

Curio – A Collection By Hilton Makes Its African Debut In Nigeria

- Nigeria is set to welcome The Legend Hotel in 2016, joining more than 76 Hilton Worldwide branded hotels now trading or under development across the continent -

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE:HLT) has reached an agreement with Quits Hospitality Ltd to open its first property under the Curio – A Collection by Hilton brand in Africa.  The Legend Hotel is expected to open in mid-2016 and will be located at Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Nigeria.

The Legend Hotel, which will be located within the airport boundaries, will feature 54 guest rooms, including eight suites.  Travellers will benefit from the hotel’s unrivalled proximity to the international airport terminal, as well as exclusive facilities for private jet and corporate jet passengers of ExecuJet – which will allow passengers same-building access to the arrivals and departures services of this private aviation company.

Launched in June 2014, the Curio collection is a global set of remarkable upscale and luxury hotels hand-picked for their unique character and personality; each one a part of the city they call home. By partnering with Hilton, these one-of-a-kind hotels benefit from the proven track record and quality synonymous with Hilton without redefining the individualistic spirit of the hotel.  Global destinations available to travellers now include more than 80 properties open or in various stages of development, including Germany, the U.S., Jamaica and Argentina.

“Curio is a great opportunity for investors looking to benefit from the performance advantage and smart innovations of Hilton, whilst retaining the individual character and identity of their hotel,” said, Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president of development Europe, Middle East & Africa for Hilton Worldwide. “Our growth strategy across the continent continues at a fast pace, with more than fifty percent of our development pipeline currently under construction – opening up new destinations for travellers to Africa.”  

A new build property, The Legend Hotel will offer guests stylish interiors, and reflect the unique personality of Nigeria’s capital city, with the centre of Lagos located approximately 22 kilometres from the property.  Guests will be able to enjoy three upscale dining options, including VIP dining facilities and two bars. There will also be more than 158 square metres of events space, split across three meeting rooms.

Dianna Vaughan, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton, said, “Building on the success of bringing Curio to Europe, and with hotels soon to open in the Middle East, I am delighted that we are establishing a presence in Africa in 2016. I’m proud that this unique project in Nigeria will be the first of many in destinations across the continent as investors continue to respond positively to Curio.”

Sam Iwuajoku, director of Quits Hospitality and owner of the hotel, commented, “We are thrilled to be working with Hilton to open Africa’s first Curio hotel – enabling us to put our own unique stamp on the hotel, whilst benefiting from Hilton’s management expertise and global distribution. We look forward to unveiling the hotel, and welcoming guests in this exciting new airport project.”

As part of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio, Curio – A Collection by Hilton hotels participate in Hilton HHonors®, the 50 million member, award-winning guest loyalty program which is open to all guests and free to join. Hilton HHonors members always get the lowest price with Hilton’s Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, free Wi-Fi, access to digital check-in and Digital Key, and no hidden fees, only when they book directly through Hilton.

The Legend is located at Murtala Muhammed Airport Road, at Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Nigeria.  More information about Curio may be found at curio.com.  Media may access high-resolution images and more information by visiting news.curio.com.

About Curio – A Collection by Hilton

Curio – A Collection by Hilton™ (curio.com) is a global set of remarkable upscale and luxury hotels hand-picked for their unique character and personality; each one a part of the city they call home. Curio guests are passionate, independent-minded travelers seeking local and authentic experiences who value the added peace-of-mind that comes with the Hilton name and award-winning Hilton HHonors program. Curio joins a portfolio of world-class brands from Hilton Worldwide, a leading global hospitality company. Come discover the latest stories at news.curio.com, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or inquire about development opportunities at hiltonworldwide.com/development.

Hilton Worldwide Establishes First Curio – A Collection By Hilton in Atlanta With Candler Hotel

Atlanta’s iconic Candler building to open doors as a hotel in 2017

 Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) today announced the signing of a franchise license agreement to bring Candler Hotel Atlanta to Curio – A Collection by Hilton™, a global set of distinctive upper upscale and luxury hotels, hand-picked for travelers who seek local discovery and authentic experiences. The landmark Candler building is set to open as Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton in late 2017 following extensive renovations. The property is owned by REM Associates, L.P. and will be managed by Highgate Hotels.

“We are excited to partner with Stephen Miller and the team at REM Associates to bring the Curio collection to Atlanta’s downtown community,” said Matt Wehling, senior vice president, development – North America, Hilton Worldwide. “Paying homage to the iconic Candler building and Atlanta’s heritage, Candler Hotel Atlanta will be a wonderful addition to our portfolio and is an ideal illustration of how Curio hotels are embracing and preserving significant structures across the U.S.”

The Candler building is a beloved fixture of Atlanta’s history and design and stands as one of Atlanta’s oldest landmarks. The iconic structure was originally developed over a century ago by one of Coca-Cola’s formative businessmen, Asa Candler. When built in the early 1900s, it was Atlanta’s first steel skyscraper.

“Our family is so pleased to honor the history of the 110-year-old Candler Building in downtown Atlanta and create the next chapter for this iconic building as a Curio property,” said Stephen T. B. Miller, President and CEO of REM Associates, L.P. ““For four generations, our family has been committed to the care and preservation of the Candler Building. We have an obligation to ensure that this beloved historical structure continues to tell the Atlanta story.”

Significant renovations will transform the former office building into a 265-guestroom hotel featuring oversized king, double queen and suite rooms. The main level of the hotel will feature the Candler Building’s well-known Georgia-white marble grand staircase, original Tiffany windows, a restaurant and bar where Mr. Candler’s bank was formerly housed, lobby and lounge area. Meeting and event space will be available as well as an outdoor rooftop space with a great view of the city. The hotel is being developed by Development Services Group and REM is partnering with The Beck Group for design-build architecture and construction services and NICOLEHOLLIS for interior design.

The building is set in Georgia’s sprawling capital, in the largest business district in the state, known as Downtown Atlanta or the Historic Business District. This area of the city provides convenient access to the city’s prominent sports teams, fantastic dining, and Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The hotel neighbors Woodruff Park, Georgia State University’s Balzer Theatre and Rialto Center for the Arts. Top attractions like the World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park are a short walk or streetcar ride from the hotel. 

“Atlanta is a city with a deep narrative of innovation and great antiquity,” said Dianna Vaughan, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “Curio properties like Candler Hotel Atlanta will expertly integrate this narrative with the Curio brand promise to support local discovery, individuality and authentic experiences.”

As part of the Hilton Worldwide portfolio, Curio – A Collection by Hilton participates in Hilton HHonors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide’s 13 distinct hotel brands. Hilton HHonors Members always get our lowest price with our Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, free Wi-Fi, access to digital check-in and Digital Key, and no hidden fees only, when they book directly through Hilton.

For more information on Candler Hotel Atlanta, visit curio.com.

Travelore News: Hilton Launches New Budget Hotel Chain Aimed At Young Guests

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An image provided by FRCH via Hilton shows a rendering of a new hotel brand named Tru. 

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Hilton is launching a new hotel brand, focusing on budget travelers looking to spend $75 to $90 a night.

The new brand, named Tru, aims to compete with economy and midscale chains like Comfort Inn, Fairfield Inn and La Quinta.

Hilton Worldwide — which has more than 4,500 hotels globally — already has "limited service" brands like Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn, Homewood Suites and Home2 Suites. This would be a new market for the chain.

Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta notes that 40 percent of the demand for hotel rooms comes in this price segment, the largest of any market. He also says many of the economy and midscale chains offer an "inconsistent product and service delivery," giving Hilton the opportunity to build loyalty among younger travelers whose spending is limited right now, but could afford a more upscale location in the future.

"You go in a lot of the competition and it's like Russian roulette," Nassetta says. "There's really nobody doing it well at this price point." Many of the hotels in the segment were once part of more upscale brands but as their owners couldn't keep up with renovation costs, they downgraded to economy chains.

Tru properties won't have had a prior life as a hotel. They will be mostly new construction with the others being urban conversions of historic buildings — banks, office buildings — into the hotel.

Hilton is launching the chain at a large conference for hotel investors — The Americas Lodging and Investment Summit — with 102 locations already signed and an addition 30 deals in various stages of negotiations and approval.

"That's bigger than entire hotel companies," Nassetta says.

The time for Hilton to enter this market is good.

While chain luxury and upscale hotels have the highest occupancy rates and average nightly room rates, their growth in the past year has trailed the lower end of the market. The high end hotels have seen less than one percent growth in occupancy and less than 5 percent growth in revenue per available room, according to research firm STR. Midscale and economy hotel chains however have seen roughly 2 percent growth in occupancy and more than 6 percent growth in revenue per available room.

The hotels will be in a mix of markets including urban, airport and suburban. The areas include Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Denver, Portland, Oregon, Charlotte, North Carolina, San Antonio, Texas and Nashville, Tennessee.

To ensure that owners are able to keep the hotels fresh, Hilton made sure they would be cheaper to build and maintain.

The typical hotel will have 98 rooms and sit on 1.5 acres of land. It will cost $84,000 a room to build, excluding land. Compare that to Hilton's Hampton Inn brand. Those typically have 130 rooms, sit on 2 acres and cost $110,000 a room to build.

Rooms themselves will be different. Don't expect a closet. Instead there will be an open space with hangers and hooks on the wall. And the traditional hotel desk is replaced with a chair that includes a spot for a tiny laptop or tablet. The platform bed doesn't have a box spring and there's a space-saving bench that rests over the heating and air conditioning unit.

The brand is aimed at younger travelers on a budget. But Nassetta says it is also a great way to introduce them to Hilton.

"Get them loyal to our system," he says, "and trade up as they move on in their lives."

By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ