The Ritz-Carlton Takes to the Sea - First Luxury Hotel Brand To Offer Bespoke Yacht Experiences

Setting Sail in 2019, Custom-Built Luxury Yachts to Bring the Iconic Ritz-Carlton Service and Style to Unique and Distinguished Destinations Around the World

 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., part of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR), has announced its entry into luxury yachting and cruises – bringing the award-winning luxury hotel brand’s service and timeless style to sea. Created by The Ritz-Carlton and maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, in collaboration with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement. Named The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, this venture represents a unique foray into the cruise industry for a luxury hotel operator. The first of three lavish cruising yachts in this series is scheduled to take to sea in the fourth quarter of 2019, and distinguishes Marriott International as the only provider of luxury accommodations both on land and at sea.

“The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will have a distinctive personality and the vessels are sure to be true stand outs in some of the most glamorous ports around the world,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, casually elegant and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalized service.”

Itineraries are being developed with an intent to combine the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxury resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation. Calling at intimate and signature destinations alike, voyages will range from seven to ten days. The first ship will cruise a wide variety of destinations depending on the season, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. Due to the intimate size of the vessel, the yacht will call at unique locations typically not accessible to large cruise ships, from Capri and Portofino to St. Barths and the old town of Cartagena. With a relaxed pace, that includes both overnight and daytime ports of call, guests will be offered a uniquely curated destination experience.

The specially designed small capacity vessel will measure 190-meters, accommodate up to 298 passengers, and feature 149 suites, each with its own private balcony. The yacht will also feature two 138 square-meter lavish duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden. The onboard experience will reflect the sublime comfort and unparalleled level of individualized guest service for which the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized; a first in the cruise industry.

“The Ritz-Carlton is known for its legendary service and high standards,” said Douglas Prothero Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “We are delighted to collaborate with The Ritz-Carlton as our hospitality operator in offering the most exclusive yachting experience to be found at sea in a venture that will give new meaning to curated luxury travel,” continued Lars Clasen, Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Throughout the journey, guests will indulge in a cruising style that is unparalleled in the ultra-luxury cruise and private yachting sectors. The Ritz-Carlton yachts will feature a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa; and a Panorama Lounge and wine bar, offering a wide variety of on-board entertainment. Additionally, the yacht will offer one-of-a-kind curated destination journeys through collaborations with local chefs, musicians and artists, allowing guests to experience the locations in unique and experiential ways, both onboard and ashore.

Reservations will open in May 2018. The ships of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/yachts. 

Highly Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Openings In 2017

As we get ready to kick off another year, we’ve rounded up some upcoming hotel openings for 2017.

Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills (Opening: June 2017) pictured above

Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is an urban oasis in one of the world's most glamorous cities. Perfectly set where Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards meet, this elegant hotel represents the best in California lifestyle and luxury. Designed inside and out by the legendary Pierre-Yves Rochon, you'll find world-class service, lavish accommodations, and excellence in every detail. Create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square (Opening: January 26, 2017)

In a landmark of power and prestige, Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square provides a central city location, near the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the River Thames. The historic building – the 1922 headquarters of the Port of London Authority – also incorporates 41 Private Residences and the Ten Trinity Square Private Club, a prestigious private member's club from Reignwood, Four Seasons Hotels and Chateau Latour.

St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club (Opening: February 1, 2017)

A luxury equestrian development located in DubaiLand, the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club comprises of a 136-key St. Regis-branded hotel, 162 Andalusian-style villas and branded villas, polo club, state-of-the-art polo academy, riding school and exceptional equestrian facilities, including 520 stables.

Kokomo Island Resort, Fiji (Opening: March 2017)

Kokomo will open in Fiji with 21 spacious beachside pool villas, as well as a limited collection of five-bedroom hilltop private residences. Kokomo is set on a 135-acre private island – one of 10 small tropical islands set in Kadavu’s incomparable Astrolabe Reef. Guests arrive via the island’s private floatplane or helicopter and enjoy all-inclusive stays with luxury accommodations in traditional Fijian bures, gourmet cuisine, spa experience and a variety of activities and water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with manta rays and more.

The Surf Club in Surfside, Florida (Opening: Spring 2017)

Four Seasons will provide a world-class level of service and amenities at The Surf Club Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences, reminiscent of the era when the Duke and Duchess of Windsor frequented The Surf Club. Founded by Isadore Sharp and celebrating more than fifty years in the hospitality industry, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is renowned for anticipatory, personalized, insightful service. The staff often knows what you want even before you know you want it yourself.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts (Opening: Summer 2017)

Set on a nearly-untouched Caribbean island within the Christophe Harbour development on Banana Bay, Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers the unparalleled Park Hyatt experience for discerning leisure travelers to this idyllic destination in the West Indies. Slated to open during spring 2017, Park Hyatt St. Kitts will be a luxury hotel nestled on a secluded area offering golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, overlooking The Narrows, a strait separating St. Kitts and the volcanic island of Nevis.

The Ritz-Carlton Jiuzhaigou Valley (Opening Fall 2017)

Located at just a 20 minute drive from the Jiuzhaigou UNESCO world heritage site, the 87 all-villa resort is the latest design from the famous Jaya International Design, founded by the late Jaya Ibrahim. Jaya’s approach to design searched for the beauty and serenity within each project, inspired by the local culture and geographical context; no two styles were ever the same, but always unmistakably Jaya. The Ritz-Carlton, Jiuzhaigou breathes the creativity, soul and character of both Jaya and his team continuing his path.

InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown (Opening: Spring 2017)

Opening in the spring of 2017, InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown will graze the sky at 73 stories and offer world-class guest rooms, dining and spa services, all with sustainability and Los Angeles’ indoor-outdoor lifestyle in mind. Our glass tower is located at the nexus of downtown’s historic, entertainment and sports districts — the perfect destination for business or pleasure.

Nobu Ryokan Malibu (Opening: Spring 2017)

It's been the buzz of Malibu for more than two years but it finally looks like Nobu's Ryokan will open beside Nobu Matsuhisa's Malibu sushi restaurant in late spring. Perched over the Pacific, the exclusive hideaway in a 9,200-square foot, two-story building will feature 11 suites and 5 oceanfront bungalows with custom teak soaking tubs, and Pacific Ocean views.

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa (Opening: December 2016)

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa features 201 bungalow-style guest rooms and suites that draw inspiration from the 1950s-desert art movement. Local art is woven throughout, with a rotating collection in the Guest House – a central gathering place for guests. Through the Artist in Residence program, guests learn and create alongside painters, potters, and photographers from the nearby Cattle Track community. Additional amenities include the Turquoise Pool with 13 cabanas, Palo Verde Spa & Apothecary with seven treatment rooms, a salon and private pool, and Weft & Warp Art Bar + Kitchen specializing in contemporary Sonoran cuisine and craft cocktails.

Andaz Mayakoba (Opening: December 2016)

Andaz Mayakoba Resort’s breathtaking design reflects the native Mayan culture and features 214 guestrooms, including 41 luxury suites. Stimulating upscale experiences entertain guests, whether immersing in a lushly preserved mangrove environment, sunbathing in one of three outdoor pools, relaxing in the 10,000-square-foot Naum spa or unwinding on the pristine white sanded Caribbean beach. Additionally, four restaurants and bars will offer the distinguished culinary experiences for which Andaz hotels are known, and all with stunning views of the pools, lagoon, and ocean.

Chileno Bay Resort & Residences (Opening: February 2017)

This new beachfront hotel and residential villa community from Auberge Resorts is nestled in the protective cove of Chileno Bay and will feature a 60-room, boutique luxury hotel and 32 contemporary two- three- and four-bedroom beach villas. Amenities include a centerpiece 138-meter swimming pool, a second pool for families, an oceanfront hot tub, fire pits, a new Tom Fazio- designed golf course, extensive spa, fitness center and movement studio with a series of classes, a kid’s club, owners lounge, and h2O Cave, the resort’s waterfront sports center.

The Scott Resort & Spa (Opening: Fall 2017)

The Scott, formerly Firesky Resort & Spa, is being re-branded in January 2017 and will undergo $15M in renovations, set to bring in Spring 2017. The 204-room resort is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale and embodies a vibrant, Sonoran style. The property will soon benefit from an upgraded Spanish-style lobby, new signature restaurant and bar, two lagoon-like pools, pool bar and all event spaces, to be complete in Fall 2017, just in time for peak season travel to Scottsdale. (Guest rooms and suites renovation to follow in Summer 2018.) Formerly a Kimpton Hotel, the property is now owned and operated by Classic Hotels & Resorts, based in Phoenix.

Above the Penthouses (Opening: Q1 2017)

Above the Penthouses is an exclusive collection of thoughtfully crafted, ultra-luxury residential offerings on the 15th floor of the Residences at W Hollywood on Hollywood & Vine. Each boasting a unique personality and expansive views of Hollywood’s landmarks (Griffith Park Observatory, Hollywood Sign, DTLA, Capitol Records), residences feature sleek interior spaces with upscale industrial aesthetic, grand living and entertaining areas, spacious private terraces, full in-residence tech packages by BAM Luxury and more. Owners enjoy access to W’s ‘Whatever, Whenever’ residential program, 24-hour concierge, private rooftop pool deck equipped with kitchens, fire pits and outdoor seating, 24-hour state-of-the-art rooftop fitness center and dog park, private screening room and Starwood Access.

Costa Palmas (Opening: Early 2018)

Costa Palmas is a 1000-acre private beachfront resort community located 45 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport on the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula. Home to Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos - the luxury brand's first in Cabo - Costa Palmas introduces an elemental form of luxury hospitality set among organic farms on an international marina. Thoughtfully and sensitively designed and situated along a two-mile stretch of swimmable beach, the community features a Robert Trent Jones II 18-hole golf course, 18 acres of orchards and farms, and its own beach and yacht club.

Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has several openings in China in 2017:

Banyan Tree Jiuzhaigou (Tentative: January 1, 2017)

Located in Sichuan province in southwest of China, Banyan Tree Jiuzhaigou is nestled on a spectacular mountain setting. A 2.5-hour drive from Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport, the picturesque retreat is 45 minutes away from the Jiuzhaigou National Park. Banyan Tree Jiuzhaigou offers 209 rooms and suites, all with unique views, and facilities including five restaurants and bar, an award-winning spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym and entertainment center with private karaoke rooms and a Kids Club.

Banyan Tree Anji (Tentative: July 2017)

The hotel will open with 161 rooms and scenic mountain views with utmost privacy. It will focus on local organic cuisine. Facilities include all the typical things you’d expct from Banyan Tree (great spa, pools, dining, etc.), plus karaoke and a Kids Club. It is located in city of Huzhou in Zhejiang province, an area famous for its bamboo and hometown of the white tea. It is also an upcoming eco-tourism hub of the country with lots of local attractions like the Bamboo Museum Garden, Mountain Longwangshan, Tianhuangping Hydropower Station (the biggest in Asia), Chinese Bamboo Sea, Lingfeng Scenic Spot, South China Paraquat Garden, Feiyi Pagoda and Mountain Moganshan.

Angsana Zhuhai Phoenix Bay (Tentative: September 2017)

202 keys, bordering Hong Kong by sea and Macua by land, 140km from Guangzhou. The hotel will be located at the Dalang Bay Peninsula, with amazing sea views. Local attractions include Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue, Qinglv Road, New Yuanmingyuan Garden, Pearl Land Amusement Park, Jiuzhou City, Meixi Royal Stone Archways, Huangyang Mountain, Baiteng Lake, Qi’ao Mangrove, Chime Long Resort and Ocean World, and Cruise tour around Macau.

Angsana Xishuangbanna (Tentative: Late 2017)

This region of China is home of the Dai people. The 380-room property will be located in Menghai County, with beautiful tropical scenery and ethnic cultural heritage. Local attractions include Manjinglan Tourist Villahe, Mange Buddhist temple, Jinghong Forest Park, Langcang River Bank, and Ethnic Customs Park.

Source: www.luxurytravelmagazine.com

J.D. Power Ranks Hotel Brands For Guest Satisfaction

The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain in Arizona is among many of the brand's properties that helped earn it the highest score in the luxury hotel category in the new J.D. Power Power 2016 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study. (Photo: The Ritz-Carlton)

Hotel guest satisfaction has gone up for the fourth straight year, but may be reaching a plateau, according to the new J.D. Power 2016 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study released Wednesday.

Perks such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast and premium bed linens that used to be special are now becoming the norm, says Rick Garlick, global travel and hospitality practice lead at J.D. Power.

“Customers have responded well to the enhanced offerings provided by some hotel brands to create value, but as those perks become standard, customers are quick to ask, ‘What have you done for me lately?’” he says.

The study, now in its 20th year, measures overall guest satisfaction across eight hotel segments, from budget to luxury. Overall satisfaction is rated in seven key measures: reservations systems, check-in/check-out, guest room, food and beverage, hotel services, hotel facilities; and cost and fees. Satisfaction is calculated on a 1,000-point scale.

Overall satisfaction increased by 2 points over last year for an average of 806, a much smaller increase than in recent years. In the past, guest satisfaction with cost and fees has played a key role in their overall ratings.

But this year, there was a very small increase in satisfaction in that area for most hotel types except for luxury hotels. Satisfaction in the luxury segment improved by 12 points overall. Much of that can be attributed to a 20-point improvement in cost and fees.

“Despite luxury hotels typically being the most expensive, this segment has been able to show guests that they’re providing additional value, which is clearly resonating,” Garlick says.

USA TODAY

Favorite upscale hotels: Top picks from our travel panel

The study also found that satisfaction is higher among members of hotel rewards programs. But younger guests are less likely to be members than older guests.

Only 39% of Gen Y guests belong to a rewards program, compared with 56% of Gen X and 66% of Baby Boomer guests.

“We’re finding that every succeeding generation seems to be less likely to be a member of a hotel rewards program than the one before,” Garlick says. “As we’ve seen across numerous industries that J.D. Power tracks, younger guests in particular are especially driven by the value proposition, underscoring the importance for hotel brands to make a stronger case for the benefits of loyalty to these travelers.”

Wingate by Wyndham got the highest guest satisfaction score for midscale hotels in the new J.D. Power hotel guest satisfaction story. This is a King room in a property in Bismarck, N.D. (Photo: Wyndham Hotels)

Other notable findings:

• Only 3% of guests take advantage of online or mobile check-in. Yet check-in/check-out satisfaction is highest among guests who use online or mobile check-in than among those who used any other method.
• The three most important amenities cited by guests are free Wi-Fi, breakfast and parking. In terms of their stays, 71% of guests say they received complimentary Wi-Fi, 56% received complimentary breakfast, and 61% received free parking. Luxurious bedding and linens were the fourth-most important amenity.
• Among guests who posted something about their stay on social media, 75% of the posts were positive and 13% were negative. Overall satisfaction is 40 points higher among guests who post comments to social media.

USA TODAY

Favorite mid-scale hotels: Top picks from our travel panel

The brands that ranked the highest in guest satisfaction in their respective segments are:

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton (for a second consecutive year)
• Upper Upscale: Omni Hotels & Resorts (for a second consecutive year)
• Upscale: Hilton Garden Inn
• Upper Midscale: Drury Hotels (for 11 consecutive years[2])
• Midscale: Wingate by Wyndham (for a second consecutive year)
• Economy/Budget: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham (for a fourth consecutive year)
• Upper Extended Stay: Hyatt House
• Extended Stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton

The Ritz-Carlton earned the highest score in the history of the study at 896.

“To achieve the highest score in the history of the study is really a tribute to the commitment of our 40,000 ladies and gentlemen around the world,” says Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton. “Every day they surpass the expectations of our guests with the level of exceptional service they deliver.”

Drury Hotels had the longest running streak for its category, with 11 straight years earning top honors in the upper midscale category.

Chuck Drury, president and CEO of Drury Hotels, attributed that to amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a hot breakfast each morning, soda and popcorn from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., and a 5:30 p.m. Kickback reception with beer, wine, mixed drinks, and appetizers.

“For more than 40 years, our goal has been to provide our guests with clean rooms, friendly service and an exceptional value,” he says. “We are proud and honored to be recognized once again by our guests and J.D. Power. To earn this award for 11 consecutive years is a tribute to the ongoing hard work and dedication of Drury’s 5,000 team members across the country.”

The survey is based on responses gathered between June 2015 and May 2016 from more than 63,000 guests in Canada and the USA for hotel stays between May 2015 and May 2016.

By Nancy Trejos, USA TODAY

Why The Caribbean Is One Of The World’s Fastest Growing Destinations

By Chris Fair

It’s no surprise that the Caribbean is a highly sought-after destination for leisure travelers, with its white sandy beaches, eclectic cuisine and cultural attractions spanning thousands of islands. What’s surprising is just how popular the Caribbean is becoming. Arrivals to the Caribbean grew faster than the global growth rate in 2015, and travel to the region grew in record-breaking fashion, with a seven percent increase in international trips for a total of 28.7 million visitors last year. 2015 was also the first year in recent history that the Caribbean outpaced all other major global regions in growth according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO); the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) also reported that money spent by foreign visitors to the region grew by 5.9%, well above the global average of 2.4%. Several factors resulted in the record breaking numbers. Collapsing global oil prices, an increase in flights to many Caribbean destinations, economic recovery in main markets, and the strengthening U.S. dollar allowed more Americans to enjoy Caribbean luxury. And new Resonance research on the wealthiest American travelers - the top 1% and 5% - also shows that the Caribbean is now one of their most preferred destinations. For the Resonance 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report we interviewed 1,667 U.S. travelers in the top one and five percent (household income of at least $200k or net worth of $2 million+). We found that 50 percent of the top one percent and 47 percent of the top five percent plan to travel to the Caribbean in the coming 12-24 months, compared to just 33 percent of all U.S. travelers. One of the reasons we think the Caribbean is so popular with the affluent is that it seems to mostly satisfy their three most important criteria when choosing a vacation destination: safety, favorable climate and easy access by commercial flights. PURCHASE RESONANCE'S 2016 U.S. LUXURY TRAVEL REPORT NEW LUXURY DEVELOPMENTS The growth is sparking a spate of new hotel development, particularly in the luxury segment, with destinations eager to attract this lucrative clientele. In the Dominican Republic, Amanera, Aman Resorts’ newest property, is a series of contemporary casitas perched on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Playa Grande Beach on the Dominican’s unspoiled north coast. Opened in November 2015, and listed at an estimated $1,300 per night, Amanera brings “a whole new level of luxury to the Caribbean,” according to the Wall Street Journal. Elsewhere, all-inclusives continue to evolve. The Warwick is opening a 4-star adults-only all-inclusive on Paradise Island Bahamas, in October 2016. And in Puerto Rico – where both Zika and debt are concerns – luxury hotel development is a bright spot. The island welcomes its first all-inclusive resort in 2016 in the form of Dreams Puerto Rico Resort & Spa in Guánica, Porta Del Sol. The 250-room resort built by Apple Leisure Group subsidiary AMResorts hopes to spark future all-inclusive properties to the region. “We’re excited to enter a destination that has yet to discover the substantial benefits of the all-inclusive model,” Alex Zozaya, CEO of Apple Leisure Group, told Caribbean Journal. The Ritz-Carlton opened its second property on Puerto Rico in 2015. Located on eight acres of pristine beachfront property in Isla Verde, Ritz-Carlton San Juan puts guests moments from both the airport and the quaint cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. It’s not only large Caribbean islands that are attracting the wealthy. Tiny Anguilla - 15,000 strong - has its own luxury developments to boast about. Longstanding Viceroy Anguilla has been recently joined by CéBlue Villas and Beach Resort, Malliouhana Resort, and the Zemi Beach House, which opened in February 2016. Anguilla manages to provide exclusivity, beautiful new hotels, and a barefoot-casual atmosphere – an ideal combination in a country that relies so heavily on tourism, ranking seventh globally for Travel and Tourism’s total contribution to GDP. Of course, the Caribbean has seen waves of hotel building booms and bust in the past. But with interest in visiting the region rising around the world, the relative safety of the region in comparison to other global sun destinations, and a significant portion of the world’s wealthiest travelers planning to visit the area, the sun appears likely to shine on the region’s tourism industry for years to come. To learn more about destinations the wealthy are visiting in 2016, the brands favored by the top one percent, the activities and experiences that resonate with them and the distinct types of luxury travelers we’ve identified, you can purchase Resonance's 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report here.

Where The Rich Will Travel In 2016

By Chris Fair

It makes sense that the wealthiest among us would travel the most, but just how much the top 5% of households travel may surprise you.  For the new Resonance 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report, we interviewed 1,667 U.S. travelers in the top 5% of households (household income of at least $200k or net worth of $2 million+) with 724 travelers falling in the top 1% (household income of $400k+ or net worth of $8 million or more) - the wealthiest 1% in the country. Our goal was to find out where the richest among us want to travel, their preferred hotel brands and the activities in which they participate while on vacation. We found that the wealthiest 5% take an average of 14.3 trips per year compared to just 4.8 by the average U.S. traveler (about half for business and half for leisure). With an average expenditure of $3,115 per person per vacation and an average of 2.9 people per household, that adds up to spending of more than $390 billion per year just on leisure travel alone - making wealthy U.S. travelers the most lucrative leisure market segment in the world. So where are they planning to spend that time and money in 2016? While Mexico, Canada and Europe are the most popular international destinations among both wealthy and general U.S. travelers, Caribbean destinations such as the Bahamas, Anguilla and the U.S. Virgin Islands stand out when it comes to attracting the top 1% of U.S. travelers. Top 10 Vacation Destinations for the Wealthiest 1% of Households 1. Mexico (26%)  2. Canada (24%) 3. Italy (24%) 4. England (22%) 5. France (22%) 6. Germany (14%) 7. Bahamas (14%) 8. Anguilla (13%) 9. Australia (12%) 10. U.S. Virgin Islands (11%) The key to attracting the wealthy is offering hotel brands that resonate with them –  both the top 5% and top 1% rate “upscale/luxury hotel or resort” as their preferred type of accommodation – and then providing exciting and experiential activities.  In Anguilla, where Resonance is currently marketing a Viceroy property, the government has focused almost exclusively on the development of luxury resorts, likeViceroy Anguilla, CéBlue Villas and Beach Resort, Malliouhana Resort, and the Zemi Beach House, which will open in February 2016 with beachfront residences starting at $2.1 million. And these efforts are paying off. Total visitor arrivals to Anguilla increased by 17 percent from 2013 to 2014 and new projects like The Reef by CuisinArt, Manoah and Solaria contributed to a 38 percent increase in construction as they prepared for their openings. For a country that relies so heavily on tourism – ranking 7th globally for Travel and Tourism’s total contribution to GDP – Anguilla needs to attract a high net worth travel market if it is to maintain market share in the highly competitive Caribbean market.   Similarly, Mexico attracts the luxury crowd thanks to established and highly rated resorts like Four Seasons and St. Regis in Punta Mita and the re-opening of high end resorts in Los Cabos that closed following 2014’s Hurricane Odile. The cliffside Resort at Pedregal on the southernmost tip of Cabo debuted a new champagne terrace overlooking the Pacific; One&Only Palmilla reopened after $140 million of renovations; and Montage Los Cabos will open its doors in 2017 boasting a 1,400 acre luxury community with 122 guest rooms, 52 ownership residences and a main pool spanning two levels overlooking the Sea of Cortez. And not to be over looked, Ritz-Carlton’s Reserve (a luxuriously experiential offering) is also preparing to open in Los Cabos in 2017. Features include a desert botanical theme park, fisherman's wharf, a 500-slip marina, and two private championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman.  According to our study the hotel brands most highly regarded by the Top 5% of U.S. Travelers are: 1. Ritz-Carlton (82%)  2. Four Seasons (81%) 3. Peninsula (81%) 4. Mandarin Oriental (74%) 5. Aman (72%) 6. Montage (72%) 7. St. Regis (70%) 8. Viceroy (68%) 9. Waldorf Astoria (67%) 10. Fairmont (60%) President and CEO of top-ranked Ritz-Carlton, Simon Cooper, told Bloomberg that the key to the brand's success is to develop such a strong emotional engagement between hotel staff and guests that a guest won’t even consider staying anywhere else.  “It’s all about people. Nobody has an emotional experience with a thing. We're appealing to emotions,” Simon says. Cooper told Forbes that Ritz-Carlton’s appeal also comes from being more than a hotel company.  “Whether you are spending a night, spending a week, buying five weeks of fractional ownership or buying a lifetime in the Ritz-Carlton, we feel that we represent lifestyle, that we have moved beyond being just a hotel company.” However, the hospitality field is increasingly crowded with lifestyle brands, and Ritz-Carlton, like all others, need to continue to distinguish themselves.   To learn more about the destinations the wealthy plan to visit in 2016, the brands favored by the Top 1%, the activities and experiences that resonate with them and the distinct types of luxury travelers we’ve identified, you can purchase our new 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report here.

J.D. Power Reports: Hotel Guest Satisfaction Reaches All-Time High; Incidence Of Problems Hits Record Low

The Ritz-Carlton; Omni Hotels & Resorts; Hyatt Place; Drury Hotels; Wingate by Wyndham; Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham; Homewood Suites by Hilton; and Candlewood Suites Each Rank Highest in Guest Satisfaction in Their Respective Segments

Hotel guest satisfaction has risen to a record high, while the number of guests experiencing problems during their stay has dropped significantly, according to the J.D. Power 2015 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study^SMreleased today.

The study, now in its 19^th year, measures overall guest satisfaction across eight hotel segments: luxury; upper upscale; upscale; upper midscale[1]; midscale; economy/budget; upper extended stay; and extended stay. Seven key factors are examined in each segment to determine overall satisfaction: reservation; check-in/check-out; guest room; food and beverage; hotel services; hotel facilities; and cost and fees. Satisfaction is calculated on a 1,000-point scale. 

Overall satisfaction in 2015 reaches an all-time high with a score of 804, up 20 points from 2014. This is the first time satisfaction has surpassed the 800-point mark. The record-high performance is driven by a significant 20 percent reduction from 2014 in the number of guests who report experiencing a problem during their stay, the lowest incidence since 2006. Staff interactions with guests have a great impact on mitigating problems. There is a 50 percent reduction in the average number of problems experienced when staff members greet guests with a smile “all the time,” compared to when guests are only greeted with a smile “sometimes.”

Hotels have an opportunity to substantially improve satisfaction by proactively addressing guest needs. While service recovery is often emphasized as a strategy to regain guest loyalty, it’s even more important to prevent problems from occurring in the first place, which is underscored by a 310-point satisfaction gap between guests who say they “strongly agree” that the hotel staff anticipated their needs and those who “strongly disagree” with this statement (912 vs. 602, respectively). 

“Hotels that proactively meet guest needs have the ability to create a positive guest experience,” said Rick Garlick, global travel and hospitality practice lead at J.D. Power. “While service recovery is extremely important in the hotel industry, it’s most effective when the entire guest experience is a positive one. Hotel staff members need to maintain a proper balance between proactively addressing needs and responding to problems effectively. Doing so can help guests feel good about their selection of the hotel brand and increase the likelihood they will return for another stay or recommend it to others.”

KEY FINDINGS

Among hotel guests who are “delighted” with their experience (an overall satisfaction rating of 10 on a 10-point scale), 80 percent say they “definitely will” recommend the brand to a friend, relative or colleague, compared with only 2 percent of those who are “disappointed” (ratings of 5 or below). Additionally, among hotel guests who are “delighted,” 66 percent say they “definitely will” stay again, compared with only 4 percent of those who are “disappointed.”

There is a strong relationship between guests’ perceptions of how well the hotel brand   meets their needs and overall satisfaction. Among Scrutinizers—guests who thoroughly research their hotel choice to ensure it meets their specific needs—56 percent say the hotel brand they selected was “perfect for them.” Satisfaction among Scrutinizers is 898, which is the highest among all guest groups. In comparison, among Price Buyers—guests who select their hotel based primarily on price—only 15 percent say the hotel brand they selected was “perfect for them.” Satisfaction among Price Buyers is 740, the lowest among all groups.

Hotel Segment Rankings

The following hotel brands rank highest in guest satisfaction in their respective segments:

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton

Upper Upscale: Omni Hotels & Resorts

Upscale: Hyatt Place

Upper Midscale: Drury Hotels (previously ranked highest in the Midscale segment for 9 consecutive years)

Midscale: Wingate by Wyndham

Economy/Budget: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham (for a third consecutive year)

Upper Extended Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton (for a third consecutive year)

Extended Stay: Candlewood Suites (for a second consecutive year)

The 2015 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study is based on responses gathered between June 2014 and May 2015 from more than 62,000 guests in Canada and the United States who stayed at a hotel in North America between May 2014 and May 2015.

About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules www.jdpower.com/about-us/press-release-info

About McGraw Hill Financial www.mhfi.com 

[1] The two midscale segments were re-structured in 2015 to upper midscale and midscale segments (formerly midscale full service and midscale segments), in accordance with the chain scale classifications of Smith Travel Research (STR). This change resulted in brands changing segments, with all segment-level trending based on the new segmentation.

New Philly Hotel Deal Offers VIP Access To Must-See Impressionism Exhibit At The Philadelphia Museum Of Art This Summer; Discovering The Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel And The New Painting

The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Museum of Art has partnered with 15 area hotels to offer a one-night Discovering the Impressionists Hotel Package, which includes two visit-anytime tickets for its summer exhibition,Discovering the Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel and the New Painting, on view from June 24 through September 13, 2015. Philadelphia is the only U.S. city to showcase the blockbuster show, featuring nearly 100 works by Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, Manet, Cassatt and others.

In addition to the one-night hotel stay and two VIP tickets for the exhibit, the package includes special discounts for select museum gift shops and a complimentary dessert with a Chef’s Table meal at the museum’s Granite Hill restaurant. The package is bookable at visitphilly.com/impressionists. Here is a list of hotels offering the package:

OLD CITY:

Hotel: Sheraton Society Hill, 1 Dock Street
Other Perks: Overnight parking
Rates: Starting at $229 per night
Book: sheratonphiladelphiasocietyhill.com, (800) 325-3535

Hotel: Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District, 400 Arch Street
Other Perks: Free overnight parking
Rates: Weekend rate starting at $229 per night; weekday rate starting at $199 per night
Book: phillydowntownhotel.com, (877) 999-3223

CENTER CITY:

Hotel: Alexander Inn, 301 S. 12th Street
Other Perks: Complimentary continental breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi and discounted
parking nearby
Rates: $189-$219 per night
Book: alexanderinn.com, (877) ALEX-INN

Hotel: Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown, 21 N. Juniper Street
Other Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout
Rates: Weekday rate starting at $219 per night; weekend rate starting at $409 per night
Book: marriott.com, (888) 887-8130

Hotel: Embassy Suites Philadelphia – Center City, 1776 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Other Perks: Two-room suite with balcony, cooked-to-order breakfast for two and complimentary cocktail reception every evening, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Rates: Weekend rate starting at $224 per night; weekday rate starting at $244 per night
Book: embassysuites3.hilton.com, (800) EMBASSY

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Midtown, 1305 Walnut Street
Other Perks: Complimentary hot deluxe breakfast buffet and free Wi-Fi
Rate: Contact hotel
Book: himidtown.com, (888) 5MIDTOWN

Hotel: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market Street
Other Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout
Rates: $229-$389
Book: marriott.com, (800) 320-5744

Hotel: Residence Inn by Marriott, 1 Penn Square East
Other Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout
Rates: Contact hotel
Book: marriott.com, (800) 331-3131

Hotel: The Rittenhouse, 210 West Rittenhouse Square
Other Perks: Breakfast for two, excluding Sunday brunch and room service
Rates: Starting at $349 per night
Book: rittenhousehotel.com, (800) 635-1042

Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, 10 Avenue of the Arts
Other Perks: $50 food and beverage credit, 2:00 p.m. late checkout
Rates: Contact the hotel
Book: ritzcarlton.com, (800) 542-8680

Hotel: Sofitel Philadelphia, 120 S. 17th Street
Other Perks: Breakfast for two in Chez Colette and two welcome drinks in Liberte Lounge
Rates: Contact hotel
Booking: (215) 564-4108

Hotel: Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia, 1800 Market Street
Other Perks: Overnight valet parking
Rates: Starting at $204 per night
Book: sonesta.com/philadelphia, (215) 561-7500

BEYOND CENTER CITY:

Hotel: Courtyard Philadelphia South at the Navy Yard, 1001 Intrepid Avenue
Other Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout
Rates: $219 per night on weekdays; $409 per night on weekends
Book: marriott.com, (877) 895-0593

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Philadelphia West, 4010 City Avenue
Other Perks: Overnight parking and breakfast buffet for two
Rates: Starting at $215 per night
Book: cpphilawest.com/packages-rates, (800) 439-4745

Hotel: The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel, 3600 Sansom Street
Other Perks: Full breakfast for two
Rates: Weekend rate starting at $249 per night; weekday rate starting at $269 per night
Book: theinnatpenn.com, (800) HILTONS

The With Art Philadelphia® collaborative is a first-of-its-kind partnership to position Philadelphia among the world’s great art destinations and to increase visitation to the region from around the world. The groups contributing financial and other resources to the campaign are: the City of Philadelphia, VISIT PHILADELPHIA, Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Penn Museum (University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology), Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, The Lenfest Foundation, William Penn Foundation, Knight Foundation, Arts & Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, PNC and PECO.

For more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit visitphilly.com or uwishunu.com, where you can build itineraries; search event calendars; see photos and videos; view interactive maps; sign up for newsletters; listen to Hear Philly, an online radio station about what to see and do in the region; book hotel reservations and more. Or, call the Independence Visitor Center, located in Historic Philadelphia, at (800) 537-7676.