Starwood Notifies Customers Of Malware Security Breach

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc announced today that the point of sale systems of a limited number of its hotels in North America were infected with malware, enabling unauthorized parties to access payment card data of some customers.

Promptly after discovering the issue, Starwood engaged third-party forensic experts to conduct an extensive investigation to determine the facts. Based on the investigation, malware was detected that affected certain restaurants, gift shops and other point of sale systems at the relevant Starwood properties. There is no indication at this time that the Company’s guest reservation or Starwood Preferred Guest membership systems were impacted. The malware was designed to collect certain payment card information, including cardholder name, payment card number, security code and expiration date. There is no evidence that other customer information, such as contact information or PINs, were affected by this issue. The affected hotels have taken steps to secure customer payment card information and the malware no longer presents a threat to customers using payment cards at Starwood hotels.

“Protecting our customers’ information is critically important to Starwood and we take this issue extremely seriously,” said Sergio Rivera, Starwood President, The Americas. “Quickly after we became aware of the possible issue, we took prompt action to determine the facts. We have been working closely with law enforcement authorities and have been coordinating our efforts with the payment card organizations. We want to assure our customers that we have implemented additional security measures to help prevent this type of crime from reoccurring.”

Starwood encourages customers to carefully review and monitor their payment card account statements. If a customer believes his or her payment card may have been affected, the customer should immediately contact their bank or card issuer.

The locations and potential dates of exposure for each affected Starwood property is available at www.starwoodhotels.com/paymentcardsecuritynotice.

Travelore News: Marriott To Acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Deal for $12.2 billion would create the world’s largest hotel company

By 

CRAIG KARMIN And

 

EZEQUIEL MINAYA, www.wsj.com

Marriott International Inc. said Monday that it has agreed to acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. in a deal worth $12.2 billion that will create the world’s largest hotel company with more than a million rooms globally.

Under the terms, Marriott will forward 0.92 share along with $2 in cash for each Starwood share, for a total of $11.9 billion in stock and $340 million in cash. The transaction has a value of $72.08 a Starwood share.

Separately, Starwood shareholders will receive an additional $7.80 a share from the spinoff of the Starwood timeshare business and subsequent merger with Interval Leisure Group, which has an estimated value of about $1.3 billion.

The merger creates a portfolio with more than 5,500 hotels with 1.1 million rooms world-wide, the companies said in a news release. Shares of Marriott declined 2.1% in early trading, while Starwood stock fell 7.8% to $69.17.

Reports in October had indicated that Starwood was in merger talks with Hyatt HotelsCorp. Shares of Hyatt rose 2.8% on Monday.

In an interview, Marriott Chief Executive Arne Sorenson said his company first became interested in a deal in the spring when Starwood launched a review of its strategic alternatives, including a possible sale or merger. The interest intensified in the second half of October.

“We became more convinced about the advantages of size by combining the two companies together,” Mr. Sorenson said. “We thought that would bring more options for customers and create a bigger loyalty program. We’d have the ability to compete better, invest in technology and stay front and center with customers.”

The combined company will put together a total of 30 brands, though Mr. Sorenson said he thinks the brands will be kept, with “some marginal places where brands are brought together.”

Referring to the overall integration of the two hotel giants, Mr. Sorenson noted that “we’ll take it a step at a time. This is about pulling together two very strong platforms.” Describing complexity of combining the two companies, he noted that “we’ll have our hands full.”

Mr. Sorenson said the companies haven’t started the process of antitrust review yet, but he said Marriott has about 10% of the hotel rooms in the U.S., while Starwood has about 3% to 4%, so the combined company would be less than 15% of the U.S. hotel supply. He noted that in the U.S., the hotel business is a “highly competitive and dispersed industry.”

Mr. Sorenson said he liked Starwood’s marketing and mix of international properties. He noted they were first in the so-called lifestyle space and that the combined company would be “the strongest in the space.”

Historically, Starwood has been a strong performer in the high-end hotel market. The company has expanded overseas faster than its rivals; roughly half of its more than 350,000 rooms are outside the U.S. Its W brand is known for having a stylish, modern edge.

Marriott said it expects the move to add to its earnings by the second year, excluding transaction costs that are expected to total about $100 to $150 million. The deal is expected to close by the middle of 2016.

The agreement with Interval Leisure supplants Starwood’s earlier-announced plan to spin off the timeshare unit. Timeshare businesses were a onetime booming profit generator for hotel companies that petered out during the recession.

CEO: Starwood Hotels Could Be Sold By Year End

NEW YORK (AP) — Starwood Hotels is nearing a deal to sell the company or merge with another hotel chain, its CEO said on an earnings call Wednesday.

"This has the company's highest attention," interim CEO Adam Aron said. "Our clear goal is to optimize the value for our shareholders."

Back in April, Starwood announced its board was exploring strategic options for the hotel company. At the time, Starwood didn't mention a sale, but analysts considered it a possibility.

Speculation about a potential buyer heated up this week. First the Wall Street Journal reported that three Chinese companies were seeking government approval to place bids for Starwood. Then Wednesday CNBC reported that Hyatt Hotels Corp. was close to purchasing Starwood in a cash and stock deal that would leave Hyatt management in control of the combined company.

Spokeswomen for both hotel chains declined to comment about any possible deal.

Starwood shares have rallied on the reports, gaining 9.1 percent Tuesday and rising 6.6 percent to $79.74 in afternoon trading Wednesday.

"Our progress is active and nearing conclusion," Aron told investors Wednesday afternoon. He wouldn't comment on any specific deal, but said: "I would be surprised if we don't have answers to these questions by the end of this calendar year."

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., based in Stamford, Connecticut, has a market capitalization of $13.6 billion; Hyatt's is $7.1 billion. Starwood, which includes the Westin, Sheraton, W and St. Regis brands, has 1,271 hotels with a combined 362,623 rooms. Hyatt, has 618 hotels with a combined 160,205 rooms.

A merger of the two would help the new company better compete with hotel giants Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide and Intercontinental Hotels Group, all which have more than 4,000 properties and roughly 700,000 rooms each.

By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ 

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Starwood Preferred Guest And Sheraton Announce Exclusive Partnership with Major League Baseball

Partnership Benefits include Complimentary MLB.TV Access for Sheraton Guests, Booking on MLB.com, In-Room MLB Network and Access to One-of-a-Kind MLB Moments from Starwood Preferred Guest^®

Sheraton Celebrates Partnership with Special Screenings of 2015 MLB Postseason Games

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts and Starwood Preferred Guest^® (SPG^®) today announced an exclusive new partnership with Major League Baseball^® (MLB^®), designating Sheraton as the “Official Hotel of Major League Baseball” and SPG as the “Official Hotel Loyalty Program of Major League Baseball.”  The new partnership brings Sheraton guests, Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®) members and avid baseball fans closer to the action by providing them access to must-see games while on the road, as well as the opportunity to bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences.  Sheraton will celebrate the partnership this fall by hosting special screenings of MLB Postseason games at select hotels across North America, leading off tonight with a star-studded event at the Sheraton New York Times Square. In addition, starting today, SPG members have the opportunity to redeem Starpoints® for pairs of tickets to each World Series game at spg.com/moments.

“We are thrilled to become the ‘Official Hotel of Major League Baseball,’ a sport we know is a true passion for a lot of our Sheraton guests,” said Dave Marr, Global Brand Leader for Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “The partnership provides Starwood with the ability to connect with the MLB fan base, a large and highly engaged audience that will help support the brand’s repositioning and further drive loyalty.”

Starting with the 2016 MLB season, Sheraton will take guests and elite SPG members out to the ballgame by offering:

·         Complimentary access to MLB.TV, the only streaming service that enables fans to watch their favorite team live outside their home market;

·         Availability of MLB Network, the Emmy Award-winning 24/7 cable television network dedicated to baseball, as an in-room entertainment channel in the U.S.;

·         Custom Starwood booking widgets located on MLB.com and participating teams’ Schedule pages, providing fans a seamless process in booking travel plans to see their favorite teams on the road;

·         Enticing packages, promotions and sweepstakes that will make baseball dreams come true by sending guests off to see their favorite games in person or offering up chances to win exciting MLB prizes.

"This new partnership will provide MLB content and unique experiences to Sheraton guests and SPG members, offering baseball fans an attractive benefit when making a hotel choice," said Noah Garden, MLB Executive Vice President, Business.  "In addition, MLB will deliver enormous visibility to millions of passionate baseball fans, giving Sheraton an important platform to showcase its new brand positioning." 

SPG members can also take advantage of the new partnership beyond the World Series with exclusive access to once-in-a-lifetime baseball experiences throughout the entire 2016 season through SPG Moments. Starting with Spring Training, members can look forward to MLB experiences that include meet and greets, batting practice with players, premium game tickets inclusive of the All-Star Game and World Series, and much more. SPG members can access all of this at spg.com/moments.

“We know many of our members are loyal baseball fans and appreciate unrivaled access to amazing seats and exclusive experiences,” Mark Vondrasek, Senior Vice President of Commercial Services for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Through this new partnership with MLB, we can fuel our members’ passions with unforgettable moments tapping into the best that baseball has to offer.”

Four-time MLB All-Star José Reyes, SNY and WPIX broadcaster Keith Hernandez, a five-time MLB All-Star, and acclaimed chef Andrew Carmellini of Sausage Boss at MSG, will join fans to celebrate the new partnership at the Sheraton New York Times Square with a special screening of Game 3 of the American League Championship Series.  During the event, guests can take in the game while enjoying a ballpark-inspired version of the Sheraton brand’s new Paired signature lobby bar menu, served alongside premium wine and craft beer.  Reyes and Chef Carmellini will also face off in a live stadium-inspired culinary competition to see who can create the ultimate ballpark hotdog using unexpected toppings and sauces. Participating Sheraton Hotels will continue the party nationwide with their own Postseason screenings through the Fall Classic.  Guests can root for their favorite teams while enjoying savory and satisfying Paired options created especially for MLB game nights, such as Chorizo Chili Con Carne Potato Skins paired with White Zinfandel, Blue Crab Hushpuppies with Sauvignon Blanc, Pastrami Stack Pretzel sliders with Cabernet Sauvignon, and a specialty hot dog topped with beerkraut, apple & mustard, created especially for Sheraton by Chef Carmellini.

Robotic Butlers Roll Out To Select Aloft Hotels Across US

Botlr reports for duty at Aloft South Beach for summer stint

Aloft Hotels today announced that its second robotic butler, or Botlr, is officially reporting for full-time duty at Aloft Silicon Valley, effective immediately.

This is the brand’s second full-time cyber associate, following the debut of the world’s first Botlr at Aloft Cupertino last year.

Additionally, starting August 27, the original Aloft Botlr will hit the road, rolling across country to Aloft Miami South Beach, and will later be transferred to the new Aloft Manhattan Downtown - Financial District for a short stint this Fall before returning to Cupertino.

“We embarked upon this robotic experiment years ago, and it has proven what we suspected all along — humans and robots can co-exist and work side by side to elevate the guest experience,” said Brian McGuinness, Global Brand Leader, Starwood’s Specialty Select Brands. “Botlr has been an integral part of the Aloft Cupertino experience, and the demand from guests and associates around the world to interact with our biotic bellhop has been astounding. As we add our second Botlr to the Aloft team and transfer our first Botlr to new hotels around the country, we know they will continue to not only make hospitality history, but, more importantly, memories for our guests.”

#BotlrOnCall

Starting today, the brand’s second Botlr will officially be on call full-time as the able android of Aloft Silicon Valley, where it will assist Aloft talent in delivering amenities to guest rooms. Smartly dressed in a custom uniform and nametag, Botlr autonomously transports everything from toothbrushes to the day’s paper as it navigates the 172 rooms and five floors of Aloft Silicon Valley with ease. Like its predecessor, it accepts Tweets in lieu of tips, and during its training period was known to roll around the hotel’s lobby and W:XYZ bar (obliging guests with selfies along the way, of course). This newest Aloft associate not only frees up existing talent’s time, allowing them to create a more personalized experience for guests, but enhances the hotel’s current tech-forward offerings.

#BotlrTakesMiami

Aloft made history last August when it became the first major hotel brand to hire a robot for both back and front of house duties. This omnipresent operative became an instant overnight sensation and travelers from around the world have flocked to Aloft Cupertino to watch it in action. All of this attention is why Botlr needs to recharge its batteries with a change of scenery. Starting August 27, Botlr will be moonlighting in Miami for a few days at the new Aloft South Beach where it will surprise guests with deliveries from a special “Botlr Takes Miami” menu that includes every day beach essentials. It will also hand out towels in the lobby and act as a “wingbot” for sly singles at W:XYZ bar.

#BotlrHeartsNYC

After soaking up some sun, Botlr will temporarily join the staff of the new Aloft Manhattan Downtown - Financial District in early Fall. As part of this short Manhattan transfer, Botlr will greet guests on select evenings with either bull or bear shaped cookies and candy (depending upon how the stock market performs that day) as well as fetch guest deliveries from a special “BotlrHeartsNYC” menu including bagels, MetroCards, and every day essentials for survival in the Big Apple. Botlr will also be a part of the hotel’s official ribbon cutting ceremony, slated for early September. It will then return to Aloft Cupertino and re-join the staff full-time.

Starwood: Dual-Branded W And Element Hotel In Downtown Philadelphia Starts Construction

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide today announced the commencement of construction for its first-ever W and Element dual-branded hotel development, scheduled to open in the heart of downtown Philadelphia in early 2018. The 295-room W Philadelphia and 460-room Element Philadelphia will occupy a 51 story skyscraper located in the geographic center of the city’s business, arts and retail districts, and directly across from Philadelphia City Hall. Owned by Chestlen Development and developed by Vine Street Matthews Development, the highly-anticipated project will also boast panoramic city views and facilities include an outdoor pool bar and terrace, market-leading meeting and banquet facilities, exciting food and beverage outlets, and prime retail space along Chestnut Street.

“This exciting project will bring two popular Starwood brands to Philadelphia and provide much needed inventory to the City and Convention Center, attracting even more visitors and meetings business to our downtown,” said Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “The construction and operations of the new development will also have a significant economic impact on the City of Philadelphia and the surrounding region, creating numerous immediate and long-term jobs and generating substantial tax revenues.”

Brook Lenfest, Owner of Chestlen Development said, “This has been many years in the making and a true collaboration between ownership, our development partners, the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. We’re excited to deliver this iconic project to the downtown market.”

“We have actively pursued this market for some time and look forward to the upcoming debut of both W and Element in Philadelphia as part of this dual-branded development, which will increase Starwood’s total portfolio in the city to 12 hotels across seven of our nine world-class brands,” said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North American Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “Our innovative W Hotels brand provides contemporary luxury and insider access in key urban and exotic destinations worldwide, while Element Hotels is an industry-leader in the eco-space, offering stylish, sustainable extended stay lodging. These two unique and highly differentiated brands will offer guests a new experience not currently available in the Philadelphia market.”

Combined the W Philadelphia and Element Philadelphia can operate jointly as a 755 room headquarters hotel ideal for conventions and group business due to its direct views as well as short walking distance from both Suburban Station and the Broad Street entrance to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Additionally, the property’s downtown location is proximate to leading city attractions such as the Avenue of the Arts, Independence Hall, Barnes Foundation, Liberty Bell, Mutter Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the galleries, restaurants and boutiques along Walnut Street, Chestnut Street and Rittenhouse Row. Less than 10 miles from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and one block from the re-designed Dilworth Plaza.

“The $786 million expansion of the Pennsylvania Convention Center has transformed it into the largest contiguous exhibit space in the Northeast and generated increased demand for high-caliber lodging within walking distance,” said Jack Ferguson, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau. “These two new Starwood hotels will supply additional downtown room inventory in close proximity to Pennsylvania Convention Center, which will encourage large-scale new business to select Philadelphia as their convention destination."

Guests will enter W Philadelphia via the hotel’s distinct entrance on Chestnut Street. The ground-floor will feature a signature W Living Room (the W brand’s take on the traditional hotel lobby) with a full bar and VIP room and a 150-seat destination restaurant. In addition, the hotel will feature a 2,900 square foot spa, 1,400 square foot FIT gym, and 7,000 square foot WET outdoor terrace with a year-round heated outdoor pool and destination bar, and 45,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and event space for conventions, business meetings and social functions of all sizes. More than just a hotel brand, W Hotels is an innovative luxury lifestyle brand that connects global jetsetters and local tastemakers to the pulse of the next big thing. First introduced in 1998, W Hotels is a global design powerhouse with more than 46 hotels and retreats in the world’s most vibrant cities and exotic destinations.

The Element Philadelphia will feature a separate arrival lobby on Chestnut Street with elevator access to the main second floor lobby, which will feature a 1,400 square foot breakfast and lounge area, a 1,600 square foot fitness center and 560 square feet of branded meeting space. The hotel’s light-filled studios will offer a fluid design of modular furniture, fully equipped kitchens, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Guests will be able to stay on the move with Element’s complimentary bikes to borrow program and enjoy the brand’s signature complimentary RISE breakfast and RELAX evening reception. On track to double its portfolio in the next two years, Element is the first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for high-performance buildings. It’s recognized as an industry leader in the eco-space and offers travelers a fresh, reimagined interpretation of the extended stay hotel experience.

Starwood Hotels Expands Presence In Canada

TORONTO, Canada - Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc today announced the signings of two new build properties: The Westin Calgary Airport, owned by PAL Hospitality Ltd, and The Westin Edmonton Gateway, owned by Neelam Investments Ltd. With these new signings, Starwood will further strengthen its footprint across Canada, while significantly bolstering its upper-upscale presence in Alberta.

“We are very excited to continue growing our reach in Canada with this strategic expansion of the Westin brand in key Alberta markets,” said Alison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “We highly value our relationships with owners and franchisees, and continue to see strong interest from partners looking to leverage Starwood's powerful brands, network, global booking platforms and loyal customer base."

With 250 guestrooms, The Westin Calgary Airport will be located directly on Calgary International Airport property. The five-story hotel will feature a Westin Club Lounge, 30,000 square feet of meeting space, restaurant and lounge. The Westin Edmonton Gateway will offer 225 guestrooms, as well as a Westin Club Lounge, full restaurant, contemporary bar and more than 10,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotel will be located near The Anthony Henday Expressway, which encircles Edmonton, providing convenient access throughout the city and to downtown.

Both hotels will embrace the Westin brand positioning of For a better you™ by offering programs designed to inspire balance and enhance well-being, leaving guests feeling better than when they arrived. The properties will be fully equipped with the brand’s signature amenities, such as the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed, the Heavenly® Bath experience, and an ergonomic work area for optimal productivity.

“These hotels are a great example of how Starwood is working proactively to increase our portfolio throughout Canada with the right partners, the right properties and in the right places,” said Scott T. Duff, Sr. Director Development - Canada & Alaska. “Our solid portfolio of 67 hotels in the country across seven of our brands positions us well for continued growth across the country across all segments.”

Starwood Hotels is also pleased to welcome The Gupta Group / Easton’s Group of Hotels, to the Starwood family. The Gupta Group recently acquired The Westin Bristol Place Toronto Airport Hotel, assuming the franchise licensing agreement for the hotel. The hotel is located adjacent to Toronto Pearson International Airport and just 25 minutes from downtown Toronto. With the purchase of the property, Easton’s Group, led by owner Steve Gupta will invest $9 Million in renovations to the hotel over the next year.

The momentum continues for Starwood Hotels in Canada, with opportunity for growth across all its brands, including the newly introduced Tribute Portfolio™. A robust pipeline of future openings is spurred by growth of Starwood’s Specialty Select brands. Boasting the largest portfolio among all of Starwood brands in Canada, Four Points by Sheraton will soon welcome new properties including Four Points by Sheraton Moncton, Four Points by Sheraton Surrey, Four Points by Sheraton Regina, Four Points by Sheraton Edmonton West, Four Points by Sheraton Sherwood Park, Four Points by Sheraton Grande Prairie, Four Points by Sheraton Lloydminster, Four Points by Sheraton Estevan and Four Points by Sheraton Saint John. After the recent opening of Element Vancouver Metrotown, momentum for Starwood’s trailblazing eco-wise Element brand continues in Canada with plans to open Element Calgary Airport and Element Edmonton West in the coming years.

Hotel Opening: The Westin Jekyll Island

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today announced the opening of The Westin Jekyll Island, a 200-room, convention-class, beachfront hotel on Georgia's acclaimed barrier island. It is one of six new Westin hotels opening in North America this year and follows the brand’s 200th opening worldwide in 2014.

“The Westin Jekyll Island is a terrific new addition to the Westin brand’s growing portfolio and provides a restful retreat for travelers on one of the most beautiful barrier islands in the United States,” said Bob Jacobs, Vice President of Brand Management for Sheraton and Westin. “This spectacular new Westin hotel showcases all of the brand’s services and amenities designed to inspire wellbeing within close proximity of the area’s premier convention facility, as well as a variety of attractions.”

The Westin Jekyll Island is the cornerstone of Jekyll Island's Beach Village project, which includes an oceanfront promenade, village green, restaurants, upscale boutiques, Great Dunes Park and the 128,000-square-foot Jekyll Island Convention Center – the only beachfront convention center in the southeast. The hotel is owned by Jekyll Oceanfront Hotel, LLC (JOFH), a joint venture comprised of several investors including Leon N. Weiner & Associates, Inc, a nationally recognized real estate development company, and New Castle Hotels & Resorts, an award- winning, independent third-party hotel manager.

"This hotel was purpose built to be a catalyst in the revitalization of Jekyll Island," said Dave Curtis, president of Leon N. Weiner and Associates. "Coupled with the convention center, The Westin Jekyll Island makes this cherished barrier island a best-in-class destination and a first-choice option for meeting planners who prefer to keep their meetings in state, or within the region."

"Jekyll Island is known for its thoughtful stewardship of the island's environment and its storied past," said David Buffam, CEO of New Castle Hotels and Resorts. "That's why the Westin brand, with its emphasis on well-being and careful handling of natural resources was the only choice for this one-of-a-kind project. I know that this combination of location, premium convention facilities and well-chosen hotel brand will resonate with leisure travelers and meeting planners in search of a destination that satisfies the mind, body and soul."

Offering breathtaking ocean views and direct beach access, The Westin Jekyll Island provides a sensory-rich environment and all of the brand’s signature amenities and services designed to inspire wellbeing. All 200 guestrooms are outfitted with the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed featuring lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly® Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

Dining options at The Westin Jekyll Island include The Reserve, an upscale, casual restaurant serving the freshest local seafood and Salty's poolside bar and café for cocktails and lighter fare. At Harry’s @The Reserve, the hotel’s outdoor rooftop bar, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the beach and ocean. Westin SuperFoodsRX™ options are on the menu at all three restaurants.

The Westin Jekyll Island is an ideal choice for small groups, weddings and reunions in search of a premier location, offering 5,260 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and banquet facilities, as well as outdoor venues. Additional facilities include a resort-style outdoor pool, the flexible, Tangent™ at Westin workspace where groups of four or more can collaborate, and the brand’s signature WestinWORKOUT® gym experience, including loaner gear and a running concierge.

The five-story, U-shaped, beachfront hotel was designed by LLW Architects of Memphis, Tenn., to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, (LEED) Silver specifications and minimize the hotel's impact on the barrier island's sensitive surroundings. The 8,750 cubic yards of concrete used in the construction were sourced from a plant in Brunswick, Ga., only 15 miles from the site. Westin brand room design specifications also are 60 percent more sustainable than conventionally built guest rooms, providing a more healthful guest environment.

The Westin Jekyll Island is just minutes from the island's National Historic Landmark District and close to the island's four golf courses, 10 miles of barrier island beaches and a variety of outdoor recreation, including marsh eco-tours, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and more than 20 miles of bike paths and kayaking waterways.

Westin Hotels & Resorts, like all brands within Starwood’s robust portfolio, is proud to offer the Starwood Preferred Guest® program, which made headlines when it launched in 1999 with a breakthrough policy of no blackout dates on Free Night Awards. SPG® offers members the ability to redeem awards at more resorts, more luxury properties, more European hotels and more golf properties than any other hotel program.

Travelore News: St. Regis Unveils Highly Anticipated Flagship In Istanbul

ISTANBUL, Turkey - St Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Inc, is delighted to debut the highly anticipated St. Regis Istanbul. Owned by Nisantasi Konaklama ve Otel Hizmetleri A.S. (Demsa Group), The St. Regis Istanbul marks the debut of the luxury brand in Turkey. St. Regis has tripled its global footprint in the last decade to 34 hotels and is set to open three more hotels this year, strengthening its position as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Nestled in the sophisticated Nisantasi neighborhood, The St. Regis Istanbul is surrounded by chic designer boutiques and boutique art galleries. The residential hotel sits atop Maçka Park and boasts breathtaking, floor-to-ceiling views of the Bosphorus from each of the 118 guestrooms and suites. Designed by award-winning Turkish architect Emre Arolat, The St. Regis Istanbul is a modern interpretation of Istanbul’s glamorous Art Deco era with a variety of contemporary art installations.

“With the opening of The St. Regis Istanbul, we are delighted to strengthen Starwood’s presence in Turkey, one of our key markets for growth and a burgeoning destination for luxury travelers,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The St. Regis Istanbul will offer exceptional levels of service and exquisite experiences including Spago by acclaimed chef Wolfgang Puck and a Bentley Suite, and we look forward to welcoming guests at our first St. Regis hotel in Turkey.”

“As a hotel brand as international and informed as its guests, St. Regis is thoughtfully building its portfolio in destinations, including Istanbul, where there is a robust demand for high-end hospitality from a new generation of global travellers,” said Jenni Benzaquen, Vice President, St. Regis, W Hotels and The Luxury Collection in Europe, Africa and Middle East. “Capturing the soul of the historic city and the spirit of the new grand tour, this hotel is a befitting debut for St. Regis in this international gateway city.”

Wolfgang Puck’s Iconic Spago Restaurant

The St. Regis Istanbul is home to the first international outpost of Wolfgang Puck’s iconic Spago restaurant, which stars as the hotel’s signature culinary experience. Located on the hotel’s rooftop, the restaurant offers contemporary design and stunning views of the vibrant city. Inspired by the celebrated chef’s global travels, the modern and imaginative seasonal menus include signature dishes, such as blue crab and lobster "Louis" cocktail with spicy tomato-horseradish; "Angry" two-pound live lobster with Szechuan chilies, garlic, scallions and black bean dust; roasted duckling "Peking Style" with blood oranges, port-ginger reduction; and grilled lamb chops, harissa aioli, charred eggplant, falafel “macaroons”, natural jus. This is paired with a superb artisanal cocktail menu and extensive wine list, including international varietals alongside local Turkish wines. Poised to be the best address for celebrity spotting in Istanbul, the Spago lounge offers a seductive atmosphere above the busy streets of Istanbul all year round.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences

While the St. Regis Brasserie offers street-side action: an indoor show kitchen and bustling outdoor terrace, reminiscent of a Parisian café, the Petit “O” Bar follows the St. Regis tradition of creating a signature Bloody Mary cocktail with a local twist. Guests can enjoy the Misty Mary cocktail amidst the “Bosphorus Breeze” mural by Bedri Baykam, the Turkish artist commissioned to create a whimsical mural as the focal point for the bar. The mural is symbolic of the brand’s evolution: a modern iteration of the iconic King Cole Mural at The St. Regis New York, commissioned by St. Regis founder John Jacob Astor IV.

Impeccable Design

St. Regis’ commitment to art and design is brought to life at The St. Regis Istanbul, which showcases works by both internationally-acclaimed and emerging Turkish artists as part of the Demsa Collection of Art. This is complemented by custom pieces created for the hotel, including the spectacular Lasvit chandelier, which takes center stage in the lobby.

The St. Regis Istanbul features an exquisitely designed Bentley Suite, second in the world only to the Bentley Suite at the brand’s flagship hotel in New York. Providing guests with the luxury, craftsmanship and style associated with both renowned international brands, the suite draws inspiration from the Bentley Continental GT model and features hand-crafted finishes and one-of-a-kind furnishings throughout.

Iridium Spa & Beyond Expectation Events

Born from the DNA of the timeless sophistication of the St. Regis brand, Iridium Spa offers a transformative spa journey that bestows the rarest luxury of all: time. With seven treatment rooms and two hammams, the spa offers bespoke treatments tailored to guests’ needs in an idyllic setting. The spa also features an indoor pool and fitness center with the latest Technogym equipment designed by Antonio Citterio.

The St. Regis Istanbul is the perfect venue for special occasions, including exquisite weddings and intimate business gatherings. The hotel has seven meeting rooms, including the prestigious Astor Ballroom, setting an incomparable stage for a truly unforgettable event.

“A Postcard from Istanbul” by John Malkovich

To celebrate the hotel’s debut, St. Regis partnered John Malkovich, who wrote and directed “A Postcard from Istanbul”, an original short film starring Julian Sands and Turkish actress Belçim Bilgin. The cinematic five-minute picture unveils the allure, rich culture and historic charm of Istanbul with sweeping views of the city’s notable sights.

We are thrilled to unveil The St. Regis Istanbul as a modern vision of the St. Regis brand,” said Rui Reis, General Manager, The St. Regis Istanbul. “We look forward to welcoming guests and residents to the hotel, poised to become the best address at a global intersection of art, design, fashion and culture.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Strikes A Chord With Amped Up Music Experiences

Musically-inclined SPG members are singing a sweeter tune thanks to new, members-only music offerings and once-in-a-lifetime interactive artist experiences. Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), the award-winning loyalty program from Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is partnering with Trevanna Entertainment, a live music consulting agency, to produce another remarkable year of the signature in-hotel music series, Hear the Music, See the World. Additionally, through SPG’s expanded relationship with AEG, the largest sports and entertainment presenters in the world, getting into the world’s most exciting music festivals and the best luxury suites is now a reality.

“Music moves our members, so we’re making this year’s program even more memorable, which will deepen our relationship with our most valuable guests,” said Mark Vondrasek, Senior Vice President, Distribution, Loyalty and Partnership Marketing for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Through SPG’s music program, we’re redefining what loyalty programs can do. We’re continuing to cultivate loyalty beyond reason with all of our members by providing them once-in-a-lifetime access to music’s top talent and the chance to see amazing performances from the comfort of SPG’s luxury suites in some of the world’s best venues.”

Up Close and Personal

SPG’s Hear the Music, See the World concert series has become one of the most popular SPG Moments. Tickets for this year’s intimate, acoustic series become available April 7, 2015. SPG members can redeem Starpoints at spg.com/moments to attend any of the five in-hotel performances, which gives fans the rare opportunity to connect with their favorite artists in intimate settings.
Confirmed 2015 Hear the Music, See the World performances include:

Aloft & Element Aloft/Element Miami Doral
Miami, Florida June 26 Nate Ruess
W W Beijing
Beijing, China July 4 Zhang Zhen Yue
St. Regis The St. Regis Mexico City
Mexico City, Mexico October 8, 2015 Jamie Cullum
Westin Westin Palace Madrid
Madrid, Spain October 30, 2015 Bastille
Sheraton Sheraton LA Downtown
Los Angeles, California November 5, 2015 John Legend

“There is nothing better than getting up close and personal at small venues with fans who love music as much as I do,” said John Legend. “I get to perform for these devoted fans in the most beautiful settings at the most incredible hotels in the world. SPG delivers what matters most to us – bringing music to the people.”
“Suite Access” to the #spglife

Through its expanded relationship with AEG, SPG is giving its members the opportunity to enjoy the #spglife outside of Starwood’s more than 1,200 hotels. Members can enjoy powerful performances from the comfort of SPG’s Luxury Suites in AEG affiliated venues such as STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Shanghai’s Mercedes-Benz Arena and London’s The O2, which are all part of the AEG Facilities venue portfolio. Members can share their experience at the SPG “selfie spot” while enjoying the SPG bar and other suite perks. Redemption begins April 7, 2015 at spg.com/moments.

Sold Out Festivals? Not for SPG Members

Now SPG Members will have priority access to festivals including the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Barclaycard Presents British Summertime Hyde Park, which typically sell out in days if not hours. Through SPG, members can get sold out VIP or General Admission passes, behind the scenes tours, the best views of the stages, access to hospitality and AMEX lounges, catered dinners and more.