apple's tim cook augmented reality

While big-name forays into virtual reality make headlines, such as Steven Spielberg’s plan to build a VR storefront in Los Angeles this fall, another reality is steadily encroaching on real life: augmented reality.   

It’s easy to see why. Virtual reality requires, at minimum, the use of clunky goggles that users must secure their smartphones into and then strap onto their faces. Augmented reality, on the other hand, needs just two things to overlay images and data onto the real world: a smartphone with a camera and a Wi-Fi connection. Who doesn’t have that these days?

Augmented reality is “a big idea, like the smartphone,” Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a February interview with the The Independent. “The smartphone is for everyone; we don’t have to think the iPhone is about a certain demographic, or country or vertical market: It’s for everyone. I think AR is that big. It’s huge. I get excited because of the things that could be done that could improve a lot of lives.”

It’s one of the reasons why the mobile-augmented reality game Pokemon Go was such a blockbuster last summer.  

According to SmithBucklin’s annual trend report Circuit, Groupe Spéciale Mobile Association’s real-time mobile-device tracker found that the number of mobile devices is multiplying five times faster than the world’s population. The market potential is clear.

For professional meeting planners, mobile devices put the power of augmented reality into their hands. Trend reports such as Circuit are already forecasting the growing impact this ubiquitous technology can have in real-time conference planning, attendee outreach, educational programs, product demos and speeches.

Imagine attendees browsing the trade show floor in real life, looking around the event space and seeing these interactive items and information appear in front of them in the real world:

1. Event schedules, vendor information and social media posts
2. Memberships or products to purchase
3. A person’s name and the company or organization she represents, along with contact information

And though augmented reality is rapidly becoming a more accessible technology, virtual meetings are also advancing. Today’s launch of Chime, Amazon’s own virtual meeting service, shows that the world of meeting planning, especially business meetings, knows no boundaries.  

meeting experiences in las vegas strip

Las Vegas offers meeting planners something more than a fabulous city. These days, the Las Vegas meeting experience also comes in the interactive, awe-inspiring variety. We’re going to share two fairly recent additions to the Las Vegas meeting scene for those looking for something out of the ordinary.

Cirque Spark Sessions. This innovative program was designed to give corporate and other groups the chance to learn how to perform their own customized mini Cirque show. These sessions offer memorable, immersive team-building exercises, overseen by the talented and limber team of professionals who star in Cirque du Soleil. Let’s just say they know how to bring out hidden, high-flying skills in business people. There are two kinds of sessions. The first is an educational program where your team literally learns the ropes of risk taking from these pros. The second session gives groups of 40 a full Cirque experience, complete with makeup, costumes, casting, choreography and a final performance. Along the way, the experience is captured on video. At the end, the group will have a personal “spockumentary” of their experience, along with the memory of the amazing leaps of faith they made.

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The Vortex at The LINQ. Picture a business gathering. The Vortex at The LINQ adds two missing ingredients: lights and action. To put it in astronomical terms, the Vortex is like having a private meteor shower on demand. That’s because hanging over the meeting area is a canopy covered in thousands of lights programmed to shimmer, cascade and basically add a layer of high-tech glamour to the occasion. Along with the light show, the Vortex area overlooks the Strip. So, this bright spot is really the ideal place to hold a business gathering after dark. And right next door is the High Roller, the world’s largest observation wheel. That adds yet another layer of light and action to the setting.

There’s no doubt that the meeting world is changing fast with a demand for greater interactivity and memorability. One of the ways to stay ahead is to offer clients something unexpected with options like Spark sessions and the Vortex.

grammy nominee

At the 59th Annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2017, superstars including Adele, Beyonce, Justin Bieber and Drake compete for Album of the Year honors. Headliners aren’t the only musicians vying for Grammy glory across 83 categories. A deep dive into the 2017 nominations reveals numerous talented performers and professionals, and offers up some destination inspiration, too.

London

Let Shakespeare Songs, a Best Classical Solo Vocal Album nominee by Ian Bostridge, Antonio Pappano and accompanists, serve as the catalyst for a trip to London, a city eager to welcome post-Brexit travelers. Visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, ride the London Eye, stroll along the Thames, knock back a pint at a pub and take in the view from the Shard, where the onsite Shangri-La Hotel offers function spaces of varying size.

Nashville

American Saturday Night: Live From the Grand Ole Opry represents the Music City in the race for the Best Music Film prize, which also features work by Beyonce and Yo-Yo Ma. The historic symbol of Nashville’s country music roots, the Opry is a treasure among myriad local live music venues, which run the gamut from honky tonk to symphony hall. Between shows, sample the city’s acclaimed dining scene and explore the unique brand of Southern spirit this buzzy business and vacation destination has to offer.

Los Angeles

Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album contender All L.A. Band by Bob Mintzer points the way toward the City of Angels, a perennial favorite meeting, event and vacation destination. The Los Angeles Convention Center and an expanding hotel inventory are two factors behind the city’s downtown renaissance. Music lovers, make time for a stop at the Grammy Museum. Beyond downtown, a host of individual neighborhoods await in-depth exploration.

The Florida Keys

Daugherty: Tales of Hemingway, composed by Michael Daugherty, a nominee for Best Contemporary Classical Composition, calls to mind the Florida Keys. Volatile genius Ernest Hemingway kept a home in Old Town Key West that is now open as a historic house museum. The island chain offers many jumping off points for seaborne excursions and eclectic activities, plus meeting spaces at properties on Islamorada, Key Largo, Key West and Marathon.

Travel search engine KAYAK calculated its 10 most-searched destinations based on more than 1 billion user searches. Although all 10 are located within U.S. borders, results run the gamut from desert to tropics, Midwest to Northeast, and the nation’s capital to theme park headquarters. These cities are not only popular travel destinations, but also ideal settings for meetings and conventions.

_Vegas

1. Las Vegas

Few meeting destinations can rival Las Vegas, with its seemingly endless array of dazzling accommodations, resorts, casinos, entertainment and nightlife. With more than 3,700 conventions hosted annually in Las Vegas, it’s clear that Sin City is an enormous draw for meetings of all sizes and industries.

Known as the home of the lost weekend, Vegas has a reputation for being a mecca of access, but it has a serious side. Full of relaxing pools and rooftop eateries, Las Vegas has cultivated as many assets for business as it has for play, and the city borders some of the most stunning red rock formations in the country. But it wouldn’t feel quite like a trip to Las Vegas without a little gambling.

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2. New York

The nation’s most populous city contains myriad meeting venues, from large hotel banquet halls to meeting rooms atop skyscrapers. The expansive New York City public transportation system connects them all, in addition to virtually any destination for post-meeting plans. With unparalleled entertainment, shopping, dining and sightseeing options piled on top of each other in Manhattan, plus plenty of tempting attractions in the outer boroughs and surrounding islands, attendees are guaranteed a memorable experience.

Count the High Line among Manhattan’s can’t-miss attractions. The expertly designed 1.45-mile elevated park repurposed a former freight railway as an enchanting West Side walkway featuring native plantings, performance spaces and city views. Additional sources of urban respite include the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, the Staten Island Ferry and, during the summer, the Governor’s Island hammock groves.

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3. Los Angeles

Gone are the days when downtown Los Angeles rolled up the sidewalks at 5 p.m. Conferences such as the American Heart Association’s Stroke Conference and special events, including the Grammys, ESPYs and Emmys, have brought their own excitement and glamour to the city’s downtown convention centers, making downtown the place to be. Los Angeles seems to bring out the celebrity wannabe in everyone, and with bustling restaurants, lounges and clubs, opportunities are ample for meeting-goers to sample the glamorous Hollywood vibe.

Many destination meeting organizers say the region’s 300-plus sunny days per year are a major draw. An outdoor cocktail reception in February can sound pretty attractive to an East Coast resident stuck in a stuffy meeting room.

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4. Chicago

Chicago’s skyline is a feat of architectural vision crafted by the greatest minds in design, which makes the Windy City an ideal location for meeting planners nationwide, especially those affiliated with the arts and design industries. Venues such as Willis Tower, The Wrigley Building, McCormick Place Convention Center, the modern structures in Millennium Park and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Frederick C. Robie House and Unity Temple showcase Chicago’s unconventional beauty.

Attendees looking to explore beyond the conference room can book an architecture tour to survey the city’s soaring skyscrapers via foot, bus, boat, river cruise or Segway. Post-tour, sample the fare at the renowned dining city’s myriad fine restaurants, browse retail offerings along the Magnificent Mile, or explore the vibrant arts and entertainment community featuring the famed improvisational comedy troupe The Second City.

_Orlando

5. Orlando

With the second-largest convention center in the United States, three million sq. ft. of meeting space and a mind-blowing array of entertainment options, it’s no wonder Orlando attracts millions of meeting and convention attendees every year. The region gained its reputation from its stellar corporate events amenities, but keeps attendees and corporate event planners coming back with endless activities that are decidedly business casual.

Outside of the meeting room, check out Disney’s iconic Hollywood Studios, where grown-ups and kids alike can get slimed, or get brainy at the five-story Orlando Science Center, which boasts 50,000 sq. ft. of exhibits. With water parks, history, culture, arts and wildlife attractions all at your fingertips, Orlando matches its large group meeting capabilities with an after work activity for every interest.

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6. Denver

Recent decades have found Denver, born as a boom town during Colorado’s silver and gold rush days, focused on boosting historic character and cultural attractions. The city’s historic Union Station complex qualifies as a crown jewel of the urban mixed-use development movement. Its 20 acres contain a collection of dining, shopping, hotel and office spaces that combine pioneer spirit with a modern sensibility.

Denver’s renaissance began in 1995, when Coors Field ballpark opened in the historic warehouse district on the east side of Union Station. Contiguous neighborhoods such as Commons Park, Ballpark, Highland, River North and South Broadway followed, gaining a reputation for edgy art galleries and new restaurants. The Scientific and Cultural Facilities District provides a lifeline to the city’s art, history, natural history and art museums, zoo and a four-square-block performing arts complex.

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7. Miami

Miami offers the most tropical metropolitan meeting destination in the continental United States. That tropical setting is present in a variety of meeting hotels in the area and sets the backdrop for memorable offsite excursions. Soak up Miami’s signature glamour by exploring the nightlife scene, people-watching from the patio of a historic Art Deco-style hotel, or feasting on ceviche and stone crab.

From South Beach street performers to yachts blaring music from the water, Miami has an undeniable energy that draws visitors from all over the world. As annual events such as Art Basel Miami Beach and South Beach Wine & Food Festival prove, this energy can be channeled into your next meeting.

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8. San Francisco

Internationally known for its culinary scene, iconic fog and daunting inclines, San Francisco is a prime destination for vacationers and business meetings. Browse the stacks at City Lights Bookstore in North Beach, cruise the Castro with the ghost of Harvey Milk, hit the trails in the Presidio or wander Golden Gate Park—be it history, art or culture, San Francisco has the mix of business and pleasure your next destination meeting needs.

Attendees will love the city’s cultural and natural attractions. The Embarcadero, San Francisco’s waterfront walkway stretching from the Giants’ AT&T Park through the Financial District to Fisherman’s Wharf, perfectly integrates the stunning natural landscape into an urban setting. With so much to explore, the key is to get moving, whether by foot, bike or ferry.

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9. Seattle

Leafy, hilly Seattle sits between two great bodies of water—Puget Sound to the east and Lake Washington to the west. On clear days, the mountain ranges flanking the city are visible. Mighty Mount Rainier and the snow-capped Cascades lie an hour’s drive to the east, while the Olympic Mountains, on the Olympic Peninsula, sit a couple of hours to the west. For waterside relaxation within city limits, go to Alki Beach or Discovery Park.

Yet there is more to Seattle than its landscape. Eclectic neighborhoods such as Ballard, Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square invite exploration, and the high-tech, eco-conscious city is bursting with acclaimed, ingredient-driven restaurants and artisanal coffee roasters.

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10. Washington, DC

As a national capital carved from the 18th-century wilderness, Washington, DC, was built for meetings—meetings of Congress, heads of state, presidential advisors and power players. Americans and international visitors alike come to the United States capital to learn about the nation’s history at monuments, memorials and museums unique to DC.

For meetings, the District offers 29,000 hotel rooms, an expansive convention center, a vibrant international culture, a dynamic culinary scene, more free museums than any other city and countless attractions. Plus, the city is very accessible thanks to three nearby airports and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.

Food festivals deliver celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, and virtually unlimited food and beverage options to hordes of hungry attendees in cities across the United States. But don’t think they’re all the same. Regional cuisines, signature experiences and distinctive host cities are a few of the factors that make each festival a world unto itself. Use this calendar of culinary celebrations to inspire your next trip, or patiently wait for a premier local event to begin.

South Beach Food and Wine Festival: February 22–26, 2017

A wealth of culinary star power from Food Network and Cooking Channel lights up Miami for five days of feasting in the winter sunshine. Nationally acclaimed chefs scheduled to appear include Marcus Samuelsson, Giada de Laurentiis and Ming Tsai. Thanks to economical options such as free shuttle service and limited access tickets, it’s easy for gourmands to join in the festivities. Event proceeds benefit Florida International University Chaplain School of Hospitality & Tourism Management.

Charleston Wine + Food Festival: March 1–5, 2017

Revered for its Lowcountry epicurean scene, Charleston stages a food festival anchored by the Culinary Village in historic Marion Square, with associated events and demonstrations radiating across the city and surrounding area. Participants include Charleston’s culinary supernova Sean Brock, renowned chef Daniel Boulud and well-known food writers from magazines such as Bon Appetit and Saveur.

The Great American Foodie Fest (Vegas): April 27–30, 2017

Fifty-plus food trucks roll into Las Vegas for The Great American Foodie Fest. A beer garden, competitive eating events, a live DJ and carnival rides make for a rollicking good time.  From funnel cake to poke bowls, there’s something for every appetite.

Courtesy of Austin Food + Wine Festival

Austin Food + Wine Festival: April 28–30, 2017

Chefs gather in Texas’ culinary capital to feed festival-goers, show off their meat smoking skills and compete against each other in the Rock Your Taco competition. New this year, Friday evening’s Lone Star Nights event invites guests to sample Texas-tinged global street food creations while mingling with chefs and enjoying live music.

Courtesy of New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience: May 25–28, 2017

A mere festival can’t encapsulate the flavorful soul of a singular food city such as New Orleans: It takes an experience to do that. New Orleans Wine & Food Experience marks its 25th anniversary in 2017 by rolling rare fine wines, a pastry competition, a parade-style Royal Street Stroll and more into one Big Easy celebration!

Aspen Food and Wine Classic: June 16–18, 2017

If you’re missing the mountains after the end of ski season, the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen offers a reason to return. Hosted by Food & Wine magazine, the event assembles an all-star collection of winemakers, spirits experts and celebrated chefs for a weekend of seminars, demonstrations and tastings against a Rocky Mountain backdrop. Headliners for 2017 include Carla Hall, Gail Simmons and Andrew Zimmern.

2017 food festivals

Taste of Chicago: July 5–9, 2017

Taste of Chicago, the world’s largest food festival, draws more than 1 million eager eaters to Grant Park on or near Fourth of July weekend each year. Admission is free, but attendees must pay to sample delights from the city’s diverse dining scene. Musical performances on the Bud Light Stage and Petrillo Music Shell add to the party vibe.

Boston Seafood Fest: August 6, 2017

At this daylong seafood celebration at Boston Fish Pier, seafood lovers can gorge on delicacies from the depths, such as lobster, crabs, oysters and swordfish, then wash it all down with a cold beer. Hosting duties are fulfilled by Boston Fisheries Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to preserving, sustaining and sharing our seafood and maritime heritage.

Eat Drink SF: August 24–27, 2017

Sample San Francisco’s acclaimed cuisine at Eat Drink SF, where a roster of more than 160 restaurants caters to an enthusiastic and knowledgeable dining community. The can’t-miss 2017 offering is the Sunday afternoon special Grand Tasting in honor of the Golden Gate Restaurant Association’s 80th anniversary.

New York City Wine & Food Festival: October 12–15, 2017

Celebrity chefs such as Alex Guarnaschelli, Scott Conant and Geoffrey Zakarian headline the New York City Wine & Food Festival, which turns 10 in 2017. More than 100 events afford the festival, a sister to the South Beach event, a wide reach that extends to the philanthropic front. Proceeds benefit Food Bank for New York City and No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger.

janes-carousel

Inject a jolt of variety into your roster of meeting venues to keep attendees engaged and excited before, during and after the event.

Jane’s Carousel, Brooklyn

The word unique is often misapplied, but in the case of Jane’s Carousel, its use is warranted. No other event space features a meticulously restored historic carousel encased in a transparent acrylic jewel box on the bank of the East River, with unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. Made in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company for Youngstown, Ohio’s Idora Park, Jane’s Carousel opened in Brooklyn Bridge Park in 2011.

On days when the carousel is closed to the public, groups of up to 150 may rent the space for private events. With an in-house sound system, a deck to provide spillover space during warm months and a heating system on hand to stave off winter chill—not to mention 48 ornately decorated wooden horses and the glow of 1,200 lights—Jane’s Carousel offers modern comfort as well as elegant nostalgia.

pike-place-market unconventional event venues

Pike Place Market, Seattle

Distinctive locations make for memorable events, and in the Pacific Northwest, no site is more iconic than Pike Place Market. The southernmost buildings of Seattle’s famed shopping emporium contain a variety of meeting and event spaces offering between 250 and 2,275 square feet, with features such as large windows, high ceilings, and views of Elliott Bay, the Seattle Great Wheel or the historic market sign.

Board meetings, conferences, panel discussions, team-building activities, brainstorming sessions and private dinners will all find a home here. For an experiential event, host a cooking class, demonstration or tasting in the 600-square-foot, state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Planners, remember to take advantage of the onsite suppliers. After the obligatory stop to see the salmon-slinging fish vendors, source locally grown blooms from the market’s flower farmers to enhance the event space.

intrepid-museum

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, New York

New York City’s distinctive outdoor venues include the 300-yard flight deck of the former aircraft carrier Intrepid, moored on the Hudson River in view of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty and the George Washington Bridge. During 31 years of active service, the aircraft carrier participated in World War II, the Cold War and the Vietnam War. In 1982, the decommissioned vessel gained new life as the centerpiece of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, which also houses the space shuttle Enterprise, the American guided missile submarine Growler and a British Airways Concorde jet.

Additional indoor and outdoor event spaces at the sprawling complex include the space shuttle pavilion, museum pier, multimedia theater, great hall, three hangars and three adjacent classrooms. Wow groups of 20 to 3,000 with an awe-inspiring National Historic Landmark venue featuring modern technological amenities, plus a professional and experienced event staff to guide and assist in the planning process.

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Topgolf, multiple locations in the United States and United Kingdom

What began 17 years ago as a brainstorm between brothers has evolved into a game-changing experiential concept attracting millions of visitors annually. Topgolf, essentially a golf-based theme park, reinvented the standard driving range experience via a potent blend of technology, scale, friendly rivalry, food and drinks. The clientele is not limited to the links-obsessed: 37 percent are non-golfers.

Luxurious, temperature controlled hitting bays outfitted with televisions and high-tech equipment draw crowds, and snacks, meals, beers and premium cocktails keep them onsite. Topgolf operates 28 U.S. locations, with seven more set to open this year, plus three locations in the United Kingdom. Facility size varies by site, but many Topgolf entertainment complexes cover more than 65,000 sq. ft., featuring three levels and up to 102 hitting bays. Reserve a patio, rooftop terrace or banquet room for a meeting or conference, and then end the day with a session in the hitting bays.

masonic-memorial

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial, Alexandria, Virginia

Memorials and monuments abound in the nation’s capital, but few offer private event space. Less than 10 miles away, in Alexandria, Virginia, stands a hilltop memorial built and maintained by the Freemasons of the United States in honor of George Washington, Father of Our Country and noted mason. The National Historic Landmark structure houses a collection of spaces available for rent to serve groups of 12 to 450, such as two grand halls, a theater, dining room, portico and observation deck.

Amenities include Wi-Fi, lighting equipment, a sound system, stunning architecture and large-scale artwork. An onsite lot provides ample free parking, and the King Street Metro station is less than a half mile away. Alexandria’s adjacent Old Town neighborhood offers numerous pre- or post-event diversions: shop, dine and sightsee along King Street, cruise the Potomac River by boat, or bike the Mount Vernon Trail. To continue the presidential theme, plan an excursion to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, a mere 12 miles away.

trump immigration ban

Some leaders in the U.S. travel and meetings industries have been less than subdued in their response to President Donald Trump’s  immigration edict.

For a quick review: The president signed an executive order on Jan. 27 banning immigrants from seven Muslim countries—Iraq, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Libya and Somalia—a move that rippled through every travel segment.

It’s impossible to know what everyone in the industry thinks, but some believe the move could be bad for business. Here are some of the responses from top travel leaders, companies and associations culled from reports published in the past week:

Meetings Association Chief Organizes

Paul Van Deventer, president and CEO of Meeting Professionals International and co-chair of Meetings Mean Business, recognized the global implications of the president’s executive order and sought to unite travel professionals.

“We are concerned the recently signed U.S. executive order on immigration and refugees could have negative impacts on our global membership community and the meeting and event industry,” Van Deventer wrote on the association website. “MPI is lending its full support to the Meetings Mean Business Coalition and their efforts to monitor this issue and understand potential implications. We will unite with fellow coalition members to advocate for our industry, sharing updates with our members on how Meetings Mean Business is ‘reaffirming that it’s critical to strike the right balance between enhanced security and travel facilitation.’”

U.S. Travel Association Takes a Stand

Meanwhile, Jonathan Grella, executive vice president of public affairs at the U.S. Travel Association, told The Hill:

“In this case, it’s a limited universe of people directly affected, but carries with it not inconsequential fall-out potential when it comes to reputational risk and sending an unintended message. People will be understanding and forgiving when security is your motivation, but if they are left with other takeaways that leave the impression that they’re not welcome here, then that’s obviously a different story.”

Airlines Waive Change Fees

 Major carriers said they will not charge change fees for travelers affected by the ban, the Points Guy reported. The credit cards and travel website cited a Delta Airlines press release, which stated, “We are working with authorities to comply with the executive order while treating all of our customers with respect and taking great care of any affected customers by assisting them with rebooking options and full refunds.”

Airbnb, Lyft and Uber Share Feelings

Ride-service Uber and other sharing-economy companies offered a variety of measures such as lower-priced rides from JFK Airport,  free housing and advocacy donations, Curbed San Francisco reported.

The news website noted a tweet by Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky: “Airbnb is providing free housing to refugees and anyone not allowed in the US,” Chesky wrote. “Stay tuned for more, contact me if urgent need for housing.”

Meanwhile, Lyft said it would donate $1 million to the American Civil Liberties Union to challenge the ban.

Uber offered discount rates for riders traveling from JFK after taxis refused to drive the route in a show of protest. As a member of Trump’s business advisory group, Uber CEO Travis Kalanick said he would bring up the ban with the president. Kalanick later resigned from the group, a day before its first meeting.

Expedia Files Declaration in State Lawsuit

Seattle-based travel website Expedia filed a declaration in a lawsuit filed by Washington state suing the president, the New York Times reported. The Times asked Expedia CEO and Iranian immigrant Dara Khosrowshahi how the company got involved in the lawsuit.

“The state of Washington let us know on Sunday that the suit was something they were considering and asked for our support,” Khosrowshahi  said. “We are generally not aggressive against issues that do not relate to our company, but this is travel, our soul and spirit, and we felt we had to respond. Honestly, it was not a debate whether we should we be involved.”

A culinary theater featuring world-renowned chefs is among the attractions planned at an upcoming 12-story hotel in Fort Myers, Florida.

Chefs will teach culinary techniques to guests as well as the general public at the Autograph Collection hotel, which has not been named. Autograph Collection is one of Marriott’s top lifestyle hotel brands.

The 225-room property will also include retail shops and a diner on the ground level. A signature restaurant will be located on the fourth floor of the building—where the hotel starts—but it will stand alone.

The new Florida hotel will be connected to Harborside Event Center, which consists of more than 30,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose space, including an upscale prefunction lobby and grand foyer entrance with stunning river and park views.

Mainsail Lodging and Development, which present design plans for the new hotel on Monday, has proposed building a band shell amphitheater in Centennial Park for public and private use. The city first needs to figure out what it wants to do with a boat dock before more information can be provided about the amphitheater, said City Manager Saeed Kazemi.

Kazemi said that city officials would discuss the issue at the first city meeting in March.

Construction of the hotel could start as early as this April, and it is scheduled to open in late 2018, said Brian Check, a developer with Mainstay.

City leaders expect this project to drive more development within the city. All aspects of the hotel were designed to complement the River District look.

Booking a block at a hotel is one of the biggest expenses on your budget—and one of the most important for your attendees. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your negotiations.

Rule #1: Know what you want then ask for more it

It is important to know exactly what you will want and need from a hotel before entering negotiations. If your meeting center is far away, can the hotel provide shuttle service? Is there free Wi-Fi? Complimentary breakfast? Make a laundry list of the amenities and then tell the hotel representative so they know up front what you’re hoping for. Keep in mind that you may not get everything, but each amenity can serve as a bargaining chip.

Rule #2: Don’t tell them your budget

Hotel sales managers are trained to use your budget number as their initial starting point in negotiations, which puts you at a severe disadvantage. But flat out refusing to tell them your number may come off as cold and un-trusting. The easy compromise? Just tell them that the budget is still under development and you can’t answer that question at the time. No need to give them a range—just act as if a higher power has yet to give you that information.

Rule #3: Let them make the offer

The hotel should always be the one making the actual offer and you should never take the first one. Remember, this is a negotiation so it should take a few rounds to get to a deal you’re satisfied with.

Rule #4: Everything is negotiable

Hotels may give you a cutoff date for when you will have to decide. Whenever they bring up anything that can be seen as a bargaining chip that you aren’t quite ready to discuss, simply say: “let’s talk about that later.” Then later on when you see an opportunity to give the hotel something that would benefit them (i.e. an early cutoff date) in order to get something that benefits you (a lower overall rate). Remind them that the economic impact of your group is larger than the room block, as attendees will likely be spending money at the hotel’s bars, restaurants and gift shops.

Rule #5: Shop around

It’s a lot easier to negotiate if hotels know you’re looking at all your options. You may be gunning for one hotel from the get-go, knowing that you will likely stay there, but it’s good to have options and to be able to compare offers as they come in. Hotels are more likely to accommodate your requests if your business isn’t guaranteed.

Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach’s captivating vibe pulses with a dynamic convergence of modern and classic, delivering the unexpected with a sophisticated and memorable resort experience. This Oceanside treasure features 631 spacious guest rooms and suites. Immersive luxury, curated experiences, and anticipatory service are your companions as you step into the world of Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach.

70,000 Sq. Ft. of Renovated Meeting & Event Space

Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach offers over 70,000 sq. ft. of re-energized and stylish indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Don’t simply host a meeting, make an unforgettable statement with thoughtfully designed spaces and stunning ocean views. Designed by Executive Chef Thomas Buckley, our new banquet and catering menus feature dishes from Malibu Farm and Nobu Restaurant.

Exhilarating Culinary Experiences

Offering innovative culinary experiences led by the world-famous Nobu Restaurant and famed farm-to-table concept Malibu Farm, debuting in Spring 2017, Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach is a culinary destination with something for everyone. Nobu Restaurant serves some of the favorites like Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, as well as Miami Beach exclusives, such as The Nobu Cuban; Bar Nobu, located in the heart of the resort, offers bold and refreshing cocktails accompanied by a selection of Nobu dishes; and Malibu Farm, the soon to open Miami Beach outpost of the hugely popular California farm-to-table restaurant, will serve Chef Helene Henderson’s favorites with a side of unconstructive ocean views.

Get Lost in Our World

Lose yourself in our world, open your eyes to fresh thoughts and experience the purity of nature’s curated spa ingredients and rituals. Find relaxation at Spa Eden Roc, our 22,000-square-foot spa and fitness facility that was recognized among the best new spas by Condé Nast Traveler. We believe in treatments uniquely suited to you that create balance leaving you revitalized and restored.

nobuedenrocmeetings.com