meeting-venue-trends

Selecting the right venue can determine the difference between an amazing meeting and a disastrous one. There are countless aspects that a planner needs to consider when choosing a venue. Location, service, and food and beverage all come to mind. IACC surveyed more than 150 meeting planners from five different continents to learn what venue features are most important to planners.

Seventy-five percent of respondents reported that their jobs now require more “experience creation” than they did two to five years ago. Planners today must compete with cellphones and tablets for participants’ attention, so unique and immersive experiences are key. Millennials are also changing the conversation. According to the report, this tech-savvy and constantly connected generation prefers experiences over meetings.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that many respondents selected technology and flexibility as key considerations. Seventy-seven percent of planners surveyed believe access to interactive technology that allows audience participation and collaboration is more important today than it was five years ago, while 47 percent report that flexible meeting spaces that can be rearranged for a variety of purposes are more important now than they were then.

Flexible meeting spaces are more in-demand than ever because many attendees are embracing nontraditional meeting and conference formats. Rather than using the usual lecture format, some conferences are experimenting with an “unconference” meeting style, which empowers participants to set the agenda and topics themselves. These more collaborative settings usually require flexible space that can be configured in different ways to boost communication. Collaborative spaces outside of meeting rooms are also becoming increasingly important, as more attendees are looking for ways to network and collaborate in informal spaces.

These days, growing numbers of meeting planners are embracing event technology. Eighty-one percent of survey respondents have introduced new tech to boost communication between hosts and participants. They recognize that event tech such as onsite apps, live event streaming and video conferencing can do wonders to boost attendee engagement. Therefore, a venue’s capability of handling the latest technology is paramount.

According to survey respondents, a great venue should have good lighting and acoustics, excellent audiovisual capabilities and, most importantly, fast and reliable Wi-Fi. IACC’s survey reports that planners selected broadband as the top physical feature that a venue must have. In this day and age, high-quality broadband and technology infrastructure are no longer optional: With the growing popularity of audience participation technology, an unconnected attendee is an unengaged one.

As workforce demographics change, the meetings landscape must change to suit attendees’ shifting needs. With planners and venues working together, the meetings industry will surely be well-equipped for the future.

Element--Rise-Breakfast-Bar eco-friendly hotels

Element Hotels, the eco-conscious brand from Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., is staged to become a major player in North America, with more than 22 properties expected to open over the next three years. These cities include meeting destinations such as  Philadelphia, Nashville and Charleston, South Carolina.

Starwood is using the expansion of its Element Hotels as an eco-innovation lab, which is expected to impact sustainability efforts throughout all of the corporation’s brands. Most Element Hotels have enough meeting space for small events, serving as a complement to larger nearby meeting properties.

All Element Hotels feature natural light, modern design, healthy options and eco-minded sensibilities. Both the healthy breakfast and evening wine reception are complimentary. Guest rooms include fully equipped kitchens, and bathrooms feature an invigorating rain shower. Element Hotels offer complimentary bikes for getting around town, and its state-of-the-art fitness centers never close.

Element-Charging-Bike“Element Hotels is experiencing unprecedented growth momentum throughout North America, as well as in a number of key global markets, due to the widespread appeal of the brand’s distinct lifestyle positioning,” says Brian McGuinness, global brand leader for specialty select brands for Starwood. “Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s become a requirement among a growing number of travelers worldwide, and Element is the perfect choice with its clean, modern design and eco-conscious programming.”

During the past year, Element Hotels have opened in key meeting cities such as Boston, Miami and Vancouver. That footprint will expand to popular event regions including Chandler, Arizona, San Antonio and Syracuse, New York, by 2018.

Starwood reports that there’s increase demand for dual-branded hotel developments featuring Aloft and Element brands in key metropolitan markets. Starwood will open Aloft and Element hotel projects in Syracuse, New York, (Aloft 2016, Element 2018); Austin, Texas (2017); Dallas (2017); Redmond, Washington. (2017); and Charleston, S.C. (2018).

“Element is seeing tremendous success as conditions for new hotel development continue to improve and owners and developers embrace the versatile brand’s emphasis on smart, sustainable living,” said Allison Reid, senior vice president of North America development for Starwood. “The innovative Element brand has consistently outperformed its competitive set by offering an entirely fresh perspective on reimagined lodging, and we expect it will continue to grow rapidly in both urban and suburban markets throughout North America and beyond.”

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Here are a few key eco-conscious Element Hotels slated to open by the end of 2018:

Element Chandler Fashion Center (Chandler, Arizona)–January 2017
Element Chandler will be next to the Chandler Fashion Center, one of the largest malls in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The brand’s first hotel to open in Arizona, Element Chandler will feature 107 rooms and 600 sq. ft. of meeting space, an outdoor pool and a fitness center. The hotel is 10 minutes from Wild Horse Pass, 20 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and less than 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix and Arizona State University.

Element Dallas Love Field–February 2017
Element Dallas Love Field will anchor a new upscale mixed-use development just one mile from Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) and the Dallas Medical District. Part of a dual-branded hotel complex, the 91-room Element Dallas Love Field will share facilities with Aloft Dallas Love Field, including 6,500 sq. ft. of meeting space, an outdoor swimming pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel boasts a prime location with West Love, a 37-acre mixed-use development close to downtown Dallas, the Dallas Medical District, the Design District, the shops and restaurants at Dallas Market Center and AT&T Stadium all nearby.

Element Redmond (Redmond, Washington)– May 2017
The 124-room Element Redmond will open along with the 150-room Aloft Redmond just outside the campus for Microsoft Corporation’s world headquarters. The Aloft and Element hotel development will be located within Esterra Park, a campus-style, master-planned development with 1.2 million sq. ft. of commercial office space, 1,400 residential units and a Link light-rail station slated to open in 2023. The hotels are close to both Redmond’s shopping district and downtown Bellevue. Aloft Redmond and Element Redmond will face a common courtyard and each feature separate branded lobbies. Shared facilities will include 6,500 sq. ft. of state-of-the-art meeting space, an outdoor pool, a fitness facility and parking.

Element Austin Downtown (Texas)-August 2017
The dual-branded Aloft and Element Austin Downtown hotel development will include a restaurant and bar with outdoor dining along historic Congress Avenue. The 270-room Aloft and 144-room Element will be walking distance to the live music venues, restaurants and shops in the city’s renowned 6th Street Entertainment District. Also nearby are the Warehouse District, the 2nd Street District, the Austin Convention Center, the University of Texas­–Austin campus and the Texas State Capitol Building. The hotels will share amenities including a beautiful street-level terrace overlooking Congress Avenue, an oversized 24-hour fitness center and approximately 3,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, ideal for both business meetings and social gatherings.

Element Fort Lauderdale Downtown–December 2017
The 150-room Element Fort Lauderdale Downtown will anchor a new upscale lifestyle center at the heart of the city’s central business district. It will be part of a dual-hotel development along with the 209-room Fort Lauderdale Downtown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. The hotels will share more than 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and other amenities and will be part of a mixed-use complex with 14,000 square feet of street-level retail space.

 Element Philadelphia–January 2018
The first-ever W and Element dual-branded hotel development, W Philadelphia and Element Philadelphia will occupy a 51-story skyscraper directly across from Philadelphia City Hall. The 460-room Element Philadelphia will feature a 1,400-square-foot breakfast and lounge area, a fitness center and 431 sq. ft. of meeting space. Walking distance from both Suburban Station and the Broad Street entrance to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the hotel is also close to top city attractions such as the Avenue of the Arts, Liberty Bell, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the galleries, restaurants and boutiques along Walnut Street, Chestnut Street and Rittenhouse Row.

Element Nashville West End–January 2018
Element Nashville West End is slated to open in 2018 in a prime location at oneC1TY, just minutes from Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Centennial Park, HCA, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the nightclubs and entertainment venues downtown and on Music Row. The hotel will feature 169 rooms and 560 sq. ft.  feet of meeting space.

Eco-Friendly Resorts and Hotels

The impact of climate change has made the Earth a very different place. Pollution levels are on the rise, the ozone layer is depleting and tons of plastic and waste are dumped in the ocean every day. It’s become more important than ever to take care of our planet and promote environmental stewardship in the meetings and hospitality industry. This Earth Day, support eco-friendly resorts and hotels that embrace conservation practices and are actively working to decrease their carbon footprints.

From Lake Placid in New York to Florida’s Gold Coast, here are four green properties that give back to their natural surroundings:

1. Surrounded by 6 million protected acres in the Adirondacks, Whiteface Lodge is tucked away in the High Peaks of Lake Placid. Constructed from fallen timber found on property, fallen trees continue to be used in mulch and landscaping. Waste reduction is also an important initiative at the lodge: 8,000 bars of soap have been recycled and donated to families in need; 43,000 water bottles have been saved by installing water filters on kitchen faucets; and laundry facilities conserve 1,200 gallons of water every day. Whiteface Lodge supports green transportation by providing charging stations for Tesla vehicles. There are 94 guest rooms and more than 7,900 sq. ft. of meeting space.

2. On Florida’s Gold Coast, Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa is not far from the third largest barrier reef in the world. The resort partners with Loggerhead Marine Life Center to protect Florida’s sea turtle population—a percentage of sales from stuffed animal sea turtles in every guest room help fund the program. The resort’s guest rooms also boast eco-friendly amenities, including power and water conserving appliances, post-consumer bathroom tissue and a water- and energy-saving linen program. Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa has 193 suites and 7,020 sq. ft. of meeting space.

3. The Umstead Hotel and Spa, located in Cary, North Carolina, takes its commitment to the environment very seriously. Located on 12 wooded acres, the hotel grows its own produce and fresh herbs; whatever doesn’t come from the gardens is sourced from local purveyors. The Umstead also composts food scraps and donates unused bath amenities to Clean the World Foundation. Hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles are used to transport guests, and Tesla charging stations are located onsite. There are 150 guest rooms and more than 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.

4. One of Scottsdale, Arizona’s top resorts, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa lies among towering Saguaro cacti and red desert rock in Paradise Valley. The property takes measures to preserve the surrounding arid environment by using low-flow toilets throughout the resort, drought-tolerant plants, organic cleaning products and implementing a staff incentive program to encourage positive environmental practices. In-room bath amenities, created exclusively by Red Flower, are organic, cruelty-free and sustainably sourced. Last year, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa became a certified Monarch butterfly habit due to the increase of the butterfly species in the Scottsdale area. The resort has 105 mountain casitas and suites and 5,918 sq. ft. of indoor event space.

fondue

Planners looking for a place to stage an unforgettable executive retreat or an immersive incentive experience need look no further than the Goldener Hirsch Inn. The AAA Four Diamond property offers an authentic taste of Austria in Park City, Utah.

Goldener Hirsch Inn is situated in the heart of Deer Valley Resort’s Silver Lake Village, 35 miles east of Salt Lake City. Quaint and romantic, the European-inspired boutique hotel has 20 spacious guest rooms, each of which are appointed with imported, hand-painted furniture, antiques and objects d’art. Most guest rooms boast wood burning fireplaces and private balconies with views of mountain peaks. Luxurious amenities include Frette linens, feather bed toppers and thick down comforters.

A Taste of Austria

Public spaces are equally charming. Alpenhorns (the long instruments seen on Ricola cough drop commercials) and pictures of deer (Goldener Hirsch translates to “golden deer”) adorn the walls.

Electronic key cards are nowhere to be found at this traditional hotel. Room keys are attached to jumbo-sized brass rings and arranged in cubby holes behind the hand carved front desk. The property, which is modeled after the 600-year-old Hotel Goldener Hirsch in Salzburg, Austria, feels like it was built long ago, even though it was constructed in 1990. Since 1992 it has been owned and operated by the philanthropic Eccles family, whose Utah roots date back to the late 1800’s.

The centrally-located property boasts a small, European-style sauna. Spa and salon services can be arranged in guest rooms, or at a nearby partner property. During winter, guests enjoy easy access to on-mountain activities.

Meeting Space

utah

Planners can take advantage of several meeting spaces. The comfortable 1,200-square-foot boardroom can accommodate 25 and includes an AV screen and speakerphone for conference calling. Other communal spaces include a private dining room that can seat 35; a lounge with a wood burning fireplace and full-service bar that can seat 25; and the restaurant that can fit 110 for a banquet or reception. In the warmer months, guests can spill out onto the pleasant, flower-filled decks.

Award-Winning Dining

The skiing outside of Goldener Hirsch Inn is world-class; and so is the dining inside. In the Bavarian-inspired dining room, Chef Ryan Burnham dishes up contemporary Alpine cuisine with a seasonal American spin.

The AAA Four Diamond Goldener Hirsch Inn Restaurant has been a Wine Spectator award-winner every year since 1995, and was rated No. 2 of Ski Hotel Restaurants in North America by Conde Nast Traveler. Breakfast is complimentary for all guests; and cookies and hot chocolate are served every afternoon. In the tradition of fine European hotels, the service is superb.

House specialties include authentic Weiner schnitzel, spaetzle, porcini mushroom soup and apple strudel. But Goldener Hirsch Inn Restaurant is particularly noted for its famous cheese fondue. The tasty dish is served in a communal pot with an attractive tray of bread and fruits.

Here is the recipe, courtesy of “From the Restaurants of Park City, A Mountain Town’s Cookbook,” by Lauren Nadler (Park City Publishing, 2016). The beautiful book can be ordered on amazon.com.

Goldener Hirsch Cheese Fondue

Ingredients:

1 cup dry white wine

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 oz. Appenzeller cheese, grated

2 oz. Emmentaller cheese, grated

2 oz. Vacherin cheese, grated

1 oz. cave aged Gruyere cheese, grated

1 oz. Kirsch

Small pinch, nutmeg

Salt & pepper to taste

2 Granny Smith apples, sliced or cubed

½ broccoli

Baguette, cubed

Corn starch and water slurry

Procedure:

In a fondue pot, warm the white wine with the garlic over medium heat. While this is heating, make your slurry by mixing equal parts of water and cornstarch. Blend well and set aside.

To the fondue pot, slowly add the cheeses, Kirsch and salt & pepper. Increase the heat to melt the cheese. Add the slurry slowly (an ounce at a time) until you have stabilized the mixture to the desired consistency, so it does not separate.

Serve the fondue with crusty bread, broccoli and Granny Smith apples. Or dip lemony potatoes, sliced bratwurst or even schnitzel when those are on hand.

Recipe serves 2-4 people.

Goldener Hirsch Inn, 7570 Royal Street East, Park City, Utah

800-252-3373

goldenerhirschinn.com

boston

New legislation could soon ban ride-hailing vehicles from picking up passengers from the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center for five years—a move convention center officials fear will have a negative impact on tourism.

The House has approved a bill that introduces a five-year ban on Uber and Lyft picking up customers at convention center properties to protect the taxi industry, which helped finance the convention center when it was built.

Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) officials say they were blindsided by the proposal and are now pushing for the proposed ban to be eliminated in a future version of the bill when it is considered by the Senate.

“[Our customers] are taking the ride-sharing companies, and if you take that away, then our business will suffer,” James Folk, director of transportation at the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority told the Boston Globe. “We’re trying to get as many people here for economic stimulus and everything else, and if we lose that, we’re going to lose customers.”

The passing of the bill could potentially affect big industry groups as well as locals who flock to the 2.1 million-square-foot convention center for events, despite the fact that it boasts the fastest airport-to-convention travel time in the country (8 minutes).

One ride-hailing firm estimated that its drivers provided about 15,000 trips from the convention center properties during 2015.

Since the arrival of companies such as Uber and Lyft, taxi drivers have reportedly seen a big drop in revenue. From January to June of 2015, taxi ridership in Boston dropped 22 percent compared with the year before.

If the bill is passed, Massachusetts would join a short list of convention centers that have ban the rideshare companies, but many fear it’s the start of a trend.

Agencies in other states are working with Uber and Lyft to accommodate ride-for-hire firms in some way, rather than banning the vehicles. In 2015, Hilton partnered with Uber to provide guests with rides more easily through the HHonors app.

The Boston Convention & Exhibition Center boasts a 41,000-square-foot grand ballroom overlooking Boston Seaport, 516,000 sq. ft. of column-free exhibit space and 82 meeting rooms. Other properties owned and operated by MCCA include The Lawn on D Powered by Citizens Bank, John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, MassMutual Center and Boston Common Garage.

Vdara-Smart-Meetings-Cover_843x342
AdvertisementVdara Hotel & Spa is a AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Four-Star award winning boutique hotel that appeals to guests who love the energy and excitement of Las Vegas, but choose to enjoy it from an exclusive, nongaming, smoke-free environment. Just steps away from Aria Resort & Casino and connected to Bellagio, Vdara offers contemporary interior spaces with the latest modern amenities. Vdara has achieved LEED Gold certification, a 5 Green Keys rating and a 5 Green Key Meetings rating, which are the highest honors possible from the Green Key Eco-Rating Program. Vdara is only one of 12 resorts in North America to receive the 5 Green Key Meetings recognition.
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Vdara boasts 1,495 suites that are luxuriously appointed with open floor plans and horizontal windows that deliver expansive views of the Las Vegas skyline. For added convenience, each unit features a full kitchenette.

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Vdara’s meeting space specializes in smaller groups from ten to 300 guests, boasting personalized service. Meetings held at Vdara are overseen by experienced staff in spaces designed with flexibility in mind. More than 16,500 sq. ft. of ground level conference space provides a convenient setting for incentive meetings, general sessions or F&B gatherings. Ideal for intimate gatherings, small business conferences or banquet events, Silk Road is a unique and flexible 6,400-squarefoot meeting and event space offering modern decor and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Silk Road also includes a ballroom with approximately 4,000 sq. ft. and a breakout room with approximately 900 sq. ft. For those who prefer the flexibility of an outdoor event, the vibrant Pool & Lounge Vdara, which provides a dynamic backdrop of The Strip, is available for private events for up to 500 guests. Meetings, events and gatherings are elevated to a new standard at Vdara with exceptional catering services featuring fresh foods made from the purest ingredients. Vdara extends the unparalleled offerings and professional service for which MGM Resorts International is renowned worldwide—the only thing planners have to think about is what they would like on their customized menu.
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Vdara offers amenities commensurate with the world’s most elite resorts. Escape to a journey of holistic health at ESPA at Vdara and Salon Vdara, an eco-friendly, 18,000-square-foot, two level spa, salon and fitness center. The intimate boutique experience that is found at every turn of the hotel is also found at ESPA at Vdara and Salon Vdara. Satisfying selections to suit every taste abound at the various dining options offered at Vdara Hotel & Spa. Market Cafe Vdara features classic American dishes with a European twist through a menu of freshly prepared breakfast (available all day), lunch and dinner options, while VICE VERSA Patio & Lounge provides the ideal setting to pair a light appetizer with a handcrafted cocktail or enjoy a nightcap. To satisfy caffeine cravings, Starbucks is conveniently located next to Silk Road. Around the clock in-suite dining is also available. When it is time to hit the links, Vdara guests receive access to the most exclusive and beautiful courses in Las Vegas, including Shadow Creek.

jw-marriott-arizona-star-pass

Marriott’s Convention & Resort Network spans more than 60 world-class convention and resort hotels and offers groups of all sizes vast options for places to meet, eat, network and explore off-property.

Join Smart Meetings as we tour three JW Marriott Convention & Resort Network properties throughout Arizona: JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa and JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn.

We’re exploring everything from the best Mexican and barbecue joints to the meeting spaces, spas and surrounding deserts. Check out the tour in real time by following @Smartmtgsraine on Twitter!

Last updated: April 19, 2016 – 3:20 PM

 

help the environment

Earth Day is a call to action motivating individuals and companies to do what they can to protect and improve the planet. From beach cleanups and tree planting projects to installing green roofs or solar panels, much can be done.

Here are five sustainability projects that are making a difference in various communities. Let us know what you and your company are doing to positively impact the planet!

Beach Cleanup in Hawaii

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is located on beautiful Ka‘anapali Beach in Maui. The resort, which features 759 guest rooms and a total of 67, 391 sq. ft. of indoor/outdoor meeting space, recently won an Excellence in Sustainability award from Maui No Ka ‘Oi Magazine. The property is committed to sustainability through a variety of Malama Ka Aina I Ke Kai (care for the land and the ocean) projects.

In celebration of Earth Day, the resort recently organized a beach cleanup to remove trash and debris from Ka’anapali Beach. It is also actively pursuing many green initiatives. It is participating in Starwood’s environmental initiative 30/20 by 20, which calls for a 30 percent reduction in energy use and a 20 percent reduction in water consumption per built hotel room globally by 2020.

Recent capital improvements at the property include LED lighting and mechanical system upgrades. Restaurant menus support local farmers and eschew threatened seafood, and sustainable landscaping practices include composting green waste, installing rain gardens and using reef-friendly fertilizers.

Tree Planting Project in Texas, Colorado and California

Citywide conferences and exhibitions can be responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions. While efforts can be made to conserve energy and fuel, it is difficult to achieve a zero carbon footprint.

As the world’s largest scientific society and an organization committed to addressing climate change, the American Chemical Society (ACS) Meetings & Expositions Department stepped up to the challenge of measuring, reducing and mitigating its meeting carbon footprint.

Washington DC-based sustainability consulting firm Greenview applauds the group, which established a carbon offsetting, tree-planting partnership with American Forests. Since 2014, ACS has offset the equivalent of the annual emissions of 251 passenger vehicles by planting more than 5,700 trees in the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Texas; the Rio Grande National Forest in Colorado; and Sierra National Forest in California. In 2015, ACS offered attendees an option to fund the planting of a tree for $1 during the registration process. More than 2,100 attendees participated in this initiative on its first launch.

Solar Powering Las Vegas

With dozens of hotels and a lively Strip that has neon signs blinking 24/7, the city of Las Vegas consumes a huge amount of energy. It also boasts near constant sunshine, making it a prime candidate for solar energy. Three of the city’s largest casino operators, (MGM Resorts, Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands Corp.) which account for 15 collective properties, have announced intentions to switch to renewable solar energy.

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is owned by MGM Resorts. As part of a major redesign and expansion project, solar panels are currently being installed on the roof of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Covering more than 28 acres, the combined array will be one of the largest rooftop solar arrays in the country, and will generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of 1,300 homes.

Over the years, MGM Resorts has been a leader in sustainability. In addition to the solar panels, the company is replacing 1.3 million light bulbs in its properties with more energy efficient LEDs. Mandalay Bay and its Convention Center, which hold Five Key ratings from the Green Key Eco-Rating and Meetings Programs and have been awarded Gold status in TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders program, recycle more than 80 percent of convention materials.

Green Roof in Nashville

Music City Center is a premier exhibition and convention center in Nashville, Tennessee.  The 2.1 million-square-foot building features a 353,143-square-foot exhibit hall, 57,500-square-foot grand ballroom and 90,000 sq. ft. of meeting room space spread across 60 breakout rooms.

A sustainability champion, the LEED Silver certified building boasts a high-efficiency HVAC system, 360,000-gallon rainwater collector and 845 solar panels. What may be most impressive, however, is its four-acre green roof.

Designed to mimic the rolling hills of Tennessee, it is the largest green roof in the Southeast. It contains 14 different types of vegetation and a waterproofing membrane. It helps reduce energy usage by absorbing heat and acting as an insulator to reduce the amount of energy needed to provide heating and cooling to the facility. The vegetation on the roof provides a natural habitat for plants, insects and wildlife that would otherwise have limited space in an urban environment. Four hives house more than 100,000 honeybees.

A Collective Effort in NYC

New York City used to be considered one of the more polluted cities in the nation. That is changing, as Big Apple hotels unite in a pledge to go green. The New York Times reports that 17 properties, representing a combined total of more than 11,000 guest rooms, have joined the NYC Carbon Challenge, a program launched in 2007 by former Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Participants include high profile properties such as Waldorf Astoria New York, Grand Hyatt New York, 1 Hotel Central Park, Loews Regency New York, The Westin New York at Times Square and the Peninsula New York, all of which are committed to trimming greenhouse gas emissions by at least 30 percent over the next decade.

New York’s Go Green initiative originated with city universities, followed by hospitals, commercial office buildings and multifamily residences. In late 2015, current Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that hotels would join the crusade. The ambitious goal is to reduce citywide greenhouse emissions 80 percent by 2050.

According to Nilda Mesa, director of the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, buildings are responsible for nearly 75 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the Big Apple. Getting the cooperation of the hospitality industry could help reduce emissions by more than 32,000 metric tons and save $25 million in energy operating costs. To gain support, Mesa’s office worked with the Hotel Association of New York City, a trade group that represents 275 hotels in the city. The association hopes to encourage more hotels to join the program.

Downtown Los Angeles

Many years ago, Downtown Los Angeles was not the place to be. The area was in a downturn that lasted for decades and population had drastically declined. But that was then. Today, Downtown L.A. is rife with activity in places that once lay unused and abandoned. Historic buildings are now being converted into trendy boutique hotels, and glimmering skyscrapers are rising up around core venues such as L.A. Live and The Staples Center.

To get a sense of Downtown’s revival, consider this: There are already 24 new hotels currently under construction, and another 28 properties countywide are in the final stages. By 2018, more than 9,200 new hotel rooms are coming to Los Angeles, with around 3,100 rooms slotted for downtown. Here are 10 luxe Downtown properties to look forward to between now and 2019:

2016:

Dazzler The Clark Hotel
Esplendor Boutique Hotels, based in South America, will debut Dazzler The Clark later this year. Located just north of Pershing Square, the 11-story hotel revisits the Studio 54 era in a historic 113-year-old building. It will offer 347 mod-style rooms, a ballroom, pool deck and multiple dining spaces.

Esplendor Trinity Hotel
Also from Esplendor Boutique Hotels, Esplendor Trinity Hotel will open later in 2016 in a fully restored historic property that dates back to 1914. It will have 183 guest rooms, the historic Trinity Auditorium, a ballroom, rooftop pool deck and restaurant/bar with an outdoor patio.

Freehand Hotel and Hostel
A cross between a posh hotel and informal bunking, Freehand Hotel and Hostel will include 200 rooms ranging from traditional accommodations to hostels with up to eight beds. The 13-story hybrid hotel opens Oct. 2016 in the 1924 Commercial Exchange Building located in Downtown L.A.’s Historic Core. The property will have retail space, restaurant and bar areas and a rooftop pool and lounge.

2017:

InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
What will soon be the tallest hotel west of the Mississippi River is coming to Downtown in June 2017—InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown at Wilshire Gran Center will stand 1,100 feet tall. Once complete, the 73-story building will boast 900 guest rooms, 400,000 sq. ft. of office space, new shops and restaurants.

Hotel Indigo Downtown Los Angeles
InterContinental Hotels will bring the first Hotel Indigo to Downtown in the beginning of 2017. The 18-story building will be the flagship hotel at Metropolis, a $1 billion mixed-use development to include three residential towers and retail space. In the heart of Downtown L.A., between the Financial District and L.A. Live, Hotel Indigo will offer 350 guest rooms. Its design takes inspiration from surrounding neighborhoods, including Fiesta De Las Flores, the glamorous pre-Hollywood nightlife scene and underground speakeasies of the 1920s.

Downtown L.A. Proper
In March 2017, Proper Hotels has plans to open Downtown L.A. Proper, a high-end lifestyle boutique hotel in a historic 1924 building. The 13-story hotel will feature 145 guest rooms and two presidential suites, as well as a rooftop restaurant, bar and swimming pool.

NoMad Los Angeles
Giannini Place is another notable building that dates to 1923; but by the end of 2017, it will become the NoMad Los Angeles. The 12-story hotel will have 250 guest rooms featuring custom furnishings and original artwork. It will also offer food and beverage outlets, 1,000 sq. ft. of retail and meeting space and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views.

2018:

Cavalli Hotel
Cavalli Hotel will be the first of its kind, inspired by Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, when it opens in June 2018. The 183-room hotel will be housed in Fig Central, a $1 billion mixed-use development across from Staples Center.

2019:

W Los Angeles Downtown
The W Los Angeles Downtown is slated to open early 2019 across the street from L.A. Live and Staples Center. The hotel will offer 250 guest rooms, a spa, outdoor pool deck, restaurants and about 15,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. It will be the third Southern California property from W Hotels & Resorts.

JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live
The 21-story building above L.A. Live is about to get even bigger. JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live will add a 38-story hotel tower with 755 rooms. When combined with The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles next door, it will become California’s second largest dual-branded property with a total of 1,756 guest rooms when it opens in 2019. The new tower will be connected to the existing hotels by a bridge across Olympic Boulevard. It will boast more than 200,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and a second-floor deck with a restaurant, bar/lounge, fitness center, executive lounge and pool area with cabanas.

Kelly Steward meetings industry

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage announced Kelly Steward as general manager of the hotel, located in Rancho Mirage, California. A 25-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Steward will lead brand growth strategy while overseeing all hotel operations. She began her career with The Ritz-Carlton, serving as guest services manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples in Naples, Florida. Steward went on to work for Ritz-Carlton hotels in St. Louis, Dallas, Los Angeles, Cleveland and Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2005, Steward was nominated for the JW Marriott Award of Excellence. She is also a certified Leadership Center Speaking Ambassador.

 

meetings industryKarin Cohen

Karin Cohen has joined Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa as regional group sales director. She brings more than 27 years of luxury hospitality experience to the AAA Five Star Five Diamond resort in San Diego. In her new position, she helps oversee and manage East Coast markets. Prior to joining Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, she was regional director of sales at Regent Hotels & Resorts and also served as director of business development for Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

 

Rachel Labermeetings industry

Rachel Laber was named director of communications and public relations for Visit Rochester, the official tourism promotion agency for Greater Rochester and Monroe County. In her new role, Laber will be responsible for overseeing the organizations external communications, as well as reaching out to media to share activities and attractions that make Rochester an ideal destination.

“We’re thrilled to have Rachel join Visit Rochester. Her passion for our community combined with the experience she brings from previous positions makes her an ideal fit for this role and our team,” shared Don Jeffries, president and CEO of Visit Rochester. “Under Rachel’s leadership, we look forward to expanding the regional profile and brand of Visit Rochester, all while continuing to attract new visitors to see first-hand what makes our community so special.”

 

meetings industryJacques D’Rovencourt

Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel promoted Jacques D’Rovencourt as general manager of Houston’s largest Hotel, which is connected to George R. Brown Convention Center. He is responsible for managing day-to-day operations of the 1,200-room property. In his previous position as hotel manager, D’Rovencourt oversaw a $12 million guest room renovation.

“Everyone here at Houston First joins me in congratulating Jacques as the new general manager of the Hilton Americas-Houston. He certainly has our support and we look forward to continued success under Jacques’ capable leadership,” said Dawn Ullrich, president and CEO of Houston First Corporation, which owns Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel.

 

Scott Tripolimeetings industry

Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa announced Scott Tripoli as general manager of the 405-room property. He brings more than 19 years of hospitality experience to his new position. Previously, Tripoli was general manager of Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld and Crowne Plaza Orlando Universal, both in Orlando, Florida. He is a past chairman and served as a board member for Central Florida and Lodging Association for 10 years.

“I continue to be impressed by the great team at the Grand Hotel and the Southern hospitality offered by the local community,” Tripoli said. “Through combining my tourism background in Orlando with the historic traditions of the beloved Grand Hotel, guests can expect great experiences during their visits. I am excited about this opportunity and have left the Orcas and roller coasters in Orlando and already embraced the pelicans, jubilees and sunsets in Point Clear.”

 

meetings industrySean McCarron

Waldorf Astoria Orlando in Orlando, Florida, hired Sean McCarron as general manager of the property, surrounded by Walt Disney World Resort. McCarron brings more than 15 years of experience in luxury hotel management to his current role, which involves overseeing day-to-day operations, leading an executive team to exceed property goals and implementing strategic plans for future development.

“Sean brings an unrivaled management background with an outstanding record of enhancing guest experiences and strengthening market position,” said Peter Kacheris, managing director of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. “His dynamic leadership and communication skills will be an asset to our operations, furthering Waldorf Astoria Orlando’s reputation for unmatched hospitality service, stand-out culinary innovations and distinctive guest experiences.”

 

Serena McCabemeetings industry

Serena McCabe has joined Thompson Seattle as director of sales and marketing for the 158-room downtown property, where she will spearhead marketing and sales initiatives. McCabe will promote Thompson Seattle as a key downtown destination for leisure, business and group travelers.

She brings more than 12 years of experience serving boutique and independent hotels. McCabe was previously director of group sales at Carmel Valley Ranch in Carmel, California, and was group sales manager for The Carneros Inn in Napa, California. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington.

 

meetings industryOlivier Servat

ME Miami, the first U.S. hotel from Melia Hotels International, has appointed Olivier Servat as general manager of the newly opened property. Servat is a global hospitality veteran with 20 years of experience serving properties throughout the United States, France and Morocco. Prior to his current role, he was a senior consultant for Steigenberger Hotels AG. He has also held leadership positions at W Washington DC, W Paris Opera and Le Meridien Etoile in Paris. Servat holds an MBA from the University of London and speaks English, French and German.

“With his extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry coupled with his impeccable management skills, we are confident Servat, as general manager of ME Miami, will cultivate unforgettable customer experiences reflective of the ME by Melia brand standard,” said Alvaro Tejeda, regional vice president of the Americas at Melia Hotels International. “We look forward to building on the foundation of our success with the ME brand as we bring our first property to the states.”

 

Michael Cadymeetings industry

Michael Cady was named vice president of marketing for Charlestowne Hotels, a full-service hospitality management company. He brings more than 15 years of corporate and agency marketing and advertising experience, and will lead the development of marketing strategies promoting the company’s property portfolio. Cady plans to pursue his passion for holistic operations, as well as integrating sales, finance and marketing sectors to optimize customer relations. He joins Charlestowne Hotels from Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, where he served as director of sales and marketing.

“Michael’s diverse marketing and hospitality experience shows an incredible aptitude for orchestrating complex marketing initiatives that meet profitable objectives,” says Michael Tall, president and chief operating officer of Charlestowne Hotels. “As a natural leader in strategic branding, he will shape the long-term marketing vision for Charlestowne Hotels that will continue to evolve our brand, and the offerings at each of our properties, for the needs of today’s consumers.”

 

meetings industryJohn Yeadon

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego welcomes John Yeadon as director of sales and marketing. In his new role, Yeadon oversees revenue forecasting, business planning and owner relations. Previously, he held management positions at other Hyatt properties, including Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Hyatt Regency Denver and Grand Hyatt Denver. Yeadon began his career with Hyatt Hotels in 2005 as sales manager for Hyatt Regency Indianapolis. In 2013, Hyatt Hotels named him Director of Sales of the Year.

“We are thrilled to have John join the team at Grand Hyatt San Diego and are confident his leadership skills and passion for the hospitality industry will be a great addition to our team,” says Matt Adams, area vice president and general manager. “Yeadon’s impressive background paired with his proven results will be instrumental in the continued success and momentum of the property.”