I am a huge Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts fan. Excited for the Universal Epic Universe (Orlando, FL) opening in 2025. Debuting in 2025 with the new park will be The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™. Beyond the world’s ornate portal, guests will first journey from a Muggle park in Paris into the breathtaking spectacle of 1920’s Place Cachée, a hidden, bustling shopping district in wizarding Paris lined with  aussmannian buildings, shops, sidewalk cafés, and historic Parisian domes rising in the distance. A new ride will have guests travel by Métro-Floo (a unique

mode of wizarding transit inspired by the iconic Floo Network seen in the films) from Paris to the British Ministry of Magic™ where Dolores Umbridge™ is about to stand trial. Upon arrival, guests will enter the Ministry’s jaw-dropping grand atrium and venture through other departments before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to watch the trial take place…until Umbridge attempts to escape. Guests then join Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and a house-elf named Higgledy in a thrilling chase that will propel them up, down, forward, backward, sideways and more throughout the Ministry as they try to capture Umbridge – all while dodging attacks from Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way. Board a lift and join Harry, Ron, and Hermione in a journey deep into the Ministry’s many departments. There will also be a show called Le Cirque Arcanus. Ringmaster Skender has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase which contains fantastic beasts from around the globe. Circus employee Gwenlyn will rescue the creatures in this spectacular mix of live performers, amazing puppetry, and dazzling special effects. While exploring the streets of Place Cachée, guests will also encounter other visitors, officials and residents from the wizarding world, including exchange students from the Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an Auror from the Ministère des Affaires Magiques de la France who roams inquiring of suspicious characters, talking portraits of delightful wizards who engage with locals about the happenings in Place Cachée, and more. There will be a new wand shop, restaurants with French specialties, and of course, Butterbeer carts.

https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us; www.UOMeetingsAndEvents.com.

THEY SERVE UP DEALS! YOU SAVE!

Contract your new meeting or event at the Walt Disney World Swam and/or Dolphin (Lake Buena Vista, FL) by December 31 this year and use by December 31, 2025 to receive Triple Marriott Bonvoy™ Points, complimentary Planning Meeting for up to 12 Guests for up to two nights, round trip airport transfers, F&B, and a VIP Epcot Fireworks Yacht Cruise for up to 12 guests. Cruise and Board Meeting offer eligible for groups of 500+ total room nights. Between the two adjacent properties there are 99 meeting rooms, 149 meeting suites, and 23 restaurants and lounges. Guests have full access to the Mandara Spa, six pools, and preferred tee times on Disney® championship golf courses.

https://swandolphin.com/meetings/request-for-proposal/

Live Aqua Urban Resort San Miguel de Allende’s Presidents Club Promotion Package (Guanajuato, Mexico) for stays of three nights or longer is per person, per night, 0% VAT. Groups must be contracted by August 31, 2024 to travel in 2024 & 2025, excluding holidays. Minimum group sizes of 10 rooms. Meals to be selected from meal package banquet menu and applicable for private group meals. 10% rebate applies prior to tax and service fees. Over 10,360 sf of meeting space.

https://www.fiestamericanatravelty.com/en/live-aqua/hotels/live-aqua-san-miguel-de-allende

You won’t even need a breezy day to sail away with this offer from Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe (Houston, TX). Book a qualified meeting in any of these time periods to receive a cruise to the Bahamas for two aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise or a Margaritaville Bahamas Frozen Concoction Maker. The dates are August 11-16, 18-23-, and 25-30; September 2-6; November 22-29; and December 1-6, 8-11, and 15-23.

www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-lake-resort-lake-conroe/meetings-events/meeting-special-offers

When you book your meeting at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort (Naples, FL) between now and December, you get not just one, but your choice of five “Paradise Perfected” perks for booking a minimum of 25 guest rooms per night with a two-night minimum stay and standard F&B minimum. The property has 180 guestrooms, including eight gulf front suites and 30 junior suites. There are 10 event spaces, including the Vanderbilt Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 300-people when set in rounds. There are seven outdoor venues, the largest of which can also host 300 set in rounds. Here are some of the perks: two complimentary VIP welcome amenities (chef’s choice); one complimentary upgrade to a one–bedroom beachfront suite or lanai beachfront fire pit premium room at the group rate, reduced outdoor site fee of 50% for select beachfront venues, 10% discount on group golf rounds, and one gift certificate for a complimentary two-night/three-night stay. The resort is 22 miles from Southwest Florida International Airport.

https://www.laplayaresort.com; (239) 598-5700; sales@laplayaresort.com; (800) 237-6883

Hotel Granada (Atlanta, GA) has reopened and offers for the first 100 days, enjoy special introductory rates starting at $100 per night, available for just 10 rooms each day. Built in 1923, its Spanish Colonial architecture has been reimagined into a 120-room independent hotel with contemporary Southern flair. The all-day Spanish-Southern Pom Court has tapas portions and fine dining flavors.

Dine – Hotel Granada (granadaatlanta.com)

If heading to The Bahamas is your idea of a summer vacation, has this group of islands got some offers for you and for family activities you may not find elsewhere, such as swimming with pigs in the bluest of calm water. There are way too many promotions happening, some of which you must initiate quickly, so rather than me detailing them all to you, check them out for yourself. Discounts begin at 10% and some promo packages “travel by” dates are through 2024.

https://www.bahamas.com/summer-family-escape?

Journey Mexico it’s time to book your summer vacation (but use anytime in 2024) at One&Only Mandarina and receive up to 30% for advance bookings, free nights, and thousands of USD resort credits included with Grand and Signature Villas. Here is a small sampling of the possibilities. Book a four-night stay in a Grand Villa and get complimentary full American breakfast daily for two persons per room; complimentary roundtrip airport transfers from the airport for up to five people; and a 50-minute spa experience for two. Book 14 days in advance and receive up to 30% savings on your stay. Offer includes complimentary full American breakfast daily for two, per room. Book a four-night stay in one of the eco-designer Treehouses and Cliff Villas, and the 4th night is complimentary. Stay longer: book a seven-night stay and the sixth and seventh nights are complimentary. Book a minimum of four nights at an exclusive clifftop Grand Villa and receive a $1,000 USD resort credit to use at One&Only Mandarina. Applicable for stays in Villa Tortuga, Villa Jaguar, Villa Pacifico or Villa One. Also, book a Signature Villa and receive a $1,000 resort credit for a three- night stay or $2,000 resort credit for five nights to use at One&Only Mandarina restaurants, bars and spa.

https://www.journeymexico.com/hotel/oneonly-mandarina

A Jazz Age landmark for the past 90 years, Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, FL (near Clearwater Beach, FL) was home to the county’s first radio station. The historic Autograph Collection hotel has a group offer that is available for stays through September 30. Book 10+ peak night rooms for two+ weekday nights and receive up to three complimentary suite upgrades. Also possible to contract $5,000+ in F&B to receive complimentary in-house A/V.

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/tpadu-fenway-hotel-autograph-collection/; (844) 569-9879

Save up to 50% on bookings made now on stays through March 31, 2025 at the family-friendly, all-inclusive, and finally open Wyndham Alltra Samaná, managed by Playa Hotels & Resorts, in the charming town of Las Galeras in the Samaná province of the Dominican Republic. The 404-room resort marks Wyndham Alltra’s first resort in the Dominican Republic.  It won’t be the last. Later this year it will be joined by Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana, also to be managed by Playa. The two resorts earmark Wyndham’s rapidly growing all-inclusive portfolio, which now spans about 40 resorts worldwide. “The Dominican Republic has long been a coveted destination for travelers looking to relax amidst some of the most stunning beaches in the world,” said Fernando Mulet, Chief Investment Officer, Playa Hotels & Resorts… As we continue to add stunning resorts in the Dominican, Wyndham Alltra is the perfect brand to deliver on that promise.” The resort guest rooms and suites have private balconies and garden views.

www.alltrabyplaya.com/samana; www.wyndhamalltra.com; www.WyndhamRewards.com; www.playaresorts.com; www.wyndhamhotels.com

Tin or aluminum are traditional 10^th anniversary gifts for married couples, but to celebrate Opal Collection’s 10th Anniversary the luxury hotel and resort company is offering group guests exclusive incentives, including complimentary guest rooms, upgrades, and turn-down gifts. Plus, a complimentary champagne toast and a $1,000 Opal Collection gift card for the meeting planner. Minimum guest room spend of $20,000 for 2024 for one group arrival. One Opal Collection gift card per booking. Subject to availability. Black-out dates apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Not applicable to already confirmed groups. Meetings must be booked by August 31 and consumed by December 31, 2024 (with the exception of Opal Sol, which may be consumed until Dec. 31, 2025).

Matt.Pave@ophotels.com; (855) 314-2829.

You have until September 30 to book your next meeting at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach (FL) to receive great incentives. Meeting must be actualized by December 23 and only valid for new group events. The Wyndham Grand Clearwater beach has 22,000 sf of meeting space and 343 guest rooms. Incentives vary by the size of groups, from 10 to more than 50, but some incentives include 5% off all Master account charges, $150 complimentary gift certificate for Pallavi Spa, and reduced resort fee to $20 per group room.

https://www.wyndhamgrandclearwater.com/meetings?;  (727) 281-9500

Scottsdale, AZ isn’t pretending that temperatures in the city don’t soar during summer months, but they want to cool down the heat by offering a Sizzling Summer Rebate Program, based on having a minimum of 125 total group rooms and actualizing during these time periods: to September 13, 2024; May 26 – September 12, 2025; and May 25 – September 11, 2026. The RFP must be sourced through Experience Scottsdale. Total rebate, up to $5,000 max, is credited to the client’s master bill. Rebates only apply to new meetings and there must be written confirmation of eligibility from Experience Scottsdale.

www.experiencescottsdale.com/meetings/summer/

Book your next meeting or event at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa (Indian Wells, CA) for stays through September 30, with low rates and no resort fee. 35,000 sf of versatile indoor and outdoor spaces.

www.tommybahamamiramonte.com/meetings-social-events/; (442) 305-4533; sales@tbmiramonte.com

The beaches of St. Petersburg, FL may be a strong attraction, but in this case, perhaps the reason to book one of the TradeWinds Island Resorts could be the promotional incentive to book your group’s meeting by December 20. The meeting for a minimum of 50 rooms on peak must also be used by December 20. There are at least a dozen incentives offered, and when you book, you get to choose six of them. Incentives may include 4% rebate to the master, donation to the charity of your choice; 10% discount on published Banquet Food & Beverage spend; 10% discount on published A/V spend; Complimentary break for staff office; or a Complimentary 2-night stay certificate for meeting planner.

https://www.tradewindsresort.com/offers

Visit Plano (Plano, TX) has an offer designed for foodies. Receive a Free and limited time foodie pass when you accumulate points by checking into participating restaurants and redeeming coupons. You have until September 30 for this promotion. Then you cash in your points for prizes provided by Visit Plano. Check in to 20 restaurants and be automatically entered into the “Fit for a Foodie” sweepstakes. First place: certificate for a Charcuterie Board Making Class led by the Executive Chef for six people at the Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West and $500 in restaurant gift cards. Second place winner gets a one-night weekend stay at the Hilton/Dallas Plano Granite Park and $250 in restaurant gift cards. Third place winner will receive a one-night weekend stay at the Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center and $100 in restaurant gift cards. Go to visitplano.com/tasteofplano and register for free. Open the pass from the received text or email and follow the directions to add the button icon to your home screen. Do NOT forget this step. Then go eat and accumulate points!

www.visitplano.com

The all-inclusive market in Mexico and the Caribbean just received a boost from Playa Hotels & Resorts with the completion of extensive renovations at the newly renamed Wyndham Alltra Vallarta in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. To celebrate the grand unveiling, Wyndham Alltra Vallarta if offering a 40% discount on bookings, valid for stays through December 20, 2024. Owner and operator of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, Playa Hotels & Resorts has drawn inspiration for the property (formerly known as Wyndham Alltra Riviera Nayarit) from ancient Huichol culture. The renovation includes 159 rooms, including all Junior Suites. The Alltra VIP Club for club level guests has speeded up its semi-private check-in (and out) service, enhanced its concierge assistance and personalized cocktail service. Club guestrooms receive upgraded minibars, in-suite Nespresso coffee makers and a complimentary hydrotherapy spa experience. Five dining venues have been revamped. The brand introduces its new Agave Bar and the first Mezcaleria in the chain’s portfolio.

www.AlltraByPlaya.com; www.WyndhamAlltra.com

Book new business in a Boston or Cambridge (MA) hotel and receive a 10% rebate off the banquet master bill and 10% off all rooms booked. Here are the eligible program dates to qualify: 2025: 11/18/2024 – 04/17/2025; and 2026: 11/17/2025 – 03/31/2026.

sales@meetboston.com; www.meetBoston.com

I have a dear friend who believes the power of the beach overcomes any of the day’s negativity. She would go crazy for the ‘Wealth of Wellness’ package offered by Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts, located within the luxury residential development Quivira Los Cabos at the tip of the Baja Peninsula. The updated-for-2024-package integrates numerous wellness components available within the resort community. The exclusive five-day “Wealth of Wellness” package, available through December of 2024, includes all-inclusive F&B, two 50-minute organic massages or facials, mountain bike tour for two, use of beach cabanas with personal butler service, a cooking class for two, and shuttle service and access to sister properties, which also have all-inclusive F&B,

www.pueblobonito.com; (800) -990-8259

NEW AND PUTTING ON A NEW FACE

In 2024

The eight-room Hamakua Hotel, an adults-only haven perched above a 100-foot cliff along the 50-mile stretch of Hāmākua Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island opened in July. Twenty minutes from Hilo, the island’s largest city, the Hawaiian-inspired accommodations include three room categories. Chef Owner Edward Delling-Williams guides a culinary program, with a six-course seasonal menu showcasing an innovative French style infused with Hawai’i’s local land-to-sea ingredients. While in France, he hands the culinary baton to Resident Chef Abby Jane Wiltse. Chef Edward is Proprietor of the Michelin Bib Gourmand award-winning pub The Presbytere in Heugueville-sur-Sienne on the Normandy coast. He can also be seen on Emmy® award-winning Recipe.TV where he stars in The French Pub filmed at The Presbytere. Hamakua is the first hotel to have award-winning Proto mini hologram units in every room that will beam in renowned coaches and experts from around the world. Guests also have exclusive access to a professional production studio to capture their own storytelling creations. Writers, speakers, musicians, podcasters, poets, or simply someone with a story to tell, The Story Studio provides the idyllic backdrop to capture their stories professionally. The Studio also has a full sized Epic Proto hologram unit and a variety of musical instruments. Guest amenities include the Yurts Spa featuring a variety of body and wellness treatments, a one-mile hiking trail that leads to the ocean and an oceanfront infinity pool will be completed at the Hamakua Hotel this fall. Hamakua was conceived by Proprietors Lori and Eric Lochtefeld, part-time residents who purchased the property in 2020 while it was in its last year as an award-winning bed & breakfast and just as the pandemic hit. As travel reopened the couple recognized the need for luxury hotel accommodations in the region and in 2023 the process of renovating the plantation style estate and its grounds began.
www.hamakuahotel.com; (888) 742-1359.

Disco Designers’ new inflatables are rain-protected. The diversity and imagination is limitless.

https://www.facebook.com/DiscoDesignerEN; https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteryordanov/

Octavia, Caesars New Orleans’ new center bar and lounge, is expected to open before Labor Day. The octagonal-shaped bar is named in homage to the honorable Octavia, niece to Julius Caesar and an emblem of strength and femininity in Roman history. Octavia’s footprint is also a nod to the number eight, having been revered in history as the luckiest number and associated with wealth, prosperity and success. Octavia, as well as Caesars New Orleans, sits at #8 Canal Street in downtown New Orleans. The venue will have a 27-seat bar and 136-seat lounge area, with live music, 19 table games, and 60 slot options. The focal point of the 13,500-sf room is a $750,000 chandelier. “We wanted to create an experience for guests that embraces Caesars’ rich Roman history while highlighting the vibrancy of our home in New Orleans,” said Samir Mowad, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Caesars New Orleans. Octavia’s carefully curated cocktail menu features a feminine forward approach to artisanal cocktails inspired by the flavors of Ancient Rome, Paris and the eclectic tastes of New Orleans. From the “Octavia Sour,” a playful twist on a Vodka Sour and the Back O’ Town Elixir, a show-stopping Cafe Du Monde-inspired coffee cocktail, to the Paper Fortune Teller Sazerac Experience. Caesars New Orleans has 790 guestrooms & suites.

https://www.caesars.com/meetings/properties/caesars-new-orleans

New menu and new Chef at The Trail Garden, located next to St. Petersburg Distillery (St. Petersburg, F), a 9,000-sf family-friendly event space that can accommodate up to 800. Executive Chef David Reyes’ new menu showcases his authentic twist on tasty local favorites and masterfully incorporates the distillery’s spirits, incorporating fan favorites into unique dishes, such as the Old St. Pete Burger made with Old St. Pete Sunshine Whiskey; the Tippler’s Wood Fired Peach & Burrata Salad with Tippler’s Reserve Orange Balsamic Vinaigrette; and the Coconut Crusted Grouper Sandwich made with Oak and Palm Coconut Rum. For dessert, one option is the Salted Double Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream Sandwich made with Oak & Palm Coconut Rum caramel. The Trail Garden features covered outdoor seating, music, cornhole and other games. VIP Cabanas can be rented and full AV system with screen and projector are available for groups.

https://stpetersburgdistillery.com/front-page-trail-garden/

New Pueblo Bonito Vantage San Miguel de Allende, the Mexican hospitality company’s first urban, European Plan (EP) hotel, opens October 1. Built in homage to the city’s architectural heritage and located within the District Corazón (the Heart District) in a traffic-free zone in front of Zeferino Gutierrez Park, it’s a quick stroll from the historic center. Multicolored, with a Moorish influence, the boutique property 111 guest rooms and suites in one wing and 45 privately-owned villas and multi-bedroom condos in another, will showcase beautiful fabrics and hand-crafted furniture. All rooms and residences, designed in a neo-colonial style, will feature terraces with outstanding views of the city’s historic downtown area or the hotel’s lush gardens. Visual splendor predominates throughout the property. “Mexican design elements are generally found in the form of artwork, artifacts and textiles,” Arquitectura de Interiores and its president, Marisabel Gómez, explained. “Sumptuous fabrics such as rich velvets, beautiful panels with nail-head details, and lavish area rugs adorn the public spaces.” The hotel’s entry hall and its spectacular wooden gates, when opened, will create a “visual layering” effect and a “wow” factor.  Guests will see through and beyond the gates to the spires of the city’s magnificent neo-Gothic church: Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, with more than a dozen of the historic city’s domes grouped below it. Amenities on-site include Aromatika Spa, wellness center, full-service gym, beauty salon, bridal suite and retail shop. Casa Bistro, the hotel’s breakfast, lunch and dinner restaurant, will highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. Evenings, V Rooftop Terrace, offering panoramic views of the San Miguel Arcángel Parish and the city’s picturesque skyline, will serve tapas and drinks.  LaFrida, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant that pays homage to iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, will feature a show in coals and fire. Banquet space includes a terrace that overlooks the city. The V Life program—a collection of unique experiences in which guests and residents may immerse themselves—will be offered. Based around four pillars—gastronomy, culture, history, and lifestyle—V Life’s curated activities include language immersion, painting or sculpture classes, cooking classes prefaced by a visit to a local market, guided cultural walks of the city, a visit to a local bee farm, vineyard visits to Guanajuato’s excellent wine region, and many more. Two regional airports, approximately 1.5 hours away, are San Miguel de Allende: Leon (BJX) and Querétaro (QRO). Transportation will be provided by the hotel.

https://www.pueblobonito.com.mx/resorts/san-miguel.

Multi-Michelin-starred chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay has opened his second Reno, NV restaurant, Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay inside Silver Legacy at THE ROW, alongside Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips. Starter dishes at Ramsay’s Kitchen include Crab Cakes, made with citrus herb aioli, paired with a microgreens salad, Tuna Tartare made with chili garlic soy, avocado and wonton crisps. Signature items include Pan Seared Scallops with house-cured pork belly, pomegranate and orange chicken jus, Beef Wellington with potato purée, glazed baby root vegetables and a red wine demi-glace, and Crispy Skin Salmon with green Thai curry, Thai slaw, sticky rice and charred lime. Additionally, dishes exclusive to the Ramsay’s Kitchen at THE ROW’s menu include Beef Carpaccio with cured egg yolk, artichoke chips, fried capers and English mustard sauce. The restaurant can serve more than 200 and a semi-private dining room can accommodate up to 14.

https://www.caesars.com/silver-legacy-reno/restaurants/ramsays-kitchen.

Playa Hotels & Resorts, owner and operator of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic, has aligned with Marriott International Inc. to expand The Luxury Collection brand in the Mexican Caribbean with Paraiso de la Bonita, am adult all-inclusive resort in Riviera Maya.  Set on 14 acres of lush natural landscape in Puerto Morelos, a picturesque fishermen village, just 20 minutes away from Cancun International Airport but far from the popular and bustling tourist spots. The resort is expected to feature 100 oversized, stylish oceanfront suites, as well as an array of amenities, including an expansive 22,000-sf spa. In line with the brand’s commitment to showcase local gastronomy and provide unique, locally inspired dining experiences, the resort is anticipated to have three restaurants, including one with a 5,000-bottle cellar, as well as a sushi and ceviche bar. To provide an even more exclusive experience, there will be a separate building within the property that will act as a “resort within the resort” with 10 suites with private plunge pools and beach access, an intimate exclusive pool, and two dedicated restaurants with a private chef.

www.playaresorts.com; www.marriott.com

Caesars Entertainment and long-time hospitality partner Nobu Hospitality (a global luxury lifestyle brand founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper), are erecting a Nobu restaurant inside the soon-to-be Caesars New Orleans. The Nobu Hotel Caesars New Orleans, located within the Caesars tower, will mix Matsuhisa’s signature style infused with New Orleans flair. It will be the third hotel and fourth restaurant within the Caesars Entertainment Empire. Spanning two floors, Nobu Hotel Caesars New Orleans will feature a dedicated reception desk and offer 54 exclusive guest rooms designed by Rockwell Group and is expected to open in the Fall. The restaurant is slated for a late summer opening. The Nobu restaurant, with seating for 175, will feature fresh fish and seafood in the form of nigiri and sashimi. Signature dishes include Yellowtail Jalapeño, featuring delicately sliced yellowtail sashimi with touches of garlic puree, adorned with jalapeño slices, crowned with cilantro and served with Japanese citrus soy sauce. Another highlight is the Black Cod Miso, prepared by marinating the fish in den miso sauce for two to three days to produce the iconic, sweet-savory flavor.

www.CaesarsMeansBusiness.com; harrahsneworleans.com.

In 2025

Super Nintendo World, one of five worlds at Universal Epic Universe (Orlando, FL), will open in 2025.

https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/epic-universe/worlds/super-nintendo-world?

Coming Summer to the Dominican Republic: Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana, the newest addition to the Fiesta Americana Travelty Meetings & Events resort family. The 494-guest rooms and 45 suites all-inclusive resort will have over 20,000 sf of function space, eight onsite restaurants, water park, beach access, and is adjacent to the live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana.
 https://fiestamericanatraveltymeetings.com/contact-us/

Gaylord Pacific Resort and Convention Center (Chula Vista, CA) opens in late spring of 2025. Seven miles from downtown San Diego, the expansive resort fronts San Diego Bay to the west and Chula Vista Marina to the south. The sixth hotel in the Gaylord Hotels brand portfolio will have 1,600 guest rooms and suites, more than 477,000 sf of function and convention space, including a 140,000-sf carpeted exhibit and meeting Flex Hall. The hotel will have 135,000 sf of outdoor event lawns and a 4.25-acre water park.

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sange-gaylord-pacific-resort-and-convention-center/overview

The seven floors of 182 guestrooms and suites in The St. Regis Washington, D.C. (downtown D.C) have been redesigned and refreshed with a light creamy palate and pops of blues, grays and gold. The 2,508-sf Astor Ballroom and 2,500-sf Astor Terrace have both also received restoring touches. Next up: the hotel’s onsite contemporary Mediterranean restaurant, Alhambra, gets a new outdoor terrace, and there will be updates to the St. Regis Bar, as well as redesigns to the Food & Beverage venues in 2025.

www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wassx-the-st-regis-washington-dc

Opal Sol, an all-suite luxury resort, comes to Clearwater Beach, FL in 2025. The resort will have floor-to-ceiling Gulf views from every suite and more than 57,000 sf of event space. When combined with its sister property, Opal Sands, via the sky bridge, there will be more than 106,000 sf of event space and 478 luxury rooms and suites.

https://www.opalcollection.com/opal-sol; Danielle Silva, Associate Director Of Sales: (727) 674-4104, danielle.silva@ophotels.com

Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana Sun will open on Uvero Alto Beach, gearing towards newlyweds to families, in 2025 Spa, world-class fitness center, and nearly a dozen dining options with international cuisines, and a new water park will be the draw. Located about one hour from Punta Cana’s airport, the resort will offer 620 suites. “Guests today look for easy, stress-free vacations that don’t break the bank, and all-inclusive resorts can make that happen,” said Gustavo Viescas, President, Latin America and the Caribbean, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “From Dominican Republic to Mexico, Barbados and Jamaica, Wyndham allows guests to travel the world—and expanding brands like Wyndham Alltra makes international travel possible for guests of all kinds.”

www.wyndhamalltra.com; www.WyndhamRewards.com; www.playaresorts.com; www.wyndhamhotels.com

Hyatt Hotels is busy adding to their collections. The first Hyatt Studios hotel opens in Mobile, AL in 2025.

https://www.hyatt.com/brands/caption-by-hyatt

In 2026

DSRT Surf Resort is building California’s first man-made surf lagoon at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, CA. Using Wavegarden’s state-of-the-art Cove technology, which enables the creation of “perfect waves” in the 5.5-acre lagoon, about 70 surfers will be able to participate simultaneously. The surf lagoon, part of a 17-acre, full-scale resort with a 92-room hotel, 83 residential units, spa, golf courses, event spaces, and dining and bar venues, is being designed using sustainable processes favored by the Resort for its golf courses and pool area.

https://dsrtsurf.com/

Caption by Hyatt Chattanooga in Tennessee just broke ground and is expected to open in early 2026. Located downtown in the Southside area, the 123-room hotel is being developed by 3H Group Inc. under a franchise agreement with Hyatt. It will feature the brand’s all-day food-and-beverage concept, Talk Shop, serving as a welcome area as well as a rooftop bar and meeting space.

https://www.hyatt.com/brands/caption-by-hyatt

In 2027

After 30 years in business, The Mirage Hotel & Casino (The Mirage) in Las Vegas, NV has closed and will be transformed into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. The 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel will be modeled after the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL. Opening is slated for spring, 2027.

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT INTRODUCES A MEETINGS & EVENTS BOT

Think of Caesars Entertainment’s new 42Chat as a ConferenceBot, TradeShowBot, and MeetingBot. Using Curated AI, ConferenceBot delivers personalized interactions tailored to a planner or group’s audience. Designed, adjusted and ready to deploy within a few weeks, their curated bots are A.I. solutions that work at scale and help to convert new customers and retain them with on-brand 24/7 support. There is a three-second response time to texts and a 95+% correct response rate.

https://www.42chat.com/

RESMARKWEB LAUNCHES NEW GUIDE FOR TOUR OPERATORS

ResmarkWeb has released its new 90-page DIY Guide to Online Marketing for Tour Operators, tailored specifically to help small businesses in the tourism industry enhance their direct bookings through smart, targeted marketing strategies. The guide is available for free download. The guide covers essential concepts such as SEO (search engine optimization) and leveraging social media to increase brand awareness, according to Nikki DeSantis, Marketing Director at Resmark, WaiverSign and ResmarkWeb.

https://www.resmarkweb.com/; (435) 268-3747.

BEST & WORST PLACES FOR RECREATION IN U.S

July may have been National Parks & Recreation Month, but I was too busy in active recreation to write about it then. Better late than missing out on telling you the results of personal finance website WalletHub’s survey of the Best & Worst Places for Recreation in the U.S for 2024. For this survey, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across 47 key indicators of recreation-friendliness, factoring in the availability and cost of recreational activities, along with the quality of parks and the weather. The top 10 begin with Las Vegas, NV, followed by Orlando, FL; Tampa, FL; Cincinnati, OH; Honolulu, HI; Scottsdale, AZ; San Diego, CA; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA; and New Orleans, LA. The “worst” cities begin at #91 with Fort Wayne, IN, followed by San Jose, CA; Jersey City, NJ; Durham, NC; Hialeah, FL; Newark, NJ; Fremont, CA; Irving, TX; Oakland, CA; and Chula Vista, CA. Here are some comments from experts why cities might have scored this way. “Las Vegas is the best city for recreation, boasting an extremely high number of attractions and ranking at the top of the country when it comes to the number of music venues, amusement parks, zoos and aquariums per capita. In addition, Las Vegas is a great city for staying active, with a very high number of basketball hoops, hiking trails, bowling alleys, sport venues and park playgrounds per capita. Finally, Las Vegas is one of the best cities for the availability of affordable restaurants with 4.5+ stars,” according to Cassandra Happe, WalletHub Analyst.  J. Aaron Hipp, Ph.D., Associate Director, Center for Geospatial Analytics; Professor, North Carolina State University, recognizes “There is not a great return on investment research in parks and recreation,” however, “For improving facilities, maintenance is number one. Maintaining, updating, and caring for what is already there. Beyond the facilitates (hardware), low-cost programming (software) has been shown to increase the use of parks and recreation facilities. Low-cost could be walking groups, StoryWalks, bringing out hula hoops, bouncy balls, etc., and collaborating with local groups to support their interest in bringing programs to the space (e.g., Black Farmer’s Market).” Maintenance costs are a huge factor for cities to consider. “Decisions regarding investment in these should come within the context of a strategic plan for that community. This process is typically guided by resident input and includes a needs assessment of the community. In ideal settings, parks and recreation facilities are then approached at the collective community level, where not all parks need to provide all services,” said Lauren Duffy, Associate Professor, Clemson University. She added, “A long-term plan also helps communities remain realistic about maintenance costs. A one-time donation or grant that can support the purchase of playground equipment most often does not consider the weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance.” Matthew Frye, M.S., CTRS/L, Clinical Associate Professor; Therapeutic Recreation Option Coordinator, University of New Hampshire, concurs. “Whether indoors or outdoors, recreation infrastructure requires a certain level of upkeep and maintenance to protect your investment. The maintenance costs should be built into the annual operating costs and funded through a reliable means of funding. In addition, local leaders have been known to put the cart before the horse and develop a new facility or amenity without gauging the public’s desire for such.”
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-recreation/5144

ICE! RETURNS TO GAYLORD HOTELS

ICE! Returns to six Gaylord Hotels, beginning with Frosty the Snowman at Gaylord Opryland (Nashville, TN) on November 8 and running until January 4. Charlie Brown Christmas runs November 15-December 28 at Gaylord National (National Harbor, MD); Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer is at Gaylord Texan (Grapevine, TX), from November 15-January 5; and Elf is at Gaylord Palms (Kissimmee, FL) from November 15-January 4. The Polar Express is at Gaylord Rockies (Aurora, CO) from November 22 – January 1 and How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa (San Antonio, TX) runs from November 23 – January 5.

www.GaylordHotels.com

MEETING PLANNING GUIDES (FREE)

Greensboro, NC – https://www.visitgreensboronc.com/meetings-conventions-sports/request-meeting-planners-guide.aspx

Scottsdale, AZ – www.experiencescottsdale.com/maps-guides/meeting-travel-planners-guide/

Sioux Falls, SD – https://www.experiencesiouxfalls.com/plan-your-trip/visitor-guide

Stafford, VA – https://form.jotform.com/240735819722057

Salt Lake City, UT – https://www.visitsaltlake.com/plan-your-visit/free-visitors-guide/

St Pete/Clearwater, FL – https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/sites/default/files/2023-06/MeetingPlanGuide_23-digi.pdf

FESTIVALS

August 9: Sheffield, England 80s cover band, The Molly Ringwalds, play at Caloosa Sound Convention Center (Fort Myers, FL). Guests are encouraged to wear ‘80s attire, from neon, big hair, leg warmers, and more. Show your ticket at Luminary Hotel & Co. for discounts.

https://www.tixr.com/groups/caloosasoundamp/events/the-molly-ringwalds-108111

August 14: “Cheese Please with Sweet Grass Dairy” culinary workshops at Luminary Hotel & Co. (Fort Myers, FL) hosted by Mainsail Lodging & Development. Chef-driven multi-course dinner showcases the fine cheeses from Sweet Grass Dairy in Thomasville, GA paired with wine from Stoller Family Estate. A representative of Sweet Grass Dairy will share the history of the farm and speak to the delicate process of cheesemaking.

agray@mainsailhotels.com; (239).314.3723; www.luminaryhotel.com

August 16/September 20/October 25: Pensacola Beach (FL) Cinemas in the Sand. Free movies for the public on giant inflatable outdoor movie screen in front of Gulfside Pavilion stage.

(850) 932-2257; https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/cinemas-in-the-sand/

August 17: 11^th annual Downtown Riverfest on the Big Sioux River, Sioux Falls, SD.

https://www.experiencesiouxfalls.com/events/annual-downtown-riverfest?

August 30 – November 3: Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights. Selected dates.

www.UniversalOrlando.com

Now – October: Sounds on Centre, free concert series presented by the Historic Fernandina Business Association, 6 p.m. on the first Friday of each month in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach. Bring a lawn chair and dancing shoes.

now – October 29: Bands On The Beach summer concert series held at Pensacola Beach, FL’s Gulfside Pavilion, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Santa Rosa Island Authority presents the series, featuring regional artists performing a wide variety of music every Tues Santa Rosa Island Authority | What’s Happening Bands on Beach (visitpensacolabeach.com) day evening at 7 pm. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. No pets and no glass allowed.

Info: SRIA at (850) 932-2257.  http://www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happening-bands-on-beach/

August 30 – November 3: Universal Studios Orlando presents Horror Nights.

www.universalorlando.com

September 5 – 8: Amelia Island Dance Festival. World-class classical and contemporary performances of dancers from across the nation and from local dance institutions of Northeast Florida.

www.AmeliaIslandDanceFestival.org

November 1-2: Day of the Dead celebrations throughout Mexico. Events sell out. Book early.

www.jouneymexico.com

Karen Kuzsel is a writer-editor based in the Orlando area who specializes in the hospitality, entertainment, meetings & events industries.  She is an active member of International Live Events Association, Meeting Professionals International and the Society of Professional Journalists. She is now serving on the 2023-2024 MPI Independent and Small Business Owners Advisory Board. Karen writes about food & wine, spas, destinations, venues, meetings & events. A career journalist, she has owned magazines, written for newspapers, trade publications, radio and TV. As her alter-ego, Natasha, The Psychic Lady, she is a featured entertainer for corporate and social events. Karen@KarenKuzsel.com;   www.karenkuzsel.com; www.ThePsychicLady.com; @karenkuzsel; @thepsychiclady. She is also active with Experience Kissimmee CVB.