Gran Acuario Mazatlán (Mazatlán, Mexico) became the largest aquarium in Latin America, and the only one in the world dedicated to the Sea of Cortéz, when it opened in May, 2023. Now the tourist attraction and research institute has added snorkeling and diving experiences.  (September 4, 2024) – The recent debut of snorkeling and diving experiences at the world-class add an exciting new interactive dimension to the already popular tourist attraction and research institute. The minimum age to snorkel is 12 years old and to scuba dive, a patron must be a certified diver. The Gran Acuario Mazatlánanchors Mazatlán’s 75-acre Central Park. The facility houses some 260 marine species, including 36 species of mammals, 31 cetaceans, five of the seven global species of sea turtles as well as sharks, jellyfish, and manta rays. Overall, its exhibition tanks hold more than 1.2 million gallons of water, in addition to nearly 53 million gallons in its large lake. The main exhibition, the great Oceanic habitat, has a window that is over 42 feet tall by 23 feet wide. Highlights of the three-story facility include massive fish and coral tanks as well as 19 halls, four interior courtyards for exhibitions, and a 240-person auditorium for educational and entertainment programs.  Outside are separate meeting rooms and a botanical garden, including space dedicated to Jacques Cousteau, the late French oceanographer who called the Sea of Cortéz “the aquarium of the world.” To demonstrate the facility’s commitment to conservation, a portion of the aquarium’s revenue supports a research center dedicated to preserving biodiversity in the Sea of Cortéz. The Gran Acuario Mazatlán is a testament to the success of a public-private partnership financing model, bringing together the community and private sector for the greater good. Ernesto Coppel, founder of Pueblo Bonito Resorts and a native of Mazatlán, played a pivotal role in realizing this ambitious project. The collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, the National Bank of Foreign Trade (Bancomext), the National Bank of Works and Public Services (Banobras), the Government of Sinaloa, and the City of Mazatlán underscores a commitment to science, education, and tourism. Admission fees are incorporated into the all-inclusive packages available at either the Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay or Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán.

http://granacuario.com/

THEY SERVE UP DEALS! YOU SAVE!

Save 20% for stays of four nights or 25% for five or more nights January 4, 2025 through April 10 at Aulani Disney Resort (Ko Olina, Hawaii). Book by March 5 and travel by April 11. Advance rsvp’s required and must be for consecutive night stays.

www.disneyaulani.com; (866) 443-4763.

This promotion will help you see more clearly the Arctic and Antarctic! Be one of the 50 to sign up by September 30 for one of Poseidon Expeditions’ polar cruises and partner Swarovski Optik will celebrate its 75th anniversary by gifting you their Swarovski Optik CL Companion 10×30 binoculars (retail value $1,550 USD). Poseidon Expeditions, which specializes in small ship expedition cruises to remote polar regions, has added up to 15% savings on selected cruises for the 2024-2025 season. The Swarovski Optik binoculars provide 10x magnification with an ergonomic and lightweight design.

https://poseidonexpeditions.com (North America);  Anfrage@poseidonexpeditions.com (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).

Save 25% on your next small board meeting or annual conference. SmallConferences.com’s Exclusive Nonprofit Discount program helps companies save with cost-effective site selection & creating memorable moments. Owner Robert Kraus has been a member of the hospitality industry for 20 years, sharing his knowledge by teaching Hospitality at local Miami homeless shelters and Event Planning for Nonprofits. He’s been featured in USA Today, Hotels Magazine, Meetings Outlook, Hospitality & Tourism News, Washington City Paper & on the Today Show because of my expertise in hospitality.

https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/success-secrets-for-events-7166886820624982016/

Book a minimum two-night stay by September 30 and save 15% off at The Ansonborough Charleston (SC) at least three days before arrival and enjoy 15% off. This exclusive, non-refundable offer is valid through the end of the year with some restrictions.

https://www.theansonborough.com/; (843) 723-1655

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/

The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (Los Angeles Tourism) offers incentives to book more than 40 hotels in multiple cities with its new “Now Playing” campaign. Planners are encouraged to book their groups through June 30, 2025 by first submitting new meeting or event requests to LA Tourism. They will be eligible for gift cards, rebates, and other financial rewards based on the number of booked rooms.

https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/meetla

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 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

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

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: 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

GIVING BACK MATTERS

Dozens of national and local non-profit organizations have been the recipients of a share of $3.1 million donated by Caesars Entertainment’s corporate giving platform, the Caesars Foundation. This year’s grant includes continued support for organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of America and a new partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation that aligns closely with the Company’s pursuit of environmental sustainability through tree planting in forests and neighborhoods with the greatest need. The Boys & Girls Clubs of America also received a $1 million gift through Caesars Makes Change program, now available in more than 40 destinations across the Company’s gaming portfolio. Casino guests are offered the option to donate a portion of their cash payout to a charitable organization when redeeming their slot tickets. The program officially launched in May 2022. Anthony Carano, President & COO of Caesars Entertainment, said “Through the generosity of our guests, we were able to not only provide our Foundation grant to Boys & Girls Clubs of America this year, but we were also able to provide additional funds raised by our patrons, allowing Boys & Girls Clubs to continue to provide invaluable resources in communities across the country.” In addition to the Caesars Makes Change and Foundation grant donation, Caesars Entertainment executives visited one of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada on July 31 to present Caesars Makes Change and Caesars Foundation gifts and volunteer with the Club kids. The Company is also an official back-to-school partner of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, coordinating opportunities for Team Members to volunteer and hosting school supply drives and fundraisers to prepare Club kids for a successful school year. Other key partner organizations that received a Caesars Foundation donation include: The WASH Foundation (formerly Clean the World), International Center for Responsible Gaming, Meals on Wheels America, National Park Trust, Public Education Foundation, Second Wind Dreams, IX’s Foundation, and Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.

http://www.caesars.com/corporate

Mexican tour company, Journey Mexico, says that “as part of our commitment to responsible travel, it’s important to us that we seek out opportunities to make a difference in our communities.” Hotel Happenings & Program Promotions has written many times about this volunteer team’s efforts to aid their country, people, and causes. Most recently, they journeyed to Xochimilco, an incredible natural area in southern Mexico City, to collaborate on the Chinampas en Movimiento initiative with REEDUCA’s Martín Sanchez. In March, they dedicated their efforts to combat feminicide, the most severe form of violence against women and girls. Teaming up with Puerto Vallarta’s Women’s Collective and Women’s Institute, they revitalized a memorial site, a poignant tribute to femicide victims. The task included refurbishing 21 crosses, each symbolizing a precious life lost, and etching the names of the departed as a lasting homage. In April, as part of Earth Day, they planted saplings in their home cities across Mexico, where they’ll water and nurture them into life-giving trees. One of the hallmarks of Journey Mexico is that they customize tours to capitalize on give back programs for groups visiting the country.

www.journeymexico.com

NEW AND PUTTING ON A NEW FACE

Rock Candy Tours has specialized in showcasing the spirit and legacy of Macon, GA’s rich music history through weekly guided public tours and customized private guided tours since 2011. The popular guided tour company has just been purchased by Visit Macon and the Downtown Macon Visitors Center to enhance accessibility to visitors. Founded in June, 2011 by Macon natives Jessica Walden and Jamie Weatherford the day after the Georgia Music Hall of Fame closed, the motivation was to keep the history of Macon as the birthplace of Southern Rock alive. Walden’s father, Alan, and uncle, the late Phil Walden, were Macon music pioneers who worked with Otis Redding and ultimately, the formation of Capricorn Records. “It brings us great excitement to see this partnership now evolve to ownership, where Visit Macon will now operate Rock Candy Tours and its storied history, making sure it can scale its reach as a premiere tour company meeting the rapidly growing demand,” said Walden. “More than anything, one of our greatest exports, Macon music’s impact on American history, will have a wider reach than ever. And our audiences will have more access to learn about these landmarks, legends and songs through Visit Macon’s visibility and operation.” “Visit Macon has had a long partnership with Rock Candy Tours and has watched thousands of Macon visitors experience the guided walking & experiential tours that they have facilitated over the years.” says President & CEO of Visit Macon, Gary Wheat.  “Providing a one-stop shop for now; walking, riding, food, special interest and experiential tours, in addition to our step-on guide service for group & bus tours, and the experiences we can offer our meetings and conventions!”

www.rockcndytours.com; www.visitmacon.org; mrodgers@visitmacon.org

Visit Plano (Plano, TX) has a new client servicing feature: a group-exclusive special offers landing page. This innovative tool is designed to enhance client’s experience by providing exclusive discounts and offers tailored just for their event attendees. These special offers will help attendees discover more in Plano while spending less.

https://www.visitplano.com/visit-plano-launches-new-client-servicing-feature/

In 2024

What’s old becomes new again when the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch finishes its $110 million renovation and rebrand. The newly named property, to open in early October, will transform into Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort, the first Grand Hyatt in Arizona. All guestrooms, expansion of the ballroom, new pool complex, and six new restaurants and bars designed by celebrity Chef Richard Blais are part of the redo. Blais’ signature restaurant is a personal love letter to Italian American cuisine with a focus on hand-made pastas and charcoal-grilled steaks, seafood and chops. The restaurant’s indoor seating will connect to the resort’s Desert Garden outdoor entertainment space. The other five restaurants are Tiki Taka (sushi-tapas bar), Mesa Centrale (Southwestern grill), and Grand Vista Lounge (lobby bar). Two recent restaurants added to the pool complex are Sandbar and H2Oasis. The ballroom, nearly doubling in size, will reopen in January.

https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/scott-hyatt-regency-scottsdale-resort-and-spa/renovations; resscott@hyatt.com

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.

In 2025

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room Loews Hotel resort opens at Universal Epic Universe theme park (Orlando, FL) in 2025. The majestic Mediterranean-inspired resort is designed to blend immersion and relaxation with a rooftop bar, divine dining options, and the hotel’s very own dedicated entrance to the new theme park. There will be 4,648-sf of versatile meeting & function space. As soon as guests enter, they will be transported to a fantastical world within the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun, adorned with beautiful details of celestial patterns, dazzling constellations and elegant yet casual Mediterranean design elements. Through the lobby’s floor-to-ceiling windows will be a breathtaking vista of Celestial Park. Many of the rooms will offer views of Epic Universe. Unique to Universal Helios Grand Hotel will be imaginative How to Train Your Dragon Kids’ Suites. The dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe located off the lobby will provide direct, convenient access to and from the theme park (valid theme park admission required). Atop the roof, Bar Helios’ menu of creative tapas and familiar favorites and handcrafted specialty cocktails along with unmatched 360-degree views of Epic Universe and beyond. The resort will have a pool, fitness room and three dining options: Flora Taverna, Aurora Market, and Lotus Lagoon. Guests staying at Universal Helios Grand Hotel, or any of the other Universal Orlando hotels, receive Early Park Admission. The addition of Universal Helios Grand Hotel also brings three reimagined hotel categories to Universal Orlando. The Signature Collection – including Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, offers full-service amenities. Prime Value Hotels – including Universal Aventura Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort (opening January 21, 2025) and Universal Terra Luna Resort (opening February 25, 2025), offer a mix of services and amenities made for comfort. Value Inns and Suites – including Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites, are fun, affordable options offering standard rooms and spacious suites with kitchenettes.

www.UOMeetingsAndEvents.com.

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.

MACON, GA GOES “BEYOND” FOR HALLOWEEN

Visit Macon (GA) has both spooky and family-fun events called Macon Beyond planned for the entire month (see a partial list of some currently known events listed below under Festivals), but a special “treat” has been added to the growing activities agenda with their partnership with Actress/Producer Carrie Genzel to investigate a few iconic locations in Macon, where stories from the past and suspicions of the spooky still linger. Genzel (The Walking Dead, Supernatural, Jennifer’s Body, Dead Rising: Watchtower, Evil Feed, and They’re Watching), who claims to have had numerous ghostly encounters, aims to reveal historical tales and communicate with spirits holding untold stories. Her recent move to Macon sparked her passion for exploring the city’s haunted sites and interacting with its supernatural inhabitants. Many locations used for Macon Beyond will include the Macon City Auditorium, the Allman Brothers Museum at the Big House, and the 1842 Inn. “This is all in good fun!” explains President & CEO of Visit Macon, Gary Wheat. “We saw the attention and sincere appeal a few of Macon’s October events had last year to our national press partners and to visitor appeal… we had to give the visitors what they asked for!”

www. visitmacon.org/beyond; Marketing & Special Events Manager, Lucy Hughes, at (478) 743-1074 x101 or email lhughes@visitmacon.org

IS YOUR U.S. STATE “FUN”?

Personal finance website WalletHub regularly conducts surveys. HH&PP runs the results of many of them. They’re interesting because the results are based on responses from people across the country. The motivation for Most Fun States was to identify where residents and vacationers enjoy the greatest variety and most cost-effective options for activities. WalletHub compared all 50 states across 26 key metrics, ranging from movie costs to the accessibility of national parks to nightlife options per capita. You can read the entire survey yourself to see how your state fared when compared. I’m curious if you agree with the results. As a quick recap, the survey found that California has the most movie theaters, which is 7.4x than Rhode Island. If you enjoy eating out, California has eight times more restaurants than Alaska (with the fewest). Texas soars with amusement parks, beating Hawaii by 18.7x. But for fun in the great outdoors, Alaska is the place to live or visit. Here are the top 20 Fun States, beginning with Florida at #1. WalletHub Analyst Cassandra Happe explained the rating comes from “the number of restaurants, amusement parks, arcades and music festivals per capita. In addition, Florida has the third-most attractions per capita, and the sixth-best variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments. Finally, Florida has the 12th-best weather overall, and the Florida government spends the eighth-most money per capita on parks and recreation.” The rest of the top 20 starts with California, and then goes to Nevada, New York, Colorado, Illinois, Texas, Washington, Minnesota, Louisiana, Arizona, Oregon, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Ohio, Wisconsin, Missouri, South Carolina, Maryland, and finishes with Alaska.

visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/most-fun-states/34665

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

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/

Now – November 3: Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights. Selected dates. 10 terrifying haunted houses, 5 sinister scare zones. Event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for children under the age of 13. No costumes or costume masks allowed.

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/

October – free showing of Night of The Living Dead at Bibb Theatre in Downtown Macon. The Bibb Theatre opened in 1938, lay dormant for four decades, and brought back to life with the support of the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, Peyton Anderson Foundation, and Knight Foundation via a Downtown Challenge Grant aimed to shine a spotlight on the iconic downtown edifice and reintroduce movies to the historic theatre.

October 2 – 31: Corn Maze Play Dayz at Lane Southern Orchards. 6-acre corn maze and try your hand at the new Maize-O-Poly game.

www.lanesouthernorchards.com

October 4, 11, 18 & 25: Rock Candy Tours’ Macon Macabre Tour at the Downtown Macon Visitors Center. This 1.5-hour public walking tour features ghosts and macabre history focusing on Downtown Macon’s nightlife district.

www. visitmacon.org!

October 5: Reby Hardy (also known as Reby Sky) wife of Matt Hardy of the WWE Duo, the Hardy Boyz, and her daughter, Ever More come to Macon, GA for a book signing and meet-and-greet promoting their book Life of a Gothic Baby at FanBoy Collectives during “Macon Beyond!”. The social media pair will return as special guests at Macon’s Annual Witches Float (an event by the non-profit organization, Macon Periods Easier, on October 6, a family-friendly event held on the Ocmulgee River.

www. visitmacon.org/beyond; Marketing & Special Events Manager, Lucy Hughes, at (478) 743-1074 x101 or email lhughes@visitmacon.org

October 16 – 19: 40 Wacks: A Haunting Cocktail Ax-perience at Society Garden. Storytelling experience about infamous Lizzie Borden.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/40-whacks-a-haunting-cocktail-ax-perience-tickets-991177347127?

October 23: Steve Gonsalves Live: A Life with Ghosts at the Capitol Theater. The paranormal investigator, bestselling author, and filmmaker (Ghost Hunters, Ghost Nation and his film, The House Inbetween) brings his unique experiences and insights to the stage, unveiling clips of real paranormal phenomena captured during his investigations, and recounts his most comical encounters with both the living and the dead. Limited tickets.

https://wl.seetickets.us/event/steve-gonsalves-live/611103?afflky=CapitolTheatre

Spirits in October: Saints & Sinners at Riverside Cemetery 

October 24-27 & November 1-3: One-hour guided walking tour with Riverside Cemetery and Conservancy’s Spirits’ “Saints & Sinners” tour through the 126-year-old cemetery. Spirits in October is not a scary ghost tour. It’s about honoring and sharing the stories of the fascinating people who came before us to make Macon what it is today. All proceeds benefit the Conservancy.
www. riversidecemetery.com

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.