Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth theme park – Universal Epic Universe – officially opens May 22, 2025. More than 50 incredible experiences, Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation unmatched across five themed worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe. Anchoring the park is Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – a majestic 500-room property with one-of-a-kind views of the park and will feature its very own dedicated entrance into Epic Universe for hotel guests (valid theme park admission required). Universal Helios Grand Hotel will have nearly 5,000 sf of versatile space “This is such a pivotal moment for our destination, and we’re thrilled to welcome guests to Epic Universe next year,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “With the addition of this spectacular new theme park, our guests will embark on an unforgettable vacation experience with a week’s worth of thrills that will be nothing short of epic! Our Universe will never be the same.”  And now is a great time to save up to $200 when you bundle a hotel stay with a three-Park PLUS 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Ticket.

www.UOMeetingsAndEvents.com; www.universalorlando.com/epicuniverse.

THEY SERVE UP DEALS! YOU SAVE!

Go big or Go Grand with the November 20 opening day promotional package being offered by the alpine-inspired Grand Hyatt Deer Valley (Park City, UT). The package includes: two-night stay; $200 resort credit to enjoy exquisite dining, vibrant bars, or après ski relaxation; gift bag with limited-edition merchandise for the 2024/25 ski season: two luxurious scarves, a stylish large tote bag, two cozy beanies, and two branded carabiner mugs. Book by March 1. Use offer code: GHDVOPEN. The property will include 400 guestrooms, 300 new acres for skiing along with new ski runs and several additional chairlifts. There will be 30,000 sf of indoor and outdoor event space and signature restaurant, Remington Hall.

https://www.hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/

Ultimate holiday getaway with Evermore Resort’s Holiday Suite Offer of 25% off a luxury suite. The Orlando, FL resort rooms have a separate living area, two full baths, and outdoor balcony. Winter wellness massage packages at Conrad Orlando Spa. Holiday music and movies by the pool. Activities for the whole family.

https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/orlcici-conrad-orlando/things-to-do/holidays/

Valley Forge’s new Room for Meetings, Room for More! Incentive program encourages you to confirm new bookings by December 31 to receive rewards. Rewards vary by the number of rooms booked using any of our 80+ Montgomery County, PA hotels and confirming a group of at least 25 total contracts hotel room nights.

meet@valleyforge.org; www.meet.valleyforge.org; (800) 441-3549

The Bahamas consist of 16 islands, each of which has promotional discounts to entice bookings. The book-by dates and the use-by dates vary.

https://www.bahamas.com/seasonal-specials?

Disney Cruises has special promotional offers from 20 to 30% off for sailings from Florida, Texas, New Zealand, and Australia. The discounts vary depending on whether you are a Florida resident, from Canada, or a member of the military. You can see the full lineup of discounts for yourself.

https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/special-offers/

Mainsail Lodging & Development entices the senses with taste and experiential activities at three of its most popular Florida boutiques hotels: the historic jazz-inspired Fenway Hotel in Dunedin, foodie-focused Epicurean Hotel in Tampa, and riverfront Luminary Hotel & Co. in downtown Fort Myers. Each property has a promotional offer designed to captivate. “We take great pride in the unique character and style of our hotels and the thoughtful planning that goes into designing experiences for each type of traveler,” said Joe Collier, President and Founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development. “From the classic ambiance and jazz culture of Dunedin to the culinary adventures in Tampa and the dynamic urban setting of Fort Myers, our hotels are crafted to provide memorable and enriching getaways that embrace each community’s local charm.” Luminary Hotel & Co. has a range of special offers, including the Chips Sports Pub & Topgolf Swing Suite Package that includes a $25 gift card, the Stay for Breakfast package featuring breakfast at Ella Mae’s Diner, and exclusive Sunshine State savings with the Florida Resident Rate. Fenway Hotel has special offers such as the STEAK-cation Dunedin Package, the Fenway Sunset Package, and the Florida Resident Rate offering exclusive discounts and perks. Special sports events for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Bay Lightning or the inaugural season of the Tampa Bay Sun FC professional women’s soccer team may be good enticements to book a holiday or meeting. The recent $21 million expansion of the Epicurean Hotel offers the STEAK-cation package or enjoy up to 30% savings and two complimentary glasses of wine or beer with the Florida Resident rate. The same sports activities listed for The Fenway would work for a stay here as well.

https://www.fenwayhotel.com/; https://www.epicureanhotel.com/; https://www.luminaryhotel.com/

You have until November 28 to sign up for Eventeny’s Black Friday Pro annual plan and get 3 months free: 15 months of powerful event management for the price of 12.

www.eventeny.com

Earn 12% commission for booking Montego Bay, Jamaica resorts for your new group meeting. 20+ rooms for a minimum of three nights. Contract by December 31, 2024 and use by December 31, 2026 for JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar, Iberostar Waves Rose Hall Beach and Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites.

https://www.iberostar.com/en/meetings-events-groups/

Get your FREE Winter Escape Card And receive discounted adventures in Pensacola, FL. Cards become available December 15. Submit your application to link below or pick one up at any Pensacola Visitor Information Center.

https://www.visitpensacola.com/wintervisit-register/; (800) 874-1234

Once upon a time, a hotel in Colorado Springs, CO served as the region’s stock exchange for gold and silver. It has been renovated into a 128-room hotel, opening as the first Wyndham Registry Collection Hotel in the United States. The renovations include exposed brick and marble finishes to guest rooms. There is an art gallery called The Vault, and 15,000 sf of conference and event space. Today, Wyndham Rewards members can earn double points and a $25 nightly credit with a booking by December 31 and using by May 31, 2025.

www.miningexchangehotel.com

Journey Brazil, a new Destination Management Company specializing in high-end to ultra-luxury travel, officially launches operations in December under the leadership of Co-Founder and Managing Director Mikael Castro, in partnership with Zachary Rabinor, CEO and Co-Founder of Journey Mexico, Journey Costa Rica, and now Journey Brazil.
+55 21 96640-5457, hello@journeybrazil.com; www.journeybrazil.com; www.journeymexico.com; www.journeycostarica.com

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.

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/

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.  Promo dates for 2025 are March 2-6 , 18-31 and 23-27. Also May 4-9 and May 18-23. August 3-8, 10-14, 17-22 and 24-29.

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

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

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/

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

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

SIX HOTELS RAISE MONEY FOR HURRICAN RELIEF

Six Mainsail Lodging & Development hotels hosted events raising $13,500 to support Florida and Georgia communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Participating venues in Florida included EDGE Rooftop Cocktail Lounge (Epicurean Hotel in Tampa); Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar (Fenway Hotel in Dunedin); and Beacon Social Drinkery (Luminary Hotel & Co. in downtown Fort Myers). In Georgia, Hightales Rooftop Bar (Hotel Forty Five in Macon); Oliver’s Twist Bar & View (Trilith Guesthouse in Fayetteville), and The Office Bar (Epicurean Atlanta in Midtown) also participated. The funds will go directly to the American Red Cross and Giving Kitchen to aid communities impacted by the storms. Mainsail’s Florida events raised $10,000 for the Red Cross, which has been instrumental in responding to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, operating 282 evacuation shelters across Florida and transitioning to Recovery Shelters for those unable to return home. With over 1,900 volunteers on the ground, they have served more than 2.1 million meals and snacks to those affected, while offering essential services like health care, emotional support, and coordination with emergency management, all at no cost to those in need. Mainsail’s Georgia events raised an additional $3,500 for Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit established in 2013 to provide emergency assistance and financial support to food service workers, making sure they can pay their bills. Through their Stability Network, Giving Kitchen connects food service workers in crisis to resources they may have not been aware of, including housing, utilities, health and wellness, employment and more. According to Joe Collier, President & Founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development, this is the third consecutive year Mainsail has held special fundraising events following hurricanes, raising tens of thousands of dollars in relief funds.

To make a donation or for more information on how to support the American Red Cross and Giving Kitchen, visit RedCross.org/Donate and TheGivingKitchen.org/Give-Now. www.MainsailHotels.com

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Are you a foodie who wants to be part of the action without the pressure of cooking? Here’s your chance. Be a volunteer from November 6 to the 12 for the World Food Championship in Indianapolis, IN at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center. Volunteers receive a souvenir T-shirt, free food during shift breaks and two free passes for access during a non-volunteer day. Bar Keepers Friend is the Official Clean Team of the World Food Championships. Stop by their booth to say hello, pick up some swag, watch cleaning demos, and purchase some of your favorite Bar Keepers Friend products. All proceeds from sales will go to support our charity partner, Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana.

https://www.givepulse.com/event/445943-2024-World-Food-Championships

Florida Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) seeks committee volunteers. Must be a member of the organization in good standing. There are 12 committees needing volunteers. Fill out the application form.

https://www.ffea.com/f/67

NEW AND PUTTING ON A NEW FACE

Valley Forge, PA is having a growth spurt. The Valley Forge National Historical Park just finished a $12 million rehabilitation program, including renovations to the building, theater building, and the installation of all new interpretive and museum exhibits. Newly opened hotels include Element Valley Forge; Elkins Estate; Hotel West and Main (a Tapestry by Hilton); and Residence Inn King of Prussia. Newly renovated hotels include Alloy, a Doubletree hotel; Courtyard by Marriott Collegeville; Crowne Plaza King of Prussia; Holiday Inn Lansdale; Hotel Prussia, BW Signature Collection; Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington; Marriott Philadelphia West; Normandy Farm Hotel and Conference Center; and Sheraton Valey Forge.

www.meetValleyForge.com; (610) 834-7963; shiggins@valleyforge.org

Grand Hyatt Deer Valley (Park City, UT) opens in November in the Deer Valley East Village. About 400 rooms, including 100 discounted rooms for service members. 30,000 sf indoor and outdoor event space. 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. Developed by Extell Development Co. This is the first North American luxury alpine village development since 1981. Over 3,700 acres of skiable terrain. Rustic American fare at Remington Hall, the signature dining venue overseen by Culinary Director Chef Marc Marrone.

https://www.hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/slcgp-grand-hyatt-deer-valley?

Halloween is over but the monsters are still emerging at Universal Orlando Resort’s Dark Universe’s “Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.” The groundbreaking ride will feature 14 of the most ambitious and life-like animated figures ever created – each one depicting one of the legendary Monsters that will prey upon guests. Attendees will be taken deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, the great-great-granddaughter of the infamous Henry Frankenstein, conducts her twisted and misguided experiments. She invites guests to witness a demonstration of her ability to control monsters, but accidentally unleashes a horde of enraged monsters. Created by science and feared by most, Frankenstein’s Monster walks tall at nine feet and weighs over 800 pounds. Guests will first encounter this figure within the queue of the attraction where he will actually walk within Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s lab during the preshow. Then there’s Dracula, the most dangerous monster Dr. Frankenstein tries to control. Wolf Man displays his razor-sharp teeth and jagged claws in the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor and guests will see “Gill-man” emerge from the inky depths of the Black Lagoon. Too nervous to meet these monsters in the manor? There will be meet, greet and photos for these monsters and others, such as the Bride of Frankenstein, as they wander throughout the village.

www.UOMeetingsAndEvents.com/

St. Regis CDMX (Mexico City, Mexico), perched high above the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, has revealed four new Garden Terrace Suites. Enjoy privacy while overlooking the city from spacious terraces and luxury amenities

https://www.journeymexico.com/blog/st-regis-mexico-citys-new-suites-are-redefining-urban-luxury?

The $435 million transformation of Harrah’s to Caesars New Orleans has been completed. Anthony Carano, President & COO of Caesars Entertainment said, “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone.” The area’s only land-based casino, Caesars New Orleans has nearly 800 hotel rooms between its two hotel towers – the new Caesars Tower and the original hotel tower on Poydras Street. There are more than 150,000 sf of upgraded gaming and dining space featuring more than 1,300 slot machines, 120 table games, a 20-table World Series of Poker Room®, three outdoor gaming courtyards and a 5,700-sf state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook. Culinary experiences include Louisiana’s first Nobu, Emeril’s Brasserie by local favorite Emeril Lagasse, a celebrity-driven food hall featuring options by Bobby Flay, Buddy Valastro and Nina Compton, and the new luxurious center bar dubbed Octavia.

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

Hell’s Revenge Trail, just outside of Moab, has been officially designated by The National Park Service as a National Trail. Famous for its high-intensity off-roading, Hell’s Revenge offers breathtaking views of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, two gems in the National Park Service’s crown. Moab Adventure Center reports that its popular Hummer tours traverse this iconic 6.5-mile trail, which is nestled in the Sand Flats Recreation Area. “Hells Revenge combines the best of Moab’s rugged terrain, from thrilling slick rock climbs to petrified sand dunes and rock-crawling challenges,” says Patrick Bishoff, Land Tours Manager at Moab Adventure Center. “It’s an adrenaline-packed journey that our experienced drivers make perfect for all adventure levels.” Bishoff adds that the trail offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, especially during the cooler spring and fall months when the snow-capped La Sal Mountains serve as a stunning backdrop to the red rock landscape. Hell’s Revenge boasts many ominously named obstacles like Tip Over Challenge, Hell’s Gate, Dragon’s Tail and the infamous Hot Tubs. “Our Hummer tours don’t traverse all of these more intense obstacles, but there is still plenty of excitement throughout the tour,” states Bishoff.

www.moabadventurecenter.com

In 2025

June 2025, our first Appellation Hotel opens in Healdsburg, CA, deep in Sonoma County in the heart of wine country. Holiday wreath-making craft classes in November.

https://www.appellationhotels.com/hotels/california-healdsburg.html

The Pueblo Vantage San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Pueblo Bonito’s first urban European Plan hotel, officially opens February 15. One of the highlighted amenities is the Aromatika Spa & Wellness, located on the courtyard level adjoining a botanical garden. “Aromatika Spa & Wellness will give guests an experience of refined renewal, allowing them to discover a multi-sensory world designed to please the senses and restore physical, mental and spiritual balance while enjoying the exclusive ambiance of San Miguel de Allende,” said Diana F. Mestre, an award-winning spa consultant from Mexico City who designed the facility with consultant Paulina Mercader and Pueblo Bonito Vantage general manager Lucy Ruiz. The name “Aromatika” honors the scents of San Miguel, notably lavender, rosemary, mint, fennel and sage, “as well as the subtle scents of wine-based therapies and exclusive skin care products” used at the spa, explained Mestre, adding that several factors will set the Aromatika Spa & Wellness apart from all other feel-good facilities. “For starters, Pueblo Bonito Vantage is embedded in the history and culture of San Miguel de Allende,” she said. “The architecture and interior design of both the hotel and the spa are an elegant take on colonial style.” Also, the state of Guanajuato has emerged as one of Mexico’s leading wine regions, and Aromatika Spa has tapped into it. Wine therapies take advantage of the beneficial properties of wine grape derivatives in treatments and rituals to give the skin a healthier improved physical appearance. The high resveratrol content of red grapes acts as a powerful antioxidant with properties that increase collagen production, allow skin regeneration and help to reduce skin irritation and blemishes. Another key spa element is the Biohacking Center, a new-age approach to organically promote the correct function of the body’s systems.

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

Disney Creative Studio is being reimagined at Walt Disney World Resort (Lake Buena Vista, FL). Disney Meetings & Events team will collaborate with meeting planners here at this stand-alone facility. Services from entertainment, décor, floral, AV etc will be under one roof.

Costa Rica’s luxury scene expands with the openings of the Waldorf Astoria Punta Cacique and Nekajui, Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the stunning Papagayo Peninsula in early 2025. Astral Hotel (sister property of Origins) will cater specifically to family travelers in a remote area while over on the remote Osa Peninsula, the newly revamped Drake Bay Wilderness Resort will now be named Tibo Hotel.

https://journeycostarica.com/

Silicon Valley, CA’s Morgan Hill is the recipient for Hotel MOHI by Appellation, the culinary-first hotel brand by American chef Charlie Palmer and luxury hospitality veteran Christopher Hunsberger. The pair have joined forces with vintner Frank Léal of Léal Hospitality to develop Hotel MOHI by Appellation, expected to debut in the Fall. The five-story, 76-room urban retreat will be the first full-service luxury boutique hotel in the area. The 215-seat signature Charlie Palmer restaurant and bar plans to produce key ingredients from scratch, including roasting small-batch coffee or olive oil made from onsite trees. Additional amenities include a terrace pool and deck, marketplace, and flower shop lounge. A café and bakery will transition into a cocktail and wine bar during evenings. Also expected is a 7,730-sf ballroom with a modern organic design flex space able to become a show-kitchen for live-action culinary experiences.

https://www.appellationhotels.com/hotels-california-morgan-hill.html

Kentucky Exposition Center (Louisville, KY) is expanding. Already equipped with 1.2 million sf of meeting space and 300 acres of outdoor space and considered the sixth largest expo in the U.S, the center has broken group for a $393 million expansion to be completed in 2025. Two new multi-purpose buildings planned. Located just minutes from downtown near the Muhammad Ali Louisville International Airport.

www.kyexpo.com

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.

By the end of 2024, Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles (St. Charles, MO) will have finished its refresh and upgrade of the resort’s 397 guest rooms. By fall of 2025, the property will have tripled the size of its meeting and convention center to 65,000 sf of event and meeting space.

https://ameristarstcharles.boydgaming.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

Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country, located near Charles Schulz Sonoma County Airport, is slated to open in late 2026. Plans include 165 rooms, meeting spaces, pool, fitness center, and a rooftop restaurant and bar.

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.

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

VISIT PLANO, TX HOLIDAY GIVEWAYS

To enter for a chance to win, follow them on Facebook or Instagram, like their giveaway posts, and tag a friend in the comments! Each week, competition named on Tuesday and winners are announced on Fridays. November 12: Deerfield Carriage Ride for 4; November 19: Dinner at Shops at Willow Bend + a Crayola Experience prize pack (includes 2 tickets); November 26: Dinner before Dickens in Downtown Plano + a $100 shopping VISA gift card; December 3: Dinner at Legacy Hall + 2 event tickets; December 10: Dinner at Legacy West + a $100 Shopping VISA gift card; and December 17: Cinemark holiday movie tickets + a Cinemark dining gift card.

BEST WINTER HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

Winter is approaching quickly. Where in the United States do you think would be the best place for a winter getaway? Personal finance website WalletHub might have the answer for you as their 2024 Best Winter Holiday Destination survey analyzed 37 key metrics, focusing mainly on the expense and hassle of traveling to each location while also factoring in weather forecasts, safety and variety of activities. WalletHub discovered the average flight to a popular cold winter destination lasts over four hours. Washington DC has the lowest price for a three-star hotel, more than 3.3 times lower than Bridgeport, CT. Las Vegas, NV has the lowest price in warmer environments, which is 4.0 times lower than Honolulu, HI. Chicago, IL has the most restaurants in colder destinations and Miami the most in warmer destinations. For cold weather destinations, the 10 top rated cities are Atlanta, GA; New York, NY; Washington DC; Chicago, IL; Cincinnati, OH; St. Louis, MO; Denver, CO; Philadelphia, PA; Boston, MA and Kansas, MO. The top rated for warmer destinations are Las Vegas, NV; San Diego, CA; Dallas, TX; Austin, TX; Phoenix, AZ; Houston, TX; San Francisco, CA; Tampa, FL; Charleston, SC and Miami, FL.
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-winter-holiday-destinations/7930

MEETING PLANNING GUIDES (FREE)

Cambridge, MA – https://visitcambridgeusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/New-Branding-COT-Tradeshow-Presentation-2024.pdf

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

Valley Forge, PA – https://www.valleyforge.org/meetings/

FESTIVALS

November 8-12: World Food Championship in Indianapolis, IN at the Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center. General admission begins at $15. Tasting experience and demos with Celebrity Chef Eric Greenspan begin at $125. VIP Experience begins at $175.

www.WorldFoodChampionships.com

November 22-December 28: 4th annual Lights on the Farm! Over 1 million dazzling lights and unique holiday elements on the quarter mile stroll through the Heritage Farmstead Museum. Meet Santa Claus, indulge in delicious s’mores, hot cocoa, donuts, popcorn and more.

https://events.visitplano.com/event/lights-on-the-farm-2024

November 22 – January 5, 2025: Winter Wonderland at Falls Park (Sioux Falls, SD). 338,000 total LEDs and lights, 260 trees decorated, 215 light poles decorated and over a mile of garland. Free!

https://www.experiencesiouxfalls.com/winter-wonderland?

December 18: Legendary saxophonist Kenny G performs fan favorites, holiday standards, and contemporary classics from his chart-topping, 50-year career at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater (Fort Myers, FL). Concert goers receive a 10% discount off their bill at select restaurants.

https://www.tixr.com/groups/caloosasoundamp/events/kenny-g-117248

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.