GREAT IDEAS!

National Proposal Day (a new one for me) is Mar. 20, but Irving-Las Colinas, describing itself as the most romantic city in Texas, is giving one lucky couple the chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime, luxury proposal on the water. The Dream Proposal Giveaway runs through February. The winning love story will enjoy a romantic gondola proposal along the beautiful Mandalay Canal, complete with elegant amenities, a stay at a premier Irving hotel, a celebratory after-party, a professional photo shoot, and custom touches. Travel from anywhere in the continental U.S.—hosts Visit Irving and Las Colinas Association, will handle flights or mileage if needed. Read the rules and regulations before entering.

https://www.irvingtexas.com/irving-the-most-romantic-city-in-texas/proposal-giveaway-2026/

And speaking of Irving, TX celebrating love, enter Week 1 of their Most Romantic City in Texas February giveaways. You and your significant other will a two-night Romantic Stay at Omni Las Colinas, complete with a decadent breakfast buffet; Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two at Mesa Mezcal; two tickets to see Subtronics LIVE on Valentine’s Day at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory – Seal your love with a custom lock placed ; a Custom Love Lock Moment on the iconic Love Lock Bridge; a stunning bouquet from Casa Luna Gardens; and a  $100 AmEx gift card to toast to love, your way. Time’s swiftly fleeting. Enter now!

https://www.irvingtexas.com/irving-the-most-romantic-city-in-texas/

I couldn’t possibly name all the businesses and organizations that offer web or in-person conferences to enhance someone’s education and business connections, but Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and Hospitality Upgrade (the technology magazine of HFTP) are offering a variation that may be a step up for those in leadership roles. Mar. 25-27 at the Hilton Fort Worth (Fort Worth, TX), they are hosting a program for hospitality C-level vendor executives to reshape the future of hospitality. The Executive Vendor Summit (EVS) curates an environment where competitors and collaborators alike can set aside sales pitches to discuss the broader challenges and opportunities facing the industry in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere conducive to open dialogue and strategic thinking. The agenda is crafted to facilitate peer-to-peer networking. Participants engage in roundtable discussions covering critical topics such as mergers and acquisitions, global market trends, and the evolution of cloud technology in hospitality. A half-day Investment Program will connect attendees with the investment community as they discuss potential partnerships and influential trends in the investment space. Mike Sung, Director of Partner Success at Tectris.vc will begin the program with his presentation, “Future of Travel and Hospitality on Web3.” The core program will feature a keynote presentation from hospitality strategist Michael Goldrich with the session, “AI Is Reshaping Buyer Expectations Before Sales Enters.” The EVS will close off with the very popular “CIO Panel” for an in-depth exploration of the future of technology investment and strategic leadership.

www.hftp.org.

HOT DEALS SAVE YOU $$$$

Florida residents save 20% off Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek during a Sunshine State Staycation package. Package amenities include 20% off the best available room rate plus complimentary self-parking for one vehicle per room ($36 nightly value). Viable dates are Feb. 19-22; Feb. 28-Mar.2, Mar. 5-8; and Mar. 17-29. The AAA Four Diamond resort has five pools, two lazy rivers, full-service spa, and multiple on-site dining options.

https://www.wyndhamgrandorlando.com/special-offers

Book a Monday through Friday event at Paroquet Springs (KY), near the Louisville International Airport, and room rental is ½ off if you book by Mar. 1. 12,000 sf of exhibition space, banquet room seats 800; and flexible facilities can host up to 1,500.

www.paroquetsprings.org.

You have until Feb. 13 to apply for Eventeny’s birthday promo. Sign up for the Eventeny Pro plan and receive a free custom email sent to up to 128K active vendors (a $500 value)! The company has a list of 128K+ artists, vendors, and exhibitors.
www.eventeny.com

Wine & olive oil tastings, bread or pottery classes, or 18-hole course designed by Jorge Santana da Silva are just some of the perks for booking and utilizing Viceroy at Ombria Algarve in the Algarve region of Portugal for your group by March 31, 2026. Viceroy at Ombria Algarve has over 4,300 sf of indoor event space, including a natural light-filled ballroom and multi-purpose rooms. Perks include 15% commission on paid and consumed guestroom revenue (net); 5% commission on pre-contracted F&B and function space rentals; one complimentary room for every 40 rooms utilizes on a cumulative basis during the program; group rate three days pre and post program dates (based on the same room type and group rate availability) and two room nights complimentary for site visit.

https://www.alhi.com/blog/post/viceroy-at-ombria-algarve-is-portugals-hidden-gem/

Book and actualize your next meeting or event at Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa (Miramar Beach, FL) by Mar. 31 and unlock triple HHonors points (up to 200K) on qualified bookings! You’ll also receive 30K bonus points as a signing bonus for Third Party bookings, 50% off current resort fee pricing, and complimentary wireless internet in general session (using current access points). Group must contract at least 60 room nights or more to be eligible for this offer.

https://meetings.hiltonsandestinbeach.com/special-offers?; (888) 519-2089

JW Marriott Las Vegas and Rampart Casino (Las Vegas, NV) has rebranded as The Resort at Summerlin. Renovations will continue through 2026. Mid to large-sized groups can receive benefits such as 2X Marriott Bonvoy® Points, carbon neutral meetings, basic conference Wi-Fi, and more. Planners also gain access to the Event Experience Playbook. Offer valid now through July 1, 2026. Use Booking Reference Code: GOCRN25. Terms & conditions apply.
https://theresortatsummerlin.com/; (877) 869-8777

Book your next tropical getaway at Grand Hyatt Bahama Mar and enjoy 15% off your stay plus a $100 F&B credit to use. Travel window is through Oct. 31, 2026.

https://www.bahamas.com/deals-packages?

Book by June 30, 2026 and use by December 19, 2026 at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows (Hawaii) to earn these exclusive perks from Associated Luxury Hotels International. Among the perks: Complimentary suite and bungalow upgrades based on group size; Group rates extended three days pre and post program dates; 20% discount at the new oceanfront Spa at Royal Lahaina; and a 5% banquet food and beverage credit rebated to master account.

https://www.alhi.com/contact/ (888)728.4105

Looking for a romantic movie version of popping the marriage question? Los Cabos, Mexico’s Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort has ordered up the idyllic setting if you take advantage of the all-inclusive beachfront resort’s “Proposal Package” by December 15, 2026. The exclusive package features three nights in a private pool suite at The Towers at Pacifica (a deluxe hotel within the hotel), including personalized butler service. There are too many amenities in this package to name all, but they include “Marry Me” turndown service on the night of the proposal, with flower petals and candles, hand-blown hearts, and a romantic dinner with wine-pairing at LaFrida.  You choose the proposal venue from many romantic possibilities.

https://www.pueblobonito.com/blog/say-yes-in-paradise-pueblo-bonito-pacificas-luxurious-new-proposal-package; (800) 990-8250

NEW OR COMING IN THE NEAR FUTURE

In 2026

Western River Expeditions, a family-owned outfitter that has guided guests through iconic canyons since 1961, has released a new film capturing why guests so often describe their river journeys as “the best vacation I’ve ever taken.” Brandon Lake, co-owner and CMO of Western River Expeditions, said “People come expecting whitewater. What surprises them is how deeply present they feel—how quickly the noise of everyday life drops away, and how meaningful the experience becomes.” The video highlights 11reasons river journeys continue to resonate with travelers. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3MObqq6f7I
www.westernriver.com

Somehow, I missed the news a few months back that 360DG and CSI DMC merged and are now named Cohera. According to Cohera, it is already the largest DMC in the country. “This is a true game-changer for the DMC industry,” said Trevor Hanks, CEO of Cohera. “We’re not just launching a new brand—we’re redefining what destination management means. With our combined strengths, creative horsepower, and seamless nationwide infrastructure, we can deliver experiences that are bolder, smarter, and more impactful than ever before.” Cohera delivers events across 46 destinations nationwide, with DMC roots dating back to 1978.

https://meetcohera.com/news/360dg-and-csi-merge/

February 14, American Airlines launches non-stop service from Miami, FL to The Bahamas’ sport-fishing paradise, Bimini, in under an hour. Flights scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays

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Pueblo Bonito Resorts in Las Cabos and Mazatlan are taste influencers.Pueblo Bonito Resorts in Los Cabos and Mazatlán believe travel isn’t just about where you go anymore–it’s about what you taste along the way. So, to kick off the new year, their chefs have created a collection of culinary and cultural experiences designed to celebrate flavor and fun. “The new experiences program, which mirrors evolving global lifestyle trends, reflects our commitment to creating meaningful moments and showcasing the distinctive character of each of our hotels,” said Federico Martinez, Pueblo Bonito’s F&B director. “Each concept has been developed to highlight the heritage, atmosphere, and talent that define our operations. For us, experience is everything–it represents the art of ‘living the moment’ that guests truly enjoy at our properties.” Each event is meant to capture the spirit of Mexico—bold, warm and joyfully delicious. “Over the years, we have gained deep insight into our guests’ preferences, allowing us to design experiences that meet diverse expectations—whether enjoyed as a family, as a couple or individually—depending on each hotel’s essence and environment,” Martinez added.

www.pueblobonito.com

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, will open Kimpton Miralina Resort & Villas in early 2026 in Paradise Valley, AZ. Redesigning the existing 42-acre retreat, Kimpton Miralina will have 400+ guest rooms, suites, and villas, and 50,000 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Inspired by the surrounding desert landscape, the resort will feature six swimming pools, a day spa, and a fitness center. Four dining venues, including a contemporary restaurant will complete the design. Kimpton Miralina Resort & Villas will be jointly owned by Partners Group and Trinity Investments and managed by Highgate.

https://www.miralinaresort.com/

New entertainment resort, Bally’s Las Vegas, will be built on the former Tropicana Las Vegas site. Construction should begin early 2026. The 35-acre development on 3.46 million sf will share grounds with the upcoming Las Vegas Athletics Major League Baseball ballpark, with the hotel occupying 26 acres of the 35. Bally’s Corporation is collaborating with JLL and Marnell Architecture for the 3,000-room, 2,500-seat entertainment venue. There will also be 500,000+ sf of retail, dining and entertainment space, as well as a casino. Plans are for a parking garage to hold 5,000+ cars. Plans for completion indicate 2029 for the multi-phased project.

www.ballyslasvegas.com

Late summer, the new 100,000+ sq. ballroom and multi-function meeting space at the Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan expansion will be completed. The new space will have a 38.000 sf ballroom and 24,000 sf pre-function and 40,000 sf multi-function space, with 14,000 sq pre-function space.

https://swandolphin.com/meetings/

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center (National Harbor, MD), expects completion of their new solar arrays on top of the resort’s convention center by early 2026. Spanning 3.5 acres, it will offset up to 20% of the property’s energy use.

https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wasgn-gaylord-national-resort-and-convention-center

Caption by Hyatt Chattanooga in Tennessee is expected to open 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

Edgewood Tahoe Resort (Lake Tahoe, NV) currently has 7,000 sf. of flexible meeting spaces, 154 rooms and suites, and 14 villa suites, but by the time renovations are completed in 2027, the 1,700-sf South Room will have expanded into a lakefront venue that accommodates up to 300 guests.

Cary, NC is getting a new seven-story, 186-room Tribute Portfolio property in the fall. Mainsail Lodging & Development, together with Ross Hotel Partners, global real estate firm Hines, and architecture and design firm BRPH, have identified the new property as The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton. The hotel will feature have signature Eastern Mediterranean restaurant Barouk (with terrace dining), lively lobby bar, all-day coffee concept, and more than 6,000 sf of event space to accommodate 200, and the cutting-edge Culinary Theatre. Designed by BRPH with bold lines, expressive interiors, and subtle nods to Cary’s history, The Pagemore will feature 186 guest rooms and suites.

https://splashsites.my.canva.site/the-pagemore-splash-page; https://www.mainsailhotels.com/

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.

In 2028

Moffitt Cancer Center, a leading National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Tampa, FL-based Mainsail Lodging & Development are partnering to bring a new 200-room, full-service hotel to Moffitt’s McKinley Campus in the summer of 2028. The $84 million project will address a longstanding need for modern, high-quality lodging near Moffitt. Data shows that Moffitt generates more than 68,000 room nights in the Tampa Bay area annually through its operations. The new hotel is projected to support nearly half of this demand. The hotel is planning to fly the flag of a major national brand, consistent with Mainsail’s award-winning portfolio, which includes properties affiliated with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection and Tribute Portfolio. Mainsail also manages Innovation Hotel, a purpose-built property on the campus of global medical device leader Arthrex in Naples, FL.

https://www.moffitt.org/; www.MainsailHotels.com

MEETING PLANNING GUIDES (FREE)

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

Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center – https://simplebooklet.com/gaylordpacificmeetingeventplanningguide#page=1

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

Pensacola Bay, FL – Insider’s Guide. Can be delivered digitally, by mail or in person. https://www.visitpensacola.com/plan-your-trip/visitors-guide-request/

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

Now thru Feb. 17: multiple Mardi Gras events throughout Pensacola, FL.

https://www.visitpensacola.com/blog/five-fun-facts-about-mardi-gras-in-pensacola/

Now thru Apr. 4 – Universal Studios Florida Mardi Gras festival (Orlando, FL)

https://www.universalorlando.com/

Feb. 20: Pensacon, the Florida Gulf Coast’s premier pop culture convention celebrating the worlds of science fiction, fantasy, horror, comic books, cosplay, animation, video games, books etc. Pensacola Bay Center, Pensacola, FL.

https://www.pensacon.com/

Mar. 3-9: Sun Belt Conference basketball tournament, marking the beginning of NCAA March Madness. Pensacola Bay Center, Pensacola, FL

https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/sun-belt-basketball-championship-games/

Mar. 14: Bahamas Hope Challenge, a community-driven fundraising event dedicated to fighting cancer across The Bahamas. Through cycling, running, and walking, The Bahamas unites people from all walks of life to raise awareness and vital funds.

https://www.bahamashopechallenge.com/

Apr. 3-4: “Stand Up, Chow Down: An Anaheim Experience” culinary and comedy festival debuts in Anaheim, CA. Comedian, actor, and podcast host Adam Ray will headline Saturday night’s performance. Pop-up comedy shows, chef-driven tastings, and exclusive entertainment moments.

https://www.donttellcomedy.com/festival/

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. Karen writes about food & wine, spas, destinations, venues, meetings & events. A career journalist, she 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.