WHY IT RATES: Hyatt announced the expansion of its Apple Leisure Group brands with the conversion of five all-inclusive resorts in Bulgaria, ideally situated along the Black Sea coast, a popular vacation spot among key European markets. — Laurie Baratti Hyatt Hotels Corporation today announced plans to expand Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection – a new global portfolio of distinct luxury all-inclusive resort brands – with five all-inclusive resorts in Bulgaria. Less than one year since the acquisition of Apple Leisure Group, a leading resort brand management platform, Hyatt continues to strengthen its leadership position in the luxury all-inclusive category. The planned expansion further demonstrates the strength and reputation of Hyatt’s all-inclusive brands as they grow in new markets outside of the Americas to attract diverse groups of travelers seeking immersive all-inclusive resort experiences.Expected to open in 2023 and 2024, the all-inclusive resorts will be managed by Terra Tour Service EOOD and are expected to rebrand to the Secrets Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas and Alua Hotels & Resorts brands following significant renovations. The planned addition of the five beachfront resorts represents the latest milestone in Hyatt’s intentional global brand expansion and will mark the Inclusive Collection’s entry into a third European country, following existing brand presence in Spain and Greece. Trending Now "The planned addition of these new properties adds to the considerable momentum of our brands in European destinations,” said Jaime de la Mata, SVP of Business Development for EAME at ALG. “These five distinct resorts will expand our brands into the largest leisure destination in the Black Sea that has become very popular for travelers from key markets including the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Czech Republic.” For more information, visit www.algdevelopment.com.Located in Sunny Beach and Obzor along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, the five all-inclusive resorts will boast a prime location on the Black Sea, bringing the Secrets Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas and Alua Hotels & Resorts brand experiences to one of Europe’s top beach destinations.Following renovations, four of the properties are set to open under their new brands in summer 2023, with the fifth resort expected to open in 2024. The properties include:Secrets Resort & Spa – Located in the Sunny Beach area, the 335-room resort will continue operating as an adults-only following a rebrand and renovation project.Dreams Resort & Spa – Located adjacent to the Secrets Resort & Spa, the 597-room property will cater to the high-end family-friendly segment.AluaSun – The 191-room hotel, located in the peaceful seaside town of Obzor, will offer an all-inclusive product equipped with superb outdoor facilities.Alua Resort – Also located in Obzor, the resort will offer 318 rooms and an ideal environment for families, couples and groups seeking a vacation in a relaxed and exclusive atmosphere.Breathless Resort & Spa – Located in the center of Sunny Beach, the 395-room resort will reopen under an extensive renovation project expected to be completed in 2024."We are thrilled to help bring Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection brands to Bulgaria and further position the Black Sea coast as an attractive holiday destination with ever-growing popularity. This also represents an opportunity to present a superior quality of all-inclusive product to the discerning traveler. We are pleased to be working with a knowledgeable and innovative collaborator to support the further development of our properties in the country,” said Lachezar Todorov, CEO of Terra Tour Service EOOD.“Terra Tour Service and Hyatt have been successfully collaborating since the opening of Hyatt Regency Sofia in 2020. We are pleased to work with them on the conversion of these five distinct Black Sea properties and bring the Inclusive Collection to guests, World of Hyatt members and customers,” said Takuya Aoyama, Vice President of Development, EAME, Hyatt. “We are confident that this new chapter of our relationship will help to further strengthen Bulgaria’s position as a quality holiday destination.”World of Hyatt members can now enjoy program benefits, including earning and redeeming points, at must-visit Inclusive Collection resorts in destinations like Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, and the Caribbean. Inclusive Collection resorts in Europe are expected to begin participating in the World of Hyatt by year-end. For more information, visit algdevelopment.com.SOURCE: Hyatt Hotels Corporation press release. Adblock test (Why?)

Las Vegas. Sin City. The Gambling Capital of the World. The Entertainment Capital of the World. So many nicknames, and so many stories.When tourists talk about the city, many are referring to life on the Las Vegas Strip. While there's always something to do on the city's main line to the most recognizable sights, it must be said that Vegas has equal amounts of entertainment away from the strip. You just have to know where to go.ADVERTISINGThis is where Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino comes into play. Located a short monorail ride from the strip (and adjacent to the Las Vegas Convention Center), Westgate offers the tourist experience while also providing high-quality service through a myriad of accommodations. From a first-class casino to well-respected restaurants and everything in between, Westgate scores big from top to bottom. A quick history lesson about Westgate: It opened in 1969 as the International Hotel. Many locals knew the resort as the Las Vegas Hilton. With 2,900-plus rooms, it was identified as the largest hotel in the world in the 1980s and early 1990s. What's great about the Westgate is that you'd never know the facility is over 50 years old. The building is well-kept, and it successfully balances new-age technological changes with maintaining some of the original decor that makes it a must-see.Any Elvis fans out there? Elvis Presley's legacy is throughout the Westgate campus. He often resided in a suite on the 30th floor -- once called the Imperial Suite but renamed the Elvis Presley Suite after his death. Elvis also has an inside statue near the front of the hotel.Westgate recently hosted a "Bet on Boys Weekend" tour, which allowed a handful of individuals to tour the campus, eat at several revered restaurants, lounge by the pool, take in shows, learn the art of gaming and drink (and learn how to make) some of the finest cocktails. The resort partnered with The Zimmerman Agency for the three-day presentation. A view of the Westgate sign and parts of downtown Las Vegas from one of the suites. (Photo via Damon Sayles) Fine Dining PersonifiedThe press tour included stops at three magnificent restaurants: Edge Steakhouse, Fresco Italiano and Benihana. Westgate houses other restaurants that also have earned accolades from a variety of sources.Edge is extremely popular for so many reasons. The service was excellent, the food delicious, and the ambiance was amazing. Edge features prime cuts, as well as domestic Wagyu beef. It has one of the most succulent filet mignons I've ever eaten. And for all of the Elvis fans, there's a specific room in the facility where he always privately dined.Fresco Italiano takes you to the heart of Italy with its culinary creations ranging from osso buco to bone-in veal chop parmigiana. It is considered the No. 1 rated Italian restaurant in Las Vegas. Part of that is because of the outstanding service. A special tip of the hat to Michael Baker, who is one of the greatest servers anyone could ever meet -- and I mean that with all sincerity. If you weren't in a good mood when you arrived, you'll be in a great mood when you leave.Benihana is a world-famous chain with its Japanese menu and food preparation performances by its skilled chefs, but a trip to the restaurant on the Westgate campus is one consumers will never forget. The massive two-story establishment with features a beautiful, intimate setting to go along with a stellar array of food options.Song and Dance for All Members of the "Soul of Motown" pose after a Saturday show at Westgate Cabaret. (Photo via Damon Sayles) Westgate features a variety of shows, and if you enjoy good music, two shows set the bar at the Westgate Cabaret, a 400-seat pavilion. "The Bronx Wanderers" satisfies the rock and roll genre from multiple generations. "Soul of Motown" honors the many legends from the iconic Motown era.The Bronx Wanderers is a family band led by Vinny Sr., a former record producer and label executive. He and his son, Vincent John, team up with John's childhood friends Fernando Tort, Michael Benigno and Joe Bari to provide high-energy covers for some of the most well-known tracks of the 1960s and beyond. They all represent the Bronx, New York, well and showcase their talents by playing multiple instruments.Soul of Motown is a tribute with a twist. The songs of Motown are captured by the soulful stylings of husband-wife tandem Brandon Godfrey and Sean Stewart Godfrey, as well as the super-smooth duo of crooners C.J. Williams and Mo "Big Sexy" Crosby. The group delivered an electric performance that included pitch-perfect harmony (Williams showed a range from countertenor to bass), exceptional choreography and, most importantly, plenty of audience participation.Visiting the International Theatre The performer's view of the audience from the International Theatre (Photo via Damon Sayles) The International Theatre is Westgate's main entertainment venue. Since 1969, the biggest stars -- singers, comedians and musicians -- would perform up to two shows a day for a residency.Trivia: Name the first superstar to perform at the International Theatre. If you guessed Elvis, you're wrong. While he was the second performer, Barbara Streisand is the correct answer. James Brown, Perry Como, Danny Kaye, Don Ho and Louis Armstrong are among the many who also performed at the historic venue.Since 2018, Barry Manilow has hosted a residency at the International Theatre, which seats roughly 1,600. Manilow's "The Hits Come Home" is a must-see for music lovers of all ages. Fifty top-40 hits and 85 million albums sold (and counting) don't lie. Copa Bar - One of the backstage lounge areas for performers at The International Theatre at Westgate (Photo via Damon Sayles) Suites, Villas and AmenitiesThe multiple suites and villas at Westgate are easy on the eyes -- and also come in a variety of styles. From a view of themed suites, there are several rooms that can be pleasing to consumers at first glance.Among the many choices are the Silver Suite, the Bedroom Suite and the Santa Fe Suite. Las Vegas Raiders fans would enjoy the layout of the Silver Suite, a room with a silver and black theme designed to resemble the sports fan's cozy getaway. A look at the Bedroom Suite gives immediate vibes of the most sultry boudoir -- including the circular bed. The Santa Fe Suite will win over a lot of people with its Western vibe. Think of the TV series "Yellowstone."While at the Mediterranean Villa, a 5,000-square-foot suite that has hosted many famous guests, the "Bet on Boys" group was treated to a cocktail reception that featured Buffalo Trace bourbon tasting. The villa is on the 29th floor, which is accessible only by way of a special room-key entrance.Looking to swim? Westgate has a five-acre pool deck. Wanting other ways to relax? The resort features six tennis courts (pickleball also is available for those inquiring), a 10,000-square-foot spa and a fitness center. And, of course, there's gambling: Nearly 55,000 square feet of space and opportunity to win. The SuperBook, Westgate's race and sports book, is billed as the largest in the world. A view of Westgate SuperBook, the largest race and sports book in the world. (Photo via Damon Sayles) Westgate's website says its highest priority is "providing the ultimate guest experience and customer service to guests." From customer service to amenities and activities, Westgate checks all of the boxes. And it does so as a 53-year-old hotel constantly and successfully adapting to modern design and technology. Adblock test (Why?)

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort unveiled a new room category, Enclave, making it the first Hilton all-inclusive to offer that category.The Enclave room category provides guests with such amenities as the Enclave Lounge, which provides private check-in experiences; private beach areas and a private pool with lounge chair seating; concierge services; breakfast, lunch and dinner options along with a limited menu in the lounge throughout the day; and wellness and fitness activities available exclusively for Enclave guests.ADVERTISINGMORE Hotel & Resort Enclave guestrooms are set in the property’s most enviable location, Casa 1. Rooms feature a souvenir beach bag, a welcome amenity gift and an “upgraded minibar and coffee brewing experience,” resort officials said.“We are elated to be the first all-inclusive resort to offer Enclave by Hilton,” said Santiago Rivera, the property’s managing director.“From the moment they arrive, guests will enjoy exclusive service and a new level of privacy while on property.“It is an exciting time to unveil these new offerings, which align with our deep-rooted commitment to redefining the all-inclusive experience.”The resort opened earlier this year.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. Adblock test (Why?)

Marriott Bonvoy launched its new Unlimited Bonus Points Global Promotion event, with the opportunity for Marriott Bonvoy members to earn 2,000 bonus points for members on each eligible stay beginning September 7 and ending December 1, 2022, for travel between September 21 through December 15, 2022.Members must register before December 1 to earn the bonus points. Stays must be any number of consecutive nights spent at the same hotel.ADVERTISING Trending Now In addition, Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card holders can earn an additional 2,000 bonus points per stay during the promotion earning period across different hotel brands, with the ability to earn up to 4,000 bonus points per stay.Stays at Homes & Villas by Marriott International, Marriott Executive Apartments, owner-occupied weeks at Marriott Vacation Club, Marriott Grand Residence Club, Sheraton Vacation Club, Westin Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club, St. Regis Residence Club and Luxury Collection Residence Club are not eligible for the promotion.Bonus points can be redeemed for stays at over 8,100 hotels, 30 all-inclusive resorts and over 76,000 premium and luxury home rental programs, as well as Marriott Bonvoy Moments, like flights, car rentals and other travel experiences.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. Adblock test (Why?)

The 267-room JW Marriott Dallas Arts District – the first JW Marriott to debut in the city – is slated to open in spring 2023.The property, which is owned and being developed by the Sam Moon Group, will span 23 floors.ADVERTISINGIt will feature an entry lobby on the ground level, with express elevators transporting guests to the reception and Sky Lobby on the 11th floor. Trending Now The hotel will be equipped with three restaurants, a lobby and cocktail lounge, meeting and conference areas, a ballroom and a fitness center.“The showstopper is a sensuous mid-air pool and deck with 40-foot ceilings, terrace bar, cabanas and outdoor event space offering prime views of the downtown area and beyond,” hotel officials said.The property is set one block from the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center and Crow Museum of Asian Arts.“This hotel will be the new destination for luxury in the heart of the Downtown Dallas Arts District,” said Daniel Moon vice president and general counsel of the Sam Moon Development Group.“Inspired by the simple beauty of the natural world, our hotel is created to stimulate memorable experiences crafted by inspiring design, authenticity and a humble approach to luxury.”JW Marriott is Marriott International’s upscale brand, whose name pays tribute to the company’s founder J.W. Marriott, Sr.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter. Adblock test (Why?)

If seeing your friend’s social media posts about their Labor Day travels has you feeling a little blue, Club Med is here to help remedy the situation. The pioneer in the all-inclusive industry, Club Med has launched its “Your Wanderlust Awaits” sale.Travelers can book now through November 1, 2022, with travel dates starting as early as September 24, 2022, and going through May 5, 2023. The “Your Wanderlust Awaits” sale will save visitors up to 45 percent when they bundle their vacation with airfare – resulting in holidays with room rates as low as $135pp/night at participating resorts.ADVERTISING Trending Now Other benefits from the sale include children under four stay for free, no single supplement and when packaging the resort and airfare in one, visitors can save 10 percent and receive free airport transfers.Club Med is committed to the safety of its guests and offers an Emergency Assistance Program for anyone traveling between now and December 31, 2023, that covers emergency medical expenses – even those related to COVID-19. They also offer a Flexible Cancellation Policy where guests are able to cancel for a full refund prior to 61 days of their stay.Participating resorts include: Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Club Med Cancún, Mexico; Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic; Club Med Québec, Canada; Club Med Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico; Club Med Columbus, Bahamas; Club Med Turkoise, Turks and Caicos; Club Med Caravelle, Guadeloupe, French Caribbean; and Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek, Martinique, French Caribbean. Adblock test (Why?)

Club Med this weekend confirmed the rumors and speculation that swirled for months – it is selling its Club Med Sandpiper Bay property in Port St. Lucie on Florida’s east coast, roughly halfway between Daytona and Miami.According to a release, the new owners are Altitude International Holdings, Inc., a development and hospitality group which plans to turn the property into a hotel and sports academy.ADVERTISING Trending Now Altitude International takes over on Monday, September 5. Club Med Sandpiper Bay has existed for more than 40 years and has often been referred to as "the local Club Med" since it draws so many nearby families.“We’re incredibly grateful to the loyal travel advisor community that significantly contributed to the success of Club Med Sandpiper Bay. We look forward to continuing that relationship as they introduce clients to our global portfolio of resorts,” Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean, said in a statement. “As the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept for more than 70 years, we will continue to develop new destinations across the globe, including here in North America.”Travel Advisors whose clients are currently booked for a Club Med Sandpiper Bay vacation following the September 5 closing date will be contacted by a member of the Club Med Sales team. Clients will have the option to either revise the dates of their stay, apply their reservation to another Club Med resort, request a future travel credit, or request a refund for the amount already paid on their stay.The closing of Sandpiper Bay has been rumored for months. WPSF, an ABC TV affiliate in Florida, reported in July that Club Med sent official notification to the city of Port St. Lucie and officials at the state level in Tallahassee that it planned to close Sandpiper Bay and terminate 225 employees."It's heartbreaking to see Club Med moving its operations out of Port St. Lucie, and our hearts go out to its employees. Club Med Sandpiper Bay's all-inclusive resort was a one-of-a-kind family destination, and we are proud Club Med called Port St. Lucie home for so long,” Port St. Lucie Mayor Shannon Martin said in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming the new owners, Altitude International Holdings, Inc., which has a 40-year history of developing performance academies and operating in hospitality." Adblock test (Why?)

[unable to retrieve full-text content]Luxury All Inclusive Labor Day Sale

Grupo Xcaret was recognized at the closing ceremony of the first World Tourism Trends Summit (WTTS) in Mexico, promoted by FETUR Nacional, receiving the Business Innovation Tourism Award for the remarkable transformation of its digital ecosystem to promote its tourism services.Grupo Xcaret equipped its digital platform with the highest levels of technology to provide its customers with the best secure and reliable shopping experiences on its official digital channels.ADVERTISINGMORE Hotel & Resort In this first edition of the WTTS, an event was promoted in a three-day space by FETUR Nacional. The Business Innovation Tourism Award was granted to Grupo Xcaret, thanks to the collaboration between the committee of specialists and digital strategists formed by FETUR, who verified compliance with all the guidelines for the decision to recognize the group with this award, which was given for the first time in Mexico.For over a decade, Grupo Xcaret has developed strategies based on best practices and international trends in the digital ecosystem. The company continuously seeks to improve the user experience in its official sales channels and in digital marketing, usage monitoring and brand reputation, social networks, and customer service. And also through strategic alliances with key partners in the digital ecosystem. (photo courtesy of Grupo Xcaret) Obtaining this award provides greater confidence and security for the experience of visitors to Grupo Xcaret, which has a consistent policy of creating and strengthening a culture of awareness for safe shopping, as well as combating the misuse of its brands, logos, and image, through the application of cutting-edge technology.The award was presented in the presence of the Secretary of Tourism of Quintana Roo, Bernardo Cueto Riestra, and authorities of Cozumel Tourism and tourism entrepreneurs, Architect Miguel Quintana Pali, Founding Partner of Grupo Xcaret, who attended this gala accompanied by his wife and received the recognition from Margarita Carbajal, President of FETUR and Alejandro Salazar, LATAM sales director of Sojern.For the latest travel news, updates and deals, be sure to subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter here. Adblock test (Why?)

Travelers looking to explore a lesser-known Caribbean coastline should head to Sandals Grande Antigua. The resort has been voted one of the World's Most Romantic Resorts year after year and is an adults-only paradise perched on Dickenson Bay in St. John's, Antigua. ADVERTISINGThe seaside garden oasis features meandering pathways wandering through gardens, majestic palms and cooling trade winds. The property is chic and sophisticated with a European flair and extends from the hillside to the water, offering guests villas-by-the-sea at the six-star, all-suite Mediterranean Oceanview Village. Guests can choose from rooms in a variety of categories from the Love Nest Butler Suites to Butler Elite Level rooms, Club Level and Sandals Luxury. Some rooms feature private pools and some offer patios or balconies, views of the ocean or tropical gardens. Bayside Restaurant, Sandals Grande Antigua (photo courtesy Sandals) At Sandals Grande Antigua, there are a number of five-star global gourmet restaurants to tantalize the tastebuds. Those looking for a culinary adventure can sink their teeth into a wide variety of cuisines at the 11 on-property restaurants. These include the Bayside Restaurant, where couples can indulge their palates on seafood favorites such as Mahi Mahi and salmon or flank steak and Cornish game hen while sitting by the sea. Lovers of Italian food can swing by Marios and Pan-Caribbean cuisine is on the menu at Eleanor's. Maritime delights abound at Barefoot by the Sea and Kimonos serves a variety of Asian flavors. The Drunken Duck is a charming recreation of the popular British pub. Guests can stop in for all their pub faves, shepherd's pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash and more served alongside a wide-ranging selection of ales, lagers and stouts as well as wine and spirits. Other restaurants include the OK Corral for Tex-Mex, Soy Sushi Bar, the Courtyard Bistro, Bella Napoli pizzeria and Cafe Paris. Couples looking for adventure will not only love the variety of included cuisines but included activities. One of the highlights of the resort is its included PADI certification classes. Sandals offers one of the most comprehensive scuba-diving programs. There are also a variety a number of other watersports available to guests. Head out for a catamaran sail, paddle out in canoes or kayaks, try windsurfing or go stand-up paddle boarding and, of course, there's snorkeling in the crystal blue waters filled with sea life. On land, visitors can play tennis, volleyball, croquet and table tennis, too.No one throws a party like Sandals and it's no different at this secluded paradise. Guests will enjoy talent nights, live music, live shows, beach parties, karaoke and more. There is also a piano bar, a Carnival night, a game night, a casino night and a special Antigua night. For those who want to continue to meet their health goals while traveling, there is a fitness center with classes and state-of-the-art equipment. After all the action, couples can unwind in the Red Lane Spa where they can try out a West Indian massage, or a body exfoliation with pure island sand. For more information, visit Sandals. Adblock test (Why?)