CaribPR Wire

Leading, Global Conglomerate to Create Thousands of Jobs for Bahamians

Phased Opening Planned for Resort Beginning April 2017

TORONTO, Dec. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — In anticipation of the upcoming winter season, award-winning Memories Flamenco in Cayo Coco, Cuba has completely redesigned its beach, adding metres of pristine beachfront for guests of all ages to enjoy.   This change is the latest in a number of service upgrades designed to provide guests with an even more enjoyable vacation experience.

The beaches of Cayo Coco have been popular with vacationers for decades due to the pristine white sands and calm turquoise waters.   “We’ve been very honoured to receive accolades including the Award of Excellence from TripAdvisor® and are focused on continuous enhancements for our guests,” said Mohamad Fawzi, Senior Director of Operations for Blue Diamond Resorts, Cuba. “A brand new beachfront is an excellent way to improve guest experience.”

In addition to a redesigned beach Memories Flamenco, is updating its ranchon as the ideal place for a lunchtime buffet or afternoon snack. Poolside, the resort has a range of choices from a wading pool for small children to an activity pool so there is something for everyone. Ideal for families, the resort offers safe and supervised clubs for both infants and children, as well as a professional babysitting service for parents to enjoy an after dinner show or nightcap. Also for parents, the recently remodeled spa provides the perfect place to achieve some much needed rest and relaxation. A number of outdoor massage huts have been created in a tranquil part of the resort grounds for a massage with fresh air and the sound of crashing waves.

To book your next vacation, please contact your travel agent or visit www.memoriesresorts.com

About Memories Resorts & Spa

Memories Resorts & Spa welcome guests to “Celebrate the Moments” with family and loved ones in lush tropical settings across the Bahamas, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Memories properties provide top-notch facilities and amenities, laid-back ‘toes in the sand’ elegance with personalized service and spacious accommodations to suit the needs of each traveler.  With world-class à la carte dining, premium drinks, and day-to-evening entertainment, couples and newlyweds enjoy Memories Resorts & Spa as the ultimate romantic hideaway to create unforgettable memories.

TORONTO, Nov. 11, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — On October 27th Royalton Hicacos, a premier adults-only hotel from Royalton Luxury Resorts, was awarded for its superior quality and superb guest experience during an industry event hosted by the Cuban Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) and the Cuban-Canadian Trade and Tourism Union at the world-famous Tropicana Cabaret in Havana.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161111/438532LOGO)

“Royalton Hicacos has been adored by guests for many years and to be awarded by such a reputable agency in Cuba is an honour,” said Mohamad Fawzi, Senior Director of Operations, Blue Diamond Resorts, Cuba. “Each member of the staff at this resort is committed to delivering the highest quality of service to valued guests.”

Royalton Hicacos has enjoyed high occupancy and guest satisfaction in the years since becoming a part of Royalton Luxury Resorts. Notably, this resort is listed at the top of numerous guest-rated travel websites for its ability to provide a superior vacation experience in a region of Cuba well-known to tourists with a variety of all-inclusive options.  On TripAdvisor®, the hotel is currently ranked among the top two hotels in all of with 4.5 stars from 4,000 reviews. Recognition from Trip Advisor includes the 2014 Traveler’s Choice Award of Excellence and the 2016 TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence.

A picturesque all-inclusive resort, Royalton Hicacos brings guests an authentic oceanfront vacation experience with thatch roof buildings, and a property of bridges, small fountains and mature greenery.  This luxurious adults-only resort is a cut above other Varadero hotels with its all-inclusive resort facilities designed to create a perfect ambiance for relaxation. Guests are invited to enjoy a choice of five delicious restaurants and six bars which include a newly-renovated jazz bar and a lively XS night club.

To book your next luxury all-inclusive vacation visit www.royaltonresorts.com or contact your travel agent.

About Royalton Luxury Resorts
Epitomizing modern elegance, award winning Royalton Luxury Resorts offer All-In Luxury® vacations in some of the world’s most popular tropical destinations, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Cuba. Boasting an array of world-class all inclusive features including the premium, handcrafted DreamBed™, unlimited reservation-free luxury dining, All-In Connectivity™ with complimentary Wi-Fi and in-room long distance calling, a Sports Event Guarantee™, and more.  Many of the resorts cater equally to families and couples alike, with industry-leading supervised kids and teen activities offered at no additional cost combined with family-friendly accommodation and dining options. Royalton Luxury Resorts will expand its offering of upscale and elegant vacation experiences with the addition of five new resorts, Royalton Blue Waters on October 15, 2016 and Royalton Saint Lucia, Royalton Negril and their adults only Hideaway will open January 15, 2017.

TORONTO, Nov. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Starfish Resorts has expanded its offering of all-inclusive hotels at outstanding value with the addition of the beachfront resort, Starfish Varadero.  At this comfortable hotel, guests are invited to enjoy famous Cuban hospitality with spacious accommodations, friendly service and a wide selection of 24-hour all-inclusive amenities.

As value-based Starfish Varadero, the hotel will undergo a number of improvements that include changes to the buffet and à la carte restaurant Atenas, and make ongoing renovations to approximately 100 guestrooms. Starfish Varadero offers 411 well-appointed air-conditioned rooms and a bungalow section that is great for groups and families with connecting rooms. On the resort, multiple swimming pools and a selection of watersports, tennis courts, and fitness facilities ensure that guests of all activity levels have plenty to do. À la carte dining, an international buffet and non-stop beverage service in all five restaurants and six bars is combined with lively entertainment and friendly staff to make a perfect vacation for any group of travelers.

Younger guests can look forward to a centrally located kids club, family-oriented evening entertainment, dedicated children’s pools and more relaxed menus with dining options to suit their tastes. Parents are sure to enjoy relaxing by the expansive pool area and powdery beachfront, while watching their children sample a range of land and non-motorized water sports at no additional charge.

To book, call your travel agent or visit www.starfishresorts.com

About Starfish Resorts
Starfish Resorts is a value-based brand located on the picturesque island nation of Cuba and offers guests a beach or city-centre vacation experience. Cuba is a vibrant paradise that has over 500 kilometers of pristine white sand beaches, breath-taking surroundings, rich culture and a unique heritage. Starfish Resorts provides friendly service, spacious rooms, international culinary classics, one-of-kind entertainment, and an authentic experience for all ages. Perfect for families, couples and singles on quest for a true Cuba all-inclusive vacation, Starfish Resorts believes that you’re the star and deserve to shine bright.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161103/436055LOGO

Seaborne Airlines launched service to Antigua and Barbuda on Sunday December 13

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Dec. 14, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Plans made by Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Officials to welcome more flights from more airlines and tour operators around the world, upon completion of one of the largest and most modern airports in the Eastern Caribbean have rapidly taken off.

The Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Asot Michael, and Tourism Officials, welcomed a fourth airline into the destination, just three months after the opening of the new terminal at the V.C. Bird International Airport.

Seaborne Airlines launched its non-stop service between their hub in San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport and Antigua today with a 34 seat Saab 340 aircraft. The inaugural flight departed San Juan at 12:45 pm, and arrived into Antigua at 2:20 pm.

Seaborne Airline Officials, Mr. Hector Montanez – Director of Business Development & Marketing, Mr. Fernando Vazquez – Director of Airports, and Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Officials, Mrs. Paula Frederick-Hunte – Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Economic Development & Energy, and Ms. Shirlene Nibbs – Tourism Consultant for the Tourism Ministry were onboard the flight.

In welcoming the new carrier, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Asot Michael called Seaborne Airlines, “the largest regional operator in the Caribbean.”

“The entrance of Seaborne, provides passengers with one additional option for travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, quicker and more conveniently.

“As a regional hub, the more modern V.C. Bird International Airport, was extremely appealing and advantageous to Seaborne as they seek to expand their services throughout the wider Caribbean.”

Commenting on the inaugurals held to date, the Minister said, “Our mandate is to grow airlift and to enhance our existing strategic positioning.”

“JetBlue’s launch into Antigua and Barbuda earlier in December, and today’s arrival of Seaborne, is especially significant, due to the codeshare agreement signed between the two airlines in October. What this codeshare means to the everyday traveler is that they will be able to travel from JetBlue serviced territories in the United States, to Antigua seamlessly, with one ticket, one check-in and reliable baggage transfer.”

Seaborne’s partnership with JetBlue Airways, as well as Air Europa, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines, means that, the airline can provide connections for passengers from thirty-three other destinations in the Americas as well as in Europe, into Antigua and Barbuda.

“We are excited to introduce Antigua as the 17^th airport served by Seaborne Airlines; the fastest growing airline in the Caribbean,” said Seaborne CEO and President Gary Foss.

“I am confident that our customers throughout the region will benefit from Seaborne’s unmatched customer service commitment, low fares and connectivity to our airline partners.”

Flights from Antigua to San Juan depart at 3:05 pm and arrive at 4:40 pm.

V.C. Bird International Airport’s growing portfolio of passenger airlines maintains Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a major hub in the Eastern Caribbean.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines has been operating in the Caribbean for over 23 years, carrying approximately 3 million customers safely. With over 1,500 monthly departures to 17 airports, Seaborne serves San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, St. Thomas airport and Seaplane base, St. Croix airport and Seaplane base, Anguilla, Antigua, Tortola, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, St. Kitts, Nevis, La Romana, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo. All flights operate with two pilots and two engines under Federal Air Regulation Part 121, the strictest code of the US Federal Air Regulation governing air travel.

Schedule effective December 13, 2015

Dep. Airport   Arr. Airport   Dep. Time Arr. Time Day of Week

San Juan (SJU) Antigua (ANU)  12:45     14:20     Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun

Antigua (ANU)  San Juan (SJU) 15:05     16:40     Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun

About Antigua & Barbuda:

Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’ da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua & Barbuda comprises 108-square miles. The 365 white and pink sand beaches, one for every day of the year, are just the beginning of the treasures that await visitors. Antigua’s rich history and spectacular topography provide a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort commissioned by the British in 1755, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Betty’s Hope, built in 1674, is the site of one of the first full-scale sugar plantations on Antigua, and offers a chance to step back into time by visiting the restored mills. Another unique attraction is Devil’s Bridge, located at the eastern tip of the island in Indian Town National Park, where Atlantic breakers have carved out a natural limestone arch. Antigua boasts a varied tourism calendar including events such as the World Class Antigua Sailing Week, Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua Sports Fishing and also the annual Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Island accommodation ranges from luxury resorts and all-inclusive hotels to smaller more intimate boutique guesthouses and cottages. For information about Antigua & Barbuda visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com

CONTACT: Sandra Colon, [email protected]

CaribPR Wire, PAGET, Bermuda, Oct. 12, 2015 — Last Saturday, the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association inducted Caribbean Hotelier/Developer John Jefferis, JP into the Tourism Hall of Fame for 2015. He is one of only two persons ever to be inducted. The Tourism Hall of Fame recognises and honours those persons who have been outstanding performers in the hospitality and tourism industry and whose hard work, dedication and innovation make Trinidad and Tobago the destination of choice for tourists.

John Jefferis is the owner of Coco Reef – Bermuda, Coco Reef – Tobago and a number of other businesses in the Caribbean region, including Cuba. He started his career as a 15-year-old pot washer at a fish and chip restaurant in London. Today, he is the Chairman and sole shareholder of the Palm Reef Hotel Development Company Limited, Coco Reef Resorts Ltd, the Caribbean Construction Company, Island Resorts International Ltd and Inflite Catering, an airline catering company with operations in both Bermuda and Tobago.

Mr Jefferis, a past President and Chairman of the Bermuda Hotel Association, was the driving force behind Bermuda joining the Caribbean Hotel Association. He went on to become President of the Caribbean Hotel Association from 1996 to 1998 and Chairman from 1998 until 2000. During his presidency, Mr Jefferis visited nearly all of the Caribbean Association member Islands. During his speeches to the Island Hotel Associations his mantra was “Without a vibrant and profitable hotel industry a country can never have a successful tourism industry.”

In 2011, Mr Jefferis was appointed Deputy Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Board. He also served as Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Board’s Gaming Committee.

“We are proud to recognise John Jefferis’ 50 years of substantial and sustained contribution to leadership, service and success in the Trinidad and Tobago hospitality and tourism industry,” said Andrew Welch, President, Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association. “The Award Judging Committee acknowledges John’s contribution to the growth of Trinidad and Tobago’s hospitality and tourism sector through innovation and astute business practices.  Mr Jefferis has left a positive lasting legacy within his organisation, as well as with the people with whom he has worked.  Coco Reef Resorts has significantly contributed to the improvement and the recognition of Tobago as a tourism destination.”

Mr Jefferis studied at Birmingham University where he was awarded the Hotel and Catering Institute’s National Award for the top final year management student. As a result of the award he was able to secure an internship at the Savoy Hotel in London. He then moved to Bermuda where he was employed as Junior Assistant Manager at the Belmont Hotel. He was subsequently promoted to General Manager at Belmont and was the youngest person ever to hold that post.

Subsequently Mr Jefferis was appointed Managing Director and a member of the Board of Directors of the Elbow Beach Hotel and Development Company. During his time at Elbow Beach, the hotel’s market share and reputation increased dramatically, making it Bermuda’s most successful and profitable hotel.

Mr Jefferis was also the owner of Edgehill Manor, Roxy’s Night Club and the Palm Reef Hotel, all of which he later sold. He was the major shareholder in the Haley Corporation, which was for many years, Bermuda’s largest tour operator and source of tourists.

In 1992, Mr Jefferis commenced the design, development plans, financing, and construction of the $82 million Coco Reef – Tobago, which became one of the Caribbean’s most successful properties. A well-known leading Caribbean Tour Operator/Airline Executive stated: “Without Coco Reef, there would not be any tourism in Tobago.”

At the staff orientation meetings after the opening of Coco Reef – Tobago, the essence of Mr Jefferis’ opening remarks was: “We are in the business of theatre. My job is to spend a lot of money to create a beautiful set for our guests. You are the actors and actresses, many of you will become stars. We must always remember that we are only as good as our customers’ perception of our last performance.” His philosophy on staff recruitment was made clear by the large sign over the General Manager’s office door:  “Hire for Attitude – Train for Skills”.

In 2003, Mr Jefferis acquired the Stonington Beach Hotel situated on Bermuda’s most famous beach and underwent a $14.3 million reconstruction, renovation and refurbishment to open Coco Reef – Bermuda in 2004.

In response to his induction into the Tourism Hall of Fame, John Jefferis said: “Having devoted my career to the hospitality and tourism industry, it is an honour to be inducted into the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association Hall of Fame. Creating new and memorable experiences and continually upgrading and redesigning my hotels for our guests is my passion and I am always humbled to be recognised for doing what I love most.”

Mr Jefferis has won countless accolades and awards including:  Bermuda Hotel Association’s first “Bermuda Hotelier of the Year” in 1989, The Caribbean Hotel Association’s “Caribbean Hotelier of the Year” in 1991, Ernst and Young’s “Caribbean Entrepreneur of the Year Award” in 2000 and Caribbean World’s “Lifetime Achievement Award in Tourism and Travel” in 2008. Most recently, in 2014, he was named International Caribbean Life’s “Entrepreneur of the Year.” In addition, Coco Reef – Tobago has won the World Travel Award for the “Caribbean’s Leading Hotel” for the past 11 years.

Media Contacts:

Elizabeth Tee

Troncossi Public Relations

(441) 292-5838

[email protected]

Empresario hotelero caribeno John Jefferis es incluido en el Salón de la Fama del Turismo 2015

CaribPR Wire, PAGET, Bermudas, Oct. 13, 2015: El pasado sábado, la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad incluyó en el Salón de la Fama del Turismo 2015 al empresario/promotor hotelero caribeño John Jefferis, JP. Él es una de las dos únicas personas presentadas en la historia de este evento. El Salón de la Fama del Turismo reconoce y celebra a aquellas personas que han sobresalido en la industria de turismo y hotelería y cuyo trabajo duro, dedicación e innovación hacen de Trinidad y Tobago el destino predilecto de los turistas.

John Jefferis es dueño de Coco Reef – Bermudas, Coco Reef – Tobago y un número de otros negocios en la región del Caribe, incluyendo Cuba. Comenzó su carrera como lavaplatos a los 15 años de edad en un restaurante de pescado y papas fritas en Londres. Hoy en día, él es el presidente y único accionista de Palm Reef Hotel Development Company Limited, Coco Reef Resorts Ltd, the Caribbean Construction Company, Island Resorts International Ltd e Inflite Catering, una compañía de catering para aerolíneas que opera en Bermudas y Tobago.

El señor Jefferis, antiguo presidente y director general de la Asociación de Hoteles de Bermudas, fue la fuerza que impulsó la incorporación de Las Bermudas a la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe. Se convirtió en el presidente de la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe desde 1996 a 1998 y en director general desde 1998 hasta 2000. Durante su presidencia, el señor Jefferis visitó casi todas las islas miembros de la Asociación del Caribe. Durante sus discursos ante las Asociaciones de Hoteles de la Isla, su mantra fue “Sin una industria hotelera vibrante y lucrativa un país nunca podrá tener una industria turística exitosa”.

En 2011, el señor Jefferis fue designado subdirector general de la Junta de Turismo de Bermudas. Asimismo, se desempeñó como director general del Comité de Juegos de la Junta de Turismo de Bermudas.

“Nos sentimos orgullosos de reconocer los 50 años de contribución sustancial y sostenida de John Jefferis para con el liderazgo, servicio y éxito en la industria del turismo y hotelería de Trinidad y Tobago”, indicó Andrew Welch, presidente de la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad. “El Comité Evaluador de Galardones reconoce la contribución de John al crecimiento del sector de turismo y hotelería de Trinidad y Tobago mediante la innovación y las prácticas empresariales astutas. El señor Jefferis ha dejado un duradero y positivo legado dentro de su organización, así como con la gente con la que ha trabajado. Coco Reef Resorts ha contribuido significativamente a la mejora y el reconocimiento de Tobago como destino turístico.”

El señor Jefferis estudió en la Universidad de Birmingham donde fue galardonado con el premio nacional del Instituto de Hotelería y Catering como el mejor estudiante de administración del último año. Como resultado de este galardón, fue capaz de asegurar una pasantía en el Hotel Savoy en Londres. Luego se mudó a Bermudas donde fue empleado como gerente adjunto júnior en el Hotel Belmont. Luego fue promovido a gerente general en Belmont y fue la persona más joven en obtener ese puesto.

A continuación, el señor Jefferis fue nombrado director gerente y un miembro de la Junta de Directores de Elbow Beach Hotel and Development Company. Durante su tiempo en Elbow Beach, las acciones del mercado y la reputación del hotel incrementaron dramáticamente, haciéndolo el hotel más lucrativo y exitoso de Bermudas.

El señor Jefferis también fue dueño de Edgehill Manor, Roxy’s Night Club y el Hotel Palm Reef, los mismos que vendería después. Fue el accionista mayoritario en la Corporación Haley, que fue por muchos años el operador de tours más grande de Bermudas y su fuente más importante de turistas.

En 1992, el señor Jefferis comenzó el diseño, los planes de desarrollo, el financiamiento y la construcción de Coco Reef – Tobago de $82 millones, el mismo que se convirtió en una de las propiedades más exitosas del Caribe. Un reconocido operador turístico/ejecutivo de aerolíneas del Caribe, señaló: “Sin Coco Reef no existiría el turismo en Tobago”.

En las reuniones de orientación del personal después de la apertura de Coco Reef – Tobago, la esencia de los comentarios iniciales del señor Jefferis fue: “Estamos en el negocio del teatro. Mi trabajo es gastar mucho dinero en crear una hermosa escenografía para nuestros huéspedes. Ustedes son los actores y actrices, muchos de ustedes se convertirán en estrellas. Siempre debemos recordar que solo somos tan buenos como la percepción que nuestros clientes tengan de nuestro último desempeño”. Su filosofía sobre reclutamiento de personal quedo establecida con el gran signo sobre la puerta de la oficina del gerente general: “Contratar la actitud – Capacitar las aptitudes”.

En 2003, el señor Jefferis adquirió el Hotel Stonington Beach ubicado en la playa más famosa de Bermudas el cual experimentó una reconstrucción, renovación y remodelación de $14.3 millones para abrir como Coco Reef – Bermudas en 2004.

Como respuesta a esta introducción al Salón de la Fama del Turismo, John Jefferis dijo: “Habiendo dedicado mi carrera a la industria de la hotelería y el turismo, es un honor ser incluido en el Salón de la Fama de la Asociación de Turismo de Hoteles y Restaurantes de Trinidad. Crear nuevas y memorables experiencias y actualizar y rediseñar continuamente mis hoteles para nuestros huéspedes es mi pasión y siempre me siento honrado al ser reconocido por hacer lo que más amo”.

El señor Jefferis ha ganado innumerables premios y galardones que incluyen: el primer “Empresario Hotelero del Año en Bermudas” de la Asociación de Hoteles de Bermudas en 1989, “Empresario Hotelero del Año en el Caribe” de la Asociación de Hoteles del Caribe en 1991, el “Premio al Empresario del Año en el Caribe” de Ernst and Young en 2000 y el “Premio honorífico a toda una vida en Turismo y Viaje” de Caribbean World en 2008. Recientemente, en 2014 fue nombrado el “Empresario del Año” de International Caribbean Life. Además, Coco Reef – Tobago ganó el premio World Travel Award por el “Hotel más importante del Caribe” por los últimos 11 años.

Contactos con los medios de comunicación:
Elizabeth Tee
Troncossi Public Relations
(441) 292-5838
[email protected]

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Aug. 25, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Seaborne Airlines today issued its storm policy for customers who may be impacted by Tropical storm Erika:

Tropical storm Erika is expected to affect travel to, from and through the Caribbean in the coming days. Please check flight status frequently on seaborneairlines.com or Seaborne’s Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information about your flight plans.

Rescheduling Flights
If your flight is cancelled or significantly delayed, you are entitled to a refund. Even if your flight is not cancelled, you may make a one-time change to your ticket without any change fees if you are schedule to travel as follows. For all ticketed passengers to and from the following locations:

*The Commonwealth of Dominica, West Indies  (DOM)
*The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, West Indies (SKB and NEV)
*St. Maarten (SXM)
*Anguilla (AXA)
*Guadeloupe, French West Indies  (PTP)
*St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands (STT)
*St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands (STX)
*St. Thomas Seaplane Base, United States Virgin Islands  (SPB)
*St. Croix Seaplane Base, United States Virgin Islands (SSB)
*Tortola, British Virgin Islands (EIS)
*San Juan, Puerto Rico   (SJU)

On the following dates: August 26 – 28, 2015
and your ticket was issued no later than: August 25, 2015
You may travel: August 27 – September 3, 2015
Original inventory required? No

To change travel dates or for questions contact our Reservations personnel at
1-866-359-8784 or 787-946-7800 throughout the Caribbean. If calling from the
Dominican Republic, please call 809-200-0331.

Safety is our number one priority at Seaborne Airlines. Be Vigilant and Be Safe. You are
very important to us.

Seaborne Airlines

CONTACT: Sandra Colon, [email protected]

NASSAU, Bahamas, Aug. 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Baha Mar today stated it is gratified that the Supreme Court of The Bahamas has granted leave to appeal the Court’s decision to reject Baha Mar’s application seeking the recognition of the U.S. Chapter 11 proceedings in the Delaware Court.

About Baha Mar

Baha Mar is set on 3,000 feet of white sandy beach just 10 minutes from Nassau’s fully renovated and expanded international airport.  It will feature elite hotels with gaming, entertainment, private residences, shopping and natural attractions that reflect an authentic Bahamian experience. Amenities will include a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course; 200,000 square feet of flexible convention facilities, including a 2,000-seat entertainment venue; art galleries featuring Bahamian art; more than 40 restaurants, bars and clubs; global luxury designer and local artisan boutiques; and 20 acres of exquisitely landscaped beach and pool experiences, including a beachfront sanctuary with native Bahamian flora and fauna. For more information during this process please visit www.bmpathforward.com.

Media Contact

Kekst and Company
Jeremy Fielding/Stef Goodsell/Ross Lovern
[email protected]
+1 (212) 521-4806

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN) is pleased to announce the launch of an exciting new partnership with Seaborne Airlines. Free Wi-Fi service is now available to all Seaborne Seaplane passengers traveling between St. Croix and St. Thomas. Travelers can now experience the fastest broadband speeds in the Virgin Islands and Caribbean free of charge for personal use or business from viNGN’s hotspot locations at both Seaplane terminals. Travelers can access the Internet simply by selecting the “viNGN_Hotspot” network on their computers and mobile devices.

“We believe that the transformational power of viNGN resides in its ability to make daily life easier and more convenient for Virgin Islanders. Our partnership with Seaborne allows us to assist commuter, leisure, and other travelers to stay connected whether it is for business or pleasure…and at superfast speeds. This is the real power of technology, its ability to transform lives, and we have that power right here at home in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We thank Seaborne for this amazing opportunity to help them to transform the travel experience for its travelers. We, with the partnership of Seaborne Airlines, are moving steadily toward the Next Generation of the Virgin Islands,” said Dr. Tonjia S. Coverdale, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Virgin Islands Next Generation Network.

“Seaborne Airlines and the Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN) are both privileged to work in one of the most important and honorable undertakings – that of connecting people” said Gary Foss, President and Chief Executive Officer of Seaborne.  “Both are in businesses that ­­have shrunk the globe, brought people together, and broadened the horizons of so many.  Seaborne, through being the United States Virgin Islands largest air carrier, and viNGN as the company who brought world class, open access, high speed, 100% fiber optic broadband services to The Territory.  Both company’s missions are critical to the local economy, facilitating commerce and creating jobs.  It is with pleasure that we enter into this agreement to provide free WiFi at our St. Thomas and St. Croix Seaplane bases to approximately 100,000 Seaplane travelers annually and to work in partnership with a company having such an important role in the United States Virgin Islands,” said Foss.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines has been operating in the Caribbean for over 23 years, carrying more than 2.5 million customers safely.  With over 2,300 monthly departures to 17 airports in service or announced, Seaborne serves San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, St. Thomas’ Cyril E. King airport and Charles F. Blair Jr., Seaplane base, St. Croix’s Henry B. Rohlsen airport and Captain Svend Aage Ovesen Jr.,Seaplane base, Anguilla, Tortola, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, St. Kitts, Nevis, La Romana, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo and will launch service to island of Antigua later this year.

About VI Next Generation Network­

With viNGN’s state-of-the-art 100% fiber optic Network, Virgin Islands residents and tourists may now experience the Next Generation of technology with up to 1 Gigabits per second (Gbps) of bandwidth speed (1000 Megabits per second), a drastic improvement from the previous high of 16 Mbps that is currently offered in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

CONTACT: Sandra Colon, [email protected]

SOUTHLAKE, Texas, July 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ – Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR) has launched a new portfolio of consortia solutions to help hotels compete for high value business travelers and connect travel buyers with hotels that cater to business travelers. Sabre will feature the Business Travel Services during the 2015 GBTA Convention at booth #1425.

http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnvar/20131216/DA33636LOGO-b

Many independent and small chain hotels today find it difficult to compete for new travel agency and corporate business due to limited resources and investments compared to global hotel chains. Sabre Business Travel Services connects hotels to new business opportunities and helps them compete for and manage corporate accounts. At the same time, the solutions make it easier for travel managers and travel management companies to identify, negotiate and contract with hotels that best fit their corporate hotel programs.

“On a macro-economic level, business travel continues to be a major economic driver and the same is true on a micro-level for hotels looking to build their corporate business and serve business travelers,” said Alex Alt, president of Sabre Hospitality Solutions. “Our Business Travel Services simplify that process by helping hotels compete for valuable business travel contracts and helping corporations get the most from their travel budgets.”

According to a recent research report sponsored by Sabre and conducted by GBTA, managing supplier relationships and monitoring traveler compliance with corporate travel policies are two of the most time-consuming and important aspects of most corporate travel programs.

The new report, Travel Manager 2020 – Foundational Shifts in the Role of the Travel Manager, discusses how corporate travel managers increasingly rely on technology and data as critical tools in negotiating contracts with suppliers, identifying hard-dollar savings, and monitoring compliance.

“As hotel rates continue to climb, a corporation’s hotel spend can account for as much of the travel budget as air travel. So it’s extremely important that corporations can tie negotiated rates to booked rates to ensure travelers are being offered what was negotiated and that they track that savings throughout the year – not just during negotiation season,” continued Alt.

Sabre Business Travel Services provide the ability to integrate negotiated rate data into both the hotel’s reservation system and into the travel buyer’s online and offline booking channels to maximize savings and efficiency. The solutions portfolio builds upon Sabre’s existing Sabre Hotel RFP technology and hotel consortia program to add an elite hotel consortia tier, BT Advantage, and Global Account Management.

About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading technology provider to the global travel and tourism industry. Sabre’s software, data, mobile and distribution solutions are used by hundreds of airlines and thousands of hotel properties to manage critical operations, including passenger and guest reservations, revenue management, flight, network and crew management. Sabre also operates a leading global travel marketplace, which processes more than $110 billion of estimated travel spend annually by connecting travel buyers and suppliers. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre operates offices in approximately 60 countries around the world.

Media Contact:
Daniel Duarte
Sabre, Corporate Public Relations
[email protected]
+1 214-236-9473

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Revitalization to Restore Iconic Property as World-Class Destination

Investor Group to Significantly Upgrade Facilities through Planned Restoration

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, July 22, 2015 /PRNewswire/ – Fundamental Advisors LP (”Fundamental”), a leading alternative asset manager, today announced that along with partners León, Mayer & Co., (”León Mayer”) and Aimbridge Hospitality (”Aimbridge”), it has acquired the iconic El San Juan Resort & Casino, a Hilton Hotel from an affiliate of Blackstone.  Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

El San Juan, established in 1957, is a landmark 387-room hotel overlooking two miles of pristine beach in the Isla Verde district of San Juan, and a valued member of the Hilton Worldwide system.  It boasts an 11,000 square foot grand ballroom (second largest in San Juan), three pools, nine award-winning restaurants, 15 active bars, lounges and nightclubs, a 7,500 square-foot casino and 12 beachfront acres.  Just two miles from Puerto Rico’s international airport, the property is located in a neighborhood known for upscale boutiques, beautiful beaches and eclectic restaurants, bars, and live music venues.

Together with partners León Mayer and Aimbridge, Fundamental plans to significantly enhance the property’s offerings and revitalize the storied resort to its original splendor by capitalizing on the investor group’s expertise in the hospitality sector and experience in the region.  As part of a planned revitalization of the property, the investor group is committed to significantly upgrading the resort’s facilities through a substantial capital expenditure investment to create a true luxury lifestyle property.

“This project represents an exciting development for both future guests of El San Juan as well as the vibrant community that surrounds this historic property,” said Laurence Gottlieb, Chief Executive Officer of Fundamental.  ”Fundamental has a long history of investing in Puerto Rico and we look forward to working with our partners as we return this iconic resort to its place as a world-class destination.  With a portfolio of unique or underutilized municipal and hospitality real estate assets, we intend to leverage our expertise to ensure that El San Juan delivers an unparalleled and unforgettable experience for guests of this truly exceptional property.”

“El San Juan is truly a one-of-a-kind property.  We are excited to partner with Fundamental and Aimbridge and look forward to leveraging our team’s strong connection to the Puerto Rican market and experience in hospitality, entertainment and real estate to elevate the physical condition and guest experience at El San Juan to a level that befits its historical status as an iconic luxury lifestyle resort and entertainment property,” said Andro Nodarse-León of León Mayer.

“With our principals having formerly served as the property’s operators, Aimbridge has long appreciated the remarkable vitality of El San Juan,” said Dave Johnson, President and CEO of Aimbridge Hospitality.  “Working with Fundamental and León Mayer, we are excited to use our deep expertise in hotel management to revitalize El San Juan, a property with a truly unique character and history.”

About Fundamental Advisors

Fundamental Advisors is a leading alternative asset manager dedicated to the municipal markets.  Founded in 2007 as a private equity firm focused on revitalizing distressed assets, Fundamental invests in a range of vehicles that capitalize on the growing opportunity set in the municipal market. For more information, please visit www.fundamentaladvisorslp.com.

About León, Mayer & Co.

León Mayer is a private equity and investment banking firm based in New York City and Miami.  Andro Nodarse-León and Benjamin Mayer established the firm in 2005 after having respectively been at Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (”KKR”) and Tishman Speyer.  Leon Mayer’s private equity practice invests in corporate and real estate assets that are underperforming relative to their full potential and takes a hands-on approach to improving their operating performance.  For more information, please visit www.leonmayer.com.

About Aimbridge Hospitality

Aimbridge Hospitality is one of the nation’s largest independent hotel investment and management firms with a proven track record for delivering superior returns for its strategic partners in a variety of markets and economic cycles.  Aimbridge provides management, asset management, development, renovation and consulting services.  Based in Dallas, Texas and with development offices in Chicago, Dallas and Puerto Rico, Aimbridge currently owns and/or manages over 270 upscale, independent and branded hotels with over 36,000 rooms across the United States and the Caribbean, including such affiliations as Marriott, Hilton, Embassy Suites, Doubletree, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, Aloft, Hyatt, Wyndham, Westin and Curio.  For more information on Aimbridge Hospitality, please visit www.aimbridgehospitality.com.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxury and full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and focused-service hotels. For 95 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company’s portfolio of twelve world-class global brands is comprised of more than 4,350 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties, with more than 720,000 rooms in 94 countries and territories, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio – A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide at www.facebook.com/hiltonworldwide, www.twitter.com/hiltonworldwide, www.youtube.com/hiltonworldwide, www.flickr.com/hiltonworldwide, and www.linkedin.com/company/hilton-worldwide.

Contact
Jonathan Keehner / Julie Oakes
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
212-355-4449