Tampa Bay Resorts

Attending BBB at the Performing Arts Center

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Hey everyone...Julie here with a BBB update! I went to Business by the Bay last night at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center (soon to be known as the The David A. Straz, Jr.
Center for the Performing Arts in the Carol Morsani Hall and had an ahhhhhmmmmazing time. Waiters delivered appetizers as people sauntered around and mingled. The setting was beautiful.

The energy of so many performers and dancers and technicians all devoted to your entertainment swirls around the room and you feel as though you play a distinct part in bringing all of the effort together and landing in that one spot.

This space has an unmistakable wondrous atmosphere about it that takes your breath away. Which is why this is the perfect setting for the premier of Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure, produced by our very own Tampa Bay PAC!

It was nice to see Lovelynn from Grand Events of Florida: Creating Grand Environments for 20+ years in the for Tampa Bay Resorts, Tampa Bay Meetings and Tampa Bay Conventions. Professional event design and production, decor, lighting, A/V, entertainment, custom fabrication and sewing, stage design, live foliage.

And Louis from Nola Cafe and News Stand: Featuring a full list of signature coffees, beignets and only the most authentic New Orleans fare. Relax in the French Quarter atmosphere, listen to New Orleans jazz and blues and enjoy a cup of café au lait and beignets. And of course no event would be complete without Dianne striking a pose! This picture just HAD to be included! I'm sure it is of no surprise to you that Paul had his hand in goading her on!

With the appetizers and free drink ticket and Tampa Bay & Company's very own Jeremy Fairley on hand to help you get started with social media in your own organization I think people felt the time was certainly well spent.

If you want to come with me and have a great time the next Business by the Bay is at The Lime 915 S Howard Ave Tampa, FL 33606; Tuesday December 8th from 5 p.m. to 7p.m.

Until the next time, stay tuned for more of my updates on fun filled things to do in Tampa Bay!

Building a Bath of Hot Chocolate

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Partner Pulse

While people attend Tampa Bay Meetings at the Convention Center Tampa and stay at Tampa Bay Hotels and Tampa Bay Resorts it is always interesting to see what is happpening in other parts of the hotel industry.

Even though a specialty line through any of these brands probably will not appear in the Westshore District you should be thankful that you won't have to build a bath of hot chocolate for a customer staying here in Tampa Bay!

Hotel Building Boom Focuses On Boutique Brands

by Curt Nickisch

Lost amid the hammering the hotel industry has been taking lately, there's a building boom. Big hotel chains like Hyatt, Marriott and Starwood are rolling out lines of specialty hotels.

What most hotels call the lobby, the new W Boston hotel calls its "living room." Plunk down in one of the leather pods, and you can admire the polished granite floors by leaning back and seeing them reflected in the mirror on the ceiling. In the evening, the staff turns the lights down and the music up.

W is part of a big hotel company called Starwood. This new location is the latest in a growing trend of so-called contemporary lifestyle hotels. Hyatt's line is called Andaz, and Marriott has Edition. The idea is to lure customers bored with mainstream hotels.

W's global brand manager, Eva Ziegler, takes her job very seriously.

"We want to provide access to a world of wow," she says. "Basically, help you to escape from the fears and from the [mundanity] of everyday life, and come into a world where everything is possible."

That might sound attractive, if you can afford it. The W's room rates in Boston start at around $200. Hotel staffers wear designer outfits and no name tags, because they're just as cool as you. They'll get you anything you want — as long as it's legal.

Hot Chocolate Bath

The hotel's general manager, Bill Bunce, remembers the customer who wanted a hot chocolate bath.

"And so to get all of that ready and get it in the tub and marshmallows floating — and they wanted it hot, too, which is even more difficult to do," he says. "But we were able to do it."

Of course, it also went on the customer's bill.

"That's the other key part to it, too," says Bunce, laughing. "Whether they want to pay the price. You could tell me whatever you want. I can deliver it, but there's a price attached to it."
The Market restaurant in W Boston is part of a newly opened boutique hotel that is owned and operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
The Market restaurant at the W Boston hotel

The Market restaurant in W Boston is part of a newly opened boutique hotel that is owned and operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Reed Woodworth, a hotel industry analyst for PKF Consulting, says occupancy is down nationwide even as hotels have been cutting rates.

"It's a particularly difficult time to be opening up a luxury, high-end hotel in an economy that we've had for the past year now," he says.

Betting On The Future

But Woodworth says the hotel companies remember that before the recession, consumers were willing to pay about $80 more to stay in these newer, cooler hotels that don't feel like a chain — even though they are.

The hotel companies are betting on that demand coming back.

"W Hotels basically doesn't build hotels today for tomorrow," says Ziegler. "It builds hotels for the long term. So when the economy comes back, it also means we will own the upswing."

Woodworth says investing in new locations during a downturn can keep customers loyal and interested. But it's risky.

"It's still pretty much the wisdom in the hospitality world that this is going to be a rather slow climb out of this hole," he says. "So while they are riding the upswing as it were, it still looks to be a very gradual upswing over the next few years."

That means it could be a long time before these hotels make money. After all, people have gotten used to paying low rates for high-end hotels. It's going to take a while to convince consumers to pay the high prices they used to pay for these kinds of hotels — even with the lure of hot chocolate in the bathtub.

A New Job Opening...Yes Please

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Partner Pulse

So like everyone else I know right now, I have a few very good friends looking for work in the Tampa Bay market. It’s a scary time right now and it’s good to keep up on what jobs in the Tampa Bay Meetings market are available…especially in the Tampa, FL hospitality industry.

I check the normal online places on a regular basis for jobs at Tampa Bay Resorts or at the Convention Center Tampa but recently I came across a site that was not so expected.

Did you guys know that Tampa Bay & Company has a page that lists job openings for those of us in hospitality. It was so cool to already have jobs narrowed down and not have to search through page after page of ridiculous “work from home” scheme jobs before I got to something legitimate. There are listings from Tampa Bay Hotels and even some Tampa Bay Resorts.

There are several jobs at hotels for people with experience in sales and even jobs through the Hillsborough County Bar Association. You may be surprised by the variety of listings through Tampa Bay & Company. I knew they had a broad base of Tampa Bay Partners but I did not realize they could post jobs too.

If nothing else, add the link to your regular search and see what other Tampa Bay Hotels, Resorts or Attractions are looking to fill positions. You never know when you may find that perfect job for a good friend. Or even better…that perfect job just for you.

Dine, Drink and Dance at Zoofari! Ticket Giveaway!

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Known as one of Tampa Bay’s largest and “wildest” all-inclusive feeding frenzies in the Area, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo invites all of you food and music lovers to the 23rd annual Zoofari. The night event features all-you-can-eat food sampling from more than 60 local restaurants including but not limited to GrillSmith, Ceviche, The Melting Pot, Longhorn Steakhouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, The NoHo Bistro and so many more!

Quench your savage thirst at the open bars located in each area throughout the Zoo. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge at the Sweet Safari Station with delectable treats from the Cheesecake Factory, Chantilly Cakes, Edible Arrangements and others.

This widely recognized event isn’t just about filling up your belly with delicious food; Dance the night away to live music from six different bands including the nationally known rock band Sister Hazel on the main stage. There’s just one week left until Zoofari and Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is giving you the chance to win tickets!

Here are the rules:

You have to be a fan of the Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and Zoofari facebook pages.
Change your status to “I want to go to Zoofari at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo on Saturday, Nov. 7.” Don’t forget that facebook allows you to tag pages and profiles by adding the “@” sign in front the name. (ex.: @Zoofari, @Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo).
Answer the trivia question posted on the Zoofari facebook page.
When you’ve completed all the above tasks, let us know by leaving a comment on the Zoofari page.
Those who complete each task will be entered into a drawing to win two adult complimentary tickets to Zoofari, Saturday November 7th at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. 2 winners will be randomly selected and announced Monday, November 2.

Stay tuned for more updates on Tampa Bay area events and things to do in Tampa Bay!

It's Zoofari Time!!!

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey gang...Travis back and of course we're taking you through some very cool Tampa Bay area events! Today we are talking about an event we all look forward to each and every year - Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo's Zoofari!

Known as one of the largest and “wildest” all-inclusive food festivals in the Tampa Bay Area, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo invites food lovers to its 23rd annual Zoofari feeding frenzy.

The event features great food sampling from dozens of the Bay area’s best restaurants, open bars, the “Art Safari” wildlife art auction, and live music throughout the event. The Zoo welcomes Florida favorite Sister Hazel on the main stage, and additional artists Jason Young, Nate Najar, Alan Darcy, and The Vodkanuts in locations throughout the Zoo.

It is a fundraiser, so tickets are $75 online at LowryParkZoo.com, $80 by phone 813-935-8552 ext. 276, or $85 at the door the night of the event.

VIP/group packages are available in the “Rhino Club” with exclusive use of the beautiful Safari Lodge. Individual Rhino tickets start at $135 with group packages available. Admission tickets are all-inclusive and the event is rain or shine.

if you need more info, head over to www.lowryparkzoo.com! And keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events!

TAMPA'S DOWNTOWN OPEN HOUSE

Friday, September 25, 2009 by Convention Sales

Greetings …

Allow me to introduce myself … its Maria Watson here with my inaugural blog and I wish to extend a special thank-you and give kudos to former Tampa Bay & Company staff member Megan Marra for keeping us all abreast of the exciting happenings in Tampa Bay with her blogs. I wish her well in her endeavors as she passed along the torch to us newbie’s who will carry the torch with pride as we strive to continue bringing you the most up-to-date meetings and conventions news. :)

Now with that being said -- If you're a meeting planner and you are looking for new and interesting venues to hold board meetings and receptions, we've got GREAT news for you.

It’s no secret that The Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel, located in downtown, is offering a deal that literally no other hotel can beat and now they are having an open- house.

But this is not your standard “open house” – because the Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk has been hand selected by Sheraton Corporate office to showcase its recent renovation.

Sheraton will host a two-day open house for hundreds of meeting planners, corporate travel buyers and social event planners, September 30th -October 1st.

This event will spotlight a selection of Sheraton’s “best in class” hotels including the Le Centre Sheraton in Montreal, Sheraton Boston, Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers, Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, Sheraton Dallas Hotel, Sheraton Denver Hotel, Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel, Sheraton Seattle Hotel & Towers, Sheraton Waikiki Hotel and of course our very own Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel!!

So if you out and about Downtown Tampa between the hours of 11:00 am – 6:00 pm on September 30th - October 1st stop by for personal tours, free food, free drinks, and a chance to win gift certificates redeemable for a complimentary one night stay at any of the 900 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide!

Remember you can always check out the hotel's Web site or contact a Tampa Bay & Company sales staff member to book your next meeting at this and other Tampa Bay properties.

Thanks for stopping by and keep checking back with me for more exciting Tampa Bay Meetings news.

Peace!

Long Overdue

Wednesday, August 26, 2009 by lindsey norris

Good Morning! Lindsey's back in the blogging seat and I'm still recovering from the loss of our wonderful summer intern, Katy Williamson. Katy was an avid blogger and spent a lot of time keeping you guys up to date on the latest with the Tampa Bay film community. Her contributions to the film commission will not be forgotten and we wish Katy the best of luck as she begins her sophmore year at Florida State University.

Now onto some upcoming Tampa Bay area events...

I hope you're able to make it to Sunday's screening of My Time Will Come, a film from Ecuador, and part of the Gasparilla International Film Festival's prestigious 2009 Global Lens Film Series. The film will screen at the Tampa Pitcher Show at 2:00pm- Sunday, August 30. Tickets are only $5 at the door, but members of the Gasparilla International Film Festival may attend free. And because the parties never stop at GIFF, they invite you to join the fun and help support the 2010 festival at GIFF's Annual Benefit Party and Art Auction on September 11th from 7:00pm to 11:00pm. Some of Tampa's best and brightest artists will showcase their latest works at The Ritz in Ybor for a silent auction. Many other great prizes, including a 5-night trip to Puerto Vallerta, Mexico, will be auctioned and raffled off to support the 2010 festival.

Dont forget about the Sunscreen Film Festival's upcoming acting workshop with Lana Veenker, the casting director of Twilight, and the renowned Miami-based acting coach Marc Durso. The workshop will take place in Downtown St. Pete from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25, 2009. The program costs $125. For more info contact Harry Chittenden at harryc@harryc.net. To learn more about the Sunscreen Film Festival check out their website.

This is a bit overdue but I must say congratulations to all of the winners of this year's 48 Hour Film Project -

• Best Film : “HA” by Good Karma
• Best Directing : “Nothin’ But Treble” – Nakagawa Super Filming Camera Team
• Best Writing : “HA” by Good Karma
• Best Editing : Evan Smith for “The Perpetual Life: Kyle Cooper” by OutaFocus
• Best Actor: Nathan Cochran for “Sweaty Noche” by The Guacamanca Theatre Film Company
• Best Actress: Catey Brannan for “Foos Don’t Lie” by Team JumpCut
• Best Cinematography: Erik Curtis for “The Perpetual Life: Kyle Cooper” by OutaFocus
• Best Sound Design: “Sweaty Noche” by The Guacamanca Theatre Film Company
• Best Use of Character (Kyle or Kylie Cooper, Hypochondriac): “HA” by Good Karma
• Best Use of Prop (Mattress): “HA” by Good Karma
• Best Use of Line of Dialogue (“When you say it like that, it’s crystal clear”): “Nothin’ But Treble” by Nakagawa Super Filming Camera Team
• Best Graphics: “Bedlam” by AskStephenBell.com
• Best Special Effects: “HA” by Good Karma
• Best Musical Score: “Nothin’ But Treble” by Nakagawa Super Filming Camera Team
• Best Choreography: “Nothin’ But Treble” by Nakagawa Super Filming Camera Team
• Special Jury Award: “The Wright Way” by Studio Generic

These were some of the best films I've seen in a long time. Congratulations to everyone who participated!

On a final note, I leave you with some important information on Florida's current legislative strategy as it pertains to our statewide financial incentive. On Tuesday, September 1, 2009, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, Film Florida will host a “Legislative Launch” event at The Renaissance Vinoy Resort, 501 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The event will include a panel of industry professionals and economic experts who will engage in a dialogue about the Florida film, TV and digital media tax incentive program as it currently exists and how it may be best structured in the future for the greatest benefit of all Florida citizens. The event will be open to the public and moderated. Legislators in attendance will participate in a Q&A session with both the panel and the public who may submit questions to the moderator in writing at the event. Join us from 6:00pm-7:30pm for a reception sponsored by the St Petersburg/Clearwater Film Commission, the Tampa Bay Film Commission and Film Florida. Admission is free and includes hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar. PLEASE RSVP HERE.

Healthcare Business Exchange at the Grand Hyatt...

Monday, August 17, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Happy Monday everyone! Nancy Long here from the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay with a recap of one of our recent Tampa Bay meetings!

The economy was still top of mind for pharmaceutical and medical meeting planners who attended Hyatt Hotels and Resorts' 2009 Healthcare Business Exchange in Tampa; however, health care reform, security, and compliance issues dominated the discussions during the three-day meeting.

The annual event brought 60 planners and suppliers together from July 30 to August 1 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, to network, attend educational sessions and experience cutting edge food & beverage presentations.. The meeting kicked off with Kim D. Slocum, President of KDS Consulting and his session on “Trends Facing the Pharmaceutical Industry – Healthcare Reform and Obamaceuticals”.

The discussion included how changes in US healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry’s business model will affect meeting planners and their daily activities. On a lighter note, guests at the Healthcare Business Exchange were treated to creative and memorable food & beverage functions impacting all of the guests senses from visual appeal to scent and sound. For a black and white themed coffee break, two penguins from the Florida Aquarium made an appearance.

The function that drew the most accolades was the transformation of the Grand Hyatt’s Audubon Ballroom into a “Night in Havana”, showcasing the latin influence in our city. From a tiled fountain at the entrance to the guayabera-clothed waiters, no detail was overlooked.

The Grand Hyatt used the theming to show planners the great options available for a hotel event that combines unique theming and cuisine with cultural relevance. As the conference drew to a close, a comment was overheard “I thought Orlando and Miami were my only Florida options; after seeing Tampa, we will be back”.

Stay tuned for more Tampa Bay hotel updates us and be sure to have a great week!

Tampa Bay's Even Better on the Weekends!!

Friday, August 7, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Happy Friday fellow Tampa lovers! Jessica here with an update on some great ideas of things to do in Tampa Bay this weekend!!! Pretty sure we've got something for everyone ~

If you're in the mood for a little thrill and adventure this weekend, then take the whole family to Busch Gardens for the day! (They have a great deal for Florida residents; admission to Busch Gardens also gets you in free to Adventure Island -- two great parks, for the price of one!). Also, while you're there, be sure to check out Darren Romeo, a world-renowned magician as he performs live every night at the park! www.buschgardens.com

Maybe the kids are up for an undersea adventure, in which case they would love the Florida Aquarium (great for both the young ones and adults)! After the aquarium you could try a game of bowling or just relax with dinner in Channelside (either way, make sure you cool down with some ice cream). But don't forget about the Channelside Cinemas IMAX theatre and be sure to catch a showing of Disney's G-Force movie in 3-D!!! Check it all out @ www.channelsidebayplaza.com

Visit www.ShopInternationalPlaza.com for great deals!

Now, if you ladies are planning a girls' weekend, then I've got just the thing -- why not some Tampa Bay shopping? Between the International Plaza & Bay Street, Channelside shops, Ybor City, and Old Hyde Park Village boutiques you're sure to be busy! Make some time to enjoy a casual lunch with friends and don't forget to make an appointment at one of the many luxury salon & spas in Tampa Bay for some much needed R&R (as you primp for the evening)
www.oldhydepark.com

Visit www.Saddlebrook.com for more golf information

Gentlemen, I haven't forgetten... while the girls are off getting their massages and manicures, how about a man day? Try to golf Tampa Bay at one of the many courses such as Saddlebrooke Resort or TPC Tampa Bay. www.tpctampabay.com Once the 18 holes are complete, try some dinner at a sports bar and catch some Tampa Bay Rays baseball on the big screen (they take on the Mariners in Seattle this weekend), don't forget to order your buddy a cold one, Cheers!

Lastly, for those of you still not tired.... once the sun sets be sure to check out Tampa Bay nightlife! Whether you're headed to the Green Iguana in Ybor City or the SOHO strip in South Tampa -- you'll always find great dining, drinks, and dancing everywhere you go.
www.tboextra.com/nightlife has more great ideas!

To stay up to date on more exciting Tampa Bay events over the weekend, or to let us know what you're up to - become a fan on Facebook @ www.Facebook.com/VisitTampaBay!! That's all for now everyone, enjoy your weekend & maybe I'll see you out there in the sunshine ~

Save the Date - Zoofari at Lowry Park Zoo

Wednesday, August 5, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Travis here. We keep bringing you some great Tampa Bay area events, and things aren't changing today. Make sure you save the date for Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo's Zoofari on Sat., Nov. 7 from 7-11pm. Here's the scoop -

Known as one of the largest and “wildest” all-inclusive food festivals in the Tampa Bay Area, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo invites food lovers to its 23rd annual Zoofari feeding frenzy.

The event features great food sampling from some of the Bay area’s best restaurants, open bars, the “Art Safari” wildlife art auction, and live music throughout the event (headliner announcement coming soon).

Tickets are $75 online at LowryParkZoo.com (starting in September), $80 by phone 813-935-8552 ext. 276 (starting in October), or $85 at the door the night of the event. VIP/group packages are available in the “Rhino Club” with exclusive use of the Safari Lodge.

Individual Rhino tickets start at $135 with group packages available. Admission tickets are all-inclusive and the event is rain or shine. There's no need to search for where to eat, what to do or any other Tampa Bay entertainment because it's all right here.

So, make sure you check back in, because more details are coming about this event. Until then, keep checking in for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events.

Saddlebrook Offers Meeting Planners a Deal of a Lifetime

Thursday, June 11, 2009 by Convention Sales

The Saddlebrook Resort, located in North Tampa, is now offering meeting planners an end of the year deal that cannot be overlooked. If you book your next meeting to be held at Saddlebrook during October, November or December of this year, you get to choose your own concessions from the following list:

10% Master Account rebate
Suite upgrades for everyone
50% off Golf
4th weekend night free
Comp one-hour welcome reception
10% discount on A/V and airport transportation
50% off team building event
One free coffee break
50% attrition allowance
1 per 35 comp rooms credited to Master Account
Complimentary parking
15% discount on retail purchases and spa services for all meeting attendees

In order to enjoy these concessions, your meeting must actualize the following room nights:

25 rooms per night for 2 nights- choose 3 concessions
50 rooms per night for 2 nights- choose 6 concessions
100 rooms per night for 2 nights- choose 9 concessions
200 rooms per night and above for 2 nights- receive all 12 concessions!

Saddlebrook is an 800-room (425 suites) golf resort that offers an unlimited amount of on-site amenities to its guests. The resort sits on 480 acres of pristine land which includes two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses, an on site, full-service spa, 45 tennis courts, sports village, fitness center and Superpool. And I can't forget to mention the 34 meeting rooms totaling 95,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. This place has it all and much more, and with this fantastic deal, meeting planners have the chance to plan their meeting there under even the tightest of budgets.

Check out the resort's Web site for more information or contact a Tampa Bay & Company sales staff member to book your next meeting at this stunning property. Thanks for stopping by!

VOTE for America's Best Public Bathroom!

Wednesday, June 3, 2009 by Partner Pulse

I was amazed to learn today that there is actually a contest for the nation's best public restroom. Really? Is this serious? Yes, it is and TWO of the top ten locations are Tampa Bay & Company partners...NOVA 535 and the Tampa Theatre. I have only been in the restrooms at NOVA 535 and they are very, very nice. There are 10 individual bathroom stalls at NOVA 535 and they are all decorated beautifully. NOVA 535 is a great event venue, but is also a bar. The bathrooms are large enough to fit 10 people inside so if a bunch of girls are going to the bathroom together, they can all still fit in one of the bathrooms. I haven't seen the Tampa Theatre's restrooms, but have seen the rest of the theathre. If they are anything compared to the theatre, then they are amazing bathrooms.

NOVA 535 and the Tampa Theatre are competing against Radio City Music Hall, the Drake Hotel in Chicago and the Venetian Resort's Zeffrino Risotrante in Vegas for this prestigious award.

Please vote for our partners at www.bestrestroom.com through July 31st!

Another Congrats!!!

Friday, May 29, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Ok, Travis here with a Tampa tourism update that we just had to share. The Renaissance Tampa Hotel was named the 2008 Hotel of the Year by Marriott International, Inc. The full service, Four Diamond property was selected from 79 Renaissance managed hotels located throughout North America.

As part of this honor and for the second time in the hotel's five-year history, J.W. Marriott Jr. will be visiting the hotel this afternoon.

Hotel of the Year is based on the following criteria: leadership excellence/most improved, overall guest satisfaction, market share and financial excellence. But, we have to mention some other awards they've won too!

How about the general manager's selection as General Manager of the Year, plus the executive chef of the hotel’s companion restaurant PELAGIA Trattoria was honored as Executive Chef of the Year 2007 for Renaissance hotels and resorts worldwide.

So, congrats for a job well done.

If you know of any other recognitions we should be posting, let us know. And keep checking back for other Tampa tourism updates, as well as great Tampa Bay entertainment and other things to do in Tampa Bay.

Giving Congrats Where Congrats is Due...

Friday, May 22, 2009 by Convention Sales

Yesterday, Marriott International, Inc. honored eight employees with its J. Williard Marriott Award of Excellence. These eight people were selected from over 300,000 Marriott employees and one of them is our very own Cynthia Wheat Huddleston from the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina! Cynthia is the Director of Services at this 717-room, waterfront hotel, located in downtown Tampa Bay. Cynthia started out as a housekeeper at Marriott's Griffin Gate Resort and moved her way up through the company in her 27 years of Marriott service.

Established in 1987 in honor of the company's founder, this award is presented to Marriott employees who are nominated by their supervisors and peers for their outstanding performance and for demonstrating over a period of time the five key traits inscribed on the award medallion: achievement, character, dedication, effort and perseverance. For more information on all of the honorees, visit this Web site.

Congratulations to Cynthia for a job well done and for being nationally recognized for her hard work and dedication to her staff and hotel guests!

On My Way to Tucson...

Sunday, April 26, 2009 by jeremy fairley

Hello gang, Jerm here with an interactive travel update. This update will be different from most other updates as I am typing it from 30,000 feet in the air, as I am on my way to Tucson, Arizona for a conference put on by our technology partners Simpleview Inc. Currently we are on our way to Vegas, as that is where my layover will be. Next time I must remember to book my flights with no connectors as it seems as if I have been on this plane for about 8 hours now, and we just took off maybe a half hour ago.

The conference in Tucson, as I said earlier is put on by our friends and technology partners Simpleview. Now if you don't know who they are, let me give you a quick synopsis. They are the guys that pretty much power our entire website from a hosting perspective, as well as design SEO (search engine optimization), and a few other areas. So pretty much anything that you see new on our site or anything that I talk about with regards to new features that I want to get the word out about, then the developers and computer nerds at Simpleview had a big hand in it.

They put together an annual user conference each year to talk about the new trends in the travel industry, as well as giving you the lowdown on top secret updates within the organization with regards to the software they allow us to license in order to power the website. So while at the conference and in between sessions, I will be forced to take residence in the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa...yeah I know right...poor Jerm. Normally their are about three of us that come to this conference each year, but this go round I am the only member of our Tampa Bay team, so I will be sure to hold the fort down and soak up plenty of information.

It should be a good conference and I am looking forward to getting there and hearing what the new buzz is in our industry and ways we can help bring you more cool and interactive updates. As a matter of fact, I can pretty much guarantee you that I will launch at least one new feature while I am out here, so I suggest you pay attention to my updates!

Anyhow, thats all for now as I hope to be able to post this when I get to Vegas, and am able to steal some WiFi access from somewhere in the airport. As always, stay tuned for more updates and things to do in Tampa Bay.

p.s., I'll be blogging each day from Tucson talking about whats going on and how my day went... just because I am out of town doesn't mean you can get rid of me that easily!

Summer Travel Trend #6

Sunday, April 5, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey gang...Travis here with you Summer 2009 Travel Trend #6 from SmarterTravel.com! Here it is...

Travel Trend #6 - National Parks

Accessibility and affordability are big trends this year. With many national parks within a drive away, and also offering affordable admission and accommodations (campsites and lodges are usually much cheaper than area hotels), national parks can be a great option for budget-oriented travelers. The biggest trend I've seen so far are early-bird specials, so you'll want to act fast to take advantage of these good deals.

If you can get away in early summer, Xanterra Parks & Resorts is offering Yellowstone Summer Getaway Packages including lodging, daily breakfast, a welcome gift, and a discount card redeemable at area restaurants, gift shops, and tour operators. A two-night minimum stay is required, and rates start at $139 per person for packages at the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel from May 29 through June 17. Other deals at Xanterra's Yellowstone lodges are also available.

Shenandoah National Park's resorts and lodges have a host of accommodations packages, including "Early Bird Packages" from $104 per night through June 25, an "Explorer Package" including a bag lunch and trail maps for $128 per night for stays from April into either September or November (depending on the resort), and a "Blue Ridge Package" including breakfast and dinner from $198 for stays from April 12 through November 24.

You can search for additional promotions and special offers at your national park of choice by visiting the National Park Service website, as well as Xanterra, the lodging company for popular parks such as the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon.

Yes, not all of these lead to Tampa, but we are here to bring you the latest tourism information...so there you have it! But, keep coming back because we have more updates and trends for you!

And as always, keep checking back for more Tampa Tourism information, as well as updates about great things to do in Tampa Bay! We have some really cool events coming up, so log back in to get your Tampa bay entertainment info...and for goodness sakes, get out and enjoy the Tampa Bay weather!!!!!

Your Daily Summer 2009 Travel Trend Update...

Wednesday, April 1, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis back with your daily summer 2009 Travel Trend update from SmarterTravel.com. So, here we go...straight to you from SmarterTravel.com (and reporter Sarah Pascarella) -

Travel Trend #2 for Summer 2009 - All-Inclusive Resorts

I've been seeing a lot of deals for all-inclusive resorts this summer, and it makes sense—when you're pinching pennies, it's great to know your price for everything (accommodations, meals, and entertainment) up front, with no surprises later. All-inclusive properties also offer the ultimate in relaxation—everything is provided for you—which may be especially attractive in these high-stress times.

Vacation Outlet maintains a site exclusively for promotions at all-inclusive properties. At press time, current deals covering airfare, all-inclusive hotel, and taxes included $665 per person for four nights at the Starfish Trelawny in Falmouth, Jamaica; $779 per person for four nights at Dreams Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic; and $849 at Breezes Bahamas in Nassau. Many other packages are available; check the Vacation Outlet website for the latest offerings.

You'll also be able to find a variety of all-inclusive vacations on sale at BeachDestinations.com, CheapCaribbean.com, and PleasantHolidays.com. CheapCaribbean offers a feature where you can search by meal plan (select "All Inclusive" from the drop-down menu); other providers simply note which properties are all-inclusive in their search results.

Popular all-inclusive brands such as Beaches, Club Med, and Sandals list the latest promotions right on their own websites. Booking directly with a provider also eliminates third-party fees.

So,how many of you will be using the all-inclusive option this summer? It sounds like a great way to get it all, including these beautiful Tampa Bay area beaches, Tampa Bay dining and so much more!

Keep checking back as we bring you more travel trends for Summer 2009 over the next few days. And keep checking back for great ways to implement these trends and updates about great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Travel Trends for Summer 2009...

Tuesday, March 31, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey all you tourism lovers out there! Travis back with some fun tid bits of summer travel for you! Summer is almost here...the fun times by the pool. The walks in the park on a sunny afternoon. And even just hanging out on some of the Tampa Bay area beaches and catching some rays (which I might add is a HUGE bonus of being in Tampa Bay)!

Summer travel is a huge deal to a lot of people, including us! Well, SmarterTravel.com has just come out with the Hottest Travel Trends for Summer 2009 and we are going to bring some of those straight to you! We'll be bringing you a new trend everyday for the nex several days...So, here's some info from SmarterTravel.com, and then the first part of the list -

In 2009, everything old is new again. Travelers are being more cautious during the economic downturn, and want a summer vacation that's going to give them the best experience for their hard-earned dollars and vacation time. Family vacations, road trips, and classic destinations are popular this summer, and deals are plentiful. High supply and decreased demand has created a buyers' (i.e., travelers') market. If you can swing it, you'll be able to get a lot more for your money this year.

Travel Trend #1: Air-and-Hotel Vacation Packages

Airfare-and-hotel bundles, or vacation packages, offer great deals to some destinations this summer, such as Hawaii. "[Travelers] can get a better price on airfare because resorts are subsidizing the cost just to get people there," notes SmarterTravel Senior Editor Christine Sarkis; you may be able to find similar offers for destinations also hit hard by the recession (think Vegas, the Caribbean, and the like). Online travel agencies (OTA) such as Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity have plentiful offers to a wide variety of destinations. While the OTAs are often the first places travelers look for such vacation types, you may also want to check your preferred airline for packages, as many carriers now have comparable offers for airfare-and-hotel deals.

For example, popular low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines has a robust vacation package subsidiary, Southwest Vacations. Its current Wanna Get Away? promotion offers a range of discounts, including up to $114 in savings on vacations from Detroit to Ft. Lauderdale; up to $108 off packages from Long Island/Islip to Orange County, California; and up to $100 off vacations from San Francisco to Orlando, among many other city pairs. Book your vacation package by April 6 and travel through August 14. You can also check other carriers for their latest deals, including AAVacations, JetBlue Getaways, and United Vacations.

There's also a fee-elimination and travel-protection war currently going on among the major OTAs and Priceline, but only for a limited time. Read our recent blog to learn how you can save up to $600 on vacation package bookings through June 1.

And there you have it folks...but be sure to keep checking back as we bring you more travel trends for Summer 2009 over the next few days. And keep checking back for great ways to implement these trends and updates about great things to do in Tampa Bay! From Tampa Bay area events to where to eat, what to do and ways to enjoy your summertime in Tampa!

Transition in to golf with the Transitions Championship

Friday, March 13, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey Gang...we'll be bringing you more about the Transitions Championship taking place through this weekend at the famed Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club. Just to give you a quick blurb about the tournament itself, here we go -

The March 16-22, 2009 Transitions Championship, which each year brings the top names on the PGA Tour to the Tampa Bay area, is played on the famed Copperhead Course at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club, located at 36750 US Hwy. 19 N. in Palm Harbor, 34684. Proceeds from the tournament benefit over 150 local charities. In the last 32 years, the total contributions exceed $23 million.

Ok, now that we've given you that info, let's talk about College weekend!!! March 21 and 22 is College Weekend at the Transitions Championship. All college students with valid student ID can purchase admission tickets for half price...tickets are regularly $40.

The student offer is available at the Tournament Will Call Office located outside the Copperhead Course in Lot #1. The lot is accessed from Belcher Road, just south of Klosterman. Best access is by taking Klosterman from U.S. 19 N to Belcher and turning left on Belcher, then right into lot.

And there you go...some of the best Tampa Bay entertainment you'll find! If you want more information about the tournament, call 727-942-5566 or visit www.transitionschampionship.com.

And keep checking back here as we bring you more updates about this events, as well as other great things to do in Tampa Bay so you can enjoy this amazing Tampa Bay weather!

Hosting the Super Bowl Gets Tampa Tremendous Exposure!

Tuesday, January 27, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey Everyone! Along with hosting a Super Bowl comes a TON of media exposure for the host city. Check out this GREAT story that the Boston Globe recently ran about Tampa Bay hosting the Super Bowl! It's a great destination article that represents Tampa wonderfully!

Boston Globe story:

In the imagination of Super Bowl marketers lives a place called Tampa Bay.

In reality, the blue expanse is Florida's largest open-water estuary, whose five bridges connect a lively, at times fractious bunch of sun-washed cities and towns. Take the cultural textures and working-port ethos of Tampa, add the wide streets and casual glam of St. Petersburg, and mix with 12 densely packed, barrier island beach colonies strung along Gulf Boulevard for 26 miles - now, where did you say you were staying for the big game on Feb. 1?

Recently we checked into a boutique hotel bargain, the mission-styled Ponce de Leon, a short stroll from St. Petersburg's Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club. With leafy pocket parks, elegant museums, and enough brick streets to fill a dozen Beacon Hills, this is a city to love.

For the rest of this story, click on this link: http://www.boston.com/travel/getaways/us/florida/articles/2009/01/25/come_for_the_game_stay_for_the_fun_in_the_cities_by_the_bay/?page=1

Happy Reading!
~Cheers!