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BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- , part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, unveils the global rollout of the newest season of , an editorial-documentary series revealing the spontaneous moments that can only occur across the brand's expansive global portfolio and enticing guests to "next time, be there."

After debuting at the brand's newly transformed global flagship with Chloë Sevigny last year, this season expands across four continents and spotlights five creative forces: multi-hyphenate artist & performer , culinary creative , model and presenter , multidisciplinary artist , and multi-hyphenate artist . Hotel Tales is a cinematic series that captures the unpredictable energy and authenticity of a stay at W Hotels. Each story reveals spontaneous moments – where bold design, unexpected encounters, and playful twists blur the line between reality and performance. These are the experiences that transform an ordinary stay into something unforgettable, celebrating the vibrant spirit that defines W Hotels.

  • At the newly transformed , takes the lead in "The Masked Chase," a playful, cinematic escapade where he recounts the time when his iconic mask mysteriously goes missing before soundcheck. What follows is a high-energy pursuit through the hotel, until the chase concludes in signature W Hotels style: the mask is returned on a silver platter with a handwritten note, "Thought you might need this. - W Insiders."
  • In Hungary, British model and presenter  stars in "Missed Postcards" a design driven whirlwind where a day meant for sightseeing was transformed into an irresistible immersion inside . A whispered recommendation for the brand's signature AWAY Spa, winding staircases with terrazzo-lined corridors, and a velvet-glow dinner at Le Petit Beefbar all conspired to seduce her away from her original plans. "I went back to my suite after an iconic day of surprises," she shares. "The hotel had stolen the show."
  • While visiting the newly unveiled , British chef and model Isaac Carew tells the story of how he blurred the boundary between guest and gourmand. He set out to balance creativity, culinary inspiration, and his love of Italian cooking, but what began as a simple search for inspiration becomes a behind-the-scenes invitation into the hotel's culinary world: impromptu pasta tastings at the hotel's contemporary Italian food concept Tratto, animated conversations with chefs, and unexpected discoveries from the "Off Menu" repertoire.
  • Multidisciplinary artist  stars in "Writer's Block, Unblocked," an experience that transforms creative frustration into unexpected inspiration. She arrived determined to draft her next piece, but the hypnotic energy at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi pulled her in new directions. Sun-drenched lounges and skyline-framed pools to late-night conversations and design-soaked corners, every space sparked unexpected clarity. Each encounter nudged her further from her notebook and deeper into the city-meets-desert rhythm of the hotel. By nightfall, her writer's block evaporated, replaced by a story she could only have unlocked at W Hotels.
  • At W Macau – Studio City, multi-hyphenate artist recounts when a simple joke turned into a quintessential Whatever/Whenever moment in "A New Stage". After teased by his crew about cooking for them, a handwritten note slid under the door, inviting him to a private kitchen where a chef was waiting. Ingredients were prepped, the team gathered, and Kenny found himself crafting a scene that was entirely his own. "I finally wasn't playing someone else's story," he reflects. "I was being whoever I wanted to be. You had to be there."

"At W Hotels, every hotel is a stage for stories that could only happen here," says George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, W Hotels. "From New York to Dubai, Macau to Florence, and beyond, our locations have sparked the bold, unscripted moments that define us; those fun, unexpected experiences you can't wait to share with others. Hotel Tales is our playful way of capturing that spirit: the creativity, spontaneity, and expressive energy that have always been at the heart of W Hotels while highlighting our newest and transformed hotels worldwide."

Born from the social electricity of New York City, W Hotels has shaped the trajectory of luxury lifestyle hospitality since 1998. The continued expansion of Hotel Tales reflects the brand's global evolution, blending provocative design, passion-driven programming, and a liberated approach to luxury for a new generation of travelers.

The latest season of Hotel Tales has been rolling out across the brand's digital channels, including , TikTok, YouTube, and the brand's editorial platform, The Angle. Audiences can explore more than 70 W Hotels destinations worldwide at whotels.com, uncovering moments and stories that make viewers say, 'you just had to be there,' while crafting their own hotel tale worth saying, 'you just had to be there' for."

New stories are set to debut in 2026, inviting audiences everywhere to embrace the unexpected and to plan their next adventure – because "next time, be there."

 
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Phoenix, Arizona (December 15, 2025) –  announced today that its Board of Directors has elected Viral (Victor) Patel as Board Chairperson for 2026. With over 25 years of industry experience, Patel will bring invaluable insights to the role. The Board also elected Rajesh Patel as Vice-Chairperson and Santosh Khanjee as Secretary-Treasurer and welcomed Rebecca Driggs as a new Board Member.

 

“I am thrilled to announce Victor Patel as our new Board Chairperson,” said Larry Cuculic, President and CEO of BWH Hotels. “Victor is a trusted leader whose guidance will be critical as BWH Hotels embarks on a transformational year, enhancing the customer journey through digital innovation, refreshing our loyalty programs and equipping hoteliers to deliver unforgettable stays.”

 

At just 26 years old, Patel became the owner of the Best Western Corbin Inn in Corbin, Kentucky, a property which he still owns today. Under his stewardship, the hotel has earned several accolades, including the renowned Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 10 times.

 

“I’m honored to serve as Board Chair of BWH Hotels,” said Patel. “Alongside our incredible leadership team and fellow Directors, I’m excited to help shape the future of our company—delivering hospitality that makes every guest feel truly welcome and creating lasting impact for our hoteliers and the communities we serve.”

Outside of his support for BWH Hotels, Patel has also served as Board Chairman for the Corbin Tourism & Convention Commission, was the first hotelier to chair the Kentucky Travel Industry Association and has served as an ambassador for the Asian American Hotel Owners Association. He holds a degree in Psychology and Pre-Law from Penn State University and resides in London, Kentucky, with his wife, Sejal, and their two daughters. 

 
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Vancouver, BC (December 17, 2025) – is pleased to welcome its newest partner, , a reimagined wellness sanctuary that brings contemporary luxury and holistic rejuvenation to one of the city’s most treasured historic landmarks. Now open, Spa Soleá invites guests to experience an extraordinary new level of relaxation and renewal in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

Nestled within the storied walls of the ‘Castle in the City’, Spa Soleá spans 6,000 square feet of fully renovated, thoughtfully crafted space. Serene tones, organic textures, and natural finishes come together to create an environment inspired by the tranquility of the Pacific Northwest for an atmosphere of calm connection, and elevated comfort.

The spa offers a curated menu designed to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Within its eleven tranquil treatment rooms, guests can immerse themselves in signature experiences such as the Lavender Cocoon Wrap and the Coastal Stone Massage. Coming soon, the Hammam Skin Ritual offers a deeply restorative ceremony rooted in tradition Middle Eastern bathing culture. Each offering artfully combines ancient wellness traditions with modern technique for a truly transformative experience. All treatments include access to the infrared sauna, steam room, and co-ed relaxation lounge, where guests may also enjoy selections from Fairmont’s culinary offerings for an added touch of indulgence.

For those seeking a radiant glow, Spa Soleá’s illuminating facial experiences, including the cutting-edge Aqua Boost Hydrabrasion Facial, deliver visible results and leave skin refreshed, youthful and luminous. Complementing its therapeutic treatments, the spa also offers haircare and nail services, setting a new benchmark for luxury and wellness in the city. A private suite is available for weddings, milestone celebrations, and special occasions, providing a beautifully appointed setting for unforgettable moments.

In keeping with Fairmont’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community connection, Spa Soleá proudly features sustainable, Canadian-made product lines such as Moor Spa (BC-made), Cela, LCN, and Oneka. These thoughtfully selected brands reflect the spa’s dedication to natural beauty and holistic care, using ethically sourced ingredients to nourish the skin and stimulate the senses.

With its harmonious blend of innovation, sustainability, and luxury, Spa Soleá emerges as Vancouver’s newest sanctuary – an immersive urban retreat where guests can unwind, reconnect, and rediscover their sense of balance.

Begin your Spa Soleá journey by reserving or by calling 604-647-0525.

 
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Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC), the Calgary Stampede, Truman and Marriott International invite you to the ceremonial groundbreaking for the Autograph Collection Hotel on Stampede Park in Calgary's Culture + Entertainment District.

Remarks from CMLC President and CEO Kate Thompson; Truman Chief Operating Officer Tony Trutina; Marriott International Regional Vice President, Western Canada, Tim Reardon; Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley; and Mayor Jeromy Farkas.

WHEN:              Friday, January 9, 2026
                         9:30-11:00 AM

                         Formal Program to begin at 10:00 AM

WHERE:           BMO Centre, Level 1 Concourse under the Neon Cowboy — enter off Flores LaDue Parade.

PARKING:       Parking will be available in Lot 3. Visit the  for help navigating the district.

 
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VICTORIA, BC (December 16, 2025) – As the year draws to a close, proudly reflects on an extraordinary year of recognition, reaffirming its position amongst the world’s most magnificent hotels. From national to international awards to continued innovation in sustainability and guest experiences, 2025 stands as landmark year for Canada’s Castle on the Coast.

Each achievement underscores the property’s commitment to providing elevated, memorable experiences while advancing sustainability, preserving heritage, and modernizing its historic infrastructure. The hotel’s accolades this year include:

#1 City Hotel in Canada – Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards
Fairmont Empress earned the top spot among all city hotels in Canada in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2025, a recognition based on global traveler surveys evaluating service, design, and overall guest experience.

Travel + Leisure Top 500 List – 2025 T+L 500 Best Hotels
The property was also featured on Travel + Leisure’s prestigious Top 500 list, placing it among the world’s most exceptional hotels for quality, consistency, and guest satisfaction.

#2 Hotel in Western Canada – Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards
Readers of Condé Nast Traveler ranked Fairmont Empress as the second-best hotel in Western Canada, highlighting its blend of historic grandeur and contemporary luxury.

2025 Michelin One Key Hotel
Fairmont Empress received a Michelin One Key designation for the second consecutive year of the award program. The accolade recognizes hotels that deliver outstanding comfort, service, and design—placing it among an elite group of properties worldwide.

Best Historic Hotel in the Americas – Historic Hotels Worldwide®
Honoured by Historic Hotels Worldwide, Fairmont Empress was named the Best Historic Hotel in the Americas, celebrating its architectural heritage, preservation efforts, and cultural significance.

Green Key Global Certified & Double Green Key Certified – Green Key Meetings
The hotel achieved 4 Green Key Global Certification for sustainable operations such as reducing food waste with the introduction of AI-waste monitoring tool Orbisk, water conversation efforts, and the elimination of single use plastics. The Double Green Key Certification is for its eco-conscious meeting and event practices, underscoring its leadership in environmental stewardship.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive this level of recognition from our loyal guests and industry partners, whose trust and support make these achievements possible,” said General Manager, Dan McGowan. “This year’s accolades are a reflection of the dedication and passion of our entire team, supported by the vision and continual investment of our owner, Nat Bosa. His commitment to making Fairmont Empress an internationally acclaimed bucket-list hotel is instrumental in ensuring the property remains an iconic destination in our community for generations to come.”  

Looking ahead to 2026, Fairmont Empress continues its journey of transformation, refinement, and timeless luxury with a contemporary touch. The year will see the reopening of The Bengal with a refreshed concept offering breakfast and dinner service, followed by a renovation of Q at the Empress, enhancing the restaurant and bar with renewed sophistication and vibrancy. Complementing these updates, the hotel will also introduce Dash a new grab-and-go located next to the shops and Mountain Galleries, offering guests specialty coffees, teas, pastries, and the hotel’s famous golden raisin scones.  

To learn more or stay up to date on the latest developments at Fairmont Empress, visit:

 

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