Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1436811
B M & T ••• November/December 2021 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 9 H O T E L H A P P E N I N G S NEW WALT DISNEY WORLD SWAN RESERVE HOTEL CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort celebrated the grand opening of its newest addition, the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve recently with a ribbon cutting ceremo- ny, bringing together hotel owners Tishman and MetLife along with executives from Walt Disney World and Marriott International. This new 14-story hotel designed by Gensler is positioned adjacent to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin in the middle of Walt Disney World Resort, features a captivating design offering 349 spacious and ver- satile guest rooms – including 151 suites – with incredible floor-to-ceiling views of the resort. Guests of the resort can walk to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios and receive special Walt Disney World hotel guest benefits includ- ing early theme park entry and extended evening theme park hours. Pictured from left to right are: Mickey Mouse, Tishman Hotel and Realty Chairman and CEO John Vickers, MetLife Director of Hotel Asset Management Bill Webster, Marriott International President of US Eastern Region Jim Connelly, Principal Owner and Vice Chairman of Tishman Hotel and Realty Dan Tishman (with scissors), Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Area General Manager Sean Verney, Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle and Minnie Mouse HILTON ANNOUNCES THE OPENING OF HILTON HOTEL TAHITI , INVITING THE SOPHISTICATED TRAVELER TO EXPERIENCE FRENCH POLYNESIA Hotel Features the Island's Largest Pool, Multiple Restaurants and Spa Travelers now have a new escape when visiting the capital of French Polynesia, with the opening of the new 200-room Hilton Hotel Tahiti. Conveniently offering easy access to the downtown attractions of Papeete and Maritime Port, the resort is situ- ated just two miles from the international airport, allowing guests to quickly start their visit. "With nearly 20 percent of Hilton Hotels & Resorts'pipeline dedicated to growing our resort portfolio, Hilton Hotel Tahiti is an exciting addition to our flagship brand," said Gary Steffen, global brand head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. "As we anticipate more guests wanting to book travel to dream destinations like Tahiti, this beautiful new resort is a prime example of the pre- mium amenities, exceptional service and exotic locale that our brand is known for throughout the world." Hilton Hotel Tahiti honors a rich island heritage. Formerly known as Hotel Tahiti, it was the first hotel in the destination to attract international attention in 1960. Built on land that formed part of the Tahitian royal family estate, the hotel became a hub of Tahitian social life and welcomed personalities – including movie stars, politicians, and royal families – from all over the world. Hilton Hotel Tahiti, Hilton's third property in French Polynesia, has been reimagined for today's sophisticated traveler and features new interiors, concepts, and services that celebrate the very best of Tahitian elegance. Extensive renovations have introduced more natural light to shared areas offering an open-air lobby and stunning ocean views, bringing the natural beauty of Moorea Island and the Pacific Ocean to every corner. Signature Hilton hospitality paired with an array of on-site amenities create an environment that speaks to chic and refined travel. The three onsite restaurants provide elevated fine dining experiences with thoughtfully curated menus that focus on