Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1546515
H O T E L H A P P E N I N G S B M & T ••• September/October 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 9 tiques to a post office and business center—create a self-contained village experience. With 18 restaurants and bars, guests can explore global flavors without ever leaving the property. Bali Oceanfront offers award- winning cuisine and impeccable service, earning top ratings on OpenTable, all paired with front-row sunrise and sunset views over Waikiki Beach. Nearby, Tropics Bar & Grill remains a favorite for its relaxed, beach- front setting and casual island-style fare. The Waikiki Starlight Luau invites guests on a journey across the Pacific through music, dance, and a vibrant outdoor dinner show. At Mandara Spa, Hawaiian healing tradi- tions blend with Asian, European, and Polynesian well- ness practices for a deeply restorative experience. Guests can enjoy a wide range of cultural activities, from hula lessons to lei making, or head to Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and Beach for stand-up pad- dling, kayaking, surfing, and other ocean adventures. Every Friday evening, the resort's beachfront becomes the stage for one of Waikiki's most iconic traditions— its spectacular fireworks show. A BOUT HILTON HOTELS & RESORTS For over a century, Hilton Hotels & Resorts has set the benchmark for hospitality around the globe, con- necting people, cultures and communities. Offer- ing striking design and vibrant communal spaces – from buzzing lobbies to lively bars, best-in-class restaurants, and iconic gatherings – Hilton Hotels & Resorts is the place to see and be seen in the world's most sought- after destinations. With more than 600 hotels across six continents, Hilton Hotels & Resorts is where the world comes together, and travelers are masterfully hosted with expertise and care. Experience a leg- endary stay at Hilton Hotels & Resorts by booking at hiltonhotels.com or through the industry leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Hilton Hotels & Resorts at stories.-hilton.com/hhr , and follow the brand on Face-book, X and Instagram. BEYOND THE BOARDROOM: THE RITZ-CARLTON, CHICAGO'S NEW WELLNESS EXPERIENCE FOR C ORPORATE GROUPS As planners look for new ways to incorporate well- ness and meaningful connection into meetings and retreats, group programming is increasingly moving beyond the traditional boardroom. Wellness is shifting from a retreat amenity to an expectation of the modern corporate gathering. According to Hilton's 2026 "Why We Gather" Trends Report, 76% of work-event atten- dees enjoy participating in employer-organized well- ness activities. From mindfulness sessions to immersive wellness experiences, activities that give attendees an opportunity to recharge and connect are becoming an increasingly valuable part of corporate itineraries. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Chicago offers a unique option for small corporate retreats and executive groups with Frequency Float a private floating sound bath experience for up to 18 guests. Hosted after regu- lar spa hours, the experience transforms the hotel's indoor pool into a candlelit setting where attendees float weightlessly during a 45-minute guided medita- tion as immersive sound vibrations travel through the water. Designed as an alternative to traditional team activ- ities, Frequency Float can be incorporated into a corpo- rate retreat, executive gathering or wellness-focused itinerary to give attendees dedicated time to discon- nect, recharge and connect outside of a meeting setting. Groups receive exclusive access to the spa's steam room, sauna, poolside lounge and locker facilities, with access available up to one hour before the session. Attendees can also remain poolside for up to 30 min- utes following the experience. For planners looking to further customize the event, food and beverage offerings and event signage can be added for an additional cost. Private Frequency Float experiences are available Monday through Thursday outside of regular spa hours, with start times between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. With 35,000 square feet of meeting and event space, ranging from intimate private dining rooms to the 8,370-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Ballroom, The Ritz- Carlton, Chicago is well equipped to host corporate gatherings of all sizes. Frequency Float offers planners a unique wellness breakout that can be incorporated between meetings or at the end of a day of program- ming, giving attendees an opportunity to step away