RIU's Jamaica hotels receive the Travelife Gold Award for their commitment to sustainability

RIU's Jamaica hotels receive the Travelife Gold Award for their commitment to sustainability

Palma de Mallorca, 17 December, 2014

Thanks to the involvement of their staff teams, these hotels have achieved the highest level of compliance The hotel chain will meet its goal of having a sustainability certificate for all its hotels by early 2015 The five RIU Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica have received the Travelife Gold Award. The Gold certificate represents the highest level of compliance with the requirements established by the Travelife international sustainability certification scheme. The certification of the RIU hotels in Jamaica represents a major step forward towards achieving the Corporate Social Responsibility Plan's strategic objective of having all its hotels certified, something that RIU expects to accomplish during the first months of 2015. >From the moment the project to certify all RIU hotels commenced, the participation and involvement of their staff have been vital to meet the goals set. In the case of Jamaica, auditors have stressed the high standards of the hotels as well as the clarity of the documents submitted. The hotels distinguished with the Travelife Gold Award have been: the Riu Negril and Riu Palace Tropical Bay, in Negril; the Riu Ocho Rios, in Ocho Rios; and the Riu Montego Bay and Riu Palace Jamaica, located in Montego Bay.  In total, 74 RIU hotels have so far been certified by Travelife, and all of them have achieved the highest grade of compliance. These hotels are located in Spain, Cabo Verde, Portugal, Morocco, Bulgaria, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica. Within the next few weeks, the audits of RIU's hotels in the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Aruba, Panama and Saint Martin will be completed; the aim is to receive the certificates at the beginning of 2015. The Travelife system involves a range of social and environmental criteria and, depending on their level of compliance, tourism companies can be awarded three levels: Bronze, Silver or Gold. This tool allows travellers to choose, from among all the products and services available, those hotels that are making an effort to operate more responsibly in terms of the environment and the local community, showing their commitment to issues such as fair wages and a reduction of water and energy use. About RIU Hotels & Resorts: The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca by the Riu family in 1953 as a small holiday firm and is still owned by the family's third generation. The company specialises in holiday resorts and nearly 70% of its establishments offer its acclaimed All Inclusive by RIU service. With the inauguration of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU is expanding its range of products with its own line of city hotels called Riu Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts now has more than 100 hotels in 16 countries which welcome over 3,5 million guests a year and provide jobs for a total of 27,107 employees. RIU is currently the world's 29th ranked chain, one of the Caribbean's most popular, the largest in Spain in terms of revenue and the third largest in number of rooms. Source: RIU Hotels

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RIU Hotels celebrates five years in Costa Rica

RIU Hotels celebrates five years in Costa Rica

Palma de Majorca, 31 October, 2014

• In 2009, the chain opened its first hotel on the country’s Pacific coast: the Riu Guanacaste. Three years later, this was followed by the luxurious Riu Palace Costa Rica

RIU Hotels & Resorts celebrates its fifth anniversary in Costa Rica. In 2009, the Spanish hotel company opened its first hotel on Costa Rica's Pacific coast: the Riu Guanacaste. Three years later, after seeing how much RIU guests loved Costa Rica and given the support from the chain’s main international partners, RIU inaugurated its second hotel, the elegant Riu Palace Costa Rica.

This country was a destination that RIU Hotels & Resorts were dreaming of well before it located here. This was made clear by siblings Carmen and Luis Riu at the opening ceremony held on the 30th of October, 2009: "Finally we have a hotel in this wonderful country, a world-class example of sustainability and nature conservation. This, together with the friendliness and kindness of the country's people, opens up an excellent opportunity in terms of tourism." And this is exactly what has happened. Five years after they were opened, both hotels are among those most liked by RIU guests. Proof of this are the various Crystal Apple Awards for Best Staff and Service in Central America won by both hotels. This is an internationally prestigious award granted by the main US tour operator, Apple Vacations.

Since it started working in Costa Rica back in 2009, one of RIU's main goals in this country, a destination popular among nature lovers, has been to contribute to the economic and social development of Guanacaste province as well as to maintain a firm commitment to the environment. For this, a private National Wildlife Refuge was created at the beginning of this year in the coastal hills of Matapalo; it is a protected space of 200 hectares, with great environmental, economic and social importance.

The Matapalo Beach, where both resorts are located, has also been awarded a Blue Flag with five stars, making it one of the three finest beaches in the country and showing once again RIU's efforts to keep the coast clean and protect the natural resources of this marvellous beach.

Costa Rica is one of the world’s most popular ecological tourism destinations, known for its vast biodiversity, its volcanoes, tropical rainforest and extensive tree cover. The Guanacaste province offers exotic beaches such as the Matapalo Beach, location of both hotels, which is a unique combination of sand, sea and greenery. These natural surroundings offer guests a range of ecotourism activities, while enjoying all the peace, luxury and comfort guaranteed by RIU hotels. The Riu Guanacaste and the Riu Palace Costa Rica have 5 stars each and offer RIU's renowned all-inclusive program, which includes a wide range of food and drink, a full entertainment program and carefully designed, top-quality facilities, offering the perfect holiday complement to this destination, with some of the most beautiful landscapes on the Pacific Coast of Central America. 

About RIU Hotels & Resorts:

The international RIU chain was founded in Mallorca by the Riu family in 1953 as a small holiday firm and is still owned by the family's third generation. The company specialises in holiday resorts and nearly 70% of its establishments offer its acclaimed All Inclusive by RIU service. With the inauguration of its first city hotel in 2010, RIU is expanding its range of products with its own line of city hotels called Riu Plaza. RIU Hotels & Resorts now has more than 100 hotels in 16 countries which welcome over 3,5 million guests a year and provide jobs for a total of 27,107 employees. RIU is currently the world's 29th ranked chain, one of the Caribbean's most popular, the largest in Spain in terms of revenue and the third largest in number of rooms.

###

Source: RIU Hoteles

RIU Hoteles and Resorts are Berman Travel Preferred

Travelife has awarded their prestigious Gold Award for sustainability to 24 RIU hotels

RIU Hotels is pleased to announce that Travelife has awarded their prestigious Gold Award for sustainability to 24 RIU hotels located throughout Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

Travelife is an international certification system helping hotels and accommodations develop and maintain best practices in sustainability. These important awards signify that each RIU property listed below has met the strict Travelife sustainability criteria.

Source: RIU Hoteles

RIU Resorts and Hoteles are Berman Travel Preferred 866-934-6292

AMResorts to Open Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort in 2016

AMResorts to Open Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf 

& Spa Resort in 2016

AMResorts has extended its company footprint in the popular destination of Playa Mujeres with the announcement of Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. This will be the fifth deal closed in 2014 marking another chapter in the rapid expansion of the AMResorts portfolio, which has grown by 20 percent in the past year.

This is the 14th property for the award-winning Dreams Resorts & Spas brand and the second AMResorts property in the area, following Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort, which is slated to open on November 15, 2014 in the private Playa Mujeres Resort complex.

Dreams Playa Mujeres is set to open in early 2016. The family-friendly resort will feature 500 spacious rooms and suites, offering ocean views and private beach access, and will be located only ten minutes away from downtown Cancun. Guests will have access to the complex’s amenities, including a marina and a championship 18-hole, Greg Normal designed golf course.

Guests visiting Dreams Playa Mujeres will experience all the benefits of Dreams Resorts & Spas’ Unlimited-Luxury® vacation concept, where everything is included: elegant accommodations, 24-hour room and concierge services, limitless access to gourmet dining, unlimited top-shelf spirits at bars & lounges, daily activities and nightly entertainment, Explorer’s Club for kids with supervised fun, a Dreams Spa by Pevonia and more.

We are thrilled to be venturing into a brand new destination with this brand and introducing another Dreams Resort & Spa with Unlimited–Luxury® inclusions. 

Source: AMResorts

Note From Berman Travel, AMResorts are preferred with Berman Travel, America's Boutique Travel Company 866-934-6292

The Quarter at Tropicana Casino & Resort Marks 10 Year Anniversary

The Quarter at Tropicana Casino & Resort Marks 10 Year Anniversary

Entertainment complex remains one of the largest nongaming expansions in the history of Atlantic City

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (October 9, 2014) — This November Tropicana Casino & Resort will celebrate the 10 year anniversary of The Quarter. The $285 million dining, shopping and entertainment complex, heralded by many as the first Las Vegas-style destination in Atlantic City, marked its anticipated debut on November 23, 2004.
The Quarter pays homage to the vibrant ambiance of 1940s Havana, home to the original Tropicana Casino and Resort. The indoor, three-story, 200,000-square-foot streetscape is home to iconic dining destinations like The Palm Restaurant, Carmine’s, Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar and P.F. Chang’s China Bistro.
Adding to the unique energy of The Quarter are live music venues, distinctive bars and nightspots including Rí~Rá Irish Pub, The Comedy Stop Café & Cabaret, Planet Rose Karaoke Bar, Broadway Burger Bar, Anthem Lounge and Providence Nightclub.
The Quarter boasts Atlantic City’s one and only IMAX Theatre.  The roster of renowned retailers include Chico’s, White House | Black Market, Erwin Pearl, Caché, Bluemercury Makeup, Skincare & Spa, Francesca’s Collections and Swarovski as well as distinct specialty shops such as Zephyr Gallery, The Hat Emporium and Old Farmer’s Almanac General Store.
“Atlantic City’s non-gaming revenues have become an essential part of any casino operator’s financial mix,” said Steve Callender, General Manager of Tropicana Casino & Resort. “The development of The Quarter was ahead of its time ten years ago as the first non-gaming expansion of it its kind. Today non-gaming attractions still continue to evolve throughout the city.”
Tropicana Recognizes Ten-Year Tenants
Eighteen occupants have been a thriving part of The Quarter’s experience since opening day: Palm Restaurant, Carmine’s, Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar,  P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Rí~Rá Irish Pub, The Comedy Stop Café & Cabaret, Planet Rose Karaoke Bar, Zephyr Gallery, The Hat Emporium, Zeytina New York’s Choice Gourmet, Cache, Chico’s, Swarovski, White House | Black Market, Erwin Pearl, IMAX, Old Farmer’s Almanac General Store and Bluemercury Makeup, Skincare and Spa.

Tropicana Welcomes New Tenants
Over the years, new occupants have joined the mix. The popular Providence Nightclub opened in The Quarter in 2007, as did Godiva Chocolatier. In 2009, A Time for Wine opened its doors, and in 2010 Tropicana welcomed Starbucks.

The year 2011 saw the opening days of Mrs. Fields Cookies, Francesca’s Collections and Talk of the Walk. Anthem Lounge, Seashore Kids, Lick and AKA were introduced in 2012, with additional grand openings of Broadway Burger Bar and Wet Willies in 2013 and GoYoGo Frozen Yogurt in 2014.

Public Invited to Join The Quarter’s 10 Year Anniversary Celebration & Tree Lighting
On Monday, November 24 at 1:00 PM, Tropicana Casino & Resort will host an official ceremony to commemorate the past and celebrate the future. Guests will enjoy food samples, cake, sparkling beverages, and guest speakers.   Guest speakers to include Mayor Don Guardian, Liza Cartmell, President of the ACA, John Palmieri, Executive Director of the CRDA, and Tony Rodio, President & CEO of Tropicana Entertainment Inc.

About The Quarter’s 10^th Anniversary
Having opened on November 23, 2004, this year marks the 10^th Anniversary of The Quarter at Tropicana Casino and Resort, which remains the largest non-gaming casino expansion in the history of Atlantic City. The Quarter is a 200,000 square-foot complex with unique dining, entertainment, and retail experiences. 10^th Anniversary celebrations includes the return of the wildly popular Man vs. Chicken $10,000 Tic-Tac-Toe Challenge, Flash Back and Fast Forward video, a free holiday musical light show featuring a 35-foot tree, dozens of dining, shopping, and entertainment specials, and a full calendar of headliner entertainment.  For more information visit http://www.tropicana.net/celebration.

About Tropicana Atlantic City
Tropicana Casino & Resort is a 24-hour gaming destination located on the beach and Boardwalk. Featuring 2,079 rooms and suites and home of The Quarter, a 200,000 square foot entertainment complex, Tropicana is the premier resort in Atlantic City. With 24 restaurants, 25 shops, 18 bars and lounges, 2 pools, an IMAX Theatre and a spa, Tropicana is consistently rated as the “Must-See Attraction” in Atlantic City. Must be 21. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. For more information, visit the official Web site at www.tropicana.net or:
•           Facebook- www.facebook.com/TropAC
•           Twitter- www.twitter.com/TropicanaAC
•           YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/TropicanaAC
•           Instagram- www.instagram.com/TropicanaAC

About Tropicana Entertainment

Tropicana is a publicly traded company that, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates eight casinos and resorts in Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, Missouri, New Jersey and Aruba. Tropicana properties collectively have approximately 5,500 rooms, 8,000 slot positions and 270 table games. The company is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Source: Tropicana Entertainment

Excellence Group Announces March 1st 2015 Opening of Finest Playa Mujeres

Excellence Group Announces March 1^st 2015 Opening of Finest Playa Mujeres

 Berman Travel has inventory and si booking Finest Right Now 866-934-6292

Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts announces the near completion of construction of the Finest Playa Mujeres resort, located in Playa Mujeres, Mexico.

The Finest Playa Mujeres will begin welcoming guests on March 1, 2015.

This winter, Excellence invites you to escape the ordinary and experience Life Done

Beautifully at the brand new Finest Playa Mujeres, a tranquil and indulgent escape.

Finest Playa Mujeres is celebrating their grand opening with an offering of 35% off their all-inclusive resort packages, for both winter and summer 2015 travel.

Guests will experience an elegant enclave that offers a suite of possibilities… expansive beds, oversize jacuzzis, custom lighting, lush color, simple lines, deluxe bathing, ultimate privacy, replete with amenities and delights. Whichever you choose, from Family Suites to Rooftops or Pool Junior Suites, every Finest suite is designed to be livable for all, and open to anything that piques one’s curiosity.

Couples will enjoy the balance of privacy with openness of space and spirit. The Finest Playa Mujeres experience will offer lovers an entirely new dimension of intimacy and romance. Young romances, honeymoons, anniversaries, and weddings; Finest Playa Mujeres specializes in togetherness.

"At the Finest, we like to share the luxury, and the love. So we provide a multi-age environment that enhances your individual experience as well," states Finest Playa Mujeres Marketing Director, Alejandro Lazcano.

The Excellence Club exists solely to provide all-inclusive luxury in a private, tucked away setting (without the sound of little feet) while the elevated luxury of The Finest Club welcomes all ages. The clubs are particularly designed to accommodate privacy, including club check-in and out, late check-out, welcoming gifts and fresh flowers.

Foodies can savor the flavors and spirits of nine all-inclusive International dining options within the Finest Playa Mujeres resort. From Caribbean specialties and familiar favorites, to a world of new taste experiences, every dish is made especially to order.

Swim-up bars and plush lounges abound, with drinks shaken up for bon vivants, connoisseurs and sensible celebrators alike.

Excellence Group Product Enhancements

Excellence Group continually strives to outdo itself with exciting updates and renovations for guests to enjoy. Excellence Group is proud to announce brand new coffee houses and sports bars at Excellence Playa Mujeres and Excellence Riviera Cancun, alike.

Excellence Riviera Cancun will add a 9  dining option for guests, with the opening of a tapasth restaurant, as well as complete renovations of all Excellence Club rooms. All will be completed before the end of 2014.

Excellence Punta Cana will add nine new Pool Junior suites, all featuring a private pool. These new suites will be available and finished before the end of the year.

And The Beloved Hotel Playa Mujeres, due to its success, has added a fourth dining option a la carte, and two additional a la carte breakfast locations, one featuring a beachfront degustation menu.

About The Excellence Group

Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts is a family owned and operated resort group specializing in hotel management and worldwide real estate development, with a primary geographic presence in the Caribbean. Excellence Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts is the result of a joint investment between Medieval Times and ETI (Explotacions Turistiques de les Illes). The group owns and manages resort properties in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Riviera Maya, and Cancun, Mexico.

Source: Excellence Group

Excellence Group Resorts are PREFERRED With Berman Travel

Book Your Finest Playa Mujeres Resort Stay By November 30, 2014 for 7 nights or longer receive FREE PRIVATE transfers to the resort from the airport, a Berman Travel Exclusive Call 866-934-6292 

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RIU Hotels will open the luxury Riu Palace Antillas in Aruba on the 11th of October Palma de Mallorca,

RIU Hotels will open the luxury Riu Palace Antillas in Aruba on the 11th of October

Palma de Mallorca, 2nd of September 2014

• The new resort is the only Adults Only hotel on the island to offer the All Inclusive 24-hour service
• The Riu Palace Antillas joins the Riu Palace Aruba to enhance the company’s options on the Caribbean island 

Coinciding with the start of high season in the Caribbean, on the 11th of October RIU Hotels & Resorts will open its second hotel on the stunning island of Aruba: the luxury Riu Palace Antillas. This new resort, located next to the Riu Palace Aruba right on Palm Beach, will be the first on the whole island exclusively for over 18s to offer an all inclusive 24-hour service.

These features, unique on the island, will allow guests to enjoy the recognised RIU All Inclusive 24-hour programme, as well as luxury services only available at the Riu Palace Adults Only hotels such as: a welcome glass of cava, concierge, 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi Internet service throughout the hotel.

The modern interior design of the Riu Palace Antillas follows the style the RIU Hotel chain is using for its new projects. Its 482 rooms will have satellite flat screen TV, an electronic safe and free Wi-Fi Internet service.

In terms of food and drink, the star will be the Atlantis restaurant, which offers international cuisine and stations with freshly cooked dishes. There are also three speciality restaurants: the fusion restaurant Krystal, the Italian Rimini and the Malmok steakhouse. Guests can enjoy a snack at the Palm Beach pool restaurant, as well as refreshments and cocktails at the pool bar Aqua or the Wayaka lobby bar. Besides, the hotel has an elegant café, open around the clock, that offers customers a delicious range of cakes and pastries.

The entertainment programme offers sporting and leisure activities during the day, and live music and shows at night in the Carnaval Lounge Bar and the Chiquito Plaza Bar. Furthermore, the Riu Palace Antillas has a Pacha nightclub, with entrance and drinks as part of the All Inclusive programme, as well as a full casino.

As an added attraction, given that the two hotels are neighbours, guests of the Riu Palace Antillas will also be able to enjoy the Riu Palace Aruba’s facilities. Both hotels are joined by a bridge that will allow guests to go from one resort to the other.

The Riu Palace Antillas combines the style and top-quality service of RIU Hotels and Resorts and an excellent location, by Palm Beach, just 10 kilometres away from the airport and seven from the capital, Oranjestad.

Source: RIU Hotels

For further information and reservation: Berman Travel 866-934-6292

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RIU HOTELS TO OPEN ADULTS ONLY ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT IN ARUBA!

RIU HOTELS TO OPEN ADULTS ONLY ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT IN ARUBA!

Riu Palace Antillas. ARUBA The newest addition to the RIU Resorts and Hotels family will Adults Only, All-Inclusive and next door to RIU Palace Aruba with full exchange privileges.

RIU Hotels are Berman Travel Preferred. Check Out these renderings of RIU Palace Antillas Aruba and call Berman Travel for your RIU Vacation, Honeymoon or Destination Wedding 866-934-6292 www.BermanTravel.com 

Rendering Supplied By RIU Hotels

Riu Cancun Hotel Reopens, Renovated and Offers An Array Of New Services

Riu Cancun Hotel Reopens, Renovated and Offers An Array Of New Services

24 Hour All Inclusive Program

Highlighted by its sophisticated design, modern décor and prime beachfront location in Cancun’s famous hotel zone, this completely renovated hotel will thrill you with its enticing array of new services, improved facilities and RIU's renowned 24 hr All Inclusive program.

Riu Cancun Hotel Renovations Include:



• Completely renovated rooms with a flat-screen TV and electronic safe
• Variety of specialty restaurants, including a new Italian restaurant
• 5 bars, one with swim-up bar, one 24 hr Sports Bar
• Three pools, an outdoor Jacuzzi and a new infinity pool
• "Pacha" discotheque, entertainment and activities
• Free WiFi in the lobby, 90 consecutive min/day
• Fitness Center and Renova Spa

 RIU 24 Hr All Inclusive program includes:
Unlimited meals, snacks, specialty restaurants, unlimited non alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, unlimited use of in-room mini bar and liquor dispenser, various water and land sports, daily activities, live entertainment, taxes and service charges included

Source: Riu Hotels

Riu Hotels and Resorts are Preferred By Berman Travel. 866-934-6292 Ask about our BermVids of the Riu Resorts www.BermanTravel.com

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Atlantic City Continues Transition from Casino-Centric Market to Multi-Faceted Tourism Destination

Non-Gaming Sectors Showing Significant and Sustained Growth 

Within Atlantic City, non-gaming revenues have increased by more than $160 million in just the last two years and are now approaching $1 billion annually. 

The CRDA has attracted more than $700 million in capital investment, with more than $290 million in process, to continue to grow the market’s non-gaming amenities

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (July 10, 2014) / PR Newswire / — Atlantic City’s beach is busy, its Boardwalk is bustling, its nightclubs are buzzing, its restaurants are full and its stores are enjoying brisk sales. In short, it’s a typical summer day at the seaside resort.

Amid all the umbrellas in the sand and visitors strolling on the Boardwalk, the fact is that Atlantic City is a destination in transition.

Atlantic City, which used to be one of only two U.S. jurisdictions with legalized casino gaming, is currently in the midst of an aggressive, multi-year effort to broaden its appeal among non-gamers. As gaming supply outstrips demand regionally and nationally, mature casino markets such as Atlantic City, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and others are being impacted by the proliferation of casino gambling nationwide.

The glut of slot machines and table games recently led ratings agency Moody’s Investors Services Inc. to lower its outlook on the nation’s casino industry to “negative” from “stable.” Total domestic gaming revenue was down 1.8 percent in April and 0.8 percent in May for 15 of 18 jurisdictions that had released May results in time to be included in the Moody’s report.

Regionally, New Jersey, Delaware and Connecticut are facing significant competition from casinos in Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland.

“Consider that Atlantic City was host to nearly 39,000 slot positions in 2006,” said Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian. “Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland have since nearly doubled the number of regional slot positions, adding 36,000 – with more to come. Fortunately, this trend of increased supply and competition isn’t a surprise to Atlantic City. We’re making significant progress in our transition to a destination that relies less on casino gambling and more on a comprehensive mix of attractions to draw tourists to the Jersey Shore.”

New Jersey Tourism 
Tourism is the third most important industry in the state of New Jersey. Atlantic County represents 20 percent of the Garden State’s tourism industry, with Atlantic City serving as the single most significant contributor. At the same time that the local casino industry is necessarily contracting in response to regional and national gaming saturation, Atlantic City is seeing significant growth in other critical sectors, including dining, entertainment and retail.

“In Atlantic County, non-gaming revenues have increased by $240 million, from $4.72 billion in 2010 to $4.96 billion in 2013,” said Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) Executive Director John Palmieri. “Within Atlantic City, non-gaming revenues have increased by more than $160 million in just the last two years and are now approaching $1 billion annually.”

The CRDA has attracted more than $700 million in capital investment, with more than $290 million in process, to continue to grow the market’s non-gaming amenities, Palmieri said.

Leisure Travel 
Another indicator of the growth in entertainment spending is represented by the luxury tax receipts – taxes on alcoholic beverage, tickets and other amusement attractions.

• In the first quarters of 2011, 2012 and 2013, these receipts averaged 20.7 percent higher than the four-year average from 2007 to 2010, growing from $5.6 million quarterly to $6.8 million. On the same basis, second quarter receipts were 33.1 percent higher, third quarter receipts were 20.8 percent higher and fourth quarter receipts were 20.2 percent higher.
• Atlantic County’s retail sector has expanded over the past three years, with 2013 retail wages and salaries increasing 8.1 percent relative to 2010, from $381.9 million to $412.9 million. Wages at full-service restaurants in Atlantic County reached estimated 2013 levels that were 28.3 percent ahead of 2010 -- $128.1 million to $164.3 million – and bars were 42.7 percent ahead ($12.8 million to $18.3 million).

The influx of visitors seeking a leisure getaway has been fueled by an innovative mix of special events, new attractions and modern facilities, said Atlantic City Alliance CEO Liza Cartmell.

“We’re proud to host A-list performers such as Lady Gaga, who did a sold-out show at Boardwalk Hall earlier this summer, and feature top-flight entertainers in free concerts on our magnificent beach,” Cartmell said. “We just concluded the Sand Sculpting World Cup and look forward to welcoming AVP pro beach volleyball back to Atlantic City in the months to come.”

Meetings and Conventions 
In addition to broadening its appeal among tourists, Atlantic City is positioning itself for considerable growth in the meetings and conventions space. Caesars Entertainment, the largest casino operator in Atlantic City, is investing $126 million in a new, state-of-the-art convention center at its Harrah’s property in the Marina District.

Since 2009, group bookings at the core group travel properties has grown from 274,000 room nights to more than 361,000 room nights – an increase of more than 22 percent. Atlantic City currently owns just about 6 percent of room nights used for group business whereas regional convention and meetings hotels currently run at roughly 25 percent, providing the destination significant opportunity to grow its convention nights moving forward.

In 2014, the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority selected Global Spectrum to manage the Atlantic City Convention Center and Historic Boardwalk Hall. The CRDA also authorized the creation of a new convention sales organization, called Meet AC, to be laser focused on building the group, meeting and convention business.

“Atlantic City’s revitalization won’t happen overnight, but as we continue to diversify our offerings, attract new investment, maximize our material assets and identify new and innovative ways to promote our differentiating characteristics, Atlantic City will grow stronger and stand taller for having experienced its recent challenges,” Guardian said.

Source: ACA

RIU to inaugurate its first Riu Plaza Hotel in the United States in November

RIU to inaugurate its first Riu Plaza Hotel in the United States in November

Palma de Mallorca, 7th July 2014

• The popular Hotel Riu Florida Beach is closed for a major conversion into the Hotel Riu Plaza Miami Beach
• Its outstanding location on the Miami Beach front, 25 minutes away from the airport and just 15 minutes away from Downtown Miami, make it the ideal hotel for presenting RIU’s urban hotel brand in the United States

RIU Hotels & Resorts will inaugurate on 1 November 2014 its first Riu Plaza urban hotel brand in the United States. The Hotel Riu Florida Beach is closed for a major refurbishment following which it will open its doors as the Hotel Riu Plaza Miami Beach. While maintaining its characteristic façade, the hotel will completely change its interior décor to adapt the facilities to the standard of service of the modern and cosmopolitan Riu Plaza line. Total contemplated investment in the project is 15 million dollars.

The Hotel has an enviable location on Collins Avenue, with direct access to the famous Miami Beach and walk, near the famous Ocean Drive restaurant and bar zone, and very close to Downtown Miami, just 25 minutes away from Miami International Airport. The hotel is also perfect for shopping lovers as it is close to the renowned Lincoln Road and offers direct transport to Miami’s largest malls. 

The new Riu Plaza Miami Beach will maintain all 284 of its bedrooms, which will be given a new design and completely new bathrooms in a very modern style with glass and steel prevailing in the decor. It will also offer a new main restaurant with a terrace overlooking the garden and the sea; a new 'Capital Take Away' in the lobby, with take-away bites and beverages; in addition to a new swimming pool bar. 

The hotel, which can be booked as accommodation only, with breakfast or half-board, will provide free WiFi internet access throughout the hotel, including the rooms, as well as a complete gym.

The Riu Plaza hotel collection in the United States will expand to a second member at the end of 2015. The Riu Plaza New York Times Square is currently under construction in the very heart of Manhattan.

Source: Riu Hotels

Riu Hotels are Preferred By Berman Travel 866-934-6292

Atlantis Paradise Island to Join Marriott Internationals Portfolio of Independent Hotels

Caribbean’s Most Popular Destination Resort -- Atlantis, Paradise Island -- to Join Marriott International’s Exclusive Portfolio of Independent Hotels 

Marriott International, Inc. announced  that the iconic Atlantis, Paradise Island resort will become part of its Autograph Collection, a rapidly growing exclusive portfolio of over 60 independent hotels in key locations across the globe.

Read The Entire Press Release from Marriott Here

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RIU enters the exotic island of Mauritius with the acquisition of a three-hotel resort

RIU enters the exotic island of Mauritius with the acquisition of a three-hotel resort

Palma de Majorca, 1st July 2014

• The chain will invest a total of 80 million euros on the purchase and renovation of the resort’s three hotels on the Le Morne peninsula
• The Riu Le Morne, Riu Creole and Riu Coral, to open in February 2015, are 4-star hotels and will offer RIU’s All-Inclusive 24 hours service over a total of 530 rooms

RIU Hotels & Resorts has just finalized the purchase of a resort with three hotels located on the stunning Le Morne peninsula, on the Island of Mauritius. The new RIU Resort of Mauritius is made up of the Riu Le Morne (Adults Only by RIU), Riu Creole and Riu Coral which are now closed for a refurbishment to adapt their facilities to RIU’s standards of service. Total investment in the project will be 80 million euros. All three hotels lead directly onto the beach, are 4-star and from their opening in February 2014 will offer RIU’s renowned All Inclusive 24 Hours service.

The Riu Le Morne has 219 rooms and will be for adults only. In a sophisticated setting, guests of this hotel will be able to enjoy four restaurants and five bars, one of them in the swimming pool with a chill out area. The Hotel Riu Creole, meanwhile, has 167 rooms, three restaurants and five bars; while the Riu Coral, with 144 rooms, also offers three restaurants and five bars. These last two hotels will be ideal for stays with family or friends thanks to their complete daily activities programme and the RiuLand children’s entertainment club. 

The resort has a complete spa with a wide selection of relaxation and beauty treatments, in addition to the water zone. The clients of all three hotels will be able to enjoy live music and shows organised each night in the show venue located at the Riu Creole, which also contains the discotheque for all the resort’s customers. 

Mauritius is paradise for water sport lovers. The island is considered to be one of the best places in the world for kitesurf and on the very beach of the RIU Resort guests will be able to practice windsurfing, kayaking, snorkel and paddle surfing, amongst other activities.

Mauritius is an island country located in the southwest of the Indian Ocean, 900 kilometres away from the eastern coast of Madagascar. The new RIU hotels are located in the southeast of the island, 60 kilometres away from the country’s capital, Port Louis, and 60 km away from the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam international airport.

The beaches of Le Morne, with their white sand and crystal-clear waters protected by a coral reef are simply stunning. Le Morne peninsula is a natural paradise and a UNESCO World Heritage site for its beauty and symbolism. It is overlooked by Brabant, a basalt rock mountain with an altitude of more than 550 metres, which became the symbol of the abolition of slavery after serving for years as a refuge for slaves who had fled. 

Lagoons, rivers, cascades, forests, rare native flower species and a rich fauna make up the natural wealth of this island, which along with the warmth of its climate and cultural mix of its inhabitants, forms part of its major attractions.

Source: Riu Hotels

Berman Travel are RIU Hotel specialists 866-934-6292 www.BermanTravel.com

Riu Hotels presents new menus for the themed restaurants at its Riu Palace hotels

Riu Hotels presents new menus for the themed restaurants at its Riu Palace hotels

Palma de Mallorca, June 18th, 2014. New features include a wider range of cuisine, finer ingredients and the incorporation of a vegetarian menu in all restaurants The Riu Palace hotels in the Americas will be the first to introduce the new menus, which will arrive in other destinations during 2015

Riu Hotels & Resorts

RIU Hotels & Resorts has just launched the new menus at its Riu Palace category hotels in Mexico for its themed restaurants: Italian, Asian, Japanese, Steakhouse and, of course, the chain's star restaurant, the Krystal. The new gastronomic ranges at RIU Hotels include almost a hundred new dishes created by the chain’s Food & Beverage professionals, including the pastry cooks, bar and restaurant teams and executive chefs.

Good food has become a fundamental part of the RIU product, and so an extra step has been taken in terms of products and ingredients. The new Steakhouse menu, for example, offers delicacies such as the 400 gram lobster and the 350 gram New York Steak. Furthermore, there is an innovation of fusion flavours in dishes such as Lamb Curry with Moroccan spices and Chilean Sea Bass with miso and coconut jasmine rice. The menus' variety is increased, changing from four dishes in each theme to up to six dishes for guests to choose from.

Another new feature is the dining room service, with new gastronomic experiences for diners. The presentation of dishes has been modernised, and waiters will now give the final touches to dishes at the table, with different sauces and soups, or smoking a steak when serving.

Customer satisfaction for RIU extends into our kitchens. So guests' opinions and suggestions have been taken into account when devising the new menus. This is the case with the new vegetarian menus for all restaurants, and the greater variety in the Asian restaurants, where guests can enjoy a delicious Ramen or Japanese noodles, as well as three starters and six main courses.

The new menu for the themed restaurants can now be found in all Riu Palace hotels in Mexico, and next month will be launched in the Dominican Republic and Jamaica; this will gradually cover all 16 Riu Palace hotels in the Americas, including the new RIU Hotels & Resorts acquisitions: the Riu Palace Antillas in Aruba and the Riu Palace St Martin.

Changes to menus at the European hotels will begin in September this year with a range of new items on offer at the Riu Palace Meloneras' Krystal restaurant. This hotel, which will reopen at the end of August after a complete refurbishment, will also present a new restaurant with contemporary Spanish cuisine. The introduction of the new menus to all Riu Palace themed restaurants will be completed in 2015

Source: Riu Hotels

RIU Hotels are recommended by Berman Travel 866-934-6292

Feel the Love Gulfport-Biloxi

Feel the Love

Gulfport-Biloxi

By Sheree Bykofsky

A trip to the Mississippi Gulf Coast is something of a busman's holiday to someone like me from Atlantic City. There are about a dozen casino hotels with cocktail waitresses, nightclubs, shows, and some of the finest “name” restaurants in the world such as Morton's and Bubba Gump at the newly renovated Golden Nugget. Additionally, there is a long stretch of beach and a lot of local color and attractions. 

It is the nature of the local color and the unique culinary scene that sets Biloxi apart. You can't go on a shrimping boat in Las Vegas or Atlantic City, but you can in Biloxi. Let me take you there. 

A trip to this region is quite bittersweet.  It is beautiful and heartwarming to see a region in an upswing: a classy new wine bar opening in Gulfport, men perched on roofs hammering with pride, but everyone has a devastating Katrina story to tell--whole communities flattened, people clinging to trees. Their strength, passion, unity, determination and talent infuses everything they do, but more than anything it is experienced in the food they prepare and serve to you with love.

Gulfport and Biloxi are adjacent cities that blend into one—except, I hear, during football season. The miles and miles of beach are very scenic to drive by and walk on, but is not that appealing to swim in. The swimmer's loss, however, is the gourmand's gain. The barrier islands 12 miles off the coast keep the coastal waters muddy but make it an optimal breeding ground for crab, shrimp and oysters. As Bob Mahoney, owner of Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, will tell you, "There's a whole lot of lovin' going on in the mud." There are a myriad of culinary experiences on the Mississippi Gulf coast. From a humble po’ boy with a cup of gumbo to a fresh hot beignet to an opulent steak and seafood dinner, you will find it here.

When traveling, people like to experience local color and flavor.  For that reason, you must start your day at the Triplett-Day Drug Company, right on the corner in the heart of Gulfport’s downtown. Picture yourself in a diner with uneven seats tucked in the back of a novelty and drug store listening to the latest gossip and eating hot and sugary beignets with chicory coffee. The experience alone is worth the trip from anywhere.

Another choice for breakfast is McElroy’s Harbor House seafood restaurant. It is very casual but overlooks the water with a pretty view of Deer Island. You will love the beignets if you have not sampled those at Triplett-Day, but there is no comparison to the shrimp and grits for breakfast at McElroy's.

For a quirky upscale dinner experience, try Mary Mahoney's. Now run by Mary Mahoney's son Bob, it is an elegant establishment that has held to the finest culinary standards for its 50 years as the grand dame of the community. You will feel like you are in an opulent French manor house in Provence.  Mary Mahoney’s is known for its exceptional gumbo and stellar desserts. Apart from the food, the establishment is dripping in history and decorated with autographs, photos, and fascinating memorabilia.  Many U.S. presidents and even more celebrities have dined there such is Paul Newman, Denzel Washington, Dick Clark, Diana Ross, Anderson Cooper, and most notably John Grisham, who called it his "favorite restaurant in the whole wide world.” Grisham even made Bob a character in more than one of his novels.

There are several towns very close to Gulfport and Biloxi that one should not miss seeing when in the region. Ocean springs is perhaps the most quaint and charming village on the Gulf Coast and has the power to put you in a quiet state of mind almost instantly. As soon as you get over the bridge from Biloxi to Ocean Springs, make two quick rights to see the lovely mosaic right beside the bridge. After that, as you head to the downtown, you will pass  many quaint homes half hidden by a nice canopy of old oak and Magnolia trees.

This is a Mayberry community. There are no casinos.  Many artists make their home in Ocean Springs, and The WAMA museum, dedicated to Walter Anderson is a must-stop. Especially notable is the fresco that Anderson painted to decorate the town’s community center, which is now valued at 36 million and was thankfully undamaged in Katrina.

Small as it is, there are 112 restaurants to choose from in Ocean Springs. My favorite is Frenchie’s Bistro and Wine Bar. I didn’t know I liked gumbo until I tried it there.  Cajun sausage makes it spicy, and it is served with a beautiful fried shrimp on top. The coffee-rubbed brisket po’ boy is another house specialty at this romantic yet casual Ocean Springs gem. Most important, if you see the giant plump and sweet Ponchatoula fried strawberries on the menu and don’t order them, then you just don’t like food.

For out of this world authentic local BBQ in a riotously happy and quirky atmosphere, set yourself down for some good eatin’ at the Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint. Waterside and aptly named, the restaurant is a long semi-outdoor property with picnic tables, gravel floors, license plates decorating the walled sides,  and dollar bills stuck to the ceiling with black plastic forks.  While chowing down, expect to be entertained with blues performed live by carefully selected talented musicians. You can paddle up the bayou and dock right there at the Shed or arrive by car.  Either way, Gus, affectionately known as the Shed Pimp, will welcome you wearing a three-piece suit with a fancy tie tack, and he will hug you and make you feel like one of the family. For all the atmosphere, the food is the best part. I didn't pick the best week to give up pork, but, forgive me Mom, the BBQ brisket was the best I ever had.

A great thing to do when you are in Ocean Springs is to attend a cooking class at the Mary C Cultural Center of Arts & Education, located in the historic Ocean Springs Public School Building on Government Street. Enjoy the experience of cutting and chopping the local delicacies and then sampling your own creations.

Another local town that you won’t want to miss on your culinary tour is Bay St. Louis. Looking at the pictures of utter devastation following Katrina, it is hard to believe how much passion and love went into re-creating the community that “Coastal Living” magazine understandably named one of the Top Ten Beach Communities in 2010.  Enjoy your midday meal of grilled chicken salad and surprisingly refreshing jalapeño lemonade at Lulu’s What’s for Lunch on Main Street or pick up a fresh-made scone at Serious Bread. After a day of shopping in the tempting boutiques and gawking at the costumes in the Mardi Gras museum, eventually you will be hungry again.  Join the elegant red hat ladies for a meal at 200 North Beach Restaurant on the beach in old town. Chef Mark takes great pride in his reasonably-priced gourmet gulf offerings—from his char-grilled oysters to his blackened redfish served over Andouille hash and crawfish etoufee.  Did you save room for the pecan pie with chocolate caramel and whipped cream? You should have!

In the depot district of Bay St. Louis, you may want to sample alligator bites or Big Bay Boudin at Mindy's Café in an atmosphere reminiscent of a Tennessee Williams play.

Exit Interstate 10 at lucky 13, Kiln, and take a tour of the Lazy Magnolia brewery, where I recommend you try the Pecan Nut Brown Ale and take home a souvenir glass.  Don’t worry. You won’t be far from great gumbo and po’ boys. Dempsey’s Seafood & Steak boasts homey food in an equally homey environment.

Where to Stay?

There are about a dozen casino hotels, but when I go back, I will plan to stay at the opulent Beau Rivage, which is decorated like the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the Borgata in Atlantic City.  I can also attest to the comfort and beauty of the newly renovated Golden Nugget as it is almost a duplicate of the spectacular Landry renovation in Atlantic City.  The IP is a fine choice if the price is more reasonable, and you can’t go wrong at the Hard Rock Hotel. The IP, by the way, has a first class steak house named Thirty-Two on the 32^nd floor with views that are unsurpassed.

I have been to Mississippi as I've been to all 50 states, but I was only in Tunica for poker tournaments. Now I can say I have really been to Mississippi. And I can’t wait to go back.

For More Information:

www.gulfcoast.org

www.baystlouisoldtown.com

Hotels:

www.Beaurivage.com

www.Goldennugget.com

www.Hardrockbiloxi.com

www.Ipbiloxi.com

Dining:

www.200northbeach.com

www.bubbagump.com

Dempsey’s, 6208 Kiln-Denise R., Kiln 228 255 2043

Frenchie’s, 1601 Government St., Ocean Springs 228 818 2772

Lulu’s What’s for Lunch, 126 Main Street, Bay St. Louis 228 463 1670

www.marymahoney’s.com

McElroy’s, 695 Beach Blvd., Biloxi 228 435 5001

Mindy’s Café, 126 Blaize Ave., Bay St. Louis 228 344 3122

Mortons.com/biloxi

www.SeriousBreakBakery.com

www.shedbbq.com

Triplett-Day Drug Company, 2429 14^th Street, Gulfport 228 863 2363

Attractions:

wama@walterandersonmuseum.org

Mardi Gras Museum, 1928 Depot Way, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520, 228 463 9222

www.Lazymagnolia.com

www.biloxishrimpingtrip.com

 Source: Sheree Bykofsky