Best Western Debuts Vib Brand in U.S.; More Openings

NATIONAL REPORT—Best Western has launched its new boutique brand in Springfield, MO; Hampton Inn brings its new prototype to Baltimore; and Hyatt Park opens near tourist attractions in Florida. Here’s more on the recent openings across the country:

Vib Brand Debuts in Springfield, MO

Best Western Hotels & Resorts marked the arrival of its boutique hotel concept, Vib, with a grand opening celebration at its first U.S. property in Springfield, MO. Vib’s pipeline now includes numerous properties in markets from AtlantaChicagoDallas and Miami to Los AngelesSan DiegoStaten Island, NYPittsburgh and New Orleans.

The 92-room Vib Springfield has zones for work and play with amenities including USB and power ports, free WiFi in the lobby and guestrooms, a grab-and-go station, a 24/7 sundries shop, local food and coffee, eight gaming stations, a 24/7 fitness center, a 24/7 electronic tech shop, a fireplace lounge and a social mezzanine.

“Best Western has evolved significantly in recent years, expanding our portfolio from one brand to 11, to deliver the hotel offerings and unique experiences today’s sophisticated travelers and developers expect,” said Ron Pohl, SVP/COO for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. “The introduction of Vib was an integral part of Best Western’s evolution, offering a boutique concept designed for the upscale hotel segment and filling a niche in today’s competitive marketplace.”

Baltimore Hampton Inn by Hilton Intros New Prototype, Brand Adds 4 More Properties

Hampton Inn by Hilton Baltimore Bayview Campus has opened in Baltimore. This 115-room hotel is an early adopter of Hampton’s new design and the first to incorporate features of the brand’s new prototype.

New exterior design elements include architectural accent lighting, a signature fin design and paint scheme and a modern porte-cochère. Launched earlier this year, the new prototype modernizes the brand’s design, increases functionality and operational efficiency.

Owned and developed by Bayview Hotel Partners LLC, Hampton Inn by Hilton Baltimore Bayview Campus offers guests the brand’s signature free, hot breakfast with healthy options, On the Run breakfast bags, Hilton’s Digital Key and free WiFi in every room.

Additionally, Hampton by Hilton has also opened four new properties. The latest openings add to the brand’s growing global portfolio of more than 2,380 open properties with an additional 620 in the pipeline.

Hampton by Hilton started the third quarter by expanding its presence in China with the opening of the Hampton by Hilton Hinggan, as well as several new hotels in the U.S.:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Ruidoso Downs
    This recent conversion is close to New Mexico’s Lincoln National Forest, camping and fishing and the world’s longest zip-lining tour at the nearby Ski Apache.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Detroit Allen Park
    It is located near downtown Detroit, as well as attractions like Ford Field and Comerica Park.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Dallas/Plano Central
    Situated in Plano, TX, and near the Richardson technology corridor, the hotel is also close to many restaurants and retailers including the Shops at Watters Creek.

Hyatt House Opens in Orlando, FL

A Hyatt House located across from Universal Orlando Resort has opened in Orlando, FL. It is owned by Summit Hotel Properties. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to Universal Orlando Resort and is also close to major companies such as Lockheed Martin, NBC Universal, Siemens, Deloitte and Raytheon.

Hyatt House across from Universal Orlando Resort offers 168 apartment-style kitchen suites with fully equipped kitchens and living rooms; free WiFi throughout hotel and guestrooms; and complimentary daily breakfast is available.

Among the spaces to lounge or dine include The Commons, a lounge with an open space for guests and the Outdoor Commons with fire pits; 24/7 H Market; and the H BAR with the Sip + Snack Menu offered seven days a week.

Facilities include a 24-hour gym and gathering rooms with more than 680 sq. ft. of flexible meeting spaces.