Gencom Group - News Feed

Travel and Leisure

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:01:42 PDT

Hotel Business

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:00:13 PDT

Commercial Property News

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:00:13 PDT

Globe Street.com

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:00:13 PDT

Gencom Group Sells Portfolio of Six Summerfield Suites Hotels

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:00:12 PDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Gencom Group RLJ Development, LLC Suzanne Schmidt (305.663.3543) The Office of Marilyn Konfino (786.871.6448) Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr. sschmidt@krepspr.com 301.280.7794 mkonfino@gencomgrp.com pr@rljhotels.com GENCOM GROUP AND LEHMAN BROTHERS REAL ESTATE PARTNERS SELL HOTEL PORTFOLIO TO RLJ REAL ESTATE FUND III MIAMI (August 12, 2008) - Gencom Group, the Miami-based international and domestic development and investment firm, in partnership with Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners, today announced the sale of a portfolio of six Hyatt Summerfield Suites hotels to RLJ Real Estate Fund III, LP ("RLJ"), an affiliate of RLJ Development, LLC, a privately held hotel real estate investment company. "We are pleased to have completed this transaction with RLJ," said Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom Group. "The sale is consistent with our original business plan of identifying, repositioning and disposing of assets at significant returns". "This is the first acquisition for the RLJ Real Estate Fund III," stated Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr., president of RLJ. "The purchase is timely because the properties are just coming off complete renovations and conversions to the Hyatt Summerfield Suites brand. We look forward to expanding our relationship with Global Hyatt as the awareness of this brand grows across the country." RLJ has retained Aimbridge Hospitality to manage the three hotels in the Dallas area and White Lodging Services to manage the hotels in Austin, Colorado Springs and Houston. The portfolio sale brings to a close a structured venture by Gencom Group and Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners that began with the acquisition of 50 percent of the Summerfield brand and six Summerfield Suites Hotels from Wyndham International in 2004. Following on that transaction, the Gencom Group/Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners partnership acquired nine Bradford Home Suites Hotels in March 2006. These properties are located in Dallas, Houston, Austin, Denver and Colorado Springs, Colorado. Six of the properties, now part of the RLJ acquisition, were then re-flagged under the Hyatt Summerfield Suites brand. Over the past three years, the Summerfield brand has significantly strengthened by its inclusion in the Global Hyatt family. "We look forward to continuing our long-standing and successful relationship with Lehman Brothers and Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners and to the pursuit of similar opportunities in the luxury and extended-stay hospitality, mixed-use arena," concluded Alibhai. About Gencom Group Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group is one of the nation's leading domestic and international investment and development firms specializing in the hospitality and residential real estate sectors. By aligning itself with prominent investors and institutional relationships, Gencom has maintained a strong market position in both luxury and mixed-use hotels and resorts with significant residential components, and in other hospitality-related investments that include both portfolios and single assets. The luxury and mixed-use projects fall primarily under The Ritz-Carlton flag, representing a total investment when completed in excess of $6 billion. The firm continues to opportunistically grow its portfolio holdings in key resort and urban markets in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Europe. Gencom is headquartered in Miami with representative offices in Houston, the United States West Coast and London. For more information, visit www.gencomgrp.com. About RLJ Development, LLC RLJ Development is a privately-held real estate investment company founded and led by Robert L. Johnson and Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr. and is the largest African-American hotel investment company in the U.S. with 121 hotels valued at approximately $2.6 billion. RLJ Real Estate Fund III, LP has $1.2 billion in equity commitments from 16 institutional investors including several major public and corporate pension funds, financial institutions and a dominant hospitality entity. Combined with leverage the RLJ Fund III will have total purchasing power of nearly $4 billion. www.rljhotels.com About Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners Lehman Brothers Real Estate Partners is a full-service real estate merchant banking business which operates two opportunistic equity funds aggregating $4.0 billion of equity capital and one mezzanine investment fund aggregating $1.1 billion of equity capital. The funds are an extension of Lehman Brothers\' global real estate franchise which has a long and successful track record advising, underwriting and investing and has participated in over $300 billion of real estate transactions since 2000.

Philadelphia - Dining, Food and Wine

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 03:00:01 PDT

Forbes Life

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:58:21 PDT

Haute Living

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:53:28 PDT

Gencom Group Announces 93 Whole Ownership Suites Sold For $176 Million At The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Luxury

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:52:00 PDT

Gencom Group Announces 93 Whole Ownership Suites Sold For $176 Million At The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Luxury Units Sold For An Average Price of $1.9 Million MIAMI (March 20, 2008) - On Saturday, March 15, 93 of the 107 Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua one- and two-bedroom whole-ownership suites sold for $176 million in Maui, Hawaii. "If you look at the general condo-hotel market, it is going very poorly," said Jerry Landeck during an interview with Commercial Property News. Landeck is a senior partner with Miami-based Gencom Group, a real estate investment and development firm that owns seven properties developed or under development in conjunction with The Ritz-Carlton. "Our formula goes against that trend by combining very high end brands, very upscale amenities, and locations with very high barriers to entry - Kapalua is the only hotel within 23,000 acres on one end of Maui." The revenue generated by the sale will fund the $160 million renovation by its owners, a Gencom-led partnership. The project now features 463 completely redesigned guestrooms and expanded amenities including the new Waihua Spa and Fitness Center, new and expanded restaurants and pools, and an Environmental Education Center for teenagers and children. Residential Suite owners will also have privileged access to Kapalua Resort's unparalleled services and amenities. With suite prices ranging from $895,000 to $6.4 million, a record-breaking price for the area was achieved through the purchase of the $6.4 million Presidential Suite by a Japanese buyer. About 40 percent of the purchasers were international buyers from Japan, western Canada and Europe. The others were from Hawaii, California and other U.S. states. "With a proven track record in the renovation and redevelopment of luxury projects throughout North America, we were confident that the response from consumers for The Residential Suites would be extremely positive", added Landeck. Gencom Group - Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, is a major player in the hospitality and related real estate industries. By aligning itself with prominent investors, Gencom has become one of North America\'s leading mixed-use development companies, which has enabled the company to be involved in more than 10 luxury hotels and resorts with significant residential components for a total investment value of $6 billion. Gencom currently has seven properties developed or under development in conjunction with Ritz-Carlton and is developing the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded property in Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean, which will serve as the brand standard for future Reserve properties. With a strong market position already established in the United States, Canada, Mexico and now the Caribbean, Gencom is expanding its portfolio to include Europe. In early 2006, Gencom formed GenGate Europe with its frequent joint-venture partner, Highgate Holdings, to purchase a significant portfolio of four-star hotels in Europe.

The Maui News

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:51:58 PDT

Financials.com

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:51:57 PDT

Commercial Property News

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:51:57 PDT

Santa Fe North

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:51:54 PDT

Gencom Group Anticipates $1 Billion In Completed Ritz-Carlton Projects In 2008

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:51:52 PDT

GENCOM GROUP ANTICIPATES $1 BILLION IN COMPLETED RITZ-CARLTON PROJECTS IN 2008; FURTHER EXPANSION OF ITS EXISTING PORTFOLIO OF 3- AND 4-STAR HOTELS MIAMI (March 2008) - Look for 2008 to be a year of continued growth for Gencom Group's luxury hospitality sector, along with expansion of the company's 3- and 4-star hotel portfolio, according to Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom Group, a Miami-based domestic and international investment and development firm specializing in the hospitality and residential real estate sectors. To date, Gencom-led partnerships have invested over $1.5 billion in more than 10 luxury hotels and resorts with significant residential components, projects totaling in excess of $6 billion. Alibhai anticipates that the total number of new The Ritz-Carlton developments the firm will open within its luxury hospitality sector in 2008 will exceed $1 billion. Driven by a strategic decision to focus its development resources in areas with strong barriers to entry, Gencom has enjoyed remarkable success, with four mixed-use The Ritz-Carlton projects or major renovations scheduled for completion during 2008. These include: The Residential Suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua - a recently completed $150 million renovation at the Kapalua Resort on the western shore of Maui, Hawaii. The Ritz-Carlton Resort and Spa, Rancho Mirage and The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage - an enclave of five-star residential suites and condominium residences scheduled to open in September in Rancho Mirage, California. The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia - a 48-story, 244-residence development, anchored by the existing Gencom-owned The Ritz-Carlton hotel. Molasses Reef - a Caribbean resort project located in Turks & Caicos with 125 guestrooms and suites and an initial phase of beachfront cottages developed by Gencom on the Private Island of West Caicos. Molasses Reef, a The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a first-of-its-kind, low-density hotel and spa, while Island Villas, a The Ritz-Carlton Managed Residence, includes two-bedroom, three-bedroom and penthouse floor plans. Future phase to be developed on the island will include condominiums, custom-built homes and oceanfront estate lots, anchored by the resort and a world-class marina. As to continued growth within the luxury sector, Alibhai, who has carefully tracked industry trends since founding his company in 1987, added that "affluent travelers and second-home buyers continue to demand luxury vacation experiences, especially in conjunction with top brands like The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons." "While a tighter credit market will impact the supply of new hospitality projects, overall, the hotel business should enjoy a solid year," said Alibhai. "We believe the big gains in revenue per available room (RevPAR) that we have seen in the past few years will remain at a more stable and sustainable level in 2008, but the sector will nonetheless continue to see growth and expansion, tied into real demand." Gencom notes that new hotel, condominium-hotel and mixed-use residential developments need to be carefully targeted to avoid the pitfalls of overbuilt markets, noting that a strong brand and location are critical to attracting sophisticated buyers. "In today's luxury market, where buyers are cautious about making decisions, partnering with a leading hospitality brand like The Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons is one of the foundations for our success," said Alibhai. "Our typical buyer is the affluent couple or family seeking a second or third residence, who is willing to pay a premium for exceptional real estate and luxury resort services and amenities. Many of our owners have unites at multiple projects, buying at Molasses Reef, based on their satisfactions at our The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, for example," said Alibhai. "To date, our buyers are predominately North Americans, but we're also seeing significant interest from Europeans in our Molasses Reef project and from Asians in our Kapalua resort." In addition to its focus on luxury hotels and resorts, Gencom is also looking for acquisition and growth opportunities within the three- and four-star hotel arena, and expects to expand its $850 million portfolio in this sector. Over the past 20 years, Gencom has invested in more than 100 hotel transactions. "With our strong performance track record, we expect our full-service company will take advantage of new opportunities throughout the hospitality and residential sectors," Alibhai added. "The company's projects in this sector include the recent conversion of a portfolio of extended stay properties to Hyatt Summerfield Suites." "We view ourselves as a fully integrated company with expertise in development, sales, construction and asset management," Alibhai concluded. "That allows us to offer a complete real estate solution to our partners and to take advantage of opportunities during all phases of the real estate cycle." # # # About Gencom Group Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group is one of the nation's leading domestic and international investment and development firm specializing in the hospitality and residential real estate sectors. By aligning itself with prominent investors and institutional relationships, Gencom has maintained a strong market position in both luxury and mixed-use hotels and resorts with significant residential components, and in other hospitality-related investments that include both portfolios and single assets.The luxury and mixed-use projects fall primarily under The Ritz-Carlton flag, representing a total investment when completed in excess of $6 billion. The firm continues to opportunistically grow its portfolio holdings in key resort and urban markets in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Caribbean and Europe. Gencom is headquartered in Miami with representative offices in Houston, U.S. West Coast and London. For more information, visit www.gencomgrp.com.

Sales Begin This Week For The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage as Second Real Estate Option at the $500 Million Development

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:48 PDT

Sales Begin This Week For The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage as Second Real Estate Option at the $500 Million Development RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif., Jan. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Strong sales interest continues at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage\'s $500 million resort development this week with The Residences now available as the second whole ownership real estate component at the sophisticated new desert retreat. The Residences are one of three whole ownership options, with a total of 130 luxuriously appointed villas available in studios, one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom units offering a choice of 16 floor plans, ranging in price from $895,000 to $7 million. Sales at the development began in November 2007 with the Spa Suites. The final real estate option, The Residential Suites, will be available for sale beginning in mid-February. The Spa Suites are scheduled for completion in November 2008, and The Residences and The Residential Suites will be completed in several phases with final completion scheduled for spring 2010. Owners will have only the finest amenities and services including a $25 million destination La Prairie Spa; Pinot Mirage restaurant designed by LA\'s renowned Chef Joachim Splichal from Patina Restaurant Group; access to dozens of select Palm Springs golf courses; the resort\'s ideal location on a plateau 650 feet above the Coachella Valley; and five-star Ritz-Carlton service. The real estate components are adjacent to the 244-room Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage hotel, which is scheduled to open in September 2008.

Los Angeles Times

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:40 PDT

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Officially Opens Following $160 Million Transformation

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:28 PDT

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua reopens today following an extensive $160 million transformation, providing a dramatic new appearance and amenities to further enhance the guest experience. The new design incorporates an authentic Hawaiian sense of place, which is evident from the moment guests arrive at the lobby with native Hawaiian artwork, Koa wood panels and the lava stone bar. The resort reinvents itself with an interior design concept that incorporates the area\'s vibrant colors of the lush mountains, natural rainforests and ocean. The 463 guestrooms and suites now feature dark wood floors, all new furnishings, travertine bathrooms, area rug designs with Kukui florals, and Hawaiian print artwork framed with Koa wood. The guestrooms also offer the latest technology, including LCD flat-screen televisions, iPod Docking Stations, DVD players and wireless Internet access. The new full-ownership Residential Suites offer kitchen areas and spacious living rooms, which will be available to hotel guests. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua also features several newly designed restaurants, interpreting aspects of Maui\'s spectacular geography and history. The Banyan Tree, the hotel\'s signature restaurant, has a new destination outdoor bar and lounge with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and an innovative menu by Chef de Cuisine Jojo Vasquez. Kai Sushi is located in a new restaurant space with a design inspired by the story of the native Hawaiians\' arrival across the sea, offering the freshest sushi and Japanese cuisine. The Terrace restaurant features a plantation-inspired design enhanced by an expanded lanai enclosed in glass to reinforce the connection with the landscape. The Alaloa Lounge has a black lava stone wall forming a back far with a brilliant red ribbon of light inspired by the long path, or Alaloa, from the mountains to the sea. The illuminated onyx bar with carved wood details and hand-blown glass pendants sets a warm glow in the lobby. The transformation also includes upgraded amenities to the signature 10,000 square foot, three-tiered pool, including a new children\'s pool and enlarged cabanas with the latest technology. There are also plans for an Environmental Education Center by mid year. The new Fitness Center features dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, the latest state of the art equipment, and is available 24 hours daily. The Ritz-Carlton Spa will open in May 2008 and the design scheme will draw from the concept of Waihua, which the ancient Hawaiians believed was the most pure form of water which was captured by the leaves of the taro plant. The 17,500 square foot Spa will have 15 treatment rooms, including two outdoor couples\' cabanas, and steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs with private and co-ed relaxation areas. Most of the treatment rooms will open to private outdoor shower gardens, while water walls and Hawaiian artwork will be present throughout the public corridors. There will be a temporary spa on the ninth floor offering spa and salon services until the new spa is open. About The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is an AAA Five-Diamond oceanfront property located on 54 acres of Maui\'s lush northwest shore. It proudly maintains the Honokahua Preservation Site, which lies adjacent to the hotel, which is recognized as a \"wahi pana\" (sacred site) and continues to serve as a place where Native Hawaiians can gather to conduct ceremony and protocol. A variety of cultural programs and activities, led by Hawaiian Cultural Advisor Clifford Nae\'ole, are available for all guests, uniting them with Hawaiian practitioners, Kupuna (elders) and kama\'aina (local community members). The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is part of the 23,000 acre master-planned Kapalua Resort on Maui, home to the season-opening, champions only, PGA TOUR event, The Mercedes-Benz Championship. The resort is renowned for its world-class golf courses, an award-winning tennis facility, white sandy beaches including America\'s Best Beach, and a myriad of restaurants and shops. For information or reservations at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, please call (800) 262-8440, the hotel directly at (808) 669-6200, a travel professional, or visit The Ritz-Carlton website at www.ritzcarlton.com.

The Residences at the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage - Sales Began in November 2007 for Three New Luxury Whole-Ownership Options at the Destination�s Only Five-Star Resort

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:21 PDT

THE RESIDENCES AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE Sales Began in November 2007 for Three New Luxury Whole-Ownership Options at the Destination's Only Five-Star Resort RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. - (January 2008) - For those seeking a sophisticated new desert retreat, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will offer three whole ownership real estate options as part of the $500 million resort development. Scheduled for initial opening in September 2008, the first of the elegant fully furnished residences including suites adjacent to the spa, Residential Suites and The Residences are scheduled for completion in November 2008. Owners will have access to all of the resorts' finest amenities including a $25 million destination La Prairie Spa and the culinary artistry of Joachim Splichal - one of Southern California's most celebrated chefs - for a true desert experience. Situated on a plateau 650 feet above the Coachella Valley, the residences boast peerless, panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and rugged Santa Rosa Mountains with a total of 130 luxuriously appointed studio to four bedroom options and a choice of up to 16 floor plans. The options range in price from $895,000 to $7 million. Sales began in November 2007, with spa suites scheduled for completion in November 2008. The Residences and The Residential Suites will be completed in several phases with final completion scheduled for spring 2010. "There has been a huge demand for a residential component at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage" says Jerry Landeck, Senior Partner of Gencom Group, "combining the idyllic desert location with the legendary hotel service, we feel that we are filling a notable void in this market." In collaboration with the architecture firm Scheurer Architects and interior designer Watermark Design, the luxury residences are clustered around the resort and designed to take full advantage of the area\'s abundant sun and natural beauty. Simple sophistication and a palette of materials and colors, inspired by the surrounding desert, complement the myriad outdoor landscape features. With a renewed focus on indoor/outdoor living, The Residences will have an abundance of private outdoor patios, terraces and courtyards. Spa Suites A total of 16 studio/one bath to three-bedroom/two and one half bath suites are situated adjacent to the new 24,000-square foot La Prairie Spa to allow guests private access directly into the destination spa. A soothing color scheme of blues and sea greens, along with clean, simple finishes, maintain the relaxing and tranquil setting of the spa. Crisp white and blue stones and natural woods are used throughout each space to reflect the desert sky and capture the warmth of the desert earth. The suites will feature private exterior terraces and courtyards, many with fire pits, outdoor soaking tubs and large outdoor living areas. The Residential Suites Comprised of 44, studio/one bath to three-bedroom/three bath, suites, The Residential Suites each feature designer selected appliances, fixtures and appointments and their own kitchen and private terrace. Many have courtyard entries and outdoor showers. The Residential Suites are conveniently located across from the hotel porte-cochere and over the walking bridge due west of the hotel entrance. Owners will have a choice of Residential Suites either with a traditional or contemporary sensibility. Clean, crisp design patterns and textures, consistent with the adjacent hotel, contribute to the soft, modern look and feel. Cool and warm tones are blended together in a palette that captures the surrounding desert colors and indigenous plants. The Residences Owners have a choice of 70 two-bedroom/two baths to four-bedroom/four baths, one and two-story villas or spacious town homes. Each residence features private outdoor living areas, some with a secluded plunge pool and patio; fire pits and under the stars seating. Inside, they include gourmet kitchens with designer selected appliances Master bedroom terraces. The Residences are spread gracefully over the hillside giving each owner a sense of privacy and individuality. Each cluster of villas is designed to follow the natural, varying topography of the land, while maximizing connection with the outdoors. Many offer sweeping views of the Coachella Valley and surrounding mountains. Design elements, including a palette of natural colors and textures, inspired by the surrounding desert landscape, help to transform each villa into a natural extension of the area. Modern furniture and finishes add a final touch to the overarching desert-modern design philosophy. Ritz-Carlton Owner Benefits: Five-Star Living Owners will experience the legendary service associated with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. In addition to all the amenities available on-site to resort guests, owners will enjoy a Residents\' concierge building with dedicated owner check-in, two exclusive Residential pools and a hotline for priority reservations at the signature restaurants and Spa. The Ritz-Carlton brand offers Residence owners the intimacy and comforts of home, coupled with personalized services and benefits. And, when traveling, Residence owners enjoy the services of their Owner's Concierge. The Resort The 244-room Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage hotel draws inspiration from the glamour and energy of 1920\'s Palm Springs, when it was first labeled a favorite escape by celebrities and presidents alike. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, will be the Coachella Valley\'s premier, luxury resort. Taking full advantage of the site\'s coveted location, high above the Valley, the resort will be a stylish, sophisticated interpretation of the surrounding desert environment, with a focus on indoor/outdoor living. The resort will include a gourmet restaurant with an exhibition kitchen and wine bar with more than 50 wines available by the glass, as well as a casual dining and bar experience. The highlight of the resort\'s myriad luxury amenities will be the world-class Spa, two \"signature\" pools and the spectacular spa courtyard pool, as well as countless outdoor recreational offerings including access to some of the best golf and tennis clubs in the country. Spa The centerpiece of the resort will be the exclusive $25 million La Prairie Spa with 16 private treatment rooms, fitness center and yoga and movement studios. One of only a few in the world, residents will have priority access to the 24,000-square-foot, two-story spa that will provide a comprehensive menu of world-class, restorative services consistent with a five-star resort. Nearly two-thirds of the treatment rooms will have private terraces, with natural rock outcroppings and outdoor showers. An outdoor pre- and post- treatment relaxation area with plunge pool with be set into the hillside emphasizing a direct connection with the landscape. Dining In keeping with The Ritz-Carlton's strong culinary tradition, owners can chose from four dining and bar venues, under the guidance of Bon Appetit/Food Network 'Restaurateur of the Year' Joachim Splichal and the resort's French-born Executive Chef, Eric Branger. Chef Splichal is creating menus that are exclusive to The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, and will lend his expertise and leadership to both the culinary and front-of-house staff of the locations. Pinot Mirage will expand upon Chef Splichal's well-known Pinot restaurants, and will feature an exhibition kitchen where diners can follow the preparation of their epicurean experience. An intimate wine bar, Split, features more than 100 half bottles of unique, organic and bio-dynamic wines. An inviting Lounge 6Fifty (or 650), offering an expansive list of wines by the glass, signature cocktails and an avant-garde tea service, will beckon guests in an ambiance reflective of the natural elements enveloping the resort. Embracing the setting's indoor/outdoor lifestyle, The Edge is a contemporary, chef-driven steakhouse situated cliff-side and offering unparalleled views of the Valley. A sophisticated, yet casual dining destination, The Edge will offer guests a menu as dramatic as the views, making it the first choice for evening cocktails and stargazing poolside. The Area In recent years, the Coachella Valley area has grown tremendously and attracted a very affluent population as well as a burgeoning arts and cultural scene. Rancho Mirage, with its celebrity homes, has become one of the valley\'s most exclusive neighborhoods. The community is also close to El Paseo, the area\'s leading shopping district, similar in many respects to world famous Rodeo Drive. Owner/Developer Miami-based Gencom (www.gencomgrp.com) develops and owns a number of The Ritz-Carlton properties around the world, including locations in Key Biscayne, Florida, Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Bachelor Gulch, Colorado, Rose Island, Bahamas and Molasses Reef, A Ritz Carlton Reserve in the Turks and Caicos Islands. For sales information contact: 1-888-972-6240, 760-318-4168 or log on to www.livingranchomirage.com. ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY L.L.C.: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., (USA) currently operates 62 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Over 30 projects are under development around the globe with hotel openings planned for Moscow, Tokyo and Ireland over the next year. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. # # # Media Contacts: Landry Fuller / Emily Peterson Murphy O'Brien Inc. 310-453-2539 lfuller@murphyobrien.com epeterson@murphyobrien.com

2008 - BACHELOR GULCH - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:21 PDT

2008 Conde Nast Traveler - Gold List - January 2008 - #1 Hotel in Colorado Travel & Leisure - World's Best Hotels - January 2008 Fodor's Travel - Restaurant Hot List - Spago Bachelor Gulch - January 2008

2008 - KAPALUA - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 02:48:21 PDT

2008 American Automobile Association (AAA) Five Diamond Hotel Conde Nast Traveler, January 2008, "Gold List" Travel + Leisure, January 2008 "Top 500 Hotels"

Hotel Business

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:20:06 PDT

The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia Is Rising on the City�s Premier Avenue of the Arts

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:15:04 PDT

Contact: Rachel Summers 215-875-4365 rsummers@stargroup1.com Cathy Schwartz 856-488-5500 x. 2107 cschwartz@stargroup1.com New luxury tower reaches over $100 million in sales faster than any residential project in the city's history. Philadelphia, Pa.- September 4, 2007 --Rising up to add unprecedented luster to the Philadelphia skyline, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia will take luxury urban living to a spectacular new level. Already over 47% sold, The Residences has made Philadelphia history - reached over $100 million in sales faster than any residential project of its kind. "We're happy to report that construction is on schedule and the building is currently rising above ground," said Craig A. Spencer, president and CEO of The Arden Group, which is developing the property in a joint venture with Gencom Group and Colgate Development. The tower is currently constructed to the 10th floor, with 25 to 30 stories expected to be completed by the end of 2007. Construction will continue with the building topping off at 48 stories, featuring 244 homes. When complete in November 2008, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia will be the tallest and most expensive residential building in the city, costing an estimated $300 million. Designed by internationally acclaimed Handel Architects- the designer of the World Trade Center Memorial - the tower will be a contemporary landmark on the city's premier Avenue of the Arts. The quality of the construction materials at The Residences far exceeds anything else in the city, with a custom-designed glass curtain wall and a dramatic crystal spire. The Residences' kitchens will have Dornbracht fixtures, stone countertops, a Miele under-counter dishwasher, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, and gas Viking cooking appliances. The master bath will be a luxurious retreat, surrounded by full height Calcutta marble walls, floors and counters, and feature Bain Ultra soaking tubs, Duravit commodes, double vanities, a frameless shower and wood cabinets. All other baths will feature marble as well. "Any condominium developer can market the word 'luxury,' but rarely is the claim backed up by an affiliation with the top luxury brand in its market-- The Ritz-Carlton Hotel," said Spencer. Institutional Investor Magazine recently named The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia number 30 on its list of top 100 luxury hotels in the world. For the fourth time, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC, received first-place honors last year in the luxury hotel category in the Market Metrix Hospitality Index and has twice earned the Malcolm Baldridge National Quality Award for outstanding customer service. Residents will enjoy full access to the hotel's services and amenities, extending the luxury well past their own doors. The hotel's magnificent rotunda, with private wine lockers for Residents, becomes part of their home-- to dine, enjoy cocktails, and take advantage of its elegant meeting spaces. In their own homes, Residents can take advantage of valet, housekeeping, babysitting, pet walking, Ritz-Carlton in-room dining and private chefs, plus a chauffeur-driven luxury car service, 24-hour doorman and concierge, Residents-only fitness club with a 60-foot lap pool, and a private street-level park and garden. The Residences is offering one-, two- and three -bedroom condominiums and penthouses ranging from $545,000 to $12 million. For more information, call 215-851-8000 or visit www.philadelphiaresidences.com. ###

The Ritz-Carlton Comes Full Circle, Returning to Rancho Mirage To Launch Area�s Premier Resort and Residences

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:13:43 PDT

Poised to Become the Only Five-Star Destination in the Coachella Valley, $500 Million Property, With Sweeping Vistas, Will Feature Luxury Hotel, World-Class Spa, Fine Dining and Exclusive Residences First Phase To Open June 2008 Rancho Mirage, Calif. (August 2007) - The ultra-affluent enclave of Rancho Mirage, known as the Beverly Hills of the Coachella Valley and a resort playground to generations of politicians and Hollywood personalities, is about to shine even brighter in the Palm Springs area spotlight. A comprehensive $500 million, 40-acre project is set to transform the venerable Lodge at Rancho Mirage into the area's premier, five-star resort under the banner, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Featuring a 244-room resort, a multi-million dollar La Prairie Spa and a 150-unit luxury residential community, the development is situated 650 feet above the Coachella Valley, offering one of the area's most awe-inspiring views. The first phase, the 244-room hotel, will open in June 2008. On sale in Fall 2008, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, along with the spa, will be available for occupancy beginning in June 2008. Miami-based Gencom Group purchased the property and an additional 15 acres adjacent to it in 2005 from hotel operators RockResorts. "This is the most significant development project in our area in many years," said Richard Kite, mayor of Rancho Mirage, referencing the strength of The Ritz-Carlton brand and the caliber of the development team, whose credentials comprise top-tier projects for the world's leading luxury hotel operators. Virtually every aspect of the multi-million dollar project considers the property's prominent site elevation and the area's temperate climate. Its hillside location provides spectacular and unparalleled views of the Coachella Valley and the rugged Santa Rosa mountains, while its climate - renowned for 350 days of sun per year - inspires a dramatic property blueprint distinguished by plentiful gardens, patios, pools, terraces, courtyards and fire pits. The resort is designed to blend seamlessly into the native desert landscape and draw guests and homeowners outdoors, where Agua Caliente design influences are captured in the resort's cooling water and desert fire features. "This property's unsurpassed setting presented the opportunity to bring to life a world-class lifestyle resort," said Karim Alibhai, principal of Gencom Group. "Despite its reputation as a favored resort destination for many of the world's most affluent travelers and celebrities, the Palm Springs area does not have a true five-star luxury property. We are committed to making The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage the preeminent resort and residential property in Southern California." Designed by SB Architects, nearly 100% of the existing hotel will be renovated and an additional 23,620 square feet of new construction added. The hotel's faade will be transformed through the integrated use of multi-hued stone and rich, highly-saturated colors that mirror the inherent beauty of the area's desert surroundings. Stacked-stone columns, bronze-lined doors and oversize windows and deep-toned wood eaves add texture to the facades. Abundant landscaping and dramatic lighting throughout the resort will further enhance the resort's luxurious atmosphere and sense of place. With a renewed focus on indoor/outdoor living, the resort and residences will present a stylized, sophisticated interpretation of the desert environment. Empty Nesters, Extended Families: A Retreat for Every Luxury Homeowner For homeowners, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage introduces three ownership opportunities: The Spa Suites, a collection of 18 suites attached to the Spa; The Residential Suites, comprising 58 one to three-bedroom condominium suites; and The Residences, 74 two to four-bedroom villas with private plunge pools. In total, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will offer 150 residential units - averaging in size from 844- to 3,000-square feet - with interiors envisioned by renowned interior design firm Wilson & Associates. Owners will have complete access to the full range of luxury amenities and world-class services of The Ritz-Carlton hotel and La Prairie Spa, as well as a concierge building with dedicated owner check-in. The residences will also have two pools and a private clubhouse building. A perfect complement to the spa, the 18 one- and two-bedroom Spa Suites offer a private connection to the spa and easy enjoyment of the adjacent spa courtyard swimming pool. Crisp white stones accented by multi-hued blues reflect the desert sky and mirror the color palette of the spa, creating a serene design that seamlessly blends inside and out. Generous living rooms lead to private terraces and courtyards, many with firepits, outdoor soaking tubs and large outdoor living areas. The property's 58 Residential Suites range from one- to three-bedrooms. All have kitchens and private terraces and many feature courtyard entries and outdoor showers. Several of the suites have lock-offs. The Residences comprise 74 two- to four-bedroom, one and two-story villas spread graciously over a sloping hillside. Offering sweeping views of the Coachella Valley, the villas include a full complement of luxurious details from private outdoor living areas, some with secluded plunge pools and firepits to gourmet kitchens and terraces off of the Master bedrooms. With a palette of colors and textures including travertine stone floors, rich walnut cabinetry and modern furniture with clean, simple lines, The Residences marry casual luxury with refined Desert Modernism. Averaging 2,534 square feet, The Residences range from two- to four-bedrooms. Destination Dining and Amenities In keeping with The Ritz-Carlton's strong culinary tradition, a gourmet restaurant is also planned featuring an exhibition kitchen with chef's table and wine bar with over 50 wines available by the glass. For more casual dining, a restaurant and bar adjacent to the resort's spa courtyard pool, will provide outdoor seating amid dramatic billowing fabric sails, providing an engaging contemporary pool bar and grill by day and a dazzling destination restaurant under the stars at night. A major amenity of the resort will be the new 23,000 square-foot La Prairie Spa. Unrivaled in Southern California, the two-story spa will house a fitness center with yoga and movement studios and 16 private treatment rooms. The region's reputation as a recreational playground - with more than 100 golf courses and 500 tennis courts, the Valley area has been called the "golf and tennis capital of the world" - makes on-property recreation a primary focus. Guests and residents will enjoy the services of a golf/tennis concierge who will handle all arrangements at the area's most prestigious golf and tennis clubs. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will feature two "signature" pools, an Olympic size pool framed by cabanas and a spa courtyard pool. Among the development's 72 pools, there will be a series of reflection pools, "relaxation pools" and private plunge pools. For more information, call 1-888-972-6240, 760-318-4168 or log on to www.livingranchomirage.com. # # # ABOUT GENCOM: Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, is a major player in the hospitality and related real estate industries. When the company was originally formed, its activities primarily focused on acquisition, ownership, development and management of full-service properties under the Hilton, Sheraton, Radisson and Wyndham brands throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. As Gencom established a name for itself in the full-service market, it began to seek new opportunities and ventured into new market segments. In 1997, Gencom shifted its focus to developing and acquiring luxury mixed-use hotels, including The Ritz-Carton and Hyatt properties, with ancillary residential components in key resort and urban markets. ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY L.L.C.: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., operates 66 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, The Middle East, and Africa. Over 30 projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Sanya, Dublin, Beijing and Denver. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldridge, National Quality Award, which recognized outstanding customer service.

RockResorts to Continue to Manage La Posada De Santa Fe Resort & Spa Under New Ownership by the Gencom Group

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:13:22 PDT

BROOMFIELD, Colo.- August 2, 2007 RockResorts announced today that it has retained a long-term management agreement for La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa with a partnership led by the Gencom Group. The Gencom Group led partnership announced the purchase of the 157-room La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa, a RockResort, from Trinity Hotel Investors today. La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa has a history dating to the late 1880s. It became a RockResort in 2001. Today, La Posada de Santa Fe is Santa Fe, New Mexico's only member of Leading Hotels of the World. This AAA Four Diamond property is a Santa Fe landmark, perfectly representing its unique environment and location. Last year Santa Fe was voted the second most popular travel city in the country for the fifteenth straight year according to Conde Nast Traveler Magazine's Readers Poll. This year Santa Fe Municipal Airport upgraded to Class 1 status, creating further ease of travel to one of the country's favorite destinations. Additional improvements to the city include the 72,500-square-foot Civic Center scheduled to open in the winter of 2007. We are excited to continue to manage La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa. Gencom Group's planned significant investment in a RockResorts-managed asset underscores our strategy to build a luxury hotel company around a legendary brand of iconic properties that reflect their unique and distinctive locations, said James O'Donnell, Director of Development and Acquisitions for RockResorts and Vail Resorts Lodging Company. We look forward to a long and growing relationship. We are pleased that Gencom Group is committed to upgrading what is already an incredible guest experience with its capital plans. This acquisition represents an opportunity to acquire a timeless resort that is in need of a substantial targeted investment from our partnership so as to ensure that the resort retains its rightful place as one of the most beautiful properties in the United States, stated Aly-khan S. Merali, Director of Acquisitions and Development for Gencom Group. With this capital investment, combined with RockResorts capable management, we are confident that La Posada will continue to be the undisputed choice for upscale travelers to Santa Fe. About RockResorts RockResorts luxury resort hotels offer casually elegant accommodations, lavish RockResorts Spas, renowned golf courses, award-winning dining and a variety of exciting outdoor adventures. The RockResorts collection includes Hotel Jerome in Aspen, CO; The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, CO; Keystone Lodge & Spa in Keystone, CO; The Lodge & Spa at Cordillera in the Vail Valley, CO; The Lodge at Vail in Vail, CO; La Posada de Santa Fe Resort & Spa in Santa Fe, NM; and Snake River Lodge & Spa in Jackson Hole, WY. Future RockResorts include The Arrabelle at Vail Square in Vail, CO (scheduled to open in December 2007); The Landings St. Lucia in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia (scheduled to open in December 2007); The Chateau at HeavenlyVillage in Lake Tahoe, CA (scheduled to open in 2009); Eleven Biscayne Hotel & Spa in Miami, FL (scheduled to open in 2009); and Rum Cay Resort Marina in Rum Cay, The Bahamas (scheduled to open in 2010). About Gencom Group Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, is a major player in the hospitality and related real estate industries. By aligning itself with prominent investors, Gencom has become one of the nation's leading joint-venture investment enterprises, which has enabled the company to be involved in more than 10 luxury hotels and resorts with significant residential components for a total investment value of $6 Billion. Gencom currently has seven properties developed or under development in conjunction with Ritz-Carlton; and is developing the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded property in Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean, which will serve as the brand standard for future Reserve properties. With a strong market position already established in the United States, Canada, Mexico and now the Caribbean, Gencom is expanding its portfolio to include Europe. In early 2006, Gencom formed GenGate Europe with its frequent joint-venture partner Highgate Holdings to purchase a significant portfolio of four-star hotels in Europe.

Luxury Spa Finder

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:13:21 PDT

The Ritz-Carlton Comes Full Circle, Returning to Rancho Mirage to Launch Areas Premier Resort and Residences

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:12:07 PDT

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif., Jan. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The ultra-affluent enclave of Rancho Mirage, known as the Beverly Hills of the Coachella Valley and a resort playground to generations of politicians and Hollywood personalities, is about to shine even brighter in the Palm Springs area spotlight. A comprehensive $500 million, 40-acre project is set to transform the venerable Lodge at Rancho Mirage into the area\'s premier, five-star resort under the banner, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Featuring a 244-room resort, a multi-million dollar internationally-branded spa and a 154-unit luxury residential community, the development is situated 650 feet above the Coachella Valley, offering one of the area\'s most awe-inspiring views. The first phase, the 244-room hotel, will open in December 2007. The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage, to be offered in late January, along with the spa, will be available for occupancy beginning in May 2008. Miami-based Gencom Group purchased the property and an additional 15 acres adjacent to it in 2005 from hotel operators RockResorts. \"This is the most significant development project in our area in many years,\" said Richard Kite, mayor of Rancho Mirage, referencing the strength of The Ritz-Carlton brand and the caliber of the development team, whose credentials comprise top-tier projects for the world\'s leading luxury hotel operators. Virtually every aspect of the project considers the property\'s prominent site elevation and the area\'s temperate climate. Its hillside location provides spectacular and unparalleled views of the Coachella Valley and the rugged Santa Rosa mountains, while its climate -- renowned for 350 days of sun per year -- inspires a dramatic property blueprint distinguished by plentiful gardens, patios, pools, terraces, courtyards and fire pits. \"Despite its reputation as a favored resort destination for many of the world\'s most affluent travelers and celebrities, the Palm Springs area does not have a true five-star luxury property,\" said Karim Alibhai, principal of Gencom Group. \"We are committed to making The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage the preeminent resort and residential property in Southern California.\" Nearly 100% of the existing hotel will be renovated and an additional 23,620 square feet of new construction added. The hotel\'s facade will be transformed through the integrated use of multi-hued stone and highly-saturated colors that mirror the inherent beauty of the area\'s desert surroundings. Stacked-stone columns, bronze-lined doors and oversize windows and deep-toned wood eaves add texture to the facades. Both the hotel and residential design will underscore the primary focus of indoor/outdoor living. Empty Nesters, Extended Families: A Retreat for Every Luxury Homeowner For homeowners, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage introduces three ownership opportunities: The Spa Suites, a collection of 18 condominiums attached to the Spa; The Residential Suites, comprising 86 one- to three-bedroom hotel suites; and The Residences, 68 two- to four-bedroom villas with private plunge pools. In total, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will offer 154 residential units -- averaging in size from 844- to 3,000-square feet -- with interiors envisioned by renowned interior design firm Wilson & Associates. Owners will have complete access to the full range of luxury amenities and world-class services of The Ritz-Carlton hotel and spa, as well as a concierge building with dedicated owner check-in. The residences will also have their own pool and clubhouse building. A perfect complement to the spa, the 18 studio, one- and two-bedroom Spa Suites offer a private connection to the spa and easy enjoyment of the adjacent infinity edge swimming pool. Crisp white stones accented by multi-hued blues reflect the desert sky and mirror the color palette of the spa, creating a serene design that seamlessly blends inside and out. Generous living rooms lead to private terraces and courtyards, many with firepits, outdoor soaking tubs and large outdoor living areas. The property\'s 86 Residential Suites range from one- to three-bedrooms. All have chef\'s kitchens and private terraces and many feature courtyard entries and outdoor showers. Several of the suites have lock-offs. The Residences comprise 68 two-story villas spread graciously over a sloping hillside. Offering sweeping views of the Coachella Valley, the villas include a full complement of luxurious details from private backyards with secluded plunge pools and firepits to fully appointed gourmet kitchens and terraces off of the bedrooms. With a palette of colors and textures including travertine stone floors, rich walnut cabinetry and modern furniture with clean, simple lines, The Residences marry casual luxury with refined Desert Modernism. Averaging 2,534 square feet, The Residences range from two- to four-bedrooms. Destination Dining and Amenities A world-class restaurant will feature an exhibition kitchen and wine bar with over 50 wines available by the glass. For more casual dining, \"The Edge\" will provide outdoor seating amid dramatic billowing fabric sails; an engaging contemporary pool bar and grill by day and a dazzling destination restaurant under the stars at night. A significant feature will be the new multi-million dollar spa under an internationally-branded name. Unrivaled in Southern California, the two-story spa will house a fitness center with yoga studios, 16 private treatment rooms and a health bar and cafe. The region\'s reputation as a recreational playground -- with more than 100 golf courses and 500 tennis courts, the Valley area has been called the \"golf and tennis capital of the world\" -- makes recreation a primary focus. Guests and residents will enjoy the services of a golf/tennis concierge who will handle all arrangements at the area\'s most prestigious golf and tennis clubs. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will feature two \"signature\" pools, an Olympic size pool framed by cabanas and an infinity pool. Among the development\'s 72 pools, there will be a series of reflection pools, \"relaxation pools\" and private plunge pools. For more information log on to www.livingranchomirage.com. ABOUT GENCOM: Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, is a major player in the hospitality and related real estate industries. When the company was originally formed, its activities primarily focused on acquisition, ownership, development and management of full-service properties under the Hilton, Sheraton, Radisson and Wyndham brands throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. As Gencom established a name for itself in the full-service market, it began to seek new opportunities and ventured into new market segments. In 1997, Gencom shifted its focus to developing and acquiring luxury mixed-use hotels, including The Ritz-Carton and Hyatt properties, with ancillary residential components in key resort and urban markets. ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY L.L.C.: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., (USA) currently operates 62 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Over 30 projects are under development around the globe with hotel openings planned for Moscow, Tokyo and Ireland over the next year. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. Gencom Group CONTACT: East Coast, Kristen Hammer, kristen@njfpr.com, or Michelle McLeod, michelle@njfpr.com, both of Nancy J. Friedman PR, +1-212-228-1500; or West Coast, Jerry Digney of Solters & Digney PR, +1-323-651-9300, jerry@solterspr.com, all for Gencom Group Web site: http://www.livingranchomirage.com/

The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia Welcomes International Superstar Chef to their Kitchen

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:11:56 PDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Rachel Summers 215-875-4365 rsummers@stargroup1.com Cathy Schwartz 856-488-5500 x. 2107 cschwartz@stargroup1.com Chef Ripert of New York's famed Le Bernardin to Open Signature Restaurant in The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA (July 16, 2007) -- The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton is adding a delicious new opportunity to the long list of lavish amenities they offer buyers. Internationally acclaimed chef, Eric Ripert will open a modern, sophisticated and casually elegant new restaurant in The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia in the spring of 2008. When the Residents move in to their homes in Fall 2008, they will be able to call Chef Ripert's kitchen their own, as they dine in the restaurant just steps from their own condo or call the restaurant to help them entertain guests in their own homes. Ripert was named "Best Chef" by the James Beard Foundation and his New York City restaurant, Le Bernardin has been recognized by the Zagat Guide as "Best Food" in the U.S. the past four years. "We are thrilled to be able to offer our Residents the top-tier of luxury, not only in space and amenities, but in our choice of such a prominent Chef, as well," said Craig Spencer, CEO and President of The Arden Group. "Our Residents are expecting the best and we make sure to give them just that." The concept for Chef Ripert's restaurant will be American cuisine with an emphasis on the organic and utilization of products from the vast array of local farmers. The restaurant will have an approachable price point. The name is yet to be determined. In addition to Le Bernardin, Chef Ripert, is a consultant to Bleu and Periwinkle in The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Future owners of The Residences glimpsed a taste of things to come and mingled with culinary superstar Eric Ripert at a gala party in The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia last month, hosted by The Residences. At the party, AGC developers Craig A. Spencer and Gary Lake, along with Residences' owners and their guests shared their enthusiasm for Chef Ripert's new restaurant. As a memento of the evening, Residences owners and guests received a personally signed copy of Chef Ripert's best-selling cookbook. The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia combines legendary Ritz-Carlton amenities with carefree Center City living to deliver a signature lifestyle unlike anything currently available in the city of Philadelphia. When complete in 2008, The Residences will be the most expensive residential tower to be built in Philadelphia, costing an estimated $300 million to construct. In addition, at 518 feet, The Residences will be the tallest residential building in the City. ###

Hotel Business

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:10:07 PDT

The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton Bestows A Lavish Compliment to the City of Philadelphia

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:08:21 PDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contacts: Rachel Summers 215-875-4365 rsummers@stargroup1.com Cathy Schwartz 856-488-5500 x. 2107 cschwartz@stargroup1.com Banner heralds the rise of new luxury condominium tower Philadelphia, Pa.- May 1, 2007 --A striking 240-foot banner in Center City is a simultaneous celebration of the rise of The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia and naming Philadelphia as "America's Next Great City." The Residences mesh wall banner was installed recently over a five-day period via an intricate anchor and cable system. It was produced in three pieces, each measuring 80" (H) by 56' (W), due to its weight and size. Prominently displayed on the wall of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the banner, one of the city's largest, is a nod to National Geographic Traveler's recent declaration that Philadelphia is our "Next Great City" and "a classic cityready to step back into the national limelight." "We think Philadelphia has already arrived and we are on the way to take the city to even greater heights," said Craig A. Spencer, CEO of The Arden Group, which is developing The Residences in a joint venture with Gencom Group and Colgate Development. "Our banner is a "valentine" to our city and to The Avenue of the Arts---Philadelphia's Next Great Address." Rising up to add unprecedented luster to the Avenue of the Arts and the Philadelphia skyline, The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia will take luxury urban living to a spectacular new level. Already over 40% sold, The Residences has made Philadelphia history - reaching over $125 million in sales faster than any residential project of its kind. By the end of May, the tower will have reached the fifth floor, with 25 to 30 stories expected to be completed by the end of 2007. Construction will continue with the building topping off at 48 stories. When complete in October 2008, The Residences, Philadelphia will be the tallest and most expensive residential building in the city, costing an estimated $300 million. Residents will enjoy full access to the hotel's services and amenities including its spa and magnificent Rotunda with wine lockers for Residents. In their own homes, they can take advantage of valet, housekeeping, babysitting, pet walking, Ritz-Carlton In-room dining and private chefs, plus a chauffeur-driven luxury car service, 24-hour doorman and concierge, Residents-only fitness club with a 60-foot lap pool, and a private street-level park and garden. The Residences is offering one-, two- and three -bedroom condominiums and penthouses ranging from $545,000 to $12 million. For more information, call 215-851-8000 or visit www.philadelphiaresidences.com. ###

Hotel Business

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:07:01 PDT

Wall Street Journal

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:05:22 PDT

2007 - BACHELOR GULCH - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:01:41 PDT

2007 #3 - Conde Nast Traveler - Ski Poll #33 Conde Nast Traveler - Reader Choice - Best in the World Spago Bachelor Gulch - Fodor's Travel - Hot list Travel & Leisure - Top 500 Cond Nast Traveler "The Gold List, World's Best 700 Hotels, Resort's & Cruise Lines" #1 in Colorado by Travel & Leisure "Your Guide to The World's Best 500 Hotels" AAA Five Diamond Resort Mobil Four-Star Resort

2007 - KAPALUA - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:01:41 PDT

2007 American Automobile Association (AAA) Five Diamond Hotel Mobil Travel Guide, Four Star Hotel Celebrated Living, "Platinum List"; #1 Hotel in Hawaii Travel + Leisure, "World Best 500 Hotels" Travel + Leisure, "Top 25 Hotels in Hawaii" World Travel Awards, "Best Golf Resort in Hawaii" Conde Nast Traveler, "Top 100 Golf Resorts" Maui No Ka Oi, "Aipono Awards "Best Lobby Lounge" and "Most Romantic Restaurant" Meetings West "Best of the West" Award TravelAge West "Award of Excellence in the Best Luxury Property in Hawaii category" American Automobile Association (AAA) Four Diamond Banyan Tree Restaurant

2007 - MOLASSES REEF - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:01:41 PDT

2007 Cond Nast Traveler - November 2007 - "Top 100 Reader's Choice Awards - The Best in the World Travel + Leisure's 2007 "A List" Travel + Leisure - December 2007 - "Four Islands to Watch"

2007 - KEY BISCAYNE - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Fri, 21 Aug 1970 12:01:41 PDT

2007 Travel and Leisure - 500 Greatest Hotels in the World; Best Resort in Miami AAA - Five Diamond (the only Five Diamond resort in Miami Mobile Travel Guide - "Four-Star Spa Rating" Miami Herald - The Herald Hot List "Best Hotel for a Local Vacation" Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa - "Spa of the Month", February.

The Nassau Guardian

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:33:35 PDT

The Nassau Guardian

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:33:34 PDT

The Bahama Journal

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:33:33 PDT

The Tribune

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:33:33 PDT

Gencom-Led Partnership to Develop The Ritz-Carlton Rose Island, Bahamas in the Caribbean

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:30:25 PDT

MIAMI, Oct. 25, 2006-Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, announced that through a joint venture partnership it will develop The Ritz-Carlton Rose Island, Bahamas, which is just four miles off Nassau and Paradise Island in the Caribbean. The exclusive luxury resort, which is scheduled to open in late 2009, will sit on a 230-acre private island. The resort will feature a 180-room Ritz-Carlton hotel and more than 400 residential units that will include condo hotel units, villas, townhouses, private estate homes and a 40 Ritz-Carlton Club fractional product. It is envisioned that there will be rental programs available to all the homeowners. Other features will include a 300 slip marina that will provide full retail and marina services, a helipad and a ferry from Nassau and Paradise Island for homeowners, guests and visitors, various swimming pools, a luxury spa and several dining alternatives, including specialty and casual restaurants. An added amenity of the project will be an eight-acre nature preserve. In addition, residents can snorkel, dive and enjoy water sport activities along the white pristine beaches. The Ritz-Carlton, Rose Island, Bahamas will provide guests and homeowners the best of both worlds - an intimate and private environment that offers the comforts of home as well as an array of recreational, shopping and dining activities on nearby Paradise Island and Nassau, said Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom. This is a great project for our team to be involved with and a wonderful addition to our Ritz-Carlton portfolio. To date, this project is our sixth Ritz-Carlton property. About Gencom Group Founded in 1987 by Karim Alibhai, Gencom Group has been a major player in the hospitality and related real estate industries. The company has focused its activities primarily on the acquisition, ownership, development and management of hotel properties throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Most recently, a Gencom-led partnership purchased The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua in Maui, and the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort in the Cayman Islands. In addition, Gencom formed GenGate with its frequent joint-venture partner Highgate Holdings to purchase a significant portfolio of four-star hotels in Paris and Amsterdam with an institutional partner. Currently the company is focused on the development and acquisition of luxury mixed-use hotels with ancillary residential components in key resort and urban markets, while maintaining an ownership and management role in full-service hotels and extended-stay hotels. Gencom's development projects include The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia; The Residences at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia; The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne in Miami; The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek, Colo.; The Residential Suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch; The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua in Maui, Hawaii; Molasses Reef, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Molasses Reef Island Villas on West Caicos Reserve in Turks and Caicos; the Park Hyatt, Toronto; and The Lodge at Rancho Mirage in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Gencom Announces Co-Development, Joint-Venture Partnership in Molasses Reef, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Island Villas, Equity Investor in West Caicos Project

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:23:35 PDT

MIAMI, June 15, 2006 - Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, has announced its involvement as a co-developer and joint-venture partner in Molasses Reef, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and The Island Villas, Ritz-Carlton-managed residential condos, located on West Caicos in the Turks and Caicos Islands. In addition, Gencom announced equity investment in the overall West Caicos project. Gencom will co-develop the 125-room Molasses Reef, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, which will feature oceanfront guest suites with private terraces configured in small cottages of one- and two-stories spread over a half-mile of beachfront. In addition, the resort will feature two restaurants, a full-service spa, a business center, 2,000 square feet of meeting space, three pools and a tennis pavilion. Furthermore, Gencom will co-develop 75 Ritz-Carlton-branded oceanfront Island Villas, which will be adjacent to the resort, as well as co-develop the marina and marina residential condos. Construction is expected to be completed in 2008. This development not only represents our first luxury mixed-use entry into the Caribbean, but is a significant milestone for us in being involved in the development of the most exclusive Ritz-Carlton project, hence the designation The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, said Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom. We're excited to be partners with Logwood Hotel Development Company and its main principals Alan Lisenby and David Hartshorn, without whose early vision, this development would not have been possible. As an equity investor in the West Caicos project, Gencom will provide its expertise in development, financing, asset management, and sales and marketing for the overall project. In addition to being an equity investor, Gencom also arranged the construction financing for the development through one of its extensive relationships. The overall scope of the projects once completed is expected to exceed $400 million.

Gencom Group Names Troy Bennett Senior Vice President of Asset Management for its Luxury Portfolio

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:23:29 PDT

MIAMI, June 9, 2006 - Gencom Group, an investment and development firm, has named Troy Bennett Senior Vice President of Asset Management for its luxury portfolio. With more than 20 years of hospitality experience, Bennett will be the asset manager of Gencom's Ritz-Carlton portfolio responsible for oversight of operations to include improving top line revenues and bottom line performance; evaluating and supervising recurring capital projects, ROI projects, major renovations and expansions; and implementing and overseeing the company's new thrust in upgrading its food and beverage operations with third party restaurateurs. Prior to joining Gencom, Bennett was Vice President of Asset Management with Host Hotels and Resorts in Bethesda, Md., where he was responsible for managing the acquisition, disposition, development, repositioning, master planning, operations and budgeting for a billion dollar portfolio of luxury hotel brands including Ritz-Carlton. Before this, he was managing director at Benchmark International Hospitality in Houston, where he created and developed a new division of luxury independent hotels. Previously, he was managing director with the ultra-luxury Grand Theme Hotels Group in Orlando, Fla., where he oversaw the design and development along with managing three hotels in the Grand Theme Hotels portfolio, including the Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine, Fla.; the Celebration Hotel in Orlando, Fla.; and the Mansion on Forsyth Park in Savannah, Ga. Active in the business community, Bennett has served on several hospitality- related boards, a member of the Hospitality Asset Managers Association and has taken several continuing educational classes at Harvard Law School and Cornell University.

Gencom-Led Partnership Purchases Bradford HomeSuites in Texas and Colorado

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:21:58 PDT

MIAMI, May 18, 2006 - Gencom Group announced that through a joint venture partnership it has acquired the entire portfolio of Bradford HomeSuites hotels in Texas and Colorado. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. The same partnership acquired an interes\'t in the Summerfield Suites by Wyndham brand in 2005 and sold the brand along with six Summerfield Suites by Wyndham hotels to Hyatt Corporation earlier this year. Gencom purchased the Bradford HomeSuites nine hotels, which include four properties in Dallas; two in Houston; one in Austin, Texas; one in Denver and one in Colorado Springs, Colo. Driftwood Hospitality Management, a Jupiter, Fla.-based independent hospitality management and development company, is managing the nine Bradford HomeSuites. The upscale extended-stay hotels will undergo a $15 million renovation and will be flagged under a nationally recognized brand. On the heels of our successful investment in the Summerfield Suites brand, we will continue to seek similar investment opportunities for conversion or ground-up development, said Karim Alibhai, founder and principal of Gencom. The upscale extended-stay Bradford HomeSuites are equipped with living/work areas, kitchens and bedrooms. Each Bradford location features a pool and hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center and a business center. For more information call (888) 486-STAY (7829), or visit www.bradfordsuites.com.

The Evening Bulletin

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:21:43 PDT

2006 - BACHELOR GULCH - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:15:01 PDT

2006 #5 U.S. Mainland Resort, Cond Nast Traveler "100 Best in the World" AAA Five Diamond Resort Cond Nast Traveler "Gold List" Travel & Leisure Top 500 #3 Cond Nast Traveler "Spa Poll" #15 Travel & Leisure "Top 100 - US & Canada" #66 Travel & Leisure "Top 100 - Worldwide" Robb Report "World's Best Resorts" #15 Cond Nast Traveler " US Golf Resorts" Wine Spectator "Best Award of Excellence" Mobil Four-Star Resort, Mobil Four-Star Spa #2 Family Resort - Travel & Leisure Family

2006 - KAPALUA - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:15:01 PDT

2006 American Automobile Association (AAA) Five Diamond Hotel Mobil Travel Guide, Four Star Hotel Travel + Leisure Golf, #1 Golf Resort in Hawaii Conde Nast Traveler, "Top 100 Golf Resorts" #14 Overall Maui No Ka Oi, 'Aipono Awards "Best Restaurant of the Year," The Banyan Tree Maui No Ka Oi, 'Aipono Awards "Best Lobby Lounge" Celebrated Living, "Platinum List"; #1 Hotel in Hawaii Travel + Leisure "World's Best 500 Hotels" Ranked #1 Beach on Dr. Beach's "America's Best Beaches List"

2006 - MOLASSES REEF - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:15:01 PDT

2006 Concierge.com - November 2006 - "Recommendations for What to See and Do" Caribbean Travel + Life - November 2006 - Accolade

2006 - KEY BISCAYNE - AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Thu, 20 Aug 1970 09:15:01 PDT

2006 Mobile Travel Guide - "Four-Star Spa Rating" Tennis Resorts Online - "Top 75 Tennis Resorts in the World" Elite Traveler - "Top Suites in Miami" Tennis Magazine - "The 50 Best U.S. Tennis Resorts" AAA - Five Diamond (the only Five Diamond resort in Miami) Forbes - One of Ten Hottest Hotel Spas in the World Robb Report Luxury Resorts - The world's "100 Best Places To Stay in 2006" Conde Nast Traveler - Top 100 Golf Resort Miami Herald - The Herald Hot List "Best Spa, Best Hotel to Recommend to Relatives, Best Hotel for a Local Getaway" Florida International Magazine - Editor's Choice, Best Brunch Ocean Drive en Espaol - Cioppino "Mejor Lujo de Key Biscayne" Miami News Times - "Best Dining Indulgence - Sensory Odyssey Dinner Simply the Best Magazine - "The 20 Best Hotels in the U.S." Living Real Miami Magazine - "25 Best Places to Work in Miami