Keeping Austin Weird

True to its civic slogan the city of Austin erected a statue of "outlaw country music" singer/songwriter (and notorious pot-smoker) Willie Nelson outside the hip W Hotel, Austin on April 20th.

Texas-born and 10-time Grammy winner Nelson has made Austin his home since 1971 and is credited with securing the city's reputation as the live music capital of the world. He appeared on the very first episode of Austin City Limits in 1974, which is broadcast from a studio now located adjacent to the W.

The April 20 date was apparently a complete coincidence, but then organizers took full advantage by scheduling the unveiling for 4:20 p.m.

Only in Austin.

Wikipedia weighs in on 420

Going Big in the Big Apple

Sometime between the time that the moratorium on skyscrapers was lifted - then re-imposed - "The Donald" managed to erect a 40+-story glass tower in the area of lower Manhattan South of Houston known as SoHo, thus affording guests of the Trump SoHo unobstructed views from their oversized suites with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The hotel offers 12,000 sq.ft. for meetings and events, and a Spa almost as large as all the function space put together. Their current "Spring into Value!" promotion for business booked *now* until the end of April, and travelling before the end of August, includes:

• 3% credit to Master on some charges
• 1/40 complimentary guestrooms
• 1/10 (!) upgrades to suite at group rate
• welcome amenity for all guests
• complimentary internet in all guestrooms
• 15% discount at The Spa
• $500 gift card for the planner

Please let me know if you'd like any additional information!

Springtime on the Roof

From the 18th floor of the Park Hyatt Toronto, General Manager (and Canadian Hotelier of the year in 2011) Paul Verciglio welcomed guests to his  elegant hotel with a reception featuring spring-inspired food stations and cut tulips everywhere. 

It was a beautiful, cloudless evening and the views of Bloor Street, the Royal Ontario Museum, and Queens Park - already quite green - were an inspiration.

Mr. Verciglio spoke eloquently about the changing supply of hotel rooms in Toronto, with the closure just this past weekend of its long-time neighbour and competitor across the street (and getting a nervous laugh about his staff sending over a cake to wish them well), and the Sutton Place - now officially closing its doors June 15th. He also acknowledged the recent and impending openings, and how they are driving his hotel to stay on top of its game.

Continuing what it does so well - great service and phenomenal food and beverage - will ensure Hyatt's place in the changing market...and the Roof!  With both Windows and Stop 33 gone, what other hotel function room in Toronto will afford such iconic views?