Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa Unveil Plans to Open Their Second Property, Steyn City Hotel by Saxon, in South Africa This October

Prague – Sir Hotels is proud to announce the opening of Sir Prague on the 17th of March, the brand's first expansion into the Czech Republic. Located in Prague's lively New Town, the hotel offers 76 rooms in a heritage building spread across five floors, near the famous Dancing House and the Vltava River. Credit: Jana Krenova Guests will enjoy Seven North Restaurant, opening later in spring, originally from Vienna and already celebrated with local awards for its culinary excellence. The hotel also features a stylish bar, a boutique gym, and a unique tower suite for those seeking an elevated stay. The multifunctional library provides space for meetings and relaxation, while the outdoor courtyard offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The hotel is housed in a historic building dating back to 1884, with its original neo renaissance features, such as a stunning facade, still intact. The interior design, led by renowned designer Linda Boronkay, thoughtfully combines Prague's rich cultural and architectural heritage with a modern sensibility, creating a space that is both timeless and inviting. Boronkay, known for her ability to weave storytelling into her designs, drew inspiration from the city's Gothic and Cubist traditions, incorporating intricate stonework, ornate iron details, and bold graphic patterns that reflect Prague's unique aesthetic. Rooms will start from €160 per night (approx £135) and each room is adorned with bespoke embroidered headboards and carefully curated furnishings, many crafted by local artisans. Throughout the hotel, vintage Czech pieces and playful design touches celebrate local folklore and storytelling, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience for every guest. Located in the heart of New Town, Sir Prague places guests within walking distance of several of the city's most famous landmarks. The National Theatre, Charles Bridge, Kafka Head, and the Astronomical Clock are all just moments away, making the hotel an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers. In addition to its cultural surroundings, the area is known for its cafes, boutique shops, and the vibrant Náplavka riverbank. The opening of Sir Prague marks a significant milestone for Sir Hotels as the brand continues to expand its presence in Europe's key cultural cities. Already known for its distinctive design, personalised service, and commitment to showcasing the essence of each destination, Sir Hotels is excited to bring its signature hospitality to Prague. Christine Vespermann, General Manager of Sir Prague, expressed her enthusiasm for the hotel's debut: “Prague is a city with a soul unlike any other, and we couldn't be more thrilled to become part of its dynamic hospitality landscape. With its historic charm and vibrant energy, the city is the perfect match for Sir Hotels' philosophy of creating meaningful and unforgettable experiences. We look forward to welcoming guests to a space that beautifully merges Prague's rich traditions with modern luxury.” For more information, please visit sirhotels.com.

This week, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) closed out PCMA Convening Leaders 2025 in Houston and gave attendees a preview of what they can expect in Philadelphia for Convening Leaders 2026. The presentation, “Iconic Past, Dynamic Present, Inspiring Future,” featured a party-like atmosphere with live performances and original songs. Photo credits: Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau PHLCVB President and CEO Gregg Caren was joined by dozens of performers to announce Philadelphia as the host city of PCMA CL 2026, including singers, dancers, and the Klein Forest High School Marching Band from Houston, Texas. The marching band will head to Philadelphia in 2026 as one of the featured bands in the July 4th parade. In 2026, the nation will recognize the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As America’s birthplace, Philadelphia will be the centerpiece of this national celebration and will take center stage for some of the world’s biggest events. “Today, Philadelphia is more than a historic icon; it’s a thriving, modern city filled with life, culture, and opportunity. As the backdrop for global events, a booming arts scene, and groundbreaking medical and scientific innovation, Philadelphia has evolved while honoring its heritage,” said Caren. “Next year, our city will host a lineup of major events, including the much-anticipated Convening Leaders at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, during PCMA’s 70th year, also founded in Philadelphia. Attendees will discover a destination that embraces both the roots of America and the future of global collaboration.” On the trade show floor, the Philadelphia booth highlighted the city’s role as host for PCMA CL26 and other notable 2026 events, including six matches of the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, NCAA March Madness, 108th PGA Championship, and the centerpiece of national Semiquincentennial celebrations. The booth was activated with FIFA World Cup 2026 scarf giveaways and a “make your own” hat station where attendees could select badges to apply to their “Meet me in Philly ‘26” hats. The original Philadelphia patch designs were designed by local Philadelphia artist, Ana Thorne. 

Louisville's oldest operating hotel is celebrating its rich history with a newly unveiled Great Gatsby suite ahead of the novel's centenary this April. Opened in 1905, the Seelbach Hotel has a storied past with a guest list that includes former U.S. Presidents, Academy Award winners, and famous musicians. F. Scott Fitzgerald, author of the classic American novel The Great Gatsby, is said to have frequented the hotel to imbibe in its infamous Rathskeller while on break from Louisville's Camp Taylor, where he was stationed in 1918 during World War I. Photo credits:  Seelbach Hotel  In honour of The Great Gatsby's 100th anniversary on 10th April 2025, the Seelbach Hilton Hotel has unveiled a newly renovated two-room suite embellished with Art Deco décor reflecting the opulence, bold colors, and glamour of the era. Designed by Louisville native Terra B. Nelson, founder of boutique consulting firm T.B. Nelson Hospitality Design, the two rooms of the suite were designed to highlight the dichotomy between The Great Gatsby characters Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchannan. In the Daisy-inspired bedroom, guests will find the look of established old money of Tom and Daisy: lavish but delicate, with the room featuring 1920's furniture, décor and vintage objets d'art including plush velvet armchairs, an Art Deco dresser turned mini bar and the three-tiered crystal chandelier. Other noticeable hints of the book's characters and places can be found on the walls, featuring photos of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Tom Buchannan, and Jay Gatsby, as well as coastal art representing the fictional towns of East and West Egg. “In order to get people talking, you have to give them something to talk about, and one of the best ways to do that is by creating spaces that go beyond functionality and aesthetics to offer vivid and unforgettable experiences,” said Terra B. Nelson, designer, and Founder of T.B. Nelson Hospitality Design. “We were able to add some really nice vintage pieces. One of my favorite features that brings the rooms together is the vintage green light that hangs by the door leading into the Daisy bedroom. The green light at the end of Daisy's dock is a recurring theme in the book, always calling Gatsby to her.” For food and beverage options, guests can visit the hotel's in-house breakfast spot, Gatsby's on Fourth, for an East Egg or West Egg omelette. Or, stop into the Old Seelbach Bar for a classic Seelbach Cocktail, a decades-old Prohibition-era-inspired libation that mixes Bourbon, champagne, and orange liqueur.   Additionally, to honour the literary milestone, Louisville Tourism has curated a "Guide to Gatsby's Louisville," highlighting key locations that influenced Fitzgerald's writing. In addition to the Seelbach, notable sites include the Cherokee Triangle where visitors can stroll through this historic neighbourhood, believed to have inspired the description of Daisy Buchanan's Louisville home. Alternatively, sample some bourbon on Whiskey Row and experience Louisville's bourbon heritage along Main Street, where Fitzgerald likely enjoyed the local spirits that influenced his portrayal of the roaring twenties.  To further celebrate the novel's anniversary, the city of Louisville will host a number of special events, one being the World Ballet Company's "The Great Gatsby.” On April 13, 2025, at the Louisville Palace, this new production will bring the book to life with a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers, adorned in handcrafted costumes and performing against lavish sets reminiscent of the novel's opulent scenes.  The Seelbach's Great Gatsby Suite will officially be available to book on the hotel's website from 1st February. For guests who want to experience more of the hotel's opulent history, the Hilton property provides free hotel tours at 4:30pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The tour includes facts about the hotel's120-year history, with stops in the Oakroom, where Al Capone was said to have played cards, The Grand Ballroom, where Fitzgerald penned as the location of Tom and Daisy's lavish June wedding, and the Rathskellar, a one-of-a-kind historic space that was a USO during World War I and where Fitzgerald himself is to said have imbibed during his time off. For information on upcoming The Great Gatsby-themed events and a Gatsby's guide to Louisville, visit www.gotolouisville.com/Gatsby. For more information on the Seelbach visit www.seelbachhilton.com.