Hilton Hotels Corporation is committing to Latin America in a big way. Not only is it opening new hotels and pushing through an ambitious renovation campaign, it's also finding fresh ways to market its hotels with culture-based packages and easily navigated web sites. 
"We see tremendous opportunities for growth in Central
and South America," says Danny Hughes, area vice president, Caribbean,
Hilton will begin management of two resorts in
"Doubletree is custom made for
Hughes gives
"This gets more people talking about the country, which
raises its profile and encourages family reunion travel." Hughes notes
that family members visiting relatives often opt to spend some time exploring
Hughes also sees potential in Hilton's re-branding of the
existing Princess Hotels chain as Hilton Princess hotels. Hilton already has
three Hilton Princess hotels, one each in
"The free trade agreement with the
Hughes says that Hilton Corporation is finalizing a deal for a Panama City Hilton hotel that he describes as "first-class."
The hotel will target business travelers, while also functioning as a gateway to exploring the country. Hilton hopes to have the hotel up-and-running by 2008.
Hilton has also completed a $10 million improvement campaign, with major renovations at Hilton Buenos Aires, Hilton Cartagena, Hilton Colón Guayaquil and Hilton Colón Quito.
Hilton's development strategy in Central and
The opening of a $27 million hotel in
A 150-room hotel in
In 2008, Hilton will open a 158-room resort in Puerto
Iguazu, on the Argentinan side of
Hilton is offering new programs inspired by the culture of
"Mis Raíces" provides guests with a map of the city, a book on local customs and an ethnic welcome gift. Participating hotels' concierge will also help interested guests connect with a local genealogy expert.
Participating hotels offer the "Mis Raíces" package at the starting rates below (breakfast is included), with a minimum stay of two nights: Hilton Buenos Aires $230, Hilton São Paulo Morumbi $215, Hilton Belem $210, Hilton Cartagena $245, Hilton Barquisimeto $195, and Hilton Margarita & Suites $220.
The package is available through December 31. For reservations, guests should visit the participating hotel's "hotel specials" page on www.hilton.com or call 1-800-HILTONS and request booking code PR50MR.
Hilton São Paulo Morumbi's "Live Like A Mogul"
package features transfers on the newly expanded helicopter shuttle between
The package costs $5,500 a night. For an additional $675 an hour, guests can get around in style with their own personal helicopter for the day.
The "Live Like a Mogul" package is available through Dec. 31. To book the package, call the hotel directly at 011-5511-6845-0000.
Hilton Hotels Corporation: 800-HILTONS, www.hilton.com