Hotel News We Noted: May 18, 2012

This second edition of “Hotel News We Noted” tracks the week’s most interesting hotel stories and trends. In today’s edition, you’ll find why Mac users are fancier than their PC counterparts, learn how to buy a piece of the Four Seasons and explore Instagram turning into art, among other things.

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Travel Trends: Mac Users Book Fancier Hotels than PC Users
According to Orbitz, Mac users are 40 percent more likely than their PC counterparts to book a four- or five-star hotel. Orbitz CEO Barney Harford shared this information with USA Today and explained how the company personalizes search results based on data provided by the client – whether they are staying with children or without, age, and other demographic information.

Hotel Packages: Palomar Embraces Hipsters
A new package at Kimpton’s Hotel Palomar San Diego (seen above in the photo), has us wishing we’d never heard of the term “hipster.” Their new “Hip Hip Hipster” package ties in with something hipsters love – music and fashion – as well as overnight accommodations and special value-adds, including a pair of “chic sunglasses,” a special discount at Goorin Bros. Hatmaker and two locally-brewed beers at Saltbox Lounge. Please direct any hipsters you know to this package, as they’re probably too cool to read something as passe as a blog. The package is valid through July 31.

Coming Soon: Starwood to Open First Iraq Hotel in 20 Years
Starwood has signed an agreement to manage a new-build Sheraton hotel in Erbil, Iraq. Scheduled to open in 2015, the Sheraton Erbil Hotel will mark the re-entry of Starwood in the country after 20 years. Located in the new part of the city, the Sheraton Erbil Hotel will feature 221 guest rooms, on-site dining, a fitness center, spa, and indoor and outdoor pools. Located in northern Iraq, Erbil is emerging as the country’s commercial hub. Starwood currently operates close to 50 hotels in the Middle East, which includes 16 Sheraton hotels.

Hotel News & Trends: W New York Turns Instagram Photos Into An Art Show
Hotels are one of the most interesting players in the social media game. While generally a bit behind the eight ball when it comes to technological innovation, they’re quick to jump on any trend that might generate revenue, and social media is definitely one of those things. In this case, they are industry pioneers, hosting one of the first-ever Instagram art exhibitions. Check it out, if you’re in New York now through May 21, and thanks to SocialTimes for the tip.

On the Auction Block: Buy a Piece of Four Seasons
The Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is relocating and, as a result, you can now own a piece of the original. From May 31 to June 2, IAAS Worldwide will sell off all 32 floors of the hotel’s goods, an estimated $10 million value, which include grand pianos, crystal chandeliers, designer lamps and marble flooring. Notable items include Truffle’s signature old-world iron gates, the Avenue Bar’s famous 20-foot onyx bar as well as the Regency Ballroom’s double-height doors, wood paneling, ornate mirrors and century-old chandeliers. Want to preview the goods? That takes place May 29 and 30.