Kimpton Everly Hollywood by IHG in Los Angeles Welcomes Robert Boyd with over Two Decades of Luxury Hospitality Experience as the New General Manager

Kimpton Everly Hollywood, the stylish hillside hotel that offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Hills, has announced the appointment of Robert Boyd as its new General Manager. With more than two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Boyd’s appointment marks a new chapter for the property, as he is set to lead the hotel’s operations and elevate the overall guest experience.

A Seasoned Hotelier with Proven Leadership

Boyd brings extensive expertise to Kimpton Everly Hollywood, drawing from a career that spans over 20 years in the luxury and lifestyle sectors. His experience includes notable senior leadership positions at some of the most acclaimed hotels in the U.S., such as Chateau Marmont, Terranea Resort, Fairmont El San Juan Hotel and Canyon Ranch destinations. In his previous role as the general manager at Hotel Greystone in Miami Beach, Boyd guided the property to achieve the prestigious two-MICHELIN Key distinction, underscoring his ability to enhance luxury service and hospitality standards.

Boyd’s appointment comes at a time when Kimpton Everly Hollywood aims to further its reputation as a vibrant, creative hub for both travelers and locals. His leadership style, which prioritizes a people-first approach, aligns with Kimpton’s brand values of making every guest feel personally welcomed and connected to the local community. This approach is expected to strengthen the hotel’s appeal and improve its standing as a destination for those seeking authentic, high-quality experiences.

Commitment to Enhancing the Guest Experience

As the new General Manager, Boyd will be responsible for overseeing all hotel operations at Kimpton Everly Hollywood. His primary goal is to amplify the guest experience, ensuring that the hotel maintains its distinctive blend of personalized service and local immersion. Boyd has expressed a commitment to maintaining the high standards that Kimpton is known for, while continuing to focus on the personal connections that make every stay memorable. He believes that engaged and inspired colleagues are the cornerstone of exceptional service and plans to emphasize team development as a key aspect of his management.

Boyd’s hospitality philosophy revolves around thoughtful leadership that balances the complexities of day-to-day operations with a genuine dedication to making every guest experience special. His passion for mentorship and staff development is expected to resonate throughout the hotel, as Boyd views these elements as integral to building a cohesive and dynamic team. As a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), Boyd continues to focus on fostering the growth of his colleagues and ensuring they are empowered to offer the best service possible.

A Vision for the Future of Kimpton Everly Hollywood

Robert Boyd’s leadership is poised to bring new energy to Kimpton Everly Hollywood, which is already known for its innovative atmosphere and artistic appeal. Boyd’s diverse background in overseeing luxury properties, transforming hotel operations and delivering high-end guest experiences will play a key role in shaping the hotel’s future. His prior experience as the opening general manager at The Brant in Nantucket, where he led a multi-million-dollar transformation, has equipped him with the strategic vision needed to navigate and lead hotels through evolving landscapes.

The appointment of Boyd as General Manager is an exciting development for Kimpton Everly Hollywood, as it continues to establish itself as a prime destination for travelers looking for a blend of sophistication, style and authentic local experiences. Boyd’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding the hotel to new heights and continuing to attract both international visitors and local guests seeking creative, high-end hospitality in the heart of Los Angeles.

As Kimpton Everly Hollywood looks to the future, the appointment of Robert Boyd signals a strong commitment to enhancing every aspect of the guest experience, reaffirming the hotel’s position as one of LA’s premier lifestyle destinations.

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Flight Cancellations in Jakarta, Surabaya and Medan Creates Travel Interruptions in Indonesia as Batik Air, Garuda Indonesia and others Face 22 Suspensions and 453 Delays, New Update

Flight disruptions are currently rippling through Indonesia, leaving hundreds of travelers searching for answers. Operations at three critical aviation hubs face significant setbacks today. Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International Airport reports the highest volume of issues, followed by regional hubs in Surabaya and Medan. Batik Air and Garuda Indonesia are the primary carriers navigating these operational hurdles. While some flights remain grounded, others face hours of uncertainty on the tarmac. Consequently, these delays impact both business travelers and the vital tourism sector. There’s a total of 22 flight cancellations and 453 delays reported.

Major Airports Affected

The most substantial volume of disruptions was observed at Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, which serves as the primary gateway to Indonesia. As the country’s most active aviation hub, the impact here was pronounced, with 20 total cancellations and 298 delays reported within a single day. The density of traffic in Jakarta means that these 318 combined incidents likely affected a vast demographic of business and leisure travelers, creating a ripple effect across connecting flights.

Further east, Juanda International Airport, which serves the city of Surabaya, also reported operational hurdles. While the total number of cancellations remained low at just 1 flight, the facility dealt with 97 reported delays. For those traveling through Surabaya, the high volume of delayed departures necessitated extended wait times within the terminal, straining airport amenities and ground handling services.

Similarly, in North Sumatra, Kuala Namu International Airport—the primary airport for Medan —was not immune to the day’s challenges. Data indicates that 1 cancellation and 58 delays occurred at this location. Although the figures in Medan are lower than those seen in Jakarta, the impact on regional connectivity remains significant, especially for those utilizing the airport as a transit point for the northern regions of the archipelago.

Impacted Airlines

Batik Air emerged as the most heavily affected airline across all three monitored locations. In Jakarta, Batik Air accounted for 13 of the 20 cancellations and 80 of the 298 delays. The trend continued in Surabaya, where the airline was responsible for the sole cancellation of the day and 23 delays. In Medan, the airline again saw 1 cancellation and 3 delays.

Garuda Indonesia, the national flag carrier, also experienced some setbacks, though these were concentrated at the Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. At this hub, Garuda Indonesia recorded 7 cancellations and 20 delays. The concentration of these issues within the capital’s airport suggests that the airline’s primary hub operations were under significant strain today. The disparity in numbers between Batik Air and other carriers indicates that while the broader aviation environment in Indonesia faced hurdles, certain fleet schedules were more vulnerable to the day’s specific operational conditions than others.

Beyond these specific figures, delays were being experienced by several other Airlines, like Indonesia AirAsia, Citilink, Lion Air, Super Air Jet, Sriwijaya Air, TransNusa, Singapore Airlines and more.

Probable Impact on Local Tourism

The concentration of flight delays and cancellations in Jakarta, Surabaya and Medan carries inevitable implications for local tourism and hospitality sectors. As these three cities represent the commercial and cultural hearts of Indonesia, the sudden interruption of travel flows can lead to a temporary downturn in visitor arrivals and hotel occupancy rates.

In Jakarta, where the volume of cancellations was highest, the tourism sector often relies on the seamless transition of international tourists to domestic destinations. Delays of this magnitude can lead to missed connections for “multi-city” itineraries, potentially resulting in shortened stays within the capital.

For Surabaya and Medan, the delays affect the accessibility of key tourist landmarks. Surabaya is often used as a base for excursions to Mount Bromo, while Medan is the gateway for those traveling to Lake Toba. When nearly 100 flights are delayed in Surabaya or over 50 in Medan, the scheduled tours, transport bookings and local guide services are often thrown into disarray. The reliability of the aviation network is a cornerstone of tourism confidence and such a high frequency of interruptions may necessitate a period of recovery for the local travel markets in these regions.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For those currently navigating the travel interruptions in Jakarta, Surabaya or Medan, several professional protocols should be followed to mitigate the impact of these delays and cancellations. As the situation remains fluid, staying informed through official channels is paramount.

• Monitor Flight Status Constantly: Passengers are advised to utilize the official mobile applications or websites of Batik Air and Garuda Indonesia. Given the high volume of delays in Jakarta, real-time digital updates are often more efficient than waiting for terminal-wide announcements.
• Documentation for Claims: It is recommended that travelers keep a record of all communications from the airline regarding their delay or cancellation. In the context of Indonesia’s aviation regulations, documented proof of the duration and nature of the delay is essential for any potential compensation or rebooking assistance.
• Engagement with Ground Staff: At airports like Juanda International or Kuala Namu, where delays are high but cancellations are fewer, engaging directly with airline service desks can provide clarity on estimated departure times. It is often possible to request vouchers for refreshments or meals if a delay exceeds a specific time threshold, as per standard industry practice.
• Travel Insurance Consultation: Those with comprehensive travel insurance should review their policies immediately. Many plans cover travel interruption or travel delay, which can help offset costs incurred by unexpected hotel stays or alternative transport arrangements necessitated by the 22 suspensions recorded today.

-The information provided is sourced from FlightAware.

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Flight Cancellations in Chengdu, Shenzhen, Shanghai and Beijing Creates Travel Interruptions across China as Air China, China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines and others Face a Dozen of Flight Cancellations and Thousands of Delays, New Update

Travelers across China are currently facing a complex logistical puzzle as significant flight disruptions ripple through the nation’s busiest air corridors. Major aviation hubs in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and Chengdu are reporting extensive schedule shifts today. While total cancellations remain manageable, the sheer volume of delays is testing the patience of thousands. Air China and China Eastern Airlines are among the primary carriers working to stabilize operations amidst these mounting interruptions. Ground crews in Beijing and Shanghai are navigating a backlog that affects both domestic and international connections. Meanwhile, passengers in Shenzhen and Chengdu must prepare for extended wait times at the terminal. There’s a total of 12 flight cancellations and 2,008 delays reported. Active communication from airline staff is essential during this period. Travelers should monitor live flight trackers frequently for the latest updates. These synchronized delays highlight the immense pressure currently placed on the infrastructure of China’s primary gateways. Stay informed to navigate these travel hurdles effectively.

Major Airports Affected

The operational integrity of the busiest air corridors in China has been tested today, with Shanghai and Shenzhen appearing to bear the heaviest burden in terms of total volume. At Shanghai Pudong International Airport, 3 cancellations were confirmed alongside a staggering 532 flight delays. Its sister hub, Shanghai Hongqiao International, also reported 3 cancellations and 295 delays, bringing the total impact for the city of Shanghai to 6 cancellations and 827 delayed flights.

In the southern tech hub of Shenzhen, the Bao’an International Airport recorded the highest single-airport delay count. While only 1 cancellation was registered, a total of 602 delays were logged, indicating significant taxiway congestion and gate holds. Meanwhile, in the north, the capital’s aviation infrastructure faced similar pressures. Beijing Capital International reported 2 cancellations and 212 delays, while the newer Beijing Daxing International Airport recorded 2 cancellations and 215 delays.

The western gateway was also impacted; Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport in Chengdu saw 1 cancellation and 152 delays. When aggregated, these figures represent a substantial portion of the daily domestic and international departures within the region.

Impacted Airlines

The disruptions have been distributed across several of the nation’s largest carriers. Air China has emerged as one of the most widely affected entities, with its operations impacted at three separate major hubs. A total of 6 cancellations and 139 delays were attributed to Air China across Beijing Capital, Beijing Daxing and Shanghai Hongqiao.

In Shanghai, China Eastern Airlines was identified as a primary affected airline at Pudong International, where 3 cancellations and 148 delays were recorded. Shanghai Airlines also faced challenges at Hongqiao International, with 1 cancellation and 48 delays noted in the logs.

Regional carriers were not exempt from these scheduling hurdles. In Shenzhen, Shenzhen Airlines saw 1 cancellation and 190 delays, marking one of the highest delay ratios per airline reported today. In Chengdu, Tibet Airlines was forced to cancel 1 flight and postpone 18 others at Shuangliu International. These carrier-specific figures highlight the widespread nature of the interruptions, affecting both massive state-owned airlines and specialized regional operators.

Beyond these specific figures, delays were being experienced by several other Airlines, like Hainan Airlines, Spring Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, XiamenAir, Sichuan Airlines and more.

Probable Impact on Local Tourism

The ripple effects of nearly 2,000 delayed flights are expected to be felt within the local tourism and hospitality sectors of China. With hundreds of flights arriving behind schedule in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu, local hotel check-in windows and pre-booked tour itineraries are likely to be disrupted.

In cities like Chengdu, which serves as a vital tourism base for western travel, a delay of even a few hours can result in missed connections for regional tours. Similarly, the business-centric tourism in Shenzhen and Shanghai is highly sensitive to time; the 602 delays in Shenzhen alone represent thousands of lost hours for travelers. While the low number of cancellations prevents a total collapse of tourism traffic, the wait-and-see atmosphere at these major airports may lead to a temporary decline in foot traffic at airport-linked retail and dining establishments as passengers remain focused on their boarding updates.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For those currently navigating the terminals in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen or Chengdu, several standard protocols should be followed to mitigate the impact of these delays.

1. Real-Time Monitoring: Passengers are advised to monitor the official mobile applications of their respective airlines. Since 1,908 delays have been recorded today, gate assignments and departure times are subject to frequent changes.
2. Documentation: In the event of a cancellation—such as those experienced by Air China or China Eastern customers today—passengers should ensure they receive a formal flight interruption certificate. This is often required for insurance claims or rebooking prioritizations.
3. Carrier Communication: Impacted travelers should approach the designated customer service desks for their specific airline. For instance, those flying with Shenzhen Airlines or Tibet Airlines should seek city-specific updates regarding the cause of the delay to determine if meal vouchers or overnight accommodations will be provided.
4. Rebooking Options: Given that 12 cancellations have been confirmed, seats on subsequent flights will be in high demand. Swift communication with travel agents or airline portals is recommended to secure the next available departure.

-The information provided is sourced from FlightAware.

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Le Méridien Hyderabad in India Welcomes Somnath Deb with over Two Decades of Culinary Expertise as the New Executive Chef

Le Méridien Hyderabad, a prominent name in India’s luxury hospitality sector, has appointed Chef Somnath Deb as the new Executive Chef, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to culinary excellence and guest satisfaction. Chef Somnath brings more than two decades of experience in culinary arts, demonstrating expertise across renowned hospitality brands both in India and internationally. His appointment marks a strategic move to elevate the hotel’s dining experiences and further enhance its culinary offerings.

Culinary Expertise That Stands Out in the Industry

Chef Somnath Deb’s career spans over twenty years, during which he has honed his skills in various prestigious hospitality brands. Before joining Le Méridien Hyderabad, Chef Somnath served as the Executive Chef at Crowne Plaza Ahmedabad, where he gained significant experience in managing kitchen operations, team leadership and cost management. His experience in culinary innovation is aligned with Le Méridien’s vision of offering world-class dining experiences.

Chef Somnath’s career trajectory also includes notable leadership roles as Executive Chef at Four Points by Sheraton in Navi Mumbai and Executive Sous Chef at Hilton Jaipur and Hilton Goa. These roles have helped him build a strong foundation in menu engineering and quality-driven culinary innovation, two aspects he will continue to refine at Le Méridien Hyderabad.

The appointment of Chef Somnath underscores the hotel’s focus on providing memorable dining experiences that cater to diverse guest preferences. His ability to create elevated culinary concepts while maintaining operational excellence will contribute to the hotel’s success in offering guests a range of unique and innovative dining experiences.

International Exposure and Diverse Culinary Influence

One of the standout features of Chef Somnath Deb’s profile is his international exposure. He has worked at prestigious global brands, including Waldorf Astoria New York and Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa. During his tenure at these establishments, he contributed to menu development, staff training and operational planning. His work at these iconic properties has made a lasting impact on guest satisfaction and it is this experience that he now brings to Le Méridien Hyderabad.

Chef Somnath’s stints at these world-renowned properties have exposed him to a wide array of culinary styles, which he aims to incorporate into the dining offerings at Le Méridien Hyderabad. His vast international experience provides him with the tools to introduce fresh and contemporary culinary concepts while maintaining the high standards of excellence for which the hotel is known.

The unique combination of domestic and international experience sets Chef Somnath apart as a culinary leader capable of driving both innovation and quality in the kitchen. His expertise in crafting exceptional menus and executing them flawlessly will elevate Le Méridien Hyderabad’s reputation as a destination for fine dining.

A Focus on Excellence and Guest-Centric Innovation

In his new role, Chef Somnath Deb is expected to drive innovation in the hotel’s culinary offerings, delivering new menus, distinctive concepts and extraordinary dining moments for guests. His appointment comes at a time when Le Méridien Hyderabad is expanding its focus on creating memorable guest experiences across all areas, especially in dining.

Sanjeev Mandal, the General Manager of Le Méridien Hyderabad, expressed his excitement regarding Chef Somnath’s appointment, emphasizing that his extensive culinary background, passion for innovation and operational expertise align perfectly with the hotel’s goals. According to Mandal, Chef Somnath’s leadership will help the hotel deliver more exceptional dining options, ultimately offering guests a curated gastronomic experience.

Le Méridien Hyderabad aims to set a new benchmark in the hospitality industry with Chef Somnath Deb at the helm of its culinary operations. The hotel is poised to offer a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary culinary experiences, ensuring that guests leave with unforgettable memories. Under Chef Somnath’s leadership, the culinary team will continue to elevate the standards of quality and creativity, ensuring that every meal is an experience in itself.

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Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi Welcomes Stephen Lancaster with Extensive Experience as the New Executive Chef

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi has recently appointed Stephen Lancaster as the new Executive Chef, effective April 1, 2026. Lancaster, a highly respected figure in the culinary world, will assume leadership of the hotel’s culinary operations, including the renowned three-Michelin-starred French restaurant, SÉZANNE. This marks an exciting new chapter in the hotel’s prestigious culinary legacy, as Lancaster takes the reins from Daniel Calvert, whose leadership has propelled SÉZANNE to international recognition.

A Seasoned Culinary Leader

Stephen Lancaster’s culinary career spans some of the world’s most distinguished kitchens and his appointment at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo is a testament to his extensive experience and expertise. Having honed his skills in top establishments like Midsummer House in Cambridge and Oaxen Krog in Stockholm, Lancaster brings a wealth of knowledge and an international perspective to the role. In 2022, he opened Poise in Singapore, where he earned a Michelin star within its first year, firmly establishing his reputation as a chef committed to precision and restraint.

Lancaster’s approach to culinary arts is grounded in a deep respect for ingredients and a disciplined technique. His reinterpretation of French classics using contemporary methods, such as fermentation, ageing and pickling, has set him apart as a chef with a unique culinary identity. At SÉZANNE, he will continue to honour the restaurant’s focus on Japanese seasonality and provenance while ensuring it remains both globally relevant and locally grounded. Lancaster’s style perfectly aligns with the ethos of Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo, where attention to detail and craftsmanship are paramount.

Continuing the Legacy of Excellence

In his new role, Lancaster will uphold the high standards set by his predecessor, Daniel Calvert, who guided SÉZANNE to its prestigious Michelin accolades. Calvert’s leadership has earned SÉZANNE a place among the world’s most respected dining destinations and his decision to step down was accompanied by a recognition of Lancaster’s ability to preserve the restaurant’s core philosophy while allowing it to evolve. Calvert’s contribution to Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo’s culinary success is widely appreciated and Lancaster is expected to continue this legacy with his unique flair.

Jens Wycisk, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, expressed confidence in Lancaster’s leadership, noting that his culinary vision would build on the hotel’s already impeccable standards. Wycisk highlighted Lancaster’s combination of confidence, creativity and respect for tradition, which he believes will guide the restaurant to even greater heights. Under Lancaster’s leadership, guests can look forward to an enhanced dining experience at SÉZANNE, reflecting the Four Seasons commitment to exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence.

A Vision for the Future of Hospitality and Culinary Arts

Stephen Lancaster’s appointment reflects the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo’s continued dedication to providing an unparalleled culinary experience to its guests. The hotel is renowned for its world-class hospitality and Lancaster’s extensive experience in the culinary world is expected to enhance the guest experience even further. His approach to food, which prioritizes flavor, technique and seasonality, aligns perfectly with the hotel’s commitment to high-end, refined service.

As Executive Chef, Lancaster’s focus will be on maintaining the standards of SÉZANNE while introducing innovative culinary practices that resonate with both traditional and contemporary dining trends. His background in precision cooking and his ability to create depth and clarity of flavor through unique techniques will elevate the dining experience at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo. Guests will continue to enjoy the meticulous attention to detail and artistry that has made SÉZANNE one of the most celebrated restaurants globally.

With Lancaster at the helm, the culinary direction at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo promises to remain as compelling and dynamic as ever, continuing to attract food enthusiasts from around the world who seek the best in fine dining and hospitality.

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