Latest news with #RenaissanceHotel
Travel Weekly
10-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Calming respite at Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Suggest a Honolulu vacation to clients, and the response will almost inevitably include a desire to stay in Waikiki, with its gorgeous beaches, exclusive shops, trendy restaurants and buzzy nightlife. But of course, all that buzz adds up to crowds. The Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa bucks that arithmetic, offering the chance to truly get away on a Hawaii vacation getaway. The hotel is the tower on the right, and the Sky Deck can be seen on the 8th floor above Kapiolani Boulevard. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa The 39-story Renaissance opened in 2024, the first newbuild hotel in Honolulu in two decades. It's the brand's first on Oahu. What made the idea of staying there so enticing to me was its location. The luxury hotel is situated on Kapiolani Boulevard about 2 miles outside Waikiki and is a short stroll from the world's largest open-air mall, the Ala Moana Center. I'm familiar with the city and actually prefer that area when I'm in Honolulu. The streets are easier to navigate, it's quicker to get to the highway for some island exploration and, overall, there are fewer traffic jams. That alone takes away some of the stress that comes with visiting the urban island of Oahu. The other great thing about it is that prices for food, gifts and other travel essentials are lower because the stores are outside of Waikiki, where prices tend to get marked up. Walmart and Sam's Club are also within walking distance of the hotel. A Premier King Ocean View residence with floor-to-ceiling windows, some of which can be opened to let in ocean breezes. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa Guestrooms and residences The Renaissance Honolulu is split into two types of accommodations: hotel rooms from floors 15 to 29 and residences from floors 30 to 39. Residences are set up like apartments, with studios and one- and two-bedroom options, in-room washer and dryer and a fully equipped kitchen. I stayed in one of those residences, a corner Premier King Ocean View residence on the 34th floor. It had a large entryway with a full-size mirror. The bathroom featured a soaking tub, and the king bed was plush with white bedding. The kitchen included a stove, oven, sink and a compact Sub-Zero refrigerator that was larger than a typical minifridge. I was ecstatic about the washer and dryer, since I was on an extended Oahu stay. (Guests without an in-room washer and dryer have access to coin-operated laundromat on the 8th floor.) My room's wraparound views of the city and Ala Moana Beach, only about three blocks away, were spectacular. The floor-to-ceiling windows allowed for a full view, and the windows even opened to let in the ocean air. Gazing down on the Ala Moana Center gave me the urge to go shopping. The hotel offers a shuttle service, which takes guests to the mall as well as to Magic Island (a beach near Ala Moana Beach) and the Alohilani Resort in Waikiki, which is a good place to begin a day exploring Waikiki. The shuttle departs every two hours between 10 a.m and 8 p.m., but be sure to check the schedule with the valet. Since the Ala Moana Center is only a block away, I chose to walk there to find gifts for my family back home. The mall has more than 350 shops and restaurants, including Big Island Candies, ABC Stores, Hawaiian Island Creations, Hilo Hattie, Foodland Farms and Honolulu Cookie Company. The food court had a number of options, from mall staples like Chick-fil-A to places that serve poke, ramen and Korean barbecue. When I returned to the hotel two hours later, I stopped by its cafe, Lamill, the first Hawaii location of the Los Angeles-based coffee roaster. I ordered a latte with oat milk, which was handed to me with a design drawn into the foam. It tasted perfect. I spent some time back in my room, eating a bento I picked up from Foodland Farms while watching the day dim as the sun disappeared below the horizon. The hotel's Nami Spa offers Japanese-inspired indoor and outdoor soaking baths. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa Spa time The hotel's 8th floor is where the wellness amenities are located, including a large fitness center, 25-meter lap pool, family pool and whirlpool baths. I spent an afternoon enjoying that retreat, known as the Sky Deck, swimming for a bit before walking over to the Sway Pool Bar & Grill. I had the chicken club sandwich with fries, which was quite good, along with a virgin pina colada and then spent some time by the pool before heading back to my room. The hotel will be announcing another restaurant concept in May. The hotel's Nami Spa is open late, so I liked the idea of visiting it in the evening as a way to unwind. Guests can book massages and facials or pay a $35 fee to access the facility's amenities. There were only two other women there when I entered the spa, which features indoor and outdoor, Japanese-inspired ofuro hot soaking baths, a cold plunge, a Himalayan salt sauna and a steam room. I spent the majority of my time in the indoor and outdoor hot soaking tubs. When sitting, the water in these was neck high. I found it to be a perfect way to ease sore muscles and quiet the mind, just what I needed to end the day.
The Star
24-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
'Calling South-East Asia, Uganda invites you': Thriving African nation showcases investment and trade potential at business expo in KL
KUALA LUMPUR: The 'Uganda the Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025', held at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, concluded on a high note, spotlighting Uganda's robust yet cautious economic growth across its most dynamic sectors. As one of the fastest-growing nations on the African continent, Uganda used this platform to present a compelling case for investment and collaboration—beginning with Malaysia. The inaugural two-day event drew participation from government officials, industry leaders, business chambers, and investors from both nations. It ended with a firm resolution to chart a stronger course for bilateral trade ties and sustainable economic partnerships between Malaysia and Uganda. Several key ministers were in Kuala Lumpur to reel in investment from Malaysia, offering opportunities for greater collaborations between the two countries. Uganda's Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija was joined by a high-level ministerial delegation including Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development; Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; and Henry Oryem Okello, State Minister for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs). Malaysian Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu officiated a gala dinner held to celebrate the two countries' friendship and trade relationship. In his remarks during the forum's official dinner, Mohamad said: 'We are truly honoured to host this significant event—one that lays a solid foundation for deeper economic engagement, enriched people-to-people connections, and enduring collaboration. Let us go beyond the US$358.13 million in trade recorded last year and build on the strengths we share.' Uganda's Minister Kasaija summed up the forum's core message with a direct call to action: 'Come and see Uganda for yourself. Seeing is believing. Too often, Africa is painted with a broad brush. Uganda is a peaceful, vibrant, and fast-growing country. We are here to show you the truth,' said Kasaija. Earlier in the day, at the launching event, Malaysia was represented by Datuk Muhtar Hashim, Executive Director of the Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia, who reflected on the opportunities ahead: 'Uganda reminds us of Malaysia's own early industrial journey. There's a clear path—from raw resources to value-added industries. We see significant opportunities, particularly in renewable and sustainable sectors.' Uganda's High Commissioner to Malaysia Her Excellency Dr. Betty Oyella Bigombe, the main proponent of the event, said that Malaysia and Uganda can achieve much with the right framework and support from all stakeholders of common industries. The forum highlighted Uganda's diverse and fast-evolving sectors, ranging from agriculture and agro-processing to mining, manufacturing, and energy. All of these are underpinned by a commitment to long-term sustainability and regulation. Ruth Nankabirwa shared that oil drilling has commenced, with plans for refinery development and announcements of new exploration blocks expected soon. Uganda is also actively opening its energy sector to private sector participation, particularly in solar, geothermal, and nuclear energy. 'We are moving forward on the strength of a regulatory framework that is among the best in Africa,' she said. In the agro-sector, Uganda showcased high-potential commodities such as vanilla, coffee, cocoa, bananas, and even palm oil, positioning itself as a strong trade partner for Malaysia's own agribusiness networks. Datuk Irwin Cheong, Co-founder of the World-One Business Federation and the driving force behind the forum's organization, closed the dinner reception with a note of appreciation: 'This forum and expo is a celebration—not just of shared opportunity, but of shared purpose. We hope the conversations started here will continue, deepen, and take root in tangible collaboration.' The two-day event featured Government-to-Government (G2G) and Business-to-Business (B2B) sessions, with meetings with Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Liew Chin Tong and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), as well as industry players from both nations. The forum also touched on logistical and connectivity enhancements, including planned direct flight routes and improved regional access. Another tantalising offer Uganda is offering the world is tourism and Ruth Nankabirwa promised nature lovers that vising their country is an experience no will ever forget and something to cherish all their life. Uganda are also famed for their amazing dedication in preserving their wildlife and in recent times, they have recorded ten fold growth in their efforts, including the big increase in the numbers of lions and rhinoceros once almost reaching extinction at one stage. "Come and see our country. Our economy is rising fast but at the same time we love our wildlife. They have always been our treasure. Tourists are bound to have an amazing and unforgetablleexperience when they visit out country. With strong political will, enthusiastic business participation, and a spirit of mutual respect and trust, the Uganda Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025 has firmly established itself as a launchpad for deeper bilateral collaboration—and a fresh look at East Africa's emerging promise.
Barnama
23-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
UGANDA SEEKS MALAYSIAN INVESTMENTS IN OIL, GAS AND MINERAL SECTORS
BUSINESS Uganda's Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, speaks at a press conference following the official opening of the Uganda Pearl of Africa Business Forum & Expo 2025, held at the Renaissance Hotel today. By Naveen Prabu Kuppusamy KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- Uganda is seeking Malaysian investments in its energy and mineral sectors, with key opportunities in oil refining, critical minerals, and clean energy infrastructure, said its Energy and Mineral Development Minister Ruth Nankabirwa. Nankabirwa said her country has vast resource potential and that her government is prepared to support foreign investors through a clear legal framework. "You will not be left to deal with landowners alone, as the state steps in — the minerals belong to the government, even if the land is privately owned," she said at the Uganda: The Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025 here today. She said commercial oil was discovered in 2006, and two development areas are progressing well. "One area at Lake Albert is expected to generate 40,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The second, located towards Northern Uganda, Tilenga, is expected to produce 190,000 barrels per day," she said. She also pointed out the country's rare earth elements, gold, iron ore and copper reserves, adding that Ugandan law prohibits the export of raw minerals without local value addition. 'We don't allow minerals to be exported without value added. We want to industrialise at home. That's why we are inviting investors who are ready to process and partner with us locally,' she said. Nankabirwa noted that Malaysia's experience in palm oil, downstream industries, and solar energy has positioned it as a strategic partner.
Broadcast Pro
04-03-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Grass Valley announces GV Forum 2025 ahead of NAB Show
Grass Valley has announced GV Forum 2025: Leading the Media Revolution , an exclusive leadership event aimed at fostering meaningful discussions on the future of media technology. Set to take place on April 5 at the Renaissance Hotel Las Vegas, just before NAB Show 2025, the forum will bring together top executives, technologists and thought leaders for a day of in-depth insights, innovation and collaboration. Developed by the GVx Leadership Council, a panel of 35 senior executives from the world's most influential media organisations, GV Forum 2025 is an unsponsored event dedicated to shaping the future of media through open discussions and actionable strategies. The event will tackle key industry challenges and advancements, offering perspectives from industry leaders, deep dives into cutting-edge technology, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. The forum will be divided into two key sessions. The morning session, focused on Business & Strategy, will feature exclusive market research highlighting industry trends and market shifts. Executive insights from top media leaders will provide visionary perspectives, complemented by real-world case studies from leading broadcasters and content creators. Panel discussions will facilitate candid conversations on the evolving media landscape and the challenges shaping the future. The afternoon session will take a Technical and Operational Deep Dive, where customers, partners and systems integrators will showcase real-world deployments of media technology solutions. Experts will lead discussions on best practices and operational workflows, with interactive learning segments exploring hybrid cloud and on-premises deployments within the Grass Valley Media Universe, including its Agile Media Processing Platform (AMPP). Del Parks, Chairman of the GVX Council, said: 'As Chairman of the GVX Council, I'm honored to be part of a group that truly represents the future of media innovation. Our council—comprised of some of the media industry's most influential technologists and business leaders—works in concert with Grass Valley to drive solutions aligned with the evolving needs of content producers and distributors, all aimed at driving down the cost of technology stacks. The GV Forum is the ideal platform for us to share these insights and collaboratively chart a course forward in an industry defined by the need for rapid technological change while driving down the total cost of ownership for media companies.' In addition to the full-day agenda, GV Forum 2025 will feature an exclusive book signing session with Louis Hernandez, Executive Chairman of Grass Valley and CEO of Black Dragon Capital. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive a signed copy of Digital Tsunami, a book that explores the transformative shifts in the media industry and offers strategic guidance for success in the digital era. GV Forum 2025 presents a unique opportunity for industry leaders to connect, exchange knowledge, and help shape the future of media technology. Grass Valley will also be exhibiting at NAB Show 2025 in Las Vegas from April 5-9. Stand N 506
Yahoo
06-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pop-up auctions promise real Rolexes, sports cars and Picassos — but folks are losing thousands. Here's why
Chicago's Rebecca Simmons admits she 'didn't know anything about auctions' when she bid $6,000 for a lithograph purportedly by Picasso at a pop-up auction at the Renaissance Hotel in Northbrook. As she shared with CBS News Chicago, her winning bid was a losing proposition when she got it appraised independently. Turns out she paid 85 times what the 'Picasso' — a reproduction valued at $70 — was worth. Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market — here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead One dozen eggs in America now costs $4.15 — and $14.35 for a pound of sirloin steak. Both record highs. 3 simple ways to protect your wealth in 2025 These 5 magic money moves will boost you up America's net worth ladder in 2025 — and you can complete each step within minutes. Here's how 'I felt stupid, I felt ignorant, I felt like I had been taken advantage of,' Simmons said, recalling the event in 2021. She's since gone public with her frustration. As CBS News Chicago reports, the retired system analyst is one of a growing number of victims at pop-up auction schemes across the country. The news team discovered that the pop-ups operate under businesses variously called Neoclassic Auctions, US Trustee Auctions, Vanguard Property Auctions and Surplus Auctions — all owned by brothers Azam and Anwar Khan. These brothers have a history of disciplinary actions around their auction licenses dating back to 1997. They have not had a license to run auctions in Illinois since 2016. Nonetheless, they continue to run the pop-up auctions, with signs boasting that Rolex watches, jewelry and fine art will be up for sale. Buyers call a number listed on the signs and are given a time and place to attend the auction. Before bidding, they have an hour to examine items and read the catalog which invariably describes items as exceptionally rare and valuable. Unfortunately, many would-be buyers miss the fine print in the catalog that says the descriptions within it are "statements of opinion only and are not a representation of facts." Read more: 82% of Americans are missing out on a savings account that pays over 10 times the national average Some victims — including Simmons — have taken action. She has approached the media and filed complaints with the Federal Trade Commission. Whether you want to participate in an online or in-person auction, it's important to protect yourself from fraud. It's a good idea to: Investigate whether auction companies and auctioneers are licensed in your state Protect yourself by dealing with well-known, reputable auctioneers like Sotheby's Contact government departments to verify the authenticity of "government" auctions Read all the fine print in auction catalogs and listings, including terms and conditions Ask about buyer protection policies Research the value of items and comparables independently before the auction Set a maximum budget before attending an auction Consider other ways to invest in art or valuables like gold. It's also wise to remember the age-old adage that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So you're unlikely to get a bargain on an authentic Picasso — whether you learn about it on a roadside sign or anywhere else. Self-made $500M mogul Ben Mallah reveals his 'essential' US portfolio that he says Amazon 'can't hurt' — here's his secret formula and how you can copy it in 2025 I'm 49 years old and have nothing saved for retirement — what should I do? Don't panic. Here are 5 of the easiest ways you can catch up (and fast) Jamie Dimon issues a warning about the US stock market — says prices are 'kind of inflated.' Crashproof your portfolio with these 3 rock-solid strategies This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
