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Married with elevated fire-side s’more offerings, curated cocktails inspired by the season’s cinematic classics, and dueling DJs programmed by Mayhem Productions performing all of the holiday hits, those looking to indulge in merrymaking and festive delights can do so while enjoying sweeping views of Downtown San Antonio from Nov. 29, 2024, through Dec. 27, 2024.

Visitors 21 years of age or older can enjoy a limited-time menu of seasonally-inspired cocktails, including:

• Cheer Up Dude (Inspired by “The Grinch”)
  Brugal 1888, PX Sherry, Chocolate Bitters

• Son Of A Nutcracker (Inspired by “Elf”)
  Botanist Gin, Raspberry Syrup, Lemon, Foamer

• Ya Filthy Animal (Inspired by “Home Alone”)
  Susto Mezcal, Cointreau, Tajin Rim, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice

• A Little Social Interaction (Inspired by “The Grinch”)
  Au Green Watermelon Vodka, Lime Juice, Pineapple Juice

• To Me, You Are Perfect (Inspired by “Love Actually”)
  Don Q Coco Rum, St. Germain, Elderflower Liqueur, Prosecco, Passionfruit Puree

• Hap Hap Happiest Cocktail (Inspired by “Christmas Vacation”)
  Ghost Tequila, Raspberries, Agave Syrup, Cointreau, Simple Syrup, Lime Juice

• I Think You Are Cute Espresso Martini (Inspired by “Rudolph”)
  Absolut, Espresso, Simple Syrup, Kahlua Irish Cream

• Hoping To Be Kissed (Inspired by “Love Actually”)
  Jameson, Espresso, Heavy Whipped Cream, Flamed Cinnamon

• Make Me International (Inspired by “The Last Holiday”)
  Socorro Tequila, Cointreau, Strawberry Syrup, Lemon Juice, Demerara Syrup, Prosecco, Sugar Rim

Additionally, visitors with a sweet tooth can enjoy fireside indulgences such as the “S’more d’oeuvre,” a delectable s’more-inspired curation composed of dark chocolate, cranberry compote, vanilla & orange marshmallow, and black tea sable cookies, offering an elevated profile of the signature s’more designed to be enjoyed fireside at the rooftop pool. Other s’more delights will also be available for purchase.

While onsite, revelers can enjoy a holiday experience at every level of the property as InterContinental San Antonio presents its Winter Chalet, featuring holiday offerings at Rosebelly, Deco Bar, Cavalier, and in-room. For more information on this season’s special offerings or to plan a visit to InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, go to ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/san-antonio/satpn/hoteldetail/winter-chalet.

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Beat the Texas Heat this summer and book the LSPACE Cabana for the ultimate pool day at Cenote Pool Deck. With photo-worthy moments at every corner, the cabana is outfitted with LSPACE pillows, champagne buckets, and festive cups for enjoying a complimentary round of the LSPACE x Thompson Summer Breeze, a craft cocktail inspired by the quintessential California beach lifestyle brand.

Take home branded SWAG including a canvas tote, towel, and postcard with a curated music playlist to keep the good vibes going all summer long.

To book this limited-time-only experience, please call their Spa at (210) 942-6027 or click here.

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Travel. Make Memories.

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San Antonio has long been known as one of America’s most cultural, historic, and forward-looking destinations. The blending of cultures harkens to the founding of the city – from Indigenous, to Spanish Settlement, to Mexico, Texas as its own country, and of course the United States. Located on the cusp of the verdant Texas Hill Country, the destination also still proudly reflects the influence of German settlements, and other countries and cultures that shaped this special part of Texas. This rich history is expressed in everything from the architecture, performing arts, culinary scene and more.

As much as San Antonio embraces and preserves its past, this thriving dynamic city propels into the future with world class offerings, a robust and growing business outlook, and cutting-edge technology and development.

IPW 2023 will generate a positive impact on the San Antonio economy, with projections for more than 395,000 new international visitors and $614 million in international visitor spending in the three years following the show. In addition, IPW 2023 is anticipated to create more than 2,700 new jobs for San Antonio, and contribute $143 million in state and local tax collections.

Even as America’s seventh largest city hosting more than 41 million visitors a year, delegates will find the downtown core intimate and walkable, all flowing from the lifeline of the San Antonio River. The Rive Walk runs 20 feet below street level, and for 15 miles of glistening hotels, shops, museums, peaceful pockets of parks and public art. This treasure extends south along the Spanish Colonial Missions, which along with the Alamo, are the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.

“San Antonio is ready to welcome all in 2023 and plans are well underway for a productive and powerfully memorable IPW and your San Antonio experience will be unparalleled,” said Marc Anderson, President and CEO, Visit San Antonio. “One thing we know for sure, you will leave San Antonio with our city in your heart – because it is the real and true warmth and hospitality of San Antonians that will stay with you forever. We cannot wait to host you next year.”

The tradeshow will meet in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, right on the River Walk. Plans call for “Viva San Antonio,” a grand and colorful opening night in historic La Villita on the River Walk.

Just for IPW 2023, San Antonio will host an open night River Walk parade in delegates’ honor as guests dine riverside.

IPW 2023 will certainly “Remember the Alamo” on closing night – title sponsor Travel Texas will take over the grounds of one of America’s most iconic sites with the “Spirit of Texas” event. Music, food, entertainment and more will showcase the great State of Texas, and all will see up close the Alamo’s major revitalization project in progress.

One of America’s most iconic sites is undergoing a significant restoration and expansion, known as The Alamo Plan, which will encompass both preservation of historic buildings and new construction projects, all with the goals of fostering reverence and dignity at one of the most important sites in Texas history. The plan aims to memorialize those who lived, fought and died at the Alamo, and share the stories of more than 300 years of Alamo history with an enhanced visitor experience that is both moving and informative.

The new Exhibition Hall & Collections Building will have just opened in late 2022, providing five times more exhibition space than has been available. This will house the Phil Collins Collection given to the Alamo by the British rock star. March 2026 will see the opening of the world-class Visitor Center and Museum, directly across the street from the Alamo, toward the River Walk. These 40,000 square feet of gallery space for dynamic installations of the Alamo’s collection of original documents and artifacts that deepen visitors’ understanding of history, and open just in time for the Alamo’s 190th anniversary.

The Alamo Plan is just one exciting development delegates will experience in San Antonio. IPW 2023 planners are assembling an exciting line up of tours that will offer experiences for buyers and media – cultural, culinary, history, fun for all, Hill Country, adventure, and more. The State of Texas will present a thrilling slate of tours to showcase diverse and excite locales around the state.

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Your Gateway to Hill Country Adventure
Historic and charming downtown Boerne is a quick drive from the expansive resort, with its quaint Main Street offering up classic Americana, boutique shopping, and an enticing assortment of pubs, and fine dining establishments. Northwest of town is Boerne Lake, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding, and those keen on exploring Hill Country by horseback can head just up the road for an adventure with Stricker Trail Rides.

The Ultimate Gathering Place
Whether you come together for a golf outing or an annual fundraiser, the boutique resort’s 111 guest rooms and inspired event spaces offer a uniquely intimate setting for memorable gatherings. Large groups may even opt for a resort buyout, fantastic for multi-day tournaments and company retreats.

The nation’s heroes and first responders may choose from special packages put together to honor their extraordinary commitment to our safety and security. Guests interested in supporting Feherty’ s Troops First Foundation can select the Heroes Supporter package when they make a reservation.

No matter why you visit, Tapatio Springs promises a personable, attentive experience, incredible amenities, and a uniquely beautiful environment in Texas Hill Country. As George Strait, King of Country and owner of the resort, says, “Come for a good time. Stay for a long time.”

For more information, visit: www.tapatiosprings.com.

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TEXAS HOLIDAY PARADES

     Kick off the holidays with parades across the state. Dubbed the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade of Texas, the HEB Holiday Parade in Houston features hot air balloons, marching bands, cheerleaders and costumed characters. Further west, El Paso’s “uniquely Texan” Thanksgiving Day parade, the FirstLight Federal Credit Union Sun Bowl Parade will celebrate “80 Years Around the World” for its 80th annual celebration.

Too busy cranking out that turkey? Join over 150,000 spectators the day after Thanksgiving for the Holiday River Parade & Lighting Ceremony along the River Walk in San Antonio. Enjoy the Christmas music concert, the lighting of the River Walk and wave at Santa as his sleigh floats by.

Texas-sized Holiday Light Displays

     For those looking for bright lights, small towns and big cities alike, host multiple holiday light spectaculars that almost outshine Texas’ big and bright stars. Most hail the name “trail of lights,” including the 52nd annual Austin Trail of Lights. Grab family and friends to sit by a traditional Yule Log, ride the Ferris Wheel, write a letter to Santa and more!

Just a few hours south in Houston, stroll through the Houston Zoo Lights for magical lights and musical entertainment from carolers and local musical groups. While most zoo creatures will be fast asleep, you can visit animals in the Reptile House, Kipp Aquarium, Bug House or Carruth National Encounters.

     Outside of Houston, take a hay ride through the trail of lights at the biggest Christmas attraction in the state, Santa’s Wonderland in College Station, TX. Get the full experience with a visit with Santa in Santa’s Town, a nostalgic Texas Christmas Village. Capture the experience for your Instagram under the “God Bless Texas” light arch, next to the giant Texas flag light display or in the “Giant Texas Sized Snow Globe.”    

     If you’d rather stay within the warm comforts of your car, you can experience it all from the passenger seat while driving through the Gift of Lights at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas or the San Antonio Christmas Lights Fest.

ONE-OF-A-KIND CELEBRATIONS

     The Lone Star State is also home to some unique celebrations. No stranger to beautiful displays, the Dallas Arboretum fills twelve Victorian gazebos with costumed characters, whimsical animals and winter scenes to bring The 12 Days of Christmas to life!

     The Trains at NorthPark also call the Big D home. Experience all the trimmings of holiday train travel in more than 4,000 square feet of train themed environments. Nearby in Grapevine, adults can hop aboard the Christmas Wine Train and embrace the holiday spirit with festive treats and of course, wine! For a Western cowboy holiday, visit Christmas in the Stockyards in Fort Worth, TX. The one-day event takes place on December 2 and has western heritage activities for the entire family.

TEXAS HOLIDAY AT THE BEACH

     Feeling more like a holiday beach bum than cowboy? Spend the holidays on the beaches of Galveston, Texas and be amazed by incredible ice sculptures at A Caribbean Christmas at Moody Gardens. The resort brings in a team of master ice carvers to sculpt two million pounds of ice into an undersea journey of tropical fish, eagle rays, turtles dolphins and more!

     Also in Galveston, “Surf with Santa” at Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston Island’s Holiday Splash! Open weekends and select weekdays from November 25 to December 31. The holiday extravaganza also features a Snow Globe Float, Bahn Borealis Light Show, Ornament Factory, holiday characters and reindeer games!

MEXICAN CHRISTMAS FIESTAS

     Luminarias, traditional Mexican Christmas lanterns, light the San Antonio River Walk for the Ford Fiesta De Las Luminarias. The century’s old tradition begins at dusk Friday, Saturday and Sunday from December 2-18.  Further north and along the border in El Paso, revel the Annual Posadas Celebration and Luminaria Lighting Festival. Posada, the Spanish for “inn” or “shelter,” is a traditional celebration recreating Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. The presentation is followed by live music, the traditional Christmas Piñata ceremony, cultural dance presentations and the lighting of over 5,000 luminarias.

TEXAS NEW YEAR HOEDOWNS

     Once you’ve made all your holiday stops, it’s time to ring in the new year, and what better place than the largest honky tonk in the world, Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth? This year the dance hall will feature two Texas-born acts, Eli Young Band and Green River Ordinance for New Year’s Eve at Billy Bob’s Texas.

    If you’re looking to celebrate riverside, you can enjoy live music, carnival games and rides and festival food at the annual Celebrate San Antonio New Year’s Eve celebration. The event takes place downtown and ends the night with a fireworks extravaganza.

     For the families, kids are welcome (more like encouraged) at the Children’s Museum of Houston annual Rockin’ New Year’s Noon Bash. Watch the New Year’s Eve Daytime Ball Drop after the countdown to noon after the New Year’s Noon Parade.

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HISTORY

     On February 24, 1993, Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa became the first destination resort in Texas and the nation’s first resort designed around living history—the Rogers-Wiseman Ranch, a family-owned property and working cattle ranch that stretched across thousands of acres. For more than 100 years before the resort opened its doors, the Rogers-Wiseman family cultivated the Hill Country land the ranch operated on, offered true Texas hospitality to visitors and raised three generations of family members on the thriving ranch.

AMAZING

     From 1887 purchaser D.G. Rogers, to his prodigal son Henry and his wife Mary, to their daughter Blanche and her husband, Papa Ed, the history of the family is woven throughout the resort.

NATURAL BEAUTY

     Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa honors its heritage by maintaining the integrity and natural beauty of the 300 acres surrounding the property, and by offering a welcoming, relaxing and casually-elegant destination with world-class services for visitors and locals alike. Guests can still see the Rogers-Wiseman family influences and memorabilia throughout the property, like the original bill of sale from the 1880s and historic family photos that line the hallways, and the ranch’s ‘99’ cattle brand on jars of the resort’s house-made fire-roasted salsa.

     “Our history is what sets us apart and makes us a destination unlike any other. By honoring the family who preserved and made this breathtaking setting possible, we’re able to offer an incredible experience that allows guests to unwind and reconnect with what truly matters—the relationships and memories we share,” said General Manager Joe Hindsley. “Two of the property’s most iconic spaces for socializing are named after family members. Aunt Mary’s lawn is where families gather on blankets during the summer to watch movies under the stars, and Henry’s Hollow, named after the ranch founder’s son who was known for merrymaking, is where we toast s’mores over a roaring fire each night with new and old friends.”

WOODBINE DEVELOPMENT

     Before the resort ever opened its doors, when it was only open land full of grazing cattle, Dallas-based Woodbine Development Corporation recognized that the history of the land and the family should inform and inspire the look, feel and experience found on property. Serving as the developer/owner, Woodbine brought the resort to life in close collaboration with the family, who maintains an interest in the property to this day through the Rogers-Wiseman Family Interests.

     “Several decades ago, we never dreamed our early conversations with the Wiseman family would give way to a partnership that would become the foundation for this award-winning Texas resort,” said John Scovell, founder and chairman of Woodbine.

PERFECT SOUTH TEXAS GETAWAY

     “Over the years and still today, Hyatt Regency Hill Country’s success has remained deeply rooted in relationships cultivated during vacations, meetings, milestone celebrations and even workdays,” Scovell added. “This destination has become part of the stories of countless people who have come here to learn, explore, make memories and make a living. This property is also very special to Woodbine’s story and our legacy with Hyatt, and we feel honored to be part of this resort’s past and present and look forward to its future.”

RENOVATIONS AND MORE

     Throughout its history the resort has undergone renovations and expansions to maintain the level of excellence guests have come to know and expect from the property. Today the resort boasts a five-acre water park with a FlowRider® wave machine, two-story waterslide, four swimming pools, and lazy river styled after the Guadalupe River; the Hill Country Golf Club, a sprawling 200-acre, 27-hole championship course designed by Arthur Hills and Associates with diverse terrain, lush hillsides, tree-shaded plateaus and tranquil ponds; and Windflower–The Hill Country Spa, a full-service spa set in an 1880s-style ranch house, featuring 21 treatment rooms offering a barn full of bliss to all who pass through its doors. The 300-acre property features 500 guestrooms and suites that are classically styled with Hill Country touches and modern amenities, and more than 100,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space, including three ballrooms and a newly-renovated, glass-enclosed outdoor pavilion.

     “In 2018 we celebrate 25 years of being a part of the cherished Texas tales of San Antonians and families all over the world,” Hindsley said. “We look forward to the next chapter in our story and ensuring guests create beloved memories here for generations to come.”

MORE INFO

     For the history of the Rogers-Wiseman Ranch and Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, visit http://bit.ly/HyattHC25Years.

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     Now, our magazine covers the world, is direct emailed to 24 MILLION travelers yearly, seen online at www.thehotelguide.com and across our social media networks. To say that we have grown is an understatement!

      None of this would be possible had it not been for my former partner and original visionary of The Hotel Guide – Robert Ruggiero. His steadfast sense of detail and creativity launched a “pet project” of his into a global platform. Simply…amazing.

     This year we plan on commemorating as much of our history as we can but also focusing on the terrific future that lies ahead. This edition is a testament to that. We have a new logo, new brand, new design. Why? Because it matters. 25 years is a long time and our readers deserve to always have the best of us.

     This edition again covers some of Texas grandest escapes – including a feature on West Texas and another 25th Anniversary celebration in the Hyatt Hill Country Resort.

     Don’t forget to check out our “Destinations” section along with our updated “Wellness Travel” section. You won’t want to miss that informative content.

     For great story ideas or to be a part of our “Experiences” section, send me a personal e-mail by clicking here. Looking for great hotel deals? Remember that you can book all of your travel from our website or by simply clicking here.

     Travel. Make Memories.

Remember that you can book all of your travel from our website or by simply clicking here.

     Remember, we make travel easy.

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