We are proud to present this next issue in our series focusing on the people, culture and communities that make up our diverse Waterstone Collection. Throughout the series we will continue to introduce you to people who, as ambassadors for their local cultures and communities, offer a range of unique experiences with passion and a true sense of hospitality that we believe will help inspire your clients to travel again when the time is right.
“I consider myself a very lucky man to manage hotels in Florence, Venice, and soon, Rome; hosting visitors from all over the world is one of my greatest blessings. As I navigate the charming back alleys, historic piazzas, and side canals of these iconic Italian cities, I am increasingly eager to expose visitors to their real, authentic soul, beyond just the tourist attractions. Now more than ever, it will be my great honor to host our many travel friends from the US and Canada as well as to be entrusted with their most important clients. My team and I are always available to help you craft a memorable itinerary and provide you with the highest level of safety; we await you with a most enthusiastic and heartfelt welcome."
Commitment to Travel Advisors — WTB Hotels, led by Claudio Delli, has become a favorite hotel partner of many due to their unequivocal commitment to helping travel advisors shine in the eyes of their clients while on property. An unexpected upgrade, a personalized note in your name, an added welcome amenity, a special greeting from the General Manager – these are just a few of the details that contribute to WTB’s highly regarded ‘five-star service’. Now, as we work together to rebuild international travel, WTB has added even more value to travel advisors through their STAR program, which includes:
» 15% commission on all new GDS or direct bookings for arrivals in 2021
» Advisor incentive to earn 2 free room nights for every 6 direct bookings
» Commissions processed immediately upon receipt of payment on prepaid
rates
» Flexible cancellation policies up to 48 hours prior to check-in
» Guaranteed upgrades confirmed at the time of booking, depending upon
season
» Commission and agency of record commitment for advisor’s previously
booked clients
Social Responsibility — WTB has long been owned and operated by the Fratini family, a well-known name within Italian hospitality, with an excellent reputation relating to commission payments and overall financial stability. Equally, the Fratini family’s commitment to socially responsible operations are respected amongst their peers, with green energy programs that supply electricity to all their hotels, as well as one that minimizes each hotel’s food waste. Not only is the food waste utilized in pig farming and as an organic fertilizer, but the unused breakfast items are served every evening after school in Florence, for up to 20 children and their families.
1. Take a trip to a vineyard on the Isle of Mazzorbo within the Venetian lagoon to sample the special ‘Venissa’ wine and Durona grapes
2. Create your own Carnival mask as a souvenir or accoutrement during Venice’s famous ‘Carnevale’
3. Visit the Frari Church, a short walk from Hotel L’Orologio in Rialto, the real heart of Venice
4. Eat like a local by enjoying a ‘bacaro’ tour in Rialto (a ‘bacaro’ is the Venetian equivalent of a wine bar)
5. Learn how to make an authentic ‘Spritz’ – the drink of the Venetians
1. In Santa Maria Novella square, which has become the mecca for ‘Modern Art’, visit the Museo del Novecento, Palazzo Strozzi and Marino Marini Collection just steps from our hotel
2. Customize your own perfume with your choice of fragrances and enjoy a visit to the Villoresi Museum ‘diladdarno’ away from the tourists
3. Enjoy Florence’s best views from the beautiful terrace of the Giardino Bardini, then visit its splendid museum and gardens
4. Sip a fantastic cocktail at Hotel Santa Maria Novella while enjoying views of the famous Santa Maria Novella Piazza and Church
5. Discover Vallombrosa, a hidden town with an impressive forest and authentic Tuscan food just one-hour’s drive from Florence
Travel Advisor Contact Information:
Laura Parato, Assistant Director l.parato@wtbhotels.com | +39 055 27184172
