Award-winning east coast management and ownership group showcases its commitment to the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania by investing in the property and the community

[Danbury, Conn., June 7, 2016]Meyer Jabara Hotels (MJH) continues its well-established leadership in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania with a completed $2 million renovation of its Courtyard by Marriott property in Bethlehem. Unlike other hotels in the area that recently downgraded to middling brands to avoid capital upgrades, MJH recommitted to the area by investing in its Bethlehem property to meet the exacting standards set by Marriott. The extensive renovations include a complete refresh of its 134 guestrooms and a revitalized lobby with Bistro featuring all-day dining and a diverse menu.

Denise Maiatico, vice president for Meyer Jabara Hotels of the Lehigh Valley, said this renovation is a re-investment in an already-successful asset and an economic investment in the community.

“When this property first opened, the area was woefully underdeveloped,” Maiatico said. “We were among the first businesses to come to this corridor. Today, business development in the Lehigh Valley is booming, and we are proud to be an anchor growing alongside them.”

The Courtyard by Marriott Bethlehem, which ranks in the top 20 percent of all Courtyards nationwide since its opening, is located at 2220 Emrick Blvd., and was awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence in 2016. When guests arrive at the property, they are immediately immersed in the brand’s refreshing business lobby concept, giving travelers the flexibility to work and socialize however they choose while on the road. The public space features an inviting registration area illuminated by iconic Moravian stars handmade in Bethlehem, a large 52-inch LCD touch screen called a Go Board® where guests can get localized information, including where to find restaurants local attractions and directions, and stations for printing airplane boarding passes.

The centerpiece of the redesign is The Bistro, a place to “Eat. Drink. Connect.” The fast-casual concept features an eclectic menu, including grab-and-go and sit-down breakfast items, soups, deli sandwiches and burgers, ribs and pizzas, several salads, and snack options. The menu also includes cocktails, wine, beer, and Starbucks coffee. The Bistro sports a lounge-like atmosphere, with chic couches and colorful throw pillows, curving countertops, communal tables, modern lamp lighting, and big-screen TVs. Also featured is the Market™, a 24/7 shop for snacks, beverages and sundries that is always open for late-night cravings or the forgotten toiletry.

Prior to the lobby facelift, MJH updated the hotel’s guestrooms to also mirror the brand’s new guestroom concept. The room renovation includes new carpet, drapery and wall vinyl, along with new sofas and lamps.

To make guests and residents feel at home and one with the community, MJH encourages its hotels to feature elements, artwork and design from the local area. Though the recent renovation changed many of Courtyard Bethlehem’s original design elements, Marriott allowed the property to keep its dramatic yellow-tile walkway (exuding a “Follow The Yellow Brick Road” feel) and the Moravian Star stained-glass lights that adorn the front-desk and food-and-beverage areas.

Positive Reviews, Increased Marketshare “Early reviews on the property have surpassed our expectations,” Maiatico said. “Guest comments are great across the social channels. Those who liked the property before say they love it now. The expanded food-and-beverage offerings are high on our guests list of improved features.”

Comments from online guest reviews include: “Definitely one of the best Courtyard hotels we have stayed in.” “Your gonna love the new Bistro & Bar. The food is fantastic and the service is speedy. The lobby is beautiful and comfortable.” “These are the type of people and services that keep me coming back! Keep up the great work. Looking forward to staying here again.” “Great place to stay! Lobby renovation has really made a difference. The new cafe/bar is an excellent addition and the food was great. From the sunrise breakfast to the bacon cheeseburger it did not disappoint. Will definitely stay here the next time we are in the area.”

In addition to the renovation’s rave reviews, the Courtyard by Marriott Bethlehem has also experienced growth in market share and room rate. In the first month of completed renovations, the property’s average daily rate is up by $4.56 at a 112 index. The additional revenues have enabled the property to hire three new employees to accommodate The Bistro’s expanded breakfast hours with cooked-to-order menu offerings, and its new seven-days-a-week food-and-beverage service.

“We are proud of the presence we’ve established in the Lehigh Valley with this Courtyard by Marriott property, and remain committed to its continued success,” said Justin Jabara, VP of Development for MJH. “Meyer Jabara Hotels is devoted to keeping our properties at the highest level of quality for our guests and the communities we serve.”

For more information on Meyer Jabara Hotels, visit www.meyerjabarahotels.com. To follow the “Just Journey” Blog, click here. For media inquiries, call Barb Worcester of PRpro at (440) 930-5770 or email her at [email protected].