Points in Panama: Riande Hotels Joins VOILA Hotel Rewards Expanding Hotel Network

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Sept. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- VOILA Hotel Rewards (www.voilahotels.com), the world's number one independent hotel loyalty program, continues to offer its members a world of options with the recent addition of Riande Hotels in Panama. The partnership marks VOILA's first hotels in Panama and exemplifies the brand's continuous growth throughout the Americas.

Riande Hotels have been greeting guests since 1969 and have earned a reputation for their Panamanian hospitality. The tradition continues with the Riande Aeropuerto Hotel, Casino & Resort and the Riande Granada Urban Hotel. But at Riande Hotels, tradition now meets innovation since both hotels have undergone complete renovations in 2012 and 2013.

The Riande Aeropuerto Hotel, Casino & Resort is ideally located 3 minutes from Tocumen International Airport and close to Panama's business district, shopping area and other popular attractions. The hotel features 178 rooms and six spacious event areas. Guests can unwind in the pool surrounded by a tropical garden, at the OM Spa, or on one of the resort's three tennis courts. Dining options include a 24-hour cafe and a sushi bar.

The Riande Granada is known for its chic atmosphere, cozy yet sophisticated rooms and warm-hearted service. It is located in the heart of Panama City, just steps away from the financial and business districts, shopping area and colonial area. The hotel offers 141 rooms, with free WiFi throughout. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, and complimentary parking. Dining options include 24-hour room service, two lounges and an onsite signature restaurant, operated by famous Spanish chef, David Quesada. The hotel also features three meetings and events rooms and a 600sq feet outdoor terrace, ideal for parties.

Consistently ranking among the world's top travel destinations, Panama is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The Panama Canal is in the midst of a multibillion-dollar expansion with planned completion by the canal's 100-year anniversary in 2014. The historic quarter, Casco Viejo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with art galleries, coffee houses, street musicians and premier restaurants for those seeking a more cultured experience.  Short flights across the country to snorkel or zipline in the Bocas del Toro archipelago are there for those seeking action.

"Providing rewards at independent hotels in the world's most popular travel destinations is one of VOILA Hotel Rewards' core missions," said Peter Gorla, VOILA Hotel Rewards managing director. "Members told us Panama was on their 'must-see' list. Whether they want to explore the diverse cultures and history of Central America or see the original Panama Canal, we are proud to give them the opportunity and the ability to redeem Award Nights and earn VOILA points and elite-tier status credit during their stay."

"We are honored and eager to introduce Riande Hotels as the first hotel group in Panama to partner with VOILA," continued Gorla. "Riande Hotels joins a growing worldwide network of independent hotels that currently includes nearly 250 properties from 20 brands."

About Riande Hotels
It was November 14th, 1969 when Riande Granada Hotel opened its doors in the heart of the financial district. With this property, the Riande Hotel Group was born and starts making hotel history. Years later, Riande Airport was acquired, just 3 minutes away from the Tocumen International Airport. Today, 44 years later, Riande Hotel Group maintains its leadership and the philosophy of its founder, Don Idelfonso Riande, whom is recognized by his extraordinary leadership and organizational skills. The year 2013, represents the launching of a new and modern look for both properties, symbolizing the Panamanian hospitality.

About VOILA Hotel Rewards
VOILA is the world's number one loyalty program that unites a network of more than 250 select independent hotels comprising 20 select global hotel brands. The program first launched in 2008 and has developed a reputation among travelers who like to stay in original, up-market independent properties for its compelling promotions, ease of use and simple, quick redemption process.

VOILA's co-branded, fully customized guest loyalty programs support travelers who frequent Amari Hotels and Resorts, Details Hotels, HB Hotels, Hoteis Deville, Husa Hotels, Impiana Hotels, K + K Hotels, Kayumanis, Lexington Hotels, Othon Hotels, Ritz Lagoa da Anta, Rosedale Hotels, St Giles Hotels – New York, The St. Regis Hotel, Starling Hotels & Resorts, Sutera Harbour Resort, Swiss-Belhotel International, The Media Hotel and Towers, and TIME Hotels.

VOILA's points-based frequency guest program provides recognition benefits and room redemption opportunities at participating network hotels. But unlike big chain programs, VOILA enables independent hotel groups to maintain their branding and unique qualities. To achieve this, VOILA provides hotel- or group-branded solutions for our partner hotels, with VOILA acting as the supporting brand (similar to Star Alliance or OneWorld for frequent flyer programs).

VOILA's global presence allows members to earn and redeem points across a wide variety of hotels and redemption partners in the VOILA global network. A selection of VOILA's current redemption partners include airline programs such as Flying Blue (Air France / KLM), Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards, and US Airways Dividend Miles, retail partners such as Amazon.com, American Express, Multiplus Fidelidade, Smiles, and iTunes, and charitable causes such as Kula, Worldreader.org, and Kiva.

From the consumer's perspective, this means members can enjoy the rich experiences and extraordinary qualities independent hotels offer while earning points and receiving benefits typically tied to big chain loyalty programs. For more information, please visit:

• www.voilahotels.com (hotelier website)
• www.vhr.com (VOILA-branded member website)
• facebook.com/VOILArewards
• twitter.com/voila_rewards

For Additional Information:

VOILA Hotel Rewards
Mr. Peter Gorla
Managing Director
Direct: +1 (949) 260-9538
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gorla
Twitter: twitter.com/petergorla

SOURCE VOILA Hotel Rewards