Calvin Stovall, a former graduate student at the Cornell School of Hotel Administration, embarked on a journey to research and document the history of Black-owned hotels, resorts, and motels dating back to the 1700s. His passion for this topic led him to write a 100-page monograph on the Black hospitality experience. Fast forward to the present day, during the pandemic, as Stovall was sorting through boxes and stumbled upon his college monograph. A friend’s casual perusal and encouraging words sparked an idea within Stovall to transform his research into a fully illustrated coffee-table book. With the help of sponsors, including prominent figures like Sheila Johnson and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Stovall is well on his way to realizing his dream of publishing a book that celebrates the contributions of Black-owned hotels throughout history.
Stovall’s upcoming book, “Hospitality Historiography,” promises to shed light on unique individuals and iconic establishments that have shaped the landscape of Black hospitality. From Tunis G. Campbell, an abolitionist preacher who authored a pioneering guide on hotel management in 1848, to James Wormley, the famed hotelier near the White House renowned for his culinary expertise and luxurious accommodations, Stovall’s profiles offer a rich tapestry of stories that deserve recognition. The tragic tale of John “The Baptist” Stradford, whose opulent hotel in Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Greenwood District was destroyed during the 1921 riots, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs in the past. Through Stovall’s meticulous research and visual storytelling, these narratives come alive, allowing readers to appreciate the resilience and ingenuity of Black hospitality pioneers.
On the other end of the hospitality spectrum lies Ultima Collection, a luxury villa and chalet rental company that caters to the world’s affluent clientele. Led by CEO Petar Krstic, Ultima Collection offers exclusive properties in prestigious destinations such as Gstaad, Courchevel, and Corfu, where guests can indulge in unparalleled opulence and personalized service. Unlike traditional villa rental companies, Ultima aims to establish itself as a premier consumer brand, setting a new standard for high-end accommodations. With plans to expand to iconic locations like St. Tropez, Amalfi Coast, and Lake Como, Ultima Collection is poised to redefine luxury hospitality by integrating exceptional amenities, top-tier service, and a cohesive brand identity across its portfolio of properties.
Krstic’s vision for Ultima Collection extends beyond offering extravagant villas; he envisions creating a curated collection of up to 30 exclusive locations worldwide, including sought-after destinations like Aspen, St. Barts, and Manhattan. By focusing on delivering a cohesive brand experience and prioritizing quality over quantity, Ultima Collection sets itself apart from the competition in the crowded villa rental market. With a dedicated team of professionals, including butlers, chefs, and massage therapists, Ultima ensures that every guest receives personalized attention and enjoys a seamless, luxurious vacation experience. By eschewing traditional booking platforms in favor of building a direct rapport with its clientele, Ultima Collection is paving the way for a new era of luxury travel that emphasizes exclusivity, authenticity, and unparalleled service.
Both Calvin Stovall’s tribute to Black-owned hotels and Ultima Collection’s commitment to luxury villa rentals represent distinct facets of the hospitality industry. While Stovall’s historical storytelling honors the legacy of Black entrepreneurs and their contributions to hospitality, Ultima Collection’s innovative approach to luxury travel sets a new benchmark for opulence and refinement. By celebrating the past and embracing the future, these endeavors showcase the enduring allure and transformative power of hospitality in creating unforgettable experiences for guests around the world.
Leave a Reply