The Star Diamond Standard

To get there, I often rely on American Airlines. It is one of the largest airlines in the United States and the second largest non-stop commercial airline in the world. It operates an extensive international and domestic network, with scheduled flights throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia/Pacific, and the Caribbean.

In May, AA delivered representatives of the American Academy safely to Cannes, France, where they attended the Cannes International Film Festival, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious film festivals. Similarly, The Academy is one of the most prestigious evaluators in the hospitality industry, so annually, we host a ceremony in Cannes to honor the shining stars of the hospitality industry. This year’s gathering had an extraordinary turnout, with some of the finest names in the hospitality industry in attendance, including a dream team of chefs that created the evening’s culinary offerings.

Speaking of the culinary world, Alfonso Schuhbeck is an award-winning chef/proprietor who operates in the historic heart of Munich. Along with his other eateries that include an ice-cream shop, chocolate shop, and Schuhbecks (just to mention a few), he founded his own cooking school where he teaches his expertise with great pride and passion.

Stateside, I was honored to attend the 59th edition of the Miss USA pageant, which was held in Las Vegas on May 16. Miss USA 2009, Kristen Dalton of North Carolina, crowned her successor, Rima Fakih of Michigan, as Miss USA 2010. Fakih will represent the United States at the Miss Universe 2010 pageant in Las Vegas on August 23; I have my fingers crossed for USA.

The Trumps are recognized for being pioneers in business; however, here at the American Academy we recognize that beneath the family fortune there beats a few hearts of gold. This is the main reason I bestowed the Five Star Diamond Award to Eric Trump of The Eric Trump Foundation in honor of his charitable work aiding children with life-threatening medical conditions.

The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences always looks for the best in luxury travels. For a complete list of properties we have deemed worthy, visit www.stardiamondaward.com.  By opting to experience a Star Diamond locale, upon arrival, all you have to  do is relax, be pampered, and receive that rare star diamond service.

Best Wishes,

Joseph D. Cinque

President
The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences
240 Central Park South
New York, New York 10019
212.582.5812
award@stardiamondaward.com