I happened to address my problem this way:
1. configured my Vu+ remote to control Panasonic TV as sell by long press of 1+3, then 2153 and then pushing mute button for a good 30 seconds or so (until I could see the TV responding...), then pressed OK + STOP to leave programming mode.
- we know that once TV is turned on first (with the TV on/off button), the set top box starts just fine and TV reflects the Hotel mode setting to "HDMI 1" as well. Turning off works the same way...
- unfortunately, this made my Vu+ vol+ and vol- buttons on my vu+ remote control send commands to the TV, (which I didn't want), because I use optical cable from Vu+ to Technics receiver for audio
2. changed mode on my Vu+ remote to send volume commands to Vu+ box again instead of my TV (but still keep the TV on/off button on my Vu+ remote sending commands to TV) by long press of 1+6, then 993, then STB Power button - had to push it twice, but maybe the first attempt was just too soft.
This way I can use the TV power on button on my Vu+ remote to start Vu+ and TV to HDMI1, while keeping all the functions of the Vu+ remote sending signals to Vu+.
Not sure if this strategy helps to anyone.... just my two pennies
.. let's hope it will still work the same way tomorrow