The excitement is palpable as Universal Orlando gears up for the launch of its latest attraction, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, set to open on May 22, 2024. This immersive experience will serve as a key highlight of the newly minted Epic Universe theme park, which promises to transport fans into the
Hotels
When it comes to choosing a vacation spot that caters to families, few places can match the offerings of Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This resort, nestled within the vibrant Riviera Maya, stands out because it truly embodies a multifaceted experience designed to delight every age group. With its access to eight diverse parks, nature tours, and
As the festive season approaches, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is set to unveil an enchanting holiday experience with the launch of its Oasis Ice Rink on November 27. This remarkable attraction will feature two expansive ice rinks, encompassing nearly 8,000 square feet of glistening ice, designed to draw visitors of all ages. Nestled within a charming
Arthur Frommer, a name synonymous with travel literature and advice, sadly passed away on November 18, 2023, at the age of 95 due to complications related to pneumonia. His life’s work has left an indelible mark on the world of travel, inspiring generations of adventurers and seekers alike. The incredibly vast travel media empire he
Cuba’s tourism landscape has historically navigated a complex mosaic of political, economic, and environmental pressures. While the island has faced challenges stemming from international relations and infrastructural inadequacies, the recent onslaught of natural disasters has brought additional hurdles, casting a shadow over its tourism industry. This article delves into the current state of Cuba’s tourism,
The political landscape in the United States is constantly evolving, especially in the aftermath of significant elections that can alter the direction of policy and governance. With President Donald Trump potentially beginning a second term, changes in Washington are already palpably felt across various sectors. One of the areas where ripples of change are particularly
In recent years, the hospitality industry has witnessed an unsettling trend with the imposition of resort fees. Unite Here, a prominent labor union for hotel workers, has launched the „Resort Fee Ripoff“ campaign to draw attention to what they deem a deceptive practice aimed at extracting additional money from unsuspecting travelers. This initiative seeks to
In the rapidly evolving landscape of travel technology, the launch of Sabre Red Launchpad marks a significant milestone, particularly for novice travel advisors. Designed with user-friendliness in mind, this innovative booking platform, which became widely accessible to travel agencies recently, aims to streamline the process of booking flights, hotels, and car rentals. Unsurprisingly, this significant
On November 1st, Melia Hotels International celebrated the grand opening of ME Malta, an emblem of contemporary design and luxury situated in the stunning seaside locale of St. Julian’s. The new five-star hotel, crafted by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, is part of the ambitious Mercury Towers development, which promises to transform the landscape of Malta’s
SLS Hotels & Residences have officially launched their inaugural all-inclusive resort, the SLS Playa Mujeres, marking a significant milestone in their hospitality journey. Nestled just 15 miles north of Cancun International Airport, this expansive property stretches across a pristine beachfront in a secure gated community. Boasting 498 exquisitely designed rooms, the resort redefines luxury vacations,
The Viceroy Hotels & Resorts brand has long existed in the luxury hospitality space, but its presence has faded over the last decade. However, following its acquisition by Highgate in early 2023, the brand is poised for a significant overhaul. This transformation is not merely cosmetic but represents a deeper commitment to experiential luxury and
Corinthia Hotels, a luxury hospitality group based in London, has carved out a noteworthy niche since its establishment in 1968, primarily across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Recently, the group has set its sights on the vibrant North American market with the grand reopening of The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, in New York City.
In a recent episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski engages in a compelling conversation with Abbey Meyer, the CEO of Sky High Travel, about her experience at the luxurious Hotel Xcaret Arte located near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The resort distinguishes itself as an adults-only all-inclusive destination, characterized by its vibrant artful décor
The hospitality industry continually evolves to meet the demands of discerning travelers, and Design Hotels is at the forefront of this transformation. Established in 1993, this Berlin-based brand is dedicated to merging innovative design with unique local experiences, operating a diverse portfolio of nearly 300 boutique hotels. Notably, since becoming part of the Marriott family
In a significant move to bolster its operational efficiency, Booking Holdings announced on November 8 that it intends to undergo a comprehensive organizational transformation, particularly at Booking.com. This initiative encompasses staff reductions and modernization of processes and systems to align with evolving market demands. Through a regulatory filing, the company detailed its objectives, which include
Skiing enthusiasts on the East Coast have long found refuge in New England’s resorts, drawn to their thrilling slopes and diverse off-mountain activities. Yet, a growing trend emerges as ski destinations like Windham Mountain in New York attempt to reclaim a portion of that market share by enhancing both their infrastructure and the overall skier
In the hospitality sector, the recent performance metrics and external challenges reveal a complex landscape. Companies like Hilton have experienced an increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR), yet the growth has not met internal expectations. Contrary to unyielding optimism, external variables such as labor disputes, shifts in consumer behavior, and market conditions are reshaping
Choice Hotels International has made significant strides to solidify its position in the hospitality sector, particularly following its acquisition of the Radisson Hotel Group Americas. This strategic move not only brought the Radisson portfolio under its umbrella but also facilitated a substantial shift toward the upscale market. The recent third-quarter earnings call highlighted this transition,
The recent Q3 earnings call by Marriott International unveiled significant concerns surrounding the potential ramifications of the upcoming U.S. presidential election on the company’s performance in the fourth quarter. As economic variables intertwine with political events, executives are bracing for an unusual downturn, particularly in revenue per available room (RevPAR) across the United States and
Internova Travel Group, a major player in the global travel industry, is undergoing a noteworthy transformation under the guidance of its CEO, J.D. O’Hara. The past six years have seen O’Hara refining his vision for the organization, driven by a focus on simplifying a historically complex business model. This article delves into the strategies and
For years, family vacations have been marked by the same tired hotel amenities aimed at children: coloring books, plush toys adorned with logos, and basic activities that rarely engage the imaginative spirit of young travelers. Amidst this monotony, a groundbreaking consultancy based in London, called Wanderland, aims to transform the hospitality industry by infusing creativity
As the travel landscape evolves, industry leaders are continuously adapting to meet the demands of a changing marketplace. The Ascend 2024 conference held in Cancun attracted over 1,300 travel advisors eager to learn about ALG Vacations, a prominent player in the packaged vacation sector, particularly after its acquisition by Hyatt. The following analysis delves into
Nestled along Mexico’s stunning Caribbean coast, Tulum has become synonymous with serene beaches, ancient ruins, and a lifestyle steeped in bohemian charm. While the allure of this coastal paradise has drawn countless travelers, the local hospitality scene has been slow to adapt to the all-inclusive trend often found in larger resort areas. Recent shifts in
Rome has long been a city where ancient history and modern luxury coexist harmoniously. The Anantara Palazzo Naiadi, an elegant hotel located in the heart of Rome, effortlessly embodies this blend, providing a unique escape for visitors. The hotel’s rich history is rooted in the ruins of the Baths of Diocletian, a monumental complex that
Hyatt Hotels Corp. has recently shared its performance metrics for the third quarter, revealing a nuanced landscape for its all-inclusive portfolio. Specifically, the company reported a decrease of 0.9% in systemwide net package revenue per available room (RevPAR) compared to the same quarter in 2022. This decline is particularly significant as it follows a strong
The U.S. hotel industry has experienced an unprecedented surge in development, as recent data from Lodging Econometrics reveals a record-breaking total of over 6,200 projects in the pipeline as of the third quarter of this year. This marks a significant time for the industry, showcasing an increase of 9% compared to the same quarter the
Hotel Mousai has become a name synonymous with opulence and vibrant design, catering to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Initially making a splash in Puerto Vallarta, this impressive establishment has now expanded its horizons to include its newest gem in Cancun, the Hotel Mousai Cancun. This article explores the unique features and offerings of
As history unfolds, patterns often emerge that showcase how various generations reshape cultural trends. A notable example within the travel industry is the remarkable resurgence of all-inclusive resorts, particularly among the Gen Z demographic. According to recent findings from Hotels.com’s Unpack ’25 travel trends report, an impressive 42% of Gen Z travelers now favor all-inclusive
In a landscape often dominated by significant sporting events like the Super Bowl and the Olympics, one individual has managed to carve out an economic niche that rivals these giants: Taylor Swift. The multifaceted pop star’s Eras Tour is not just a musical journey; it has emerged as an extraordinary force in the hospitality industry,
As the 2024-25 season approaches, Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa in St. Barts is set to delight guests with a revamped culinary landscape. With an emphasis on dining experiences that merge local cuisine with international flair, the hotel has rolled out several new venues and menus. The resort not only looks to enhance the gastronomic
In a candid address at the recent ALG Ascend 2024 conference held in Cancun, Ray Snisky, president of ALG Vacations, delivered a sobering forecast for air travel in 2025. He positioned the upcoming year as a period marked by increasing airfares predominantly for Caribbean and Mexican destinations. According to Snisky, airline capacity reductions are the
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has set its sights on ambitious expansion in the all-inclusive hospitality market. The company’s latest move involves a 50/50 joint venture with Grupo Pinero, a prominent Spanish hospitality entity that owns Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts. This collaboration aims not only to enlarge Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection but also to optimize the management
Pendry International’s newest venture, the Pendry Natirar, is making waves as a premier resort nestled in the picturesque Somerset County of New Jersey. Just 50 miles from the bustling metropolis of Manhattan, this idyllic getaway spans an impressive 500 acres of lush landscape, marrying the charm of rustic serenity with the allure of modern luxury.
The excitement surrounding the imminent opening of the Epic Universe theme park in Orlando on May 22 is palpable, drawing a multitude of enthusiasts eager to explore its attractions. With this new park, Universal aims to elevate visitor experiences and capacity management through a controlled ticketing strategy. Currently, access to Epic Universe is limited to
Outrigger Hospitality Group has taken a bold step in the evolution of its hospitality offerings with the launch of the Outrigger Waikiki Paradise Hotel. This newly reimagined property, previously known as the Ohana Waikiki East, now stands as a symbol of rejuvenation, boasting 443 meticulously renovated guestrooms and suites. The transformation not only emphasizes modern
In an exciting development for travelers, Southwest Airlines is set to launch its brand-new vacation package offering, dubbed „Getaways by Southwest,“ in mid-2025. This initiative marks a significant strategic shift for the airline as it seeks to streamline its vacation offerings and enhance customer engagement, particularly through direct sales channels. However, this focus comes with
Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. faced a series of tests in the third quarter of the year, experiencing a growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR) that fell short of expectations. The company’s RevPAR showed a 1.4% year-over-year increase, reflecting ongoing recovery dynamics in the hospitality sector. However, CEO Christopher Nassetta noted that external challenges played
The Regent hotel brand has made a noteworthy return to the American hospitality scene after an extended hiatus of 32 years. This highly anticipated comeback is marked by the opening of the Regent Santa Monica Beach, a luxurious addition to the Southern California coastline. The establishment’s revival follows a notable absence that began in 1992,
Hurricanes Helene and Milton have wreaked havoc across Florida, leaving many coastal communities grappling with extensive damage and uncertainty about the future. The implications for the state’s tourism industry are profound, especially along the Gulf Coast, where small, independent businesses are facing an uphill battle for recovery. This article explores the immediate and long-term effects
Baha Mar, the premier luxury destination in Nassau, Bahamas, is set to commence an exciting new chapter with the introduction of a fourth resort. This expansion signifies a substantial investment in the region’s tourism infrastructure and aims to enhance the luxurious offerings available to visitors. Situated on the recently demolished site of the Melia Nassau