In recent industry developments, Resorts World Las Vegas has welcomed a new leader, Alex Dixon, to helm its operations during a challenging period. Appointed as CEO on January 16, Dixon’s leadership comes at a time when the resort is facing significant obstacles, including disappointing quarterly results attributed to external factors such as extreme heat and
Hotels
In a significant advancement for the travel advisory sector, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has introduced a state-of-the-art portal designed specifically for travel advisors. This tool consolidates various functionalities, allowing advisors to manage bookings, commission tracking, and overall workflows for over 600 independent hotels under its umbrella. This new portal underscores a transformative shift in how
The landscape of the hospitality industry is consistently shifting, led by evolving consumer preferences and strategic brand reorientation. One of the most significant recent developments comes from SH Hotels & Resorts, which will soon be rebranded as Starwood Hotels, evoking nostalgia while heralding a new chapter for the iconic brand. Under the stewardship of Barry
In a bold move aimed at solidifying its position within the all-inclusive resort market, Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to acquire Playa Hotels & Resorts for approximately $2.6 billion. This acquisition is slated to significantly expand Hyatt’s existing collection of resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, showcasing the company’s strategic focus on increasing its
In the ever-evolving landscape of the travel industry, the ability to hone in on a specific niche can often mean the difference between success and mediocrity. This undeniable truth was vividly illustrated in the journey of Addison Jaynes, who transitioned from director of Reliant Destinations in the U.K. to founder of a thriving travel agency
In the dynamic landscape of online travel booking, Expedia Group has demonstrated notable resilience and adaptability under the leadership of CEO Ariane Gorin. Following her appointment in May 2024, Gorin quickly set audacious goals for the core brands—Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo—focusing on rejuvenating their growth trajectories. As the fourth quarter of 2024 comes to a
New Orleans, a vibrant city steeped in rich cultural history, finds much of its allure rooted in stories that embody the spirit of resilience, creativity, and community. Among the myriad of cultural landmarks that dot its landscape, the Dew Drop Inn stands out not just for its historical relevance but for its revitalization as a
This May, Las Vegas will welcome an exciting addition to its vibrant nightlife with the opening of the Palm Tree Beach Club at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. This massive outdoor venue is set to redefine the entertainment landscape, featuring a sprawling area of nearly 60,000 square feet tailored for music lovers and social
The discussion surrounding the naming of North America’s tallest peak has sparked fierce debate and a deep-seated conflict that transcends mere nomenclature. At the heart of this debate is the mountain previously known as Mount McKinley, which was officially renamed Denali—meaning „the high one“ in the Koyukon Athabascan language—by the Obama administration in 2015. The
The allure of Greece typically draws travelers to the iconic islands of Santorini and Milos, yet a hidden gem awaits those seeking solace from the typical tourist trail. Nestled within the lesser-known landscapes of Folegandros, a new luxury boutique hotel named Gundari is set to debut this spring. With its pristine surroundings, rich cultural essence,
During Hilton’s recent Q4 earnings call, the company’s CEO, Christopher Nassetta, conveyed a significant level of optimism regarding the economic environment under current U.S. presidential policies. Nassetta mentioned that Hilton’s outlook for 2025 has improved compared to previous projections, highlighting that the company feels „incrementally a bit better“ than it did earlier in the year.
Nestled in the heart of Paris lies the Latin Quarter, a neighborhood pulsating with history, culture, and an undeniable charm that has captivated visitors for centuries. While the area’s bohemian spirit may have evolved since its heydays, the essence remains intact. Famed for its narrow alleyways, old-world charm, and vibrant café culture, the Latin Quarter
In the bustling heart of London, The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences has long been a haven for travelers, especially those seeking a family-friendly escape. My personal journey with this remarkable hotel began years ago when I stayed in a spacious apartment-style residence with my children. As any parent can attest, finding comfortable accommodations for a
The luxury travel sector, known for its opulence and exclusivity, has, until recently, appeared robust. However, an exploration into the trends and challenges facing this industry reveals that the high-end hotels and cruises may be heading towards necessary price adjustments. According to Clayton Reid, a notable figure in travel and tourism marketing, the dynamics of
Disney’s approach to its Lightning Lane Premier Pass exemplifies a cautious yet strategic method of market introduction, attuned to guest experiences and operational efficiency. Since its debut in October of last year, the pass has provided a means for theme park visitors to minimize wait times for attractions, offering a premium option that is now
Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, France, the Chateau de la Commaraine stands as a testament to the region’s rich viticultural history, which dates back to Roman times. Originally constructed in the 12th century by the Dukes of Burgundy, this fortified manor has undergone a meticulous four-year renovation and is poised to debut as a
The convergence of luxury hospitality and maritime adventure is gaining momentum, with high-end hotel establishments stepping onto the high seas. As travelers seek unique and exclusive experiences, hotel brands are expanding their portfolios into yacht excursions. The recent developments in this sector reveal a strategic move to foster brand loyalty and capture a burgeoning market
As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, it presents new opportunities for chefs and food enthusiasts alike. Chef Stephen Toevs, the senior director of culinary at Marriott International, has identified several intriguing food trends that are set to shape 2025. From the unexpected emergence of dry-aged vegetables to the concept of sensory immersion in dining
The luxury travel sector is experiencing a remarkable revival as highlighted by the latest figures from Virtuoso, a well-known consortium of high-end travel agencies. With a reported increase in sales of 25% for 2024 over the previous year, the outlook for both 2025 and 2026 appears exceptionally promising. While growth has been recorded across various
Intrepid Travel, an Australian adventure travel company, has set its sights on the North American market with a bold mission: to become a household name across America. By strategically appointing Leigh Barnes as president of the Americas, the organization aims to solidify its presence in what is fast becoming its most vital segment. In an
While Hawaii is often associated with its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa offers a unique attraction that invites guests to gaze upwards instead of soaking up the sun. Tucked away from the bright lights of Kaanapali Beach, the resort hosts an exceptional astronomy program aptly named Tour of
On a bright January day, Malibu offers a strikingly picturesque scene. The Malibu Beach Inn, having reopened its doors just days earlier, boasts a lovely view of the Pacific Ocean and gently rolling waves lapping at the shore. Yet, beneath this tranquil facade lies the reality of destruction; merely a mile away, devastating wildfires have
The recent approval by the Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority marks a pivotal moment for the city’s tourism and convention industry. A new 1,000-room Omni hotel is set to rise across from the convention center, with an expected opening in 2029. This development is not just an addition to the skyline; it
In an impressive move, the Salamander Collection has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of the esteemed PGA National Resort located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. This partnership, formed with prominent real estate firms Henderson Park and South Street Partners, marks a significant step in Salamander’s growth trajectory. The purchase of this renowned property from
The hospitality sector has always been intricately tied to immigration policies, impacting workforce dynamics and overall industry growth. With the recent shifts in political agendas under the Trump administration, hotel executives have expressed urgent concerns regarding the potential repercussions of stricter border regulations and immigration vetting practices. As the industry strives to rebound from pandemic-induced
In recent years, the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have gained considerable traction across various industries, particularly in hospitality. As the political climate shifts, particularly with changes in U.S. administrations, organizations are reevaluating their commitments to DEI initiatives. This analysis looks at the intersection of federal government policies and corporate responsibilities within the
In the aftermath of devastating wildfires that nearly engulfed Los Angeles, the city’s tourism and hospitality leaders have taken it upon themselves to project a message of resilience and recovery. Speaking at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit held in January, Adam Burke, CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board, reassured stakeholders that despite
The hospitality industry is witnessing a transformative wave as lifestyle brands continue to emerge and innovate. One such brand, HQ Hotels & Residences, is making headlines with its ambitious plans for a property in São Paulo, Brazil. This lifestyle-oriented hotel chain, a collaborative effort between industry giants SBE and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, represents a
The all-inclusive resort market is undergoing transformative challenges, particularly affecting travel advisors and their group clients. The ongoing tension between loyalty programs provided by hotels and the traditional group booking system has sparked significant backlash among travel professionals. This article delves into the ramifications of these changes, analyzes the responses from industry stakeholders, and explores
Tucked away at the edge of the U.S. Air Force Academy, the recently inaugurated Hotel Polaris is making waves in Colorado Springs, Colorado. With its grand opening on November 14, it proudly claims the title of the first hotel in the nation to feature state-of-the-art flight simulators. This modern establishment is not merely a resting
LXR Hotels & Resorts, part of Hilton’s luxury collection, has charted an impressive trajectory since its inception in 2018. With a global portfolio that expanded to 13 properties by the end of 2024 and an additional twelve on the horizon, LXR is carving out a distinctive niche in the luxury travel market. Key recent additions
In recent years, TikTok has emerged as a formidable force in the realm of social media marketing, particularly for travel advisors. Its dynamic platform has enabled travel professionals to connect with a significantly younger demographic, sharing authentic travel experiences and fostering meaningful engagement. Many travel advisors have reported a marked increase in client inquiries as
The Caribbean continues to be a desirable region for luxury travel, and Royalton Hotels & Resorts is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on this demand. This analysis will delve into the company’s approach to expansion, focusing on its recent ventures in Saint Lucia, Antigua, and the upcoming introduction in Barbados. By emphasizing traveler interests and
The Walt Disney Company, a titan in the entertainment landscape, has recently announced significant changes to its executive lineup. These adjustments highlight both the strategic vision of the company and the competitive demands of the industry. As key executives venture into new roles, the reshuffling emphasizes the necessity of dynamic leadership in an evolving market.
The iconic MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is embarking on a remarkable transformation, investing a substantial $300 million to revitalize its main tower. Home to an impressive 4,212 rooms and suites, this ambitious project aims to reimagine the guest experience within its walls, with an expected completion date set for December. The
In a devastating turn of events early Tuesday morning, a catastrophic fire engulfed the Grand Kartal Hotel, a well-known ski destination located in Kartalkaya, northwestern Türkiye. The blaze erupted during a school holiday, a time when families flock to ski resorts, seeking winter thrills and cozy lodgings. As the inferno consumed the 12-story establishment, it
As Los Angeles County grapples with unprecedented wildfires, the local hospitality industry is rising to the occasion by transforming hotels into emergency shelters for evacuees. This dual role of providing safe haven while maintaining essential business operations reflects a community spirit that showcases the adaptability and resilience of the service sector. By leveraging their resources,
In the ever-evolving realm of travel, hotel loyalty programs are increasingly shaping how clients choose their accommodations, significantly impacting the strategies employed by travel advisors. As all-inclusive resorts leverage these programs to offer attractive deals that often undercut negotiated group rates, travel advisors find themselves facing a growing conundrum. According to the Destination Wedding &
The Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), a prominent event in the hospitality industry, will host Shatterproof’s eighth annual Hospitality Heroes Reception in Los Angeles from January 28 to 30, 2024. This nonprofit organization is on a mission to reform the healthcare landscape to ensure that individuals dealing with addiction in the United States have access
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) recently communicated its priorities to the incoming Trump administration, echoing sentiments from the previous administration’s tumultuous relationship with the travel industry. The letter outlines concerns about travel restrictions, ticket refunds, the classification of independent contractors, and the implementation of federal regulations that significantly impact the sector. This article