The Tricycle of Guest Service Excellence: A Perfect Model For Remarkable Experiences
Doug Kennedy | October 4th, 2024
Spokane Tribe Resort & Casino Partners With Travel Outlook to Elevate Guest Service Experience
Travel Outlook, The Premier Hotel Call Center™ | October 2nd, 2024
Knowland Unveils Enhanced Navigation Infrastructure for Improved User Experience
Knowland | July 31, 2024
Updated horizontal design provides an intuitive and efficient way to access features and functionality ARLINGTON, Va. – July 31, 2024 – Knowland, the global leader in data-as-a-service insights for hotels, convention centers, and conference centers, today announced the launch of an enhanced user-friendly navigation infrastructure within its industry-leading platform. This update gives customers a more intuitive and efficient way to access features and functionality. The streamlined horizontal navigation bar, featuring simple icons and clear descriptions, empowers users to quickly access actionable insights and drive sales performance. ...
Website Accessibility Standards Get an Update – What Businesses Should Know
Jim Butler | July 30, 2024
By Jim Butler and the Global Hospitality Group® Hotel Lawyers | Authors of www.HoteLawBlog.com In October 2023, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines were updated to version 2.2. These updates introduced new requirements for improving web accessibility, such as focus visibility and alternative input methods. For hospitality business owners, understanding and implementing these changes is crucial for ensuring ADA compliance and providing an inclusive online experience for all guests. In the article below, JMBM partner Stuart Tubis explores the key updates in WCAG 2.2 and their importance for businesses. WCAG 2.2: Website Accessibilit...
Euro Hosts Stand Out as 64% of Global Hotel Markets Outperformed 2023
CoStar Group | July 30, 2024
Analysis by Eddie Yeung Note: All financial figures presented in US$. STR's global "bubble chart" update for the four weeks ending 20 July 2024 shows 64% of markets with year-over-year growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR). That percentage was similar to our previous global market update. Among countries with 50,000 rooms and adequate hotel reporting levels, Greece, Singapore, Switzerland, France, and Italy— the same countries as the last update—posted the highest RevPAR on an actual basis. Notably, Greece recorded high growth rate RevPAR (+13%) thanks to substantial ADR growth (+23%). In contrast, France continu...
U.S. News Announces Best Travel Rewards Programs
U.S. News & World Report | July 30, 2024
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan crowned No. 1 for 10th consecutive year in Best Airline Rewards Programs Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Cruise Lines and Best Vacations, today unveiled the 2024-2025 Best Travel Rewards Programs to help everyday travelers find the best loyalty programs. The 2024-2025 rankings highlight 10 airline and 14 hotel loyalty programs that offer travelers the best perks, as well as easy ways to earn and redeem points and miles: ● Wyndham Rewards holds on to the No. 1 spot on the Best Hotel Rewards Programs ranking for 2024-2025. The progra...
Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club Joins Curio Collection by Hilton and Unveils $14 Million Transformation
Faro Blanco Resort | July 30, 2024
Prime Hospitality Group Debuts Newly Renovated Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel in the Florida Keys, Promising Unmatched Experiences and Adventure MARATHON, Fla., July 30, 2024 -- Prime Hospitality Group, a vertical of Prime Group, today announces that its recently acquired property Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club has joined the Curio Collection by Hilton portfolio. The newly rebranded Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club Marathon, Curio Collection by Hilton debuts a transformative $14 million renovation of its accommodations, amenities, and restaurant offerings. Located in the Florida Keys city of Marathon, the Faro Blanco Reso...
California Hotel Law’s Fourth Edition a Comprehensive, User-Friendly Guide
California Hotel & Lodging Association | July 30, 2024
CHLA's legal resource now published digitally; to stay current on pressing issues facing hotels SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 30, 2024 -- The California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA) today released its fourth edition of California Hotel Law, a comprehensive legal guide essential for navigating the complexities of California's lodging sector. This latest edition addresses the rapidly evolving legal landscape with easy-to-understand language on current statutes, regulations and judicial decisions that impact hotel operations. Crafted over three years by CHLA's Member Legal Advisor, Jim Abrams, the interactive guide features 18 det...
Americans Committed to Travel Are Embarking on “Justi-Vacations” Despite Budget Constraints
Allianz Partners | July 30, 2024
Allianz Partners USA's 16th Annual Vacation Confidence Index Reveals Confidence in Taking a Vacation in 2024 Reaches All Time High RICHMOND, Va., July 30, 2024 -- Confidence in taking an annual vacation has never been higher as new consumer data illustrates Americans' desperation to find ways to travel, as revealed by Allianz Partners USA's 16th Annual Vacation Confidence Index*. The travel insurance and assistance company's latest survey found that 68% of Americans are confident in taking a vacation sometime in 2024, marking the highest point since research began in 2009. When it comes to commitment to getting away, younger tr...
Hyatt Partners With Maya Rio Development for First Hyatt-Branded Hotel in Belize, The Placencia Resort
Hyatt Hotels Corporation | July 30, 2024
CHICAGO, IL (July 30, 2024) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) in collaboration with Maya Rio Development announced today plans for the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Belize with The Placencia Resort, which is entering the Hyatt portfolio as an affiliated hotel before joining the Destination by Hyatt brand and World of Hyatt loyalty program late next year. Nestled south of Mexico, east of Guatemala, and next to the Caribbean Sea, The Placencia Resort is located on the Placencia Peninsula, a verdant, 13-mile long beach in southern Belize near the largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. By late 2025, The Placencia Resort is expecte...
Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort Opens Following Renovation and Rebranding
Marriott | July 30, 2024
Building on the brand’s legacy of wonderful hospitality, guests of Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort will step into a world of unparalleled hospitality and enriching experiences Marriott Hotels, the signature flag of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary brands, hasn’t just set the standard for hospitality, it’s raised it: innovating at every opportunity and earning the trust of travelers all around the globe. Building on its legacy, the brand is redefining the all-inclusive vacation with the grand opening of its newest property, Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort. This debut marks a new era for ...
Foyer Project and Life House Appoint Kate Polsky as General Manager for Philadelphia’s Hotel Anna & Bel
Hotel Anna & Bel | July 30, 2024
Fishtown’s First Full Service Boutique Hotel Recruits Kate Polsky for the Highly Anticipated Opening Next Month PHILADELPHIA, PA (July 30, 2024) – Opening August 7, 2024, Hotel Anna & Bel, a boutique hotel located in Philadelphia’s artistic enclave of Fishtown, is proud to announce the appointment of Kate Polsky as General Manager. Breathing a new life into the 18th century building that once served as the Penn Asylum for Indigent Widows and Single Women, the 50-key escape is a much-anticipated haven for locals and visitors alike, seamlessly combining classic and contemporary elements with vintage elegance and nods to the building...
Environmental, Social Initiatives Lead to Greater Returns in High-Income Nations
PENN STATE SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT | July 30, 2024
Hospitality firms participating in environmental, social and governance practices in high-income nations can generate increased return on assets UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Global sustainability initiatives like the environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing principle may lead to greater financial gains for hospitality firms in high-income countries but not in low-income nations, according to new findings from researchers in the Penn State School of Hospitality Management. Penn State doctoral student Samantha Hwang and Professor of Hospitality Management Seoki Lee led a research team that assessed how implementing practice...
HIIVE by fusion Binh Duong New City Celebrates Opening In Southern Vietnam
Fusion | July 30, 2024
175-room hotel launches in fast-growing industrial hub just north of Ho Chi Minh City Singapore (30 July 2024) – HIIVE by fusion Binh Duong New City, the latest premier hotel in Fusion Hotel Group’s expanding portfolio, is now open in the fast-growing industrial and logistics hub of Binh Duong in southern Vietnam. Located in the heart of Vietnam Singapore Industrial Park 2 (VSIP 2), the new hotel is just 38km north of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, near Hikari Complex, Binh Duong New City Park and the Binh Duong World Trade Center Association. The hotel has been designed with the business traveller in mind, of...
Dreamscape Hospitality Names Christina Pedersen as Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Dreamscape Hospitality | July 30, 2024
Dallas, TX — July 30, 2024 — Dreamscape Hospitality proudly announces the appointment of Christina Pedersen as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In this role, Pedersen will oversee strategic initiatives to drive revenue growth and elevate the guest experience across Dreamscape’s diverse portfolio. Pedersen brings over 25 years of unparalleled experience in the hospitality industry, showcasing expertise across many discipline areas and product verticals. Her impressive career is marked by a strong acumen for commercial services and topline revenue generation. Pedersen’s extensive background spans leadership roles in operations,...
Banyan Group Opens Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico’s Wine Country
BANYAN TREE VEYA, VALLE DE GUADALUPE | July 30, 2024
The Group continues to strengthen its presence in North America with the opening of Banyan Tree Valle de Guadalupe, a wellbeing haven. VALLE DE GUADALUPE, B.C. (July 30, 2024) – Banyan Group announced the opening of Banyan Tree Veya, Valle de Guadalupe, a luxurious wellbeing resort set amidst the picturesque vineyard landscape of Mexico's wine country. Accessible within 90 minutes from the U.S. border, the opening marks the first full-fledged property for the Group’s dedicated wellbeing brand, Banyan Tree Veya, which offers a haven for those seeking connection. “We are excited to debut our wellbeing-focused Veya brand in North Amer...
The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi Welcomes Mafalda Costa Tavares as New General Manager
The Ritz- Carlton, Langkawi | July 30, 2024
LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA – July 2024 - The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi is proud to announce the appointment of Mafalda Costa Tavares as General Manager. Mafalda joins the resort with over twenty years of hospitality management experience, specialized in the luxury sector. A tenured industry veteran, she brings extensive revenue, sales and marketing experience to her new role following a stellar career spanning several years; the majority with The Ritz-Carlton Hotels and Resorts in Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Having graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration and holding a Hotel Management Diploma from Les Roches Hotel Management Schoo...
Iconic Luxury Hotels Appoints Samantha Rieu as General Manager of 11 Cadogan Gardens & The Chelsea Townhouse
Iconic Luxury Hotels | July 30, 2024
London, July 2024 - Iconic Luxury Hotels is delighted to announce the appointment of Samantha Rieu as General Manager of its luxury boutique townhouse hotels, 11 Cadogan Gardens and The Chelsea Townhouse, both in the heart of Chelsea, and the only two Relais & Châteaux hotels in London. Samantha Rieu FIH is an accomplished Hotel Manager with over 25 years of experience in 5-star luxury properties. Most recently she was Hotel Manager of The Beaumont Hotel in London and prior to that held the same role at DUKES London. Previous properties also include The Fairmont Boston, The Savoy, Mandarin Oriental London, and independent Michelin star ...
The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel Names Brandon Bayne as New Executive Chef
The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel | July 30, 2024
Lincoln, Neb., July 30, 2024 – The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel, the timeless hotel located in the heart of downtown Lincoln, has named Brandon Bayne as its new executive chef. Chef Bayne will oversee the culinary operations of the hotel, including banquets and catering, menu creation, and overall execution of the property’s comprehensive food and beverage program. "We are thrilled to welcome Chef Bayne to the Lincoln Marriot Cornhusker Hotel as our new executive chef," said Kevin Miller, general manager of Lincoln Marriot Cornhusker Hotel. "Chef Bayne is a respected culinary professional with a passion for food that enlivens ever...
Newly Released 2026 Hotel Openings Forecast From Lodging Econometrics Expects Significant Growth in U.S. Hotel Supply Through 2026
Lodging Econometrics | July 30, 2024
July 30, 2024 – PORTSMOUTH, NH As seen in the Q2 2024 U.S. Hotel Construction Pipeline Trend Report from Lodging Econometrics, at the end of the second quarter, there are 6,095 projects with 713,151 rooms in the pipeline. This new all-time high represents a 9% year-over-year increase in projects and an 8% YOY increase in rooms compared to Q2 2023 totals. At the close of the second quarter, there are 1,171 projects comprising 147,611 rooms under construction, marking a 10% increase in projects and a 4% increase in rooms YOY. Projects slated to start construction in the next 12 months total 2,350 projects with 268,378 rooms, reflecting ...
HEI Adds the Westin Dallas Downtown to Portfolio of Properties Managed
HEI Hotels & Resorts | July 30, 2024
Norwalk, CT, July 30, 2024 - HEI Hotels & Resorts, one of the nation's leading operators of institutionally owned hotels with a portfolio of more than 100 properties across the United States, has added The Westin Dallas Downtown to its portfolio, bringing the total number of hotels managed in the Dallas market to five. HEI now manages a total of 15 properties in the state of Texas. The Westin Dallas Downtown opened in 2015 and features 326 rooms, 34,000 square feet of flexible meeting and banquet space, a three-meal restaurant and lobby bar, an indoor swimming pool and a fitness center. The property is located in the heart of the Dalla...
The Profit-Oriented Revenue Management Revolution To Maximize Profitability in Hospitality
Detlev Remy | July 30, 2024
Traditional revenue management concepts in the hospitality industry have evolved significantly in recent years due to technological changes, consumer behavior, and market dynamics. Where revenue management used to focus on maximizing room revenue alone, profit-oriented revenue management shifted the focus to ancillary revenue streams like food and beverage, spa services, events, and other on-site amenities. Instead of static pricing models that were used in the past, hotels can now rely on dynamic pricing models that adjust rates in real time based on demand, competition, and market conditions using advanced algorithms and AI. Whereas revenu...
HFTP Celebrates the Olympics With Special Offer to Join Association
HFTP | July 30, 2024
The Olympics promotes hospitality, universality, international cooperation and interconnectedness. As a global, non-profit hospitality association, so does HFTP. It is an exciting time for the world right now. While we celebrate the teams and athletes from around the world as they go for the gold in the Summer Olympic Games Paris 2024, consider joining the leading association for hospitality financial and technology professionals at a discounted annual dues rate of $224 USD (regularly $450). The offer is valid through August 31, 2024. To redeem this special, limited-time offer, use code GO4GOLD24 when you register online at ww...
IRIS Partners With W Sydney To Enhance the Guest Stay With Mobile F&B Ordering and Guest Directory App
IRIS | July 30, 2024
Darling Harbour's newest luxury hotel leverages IRIS’ app at their hotel to enhance F&B operations and provide a seamless digital experience to guests. IRIS, a global market leader in mobile ordering and digital guest experience solutions for hotels, has been chosen by W Sydney to provide a personalised, digital ordering experience to guests and improve operational efficiencies with its cutting-edge hospitality platform. With 588 stylish rooms and suites, and multi-venue dining experiences, W Sydney brings a new energy and modern take on luxury to the city and harbour waterfront. The five-star hotel, rising over Darling Harbour, was...
How Dashboards Put Your Finance Team in the Driver’s Seat
Jill Wilder | July 30, 2024
By: Jill Wilder, President of Aptech I recently heard an interesting metaphor about a specific hotel accounting system feature: Having a dashboard moves you from driving with your eyes in the rearview mirror to facing forward. You wouldn't drive a car solely using the rearview mirror, you would want to look forward and have a full, clear picture of what is in front of you. It's the same with your hotel's accounting software; just like the driver of a car, a hotel's finance team needs a dashboard right in front of them to make quick, educated decisions. The hotel and resort industry market size worldwide reached 1.5 trillion USD last ye...
Crescent Hotels & Resorts Selected to Manage Dual-Branded Development in Phoenix
Crescent Hotels & Resorts | July 29, 2024
Phoenix, AZ (July 29, 2024) – Crescent Hotels & Resorts announced the management of a pioneering dual-branded hotel development, the AC Hotel by Marriott North Phoenix at Norterra and Element by Westin North Phoenix at Norterra. The project broke ground in May 2024 and is expected to open in late 2025. This venture is a collaborative effort between North Texas developer Jackson Shaw and Tucson-based Holualoa Companies. "The new dual-branded hotel project in Phoenix's Norterra neighborhood presents a strong opportunity to cater to the area’s growing business demands. The thriving tech corridor is ripe for a hotel that can ac...
