The wildfires that swept through Los Angeles, wreaking havoc and disrupting lives, may have left their mark, but they also sparked a rallying call among tourism leaders. At the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), key figures, including Adam Burke, CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board, highlighted the city’s resolve to bounce back.
Hotels
The landscape of the all-inclusive resort industry is evolving dramatically, particularly concerning hotel loyalty programs and the dynamics of group bookings. Travel advisors have long been advocates for their clients, helping to secure the best rates and arrangements for group trips, especially weddings and family reunions. However, a troubling trend has emerged: hotel loyalty programs
HQ Hotels & Residences is gearing up to make its mark in South America with the highly anticipated launch of its Sao Paulo property, set to open in 2028. This new addition will be a significant milestone, as it represents the brand’s first foray into the region. Known for its “smart lifestyle” approach, HQ Hotels
Hotel Polaris, a recently inaugurated establishment near the U.S. Air Force Academy, represents a novel approach to hospitality aimed at enriching the travel experience for aviation enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. Opened on November 14, this hotel not only provides luxurious accommodations but also integrates a hands-on aviation experience through its state-of-the-art flight simulators. Such
LXR Hotels & Resorts, a luxury collection brand under Hilton, has steadily established itself since its inception in 2018. As we look towards the end of 2024, the brand has expanded its portfolio to include 13 properties worldwide, with a promising pipeline of at least a dozen more. The recent additions of Ka La’i Waikiki
The rise of social media platforms such as TikTok has revolutionized the way travel advisors and companies engage with clients. However, recent fluctuations in TikTok’s operational status have raised critical questions about reliance on single platforms for business success. As the travel industry increasingly leans on digital outreach, the unpredictability surrounding TikTok serves as a
In the dynamic landscape of Caribbean hospitality, Royalton Hotels & Resorts is carving a niche by focusing on tailored experiences that prioritize traveler preferences. This commitment to understanding the evolving desires of modern tourists shapes their expansion strategy, as highlighted by Alejandro Rodriguez del Peon, the vice president of marketing for Blue Diamond Resorts. By
The Walt Disney Company has recently executed a significant reshuffling of its executive leadership, signaling a renewed focus on maximizing its diverse offerings across events and experiences. This strategic transition involves acclaimed figures such as Ken Potrock, Thomas Mazloum, Joe Schott, and Andrew Bolstein, who have long histories with the company. Each new appointment reflects
The MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, a quintessential landmark of the Las Vegas Strip, is embarking on a significant transformation, investing an impressive $300 million to rejuvenate its main tower. This extensive overhaul will modernize all 4,212 rooms and suites, reflecting a shift towards enhanced luxury and contemporary design. Scheduled to unveil its initial revamped
In a heart-wrenching incident, a fire erupted early Tuesday morning at the Grand Kartal hotel, a prominent ski resort located in the breathtaking Koroglu Mountains of northwestern Turkiye. During a busy school holiday season, when families flood the area to enjoy winter sports, the blaze resulted in the loss of at least 66 lives, with
Amid the raging wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles County, the hospitality sector is facing an unprecedented challenge. Hotels are not only tasked with the duty of providing emergency shelter for evacuees but are also committed to maintaining their business operations to ensure economic stability. In this climate of urgency and need, the Hotel Association of
The Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) is not only a premier event for hospitality leaders but also a platform addressing pressing societal issues. One of the significant highlights of this year’s summit, scheduled for January 28-30 in Los Angeles, is the eighth annual Hospitality Heroes Reception hosted by Shatterproof. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to
The landscape of hotel loyalty programs has shifted dramatically, particularly in the all-inclusive resort sector, presenting a myriad of challenges for travel advisors. According to the Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialists Association (DWHSA), these loyalty programs have begun to undermine negotiated group rates, resulting in a disruptive trend that jeopardizes the livelihood of travel professionals.
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) has recently communicated a set of pressing priorities to the incoming Trump administration, emphasizing the implications of potential policies on the already fragile travel industry. With the clear intention of preparing the administration for decisions that could significantly alter the landscape of travel and tourism, ASTA’s letter outlines
The hospitality industry is experiencing a notable paradigm shift as major players, including Marriott International, pivot towards outdoor accommodation. With the acquisition of Postcard Cabins and a strategic alliance with Trailborn, Marriott is clearly setting its sights on a burgeoning segment of the travel market that emphasizes immersion in nature. This move aligns with a
Langham Hospitality Group, a prominent player in the luxury hotel sector, is poised to embark on a remarkable expansion journey, targeting the addition of over 100 properties within its portfolio. Known for its exceptional Langham brand and upper-upscale Cordis hotels, the company has demonstrated a diversified approach, establishing itself in limited-service through Ying’nFlo properties and
In the wake of devastating wildfires threatening the lives and homes of countless residents in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, the local hospitality industry is taking proactive steps to lend support to those affected. Hotels in Southern California are providing refuge and assistance to evacuees, stepping away from traditional business operations to address an urgent
Recent revelations indicate that the Trump Organization is in the initial phases of negotiating to reclaim its lease on a prominent property in Washington, D.C. This location was formerly known as the Trump International Hotel but has since transitioned to operate under the Waldorf Astoria brand. The Wall Street Journal provided insights into this development,