In the hospitality sector, the emergence of resort fees has ignited a significant outcry from both consumers and industry professionals. Unite Here, a prominent hospitality union, has launched a campaign dubbed “Resort Fee Ripoff,” highlighting how these seemingly innocuous fees can lead to unexpected costs for travelers. Designed to empower consumers and travel advisors, the
Hotels
In an age where convenience and efficiency dictate the performance of various industries, Sabre has stepped up with its latest offering: the Sabre Red Launchpad. This cutting-edge booking platform is specifically tailored to meet the needs of new travel advisors and has recently become available to travel agencies worldwide. In collaboration with Internova Travel Group—ranked
On November 1, 2023, Melia Hotels International proudly unveiled the ME Malta, an exquisite addition to the Mediterranean hospitality scene. Nestled in the picturesque seaside town of St. Julian’s, this five-star establishment boasts a striking design by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Part of the ambitious Mercury Towers project, the hotel not only emphasizes architectural
The hospitality landscape is perpetually evolving, but one brand that has recently caught the spotlight is Viceroy Hotels & Resorts. After a decade of relatively low visibility in the luxury sector, the brand is experiencing resurgence following its acquisition by Highgate in early 2023. The subsequent announcement of a comprehensive relaunch marks a significant new
The SLS Hotels & Residences has made a noteworthy entry into the all-inclusive resort market with the launch of SLS Playa Mujeres, strategically located just 15 miles north of Cancun International Airport. Nestled within a gated community, this 498-room resort redefines luxury accommodations with a diverse range of offerings tailored to meet the needs of
In a strategic move aimed at penetrating the competitive landscape of North American hospitality, Corinthia Hotels, a luxury group based in London, has opened its first property in the U.S. This landmark initiative marks a significant chapter for the brand, known for its opulent offerings across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With the meticulous
In an era where consumer expectations continuously evolve, the hospitality industry must adapt to maintain relevance. Design Hotels, founded in 1993, exemplifies this adaptability through its innovative affiliation model. Rather than adhering to a conventional franchise approach, Design Hotels operates as a plug-and-play brand, allowing independently owned properties to benefit from the brand’s vast resources
On November 8, Booking Holdings made a significant announcement regarding its planning for organizational changes at Booking.com. The company has indicated that it will undertake a workforce reduction alongside efforts to modernize processes and improve systems. This proactive approach aims to optimize procurement and enhance the efficiency of real estate utilization. While the precise details
In a recent episode of The Last Resort, host Christina Jelski engages in an enlightening conversation with Abbey Meyer, the CEO of Sky High Travel. This dialogue centers around Meyer’s firsthand experience at the luxurious Hotel Xcaret Arte, situated near Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Meyer’s insights highlight what makes this adults-only resort a standout destination—its
The east coast of the United States boasts a diverse range of skiing destinations, and for many snow enthusiasts, New England has long been the go-to choice. However, a strategic transformation is taking place at Windham Mountain in the Catskill Mountains of New York, aiming to redefine ski culture in the region. This article delves
The hospitality industry is undergoing a transformative phase, with group bookings rising and business travel recovering, yet challenges persist. This precarious balance was underscored by Hilton CEO Christopher Nassetta during the company’s third-quarter earnings call in late October. While Hilton’s revenue per available room (RevPAR) saw a modest increase of 1.4% year-over-year, it fell short
Choice Hotels International has made significant strides in enhancing its position within the upscale segment of the hospitality industry, particularly through its strategic acquisition of the Radisson Hotel Group Americas portfolio. During a recent earnings call, CEO Patrick Pacious articulated how this move has positively influenced the company’s demand mix, particularly emphasizing the growth in
In an ever-evolving travel industry, J.D. O’Hara stands at the helm of Internova Travel Group, determined to reshape its trajectory. O’Hara, who was appointed CEO in January 2020, has a clear and ambitious vision centered around simplification. In a recent interview, he unveiled his plans to streamline the company’s operations, which historically have been mired
The hospitality sector is particularly sensitive to political climates, with events such as elections often serving as significant turning points for businesses within the industry. Marriott International’s recent earnings call provides a striking insight into how the impending U.S. presidential election may impact the company’s performance in the fourth quarter, as the executives painted a
For decades, children’s amenities in hotels have remained largely unchanged. The standard offerings—a coloring book, a plush toy branded with the hotel’s logo, perhaps a diminutive bathrobe—have become synonymous with childhood hospitality. While these items undoubtedly bring delight to young guests, they are a mere reflection of obsolete thinking within the service industry. A London-based
As the travel industry continues to evolve, recent events have showcased how companies like ALG Vacations are positioning themselves for growth in an increasingly competitive landscape. With a gathering of over 1,300 travel advisors at the Ascend 2024 conference in Cancun, the focus was squarely on the future as Ray Snisky, the Group President of
Rome, often regarded as a treasure trove of history and culture, unfolds its timeless charm in various alluring forms. From its ancient ruins to contemporary luxuries, the city offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking both relaxation and cultural richness. Among the many enchanting venues to immerse oneself in this unique blend, the Anantara Palazzo
Nestled along the stunning Mexican Caribbean coastline, Tulum is well-known for its breathtaking beaches, captivating ruins, and an atmosphere tinged with a bohemian spirit. However, as tourism evolves and visitors’ preferences shift, so too has the accommodation landscape in this once-hidden gem. Traditionally, Tulum has been recognized for its boutique hotels and charming beachfront villas,
