Category Archives: Hospitality

Emerging Eastern European Destinations Lead Growth in Amadeus & UN Tourism’s Travel Insights 2025

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(IN SHORT) Travel Insights 2025: Focus on Europe, co-published by Amadeus and UN Tourism, reveals that emerging markets in Central and Eastern Europe—led by Azerbaijan’s 26 percent year-on-year growth in air bookings—are gaining traction among international travelers. While traditional leaders like Spain, the U.K., Italy, France, and Germany continue to dominate (accounting for 71 percent… Read the full news article

Amadeus Integrates AI Chatbot into Demand360 and Automates RFP Responses in MeetingBroker

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(IN SHORT) Amadeus, in partnership with Microsoft and leveraging OpenAI’s Azure platform, is rolling out two AI-driven enhancements to its Hospitality products. The first embeds Amadeus Advisor Chat into Demand360, granting hotel teams instant, tailored insights based on data from 44,000 hotels and 35 million short-term rentals. Advisor Chat users have already reclaimed significant analyst… Read the full news article

Amadeus and Hospitality Alliance Team Up to Upskill Youth for Global Travel Careers

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(IN SHORT) Amadeus and the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance are expanding their alliance to scale the Employability Program, which delivers digital and hospitality training to underprivileged youth. Launched in April with a 200-person pilot in four Indian cities in partnership with Kherwadi, the program pairs theoretical instruction with placements at local and global hotel brands…. Read the full news article

Mandarin Oriental and Pantone Debut Custom Celadon Green to Redefine Brand Experience

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(IN SHORT) Mandarin Oriental and the Pantone Color Institute have created Mandarin Oriental Celadon Green, a bespoke hue inspired by ancient celadon ceramics. This new signature colour forms the cornerstone of Mandarin Oriental’s refreshed brand identity, marrying the group’s Asian craftsmanship heritage with a modern, calming aesthetic. Announced on 18 June 2025, the launch features… Read the full news article

Marriott Unveils Plans for 50+ New African Hotels and Entry into Five New Countries

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(IN SHORT) Marriott International plans to bolster its African presence with 50+ new hotels (9,000+ rooms) by 2027, entering five new markets: Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Mauritania. The expansion emphasizes select-service brands—Protea Hotels by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton—alongside conversions constituting over 30% of the pipeline. North… Read the full news article

Masterpieces & the Mediterranean: Exclusive Art Encounters Aboard The Ritz-Carlton Superyacht

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(IN SHORT) Masterpieces & the Mediterranean is a one-off auction experience melding The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s luxury yachting with Sotheby’s art expertise. From October 17–24, 2025, the winner and a guest will sail aboard Luminara—enjoying the Owner’s Suite, gourmet dining (including Chef Fabio Trabocchi’s Italian tasting menu), spa treatments, and curated wine tastings. The bespoke… Read the full news article

The Soaltee Kathmandu Joins Autograph Collection, Showcasing Nepalese Heritage in Modern Luxury

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(IN SHORT) Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection has debuted in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, located on 12 acres in Kathmandu’s Tahachal area. The historic 1966 property features 285 uniquely appointed rooms and suites overlooking the Himalayas, Swayambhunath Stupa, and manicured gardens. A “Storyteller” installation animates the hotel’s public spaces with personal narratives… Read the full news article

NoMad London Unveils Twenty8 NoMad: Wood-Fired NYC Flavors in a Modern Victorian Setting

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(IN SHORT) NoMad London launches Twenty8 NoMad, a New York–inspired bistro in its historic 28 Bow Street home. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the restaurant evokes a contemporary palm court with rattan detailing, greenery, and a central wood-burning hearth. Its menu—overseen by Bryce Shuman, Zak Gregoire, and Martha Hernandez—features NYC classics reimagined: Union Square–style crudités, Little… Read the full news article

Victorian Building Restoration Completes Hotel del Coronado’s Major $550 Million Makeover

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(IN SHORT) Hotel del Coronado has completed its Victorian building restoration, the final phase of Blackstone Real Estate’s $550 million renovation plan. The work included refurbishing public spaces, updating all guestrooms with bright, Victorian-inspired décor, and adding two signature restaurants: Nobu Del Coronado and Veranda. Iconic ballrooms and the central garden courtyard—with the restored Naiad… Read the full news article

IHG Doubles Down on Osaka Expansion with Ten Hotels and Seven Brands During World Expo

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(IN SHORT) To coincide with World Expo Osaka Kansai, IHG Hotels & Resorts has expanded its Osaka portfolio to ten hotels and 3,249 rooms—surpassing its Tokyo presence—and now spans seven brands from luxury (Vignette Collection at the former RIHGA Royal Hotel) to midscale (three Garner Hotels). This growth builds on a presence dating back to… Read the full news article

IHG and NetEase Cloud Music Debut Summer Soiree Playlist with NFC Magnet Perks and Pop-Up Parties

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(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts, alongside Kimpton, Regent, and Hotel Indigo, has launched the “Let’s Get Away, Ignite This Summer” music experience in collaboration with NetEase Cloud Music. From July 1 to August 31, 2025, guests at participating Greater China properties booking through the IHG app or WeChat will receive a special NFC magnet… Read the full news article

Two Sister Hotels by IHG and Grupo Poma Elevate Miraflores with InterContinental Real and Hotel Indigo Openings

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(IN SHORT) IHG Hotels & Resorts and Grupo Poma’s Real Hotels & Resorts have launched two sister properties—InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores and Hotel Indigo Lima Miraflores—perched on Lima’s Costa Verde cliffs. InterContinental offers 321 rooms (29 suites), a Club lounge, 11 meeting spaces, and Lima’s largest rooftop infinity pool. Hotel Indigo features 76 rooms (10… Read the full news article

Hilton Empowers Communities and Reduces Emissions with Nearly One Million Career Opportunities and $7.3 Million in Impact Investments

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(IN SHORT) In 2024, Hilton reinforced its century-old commitment to “spreading the light and warmth of hospitality” through its Travel with Purpose strategy and the Hilton Global Foundation. The company generated nearly one million learning and career growth opportunities and logged 452,000 volunteer hours, while investing $7.3 million in community initiatives. Key workforce programs include… Read the full news article

Booking Holdings Secures Long-Term Renewal with Etraveli to Enhance Flight-Booking Platform

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(IN SHORT) Booking Holdings has agreed to an eight-year extension of its partnership with Etraveli Group, originally established in 2019. This renewal will support Booking.com’s ambition to scale its global flights offering—now live in 57 countries—and aims to deliver improved ease of use, expanded choice, and better value for travelers and partners. Booking Holdings CEO… Read the full news article

Global Hospitality Veteran Susanne Hatje Named General Manager for Conservatorium Hotel Rebrand

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(IN SHORT) Susanne Hatje has been appointed General Manager of Amsterdam’s Conservatorium Hotel effective 2 June 2025, guiding its transition to Mandarin Oriental branding in Q1 2026. With more than 28 years in luxury hospitality and 18 years in senior Mandarin Oriental roles, she most recently led the opening of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, and previously… Read the full news article

Veteran Hospitality Leader Edouard Lapasset Named General Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Paris

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(IN SHORT) Edouard Lapasset, who has served as Hotel Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Paris since 2022, has been appointed General Manager effective June 1, 2025. With almost 20 years in high-end hospitality and 11 years with Mandarin Oriental, he has held pivotal roles—Assistant Front Office Manager in Geneva, Director of Rooms in Geneva and Doha—gaining… Read the full news article

New Morgan’s Hotel™ Introduces Personalized, Tech-Forward Hospitality on Wurzbach Parkway in San Antonio

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(IN SHORT) Morgan’s Hotel™ is launching an Ultra-Accommodating™ boutique property in San Antonio, combining bespoke design, AI-powered concierge service and assistive technology to deliver tailored stays at an affordable rate. The 90-room development on Wurzbach Parkway offers digital room keys, voice-activated controls, oversized accommodations, accessible facilities, a fitness center, lighted outdoor pool and signature dining… Read the full news article

MARRIOTT MEDIA Debuts as a Traveler-First Network Combining First-Party Data with Contextual Engagement

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(IN SHORT) Marriott International has launched MARRIOTT MEDIA, a traveler-centric media network designed to integrate brand messages seamlessly across guests’ digital and physical experiences. By harnessing first-party data from 237 million Marriott Bonvoy members and 9,500 properties, the platform enables precise targeting based on demographics, travel intent and on-site behavior. Guests benefit from relevant recommendations… Read the full news article

San Juan’s La Concha Resort Completes Major Refresh with New Dining, Spa and Signature Experiences

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(IN SHORT) La Concha Resort has become La Concha Resort, Puerto Rico, an Autograph Collection Hotel, following a comprehensive renovation and the debut of its redesigned Suite Tower with 238 suites by Celano Design. The property now offers immersive culinary venues—including Levant by Michael White, Tekka Bar and the upcoming AQA Oceanfront—alongside a bespoke cocktail-personalization… Read the full news article

JW Marriott Debuts Sustainable Beachfront Resort on Crete with Private-Pool Villas and Farm-to-Table Dining

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(IN SHORT) JW Marriott has launched its first Mediterranean beach resort on Crete: JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa near Chania, featuring 160 rooms, suites and villas—most with private pools—across 100 acres of Aegean coastline. Designed by Block722, the energy-conscious resort integrates geothermal and solar technologies with local materials and planted roofs. Culinary offerings include… Read the full news article

Experience Jurassic World Rebirth in Krabi with Avani’s Four-Night Movie-Inspired Escape

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(IN SHORT) Avani’s Stay in Jurassic Paradise package celebrates the release of Jurassic World: Rebirth on 2 July 2025 by inviting families to a four-night adventure across two Krabi resorts. Highlights include movie-inspired dining, dinosaur-themed welcome treats, kayaking through mangroves, jungle hikes, and a choice of immersive spa treatments. Guests enjoy Jurassic-era cocktails, breakfast, inter-resort… Read the full news article

Mekong Kingdoms Debuts Private Bohème Cruises Offering Culture-Rich River Journeys for Groups

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(IN SHORT) Mekong Kingdoms is offering fully private charters aboard the 50 m cruiser Bohème from June to September 2025. Groups of up to 26 can enjoy a three-night all-inclusive cruise from Luang Prabang to Xayaboury and back, with spacious suites, butler service, and gourmet dining. Guests participate in cultural excursions—such as Pak Ou Cave… Read the full news article

Anantara Siam Bangkok Welcomes Top Fifty Best Chefs for 25th World Gourmet Festival

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(IN SHORT) Anantara Siam Bangkok is commemorating its 25th World Gourmet Festival from 22–28 September 2025 with an exceptional lineup of global chefs. Three of the initial six restaurants—Jordnær, Burnt Ends and Amisfield—have just debuted in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants Top 100, guaranteeing high demand. The roster also includes pastry innovator Janice Wong and… Read the full news article

67 RIU Hotels in 18 Countries Win Tripadvisor 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards, 12 Earn Best of the Best

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(IN SHORT) Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards recognize 67 RIU hotels across 18 countries for outstanding guest reviews and service quality. Twelve of these properties—representing the platform’s top 1%—received the “Best of the Best” title, including leading resorts in Cape Verde, Spain, Ireland, Mexico, and Sri Lanka. The broader Traveller’s Choice roster highlights top-performing RIU… Read the full news article

Chill Out This Summer in Club Wyndham’s SeaWorld Suite, Complete with Tickets, Penguin Encounter, and More

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(IN SHORT) Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek in Orlando debuts the SeaWorld Suite—a one-bedroom upscale “glamping” experience inspired by SeaWorld Orlando’s new Antarctica Realm—available August 1–September 8, 2024. The suite features Antarctic-themed décor, snow-and-water projections, plush penguin companions, and icicle-inspired ceilings, alongside full kitchens, living/dining spaces, and resort amenities. Bookings include four SeaWorld Orlando tickets (with… Read the full news article

Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu Opens in Xinjin with Villas, Farm-to-Table Dining, and Thai Food Festival

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(IN SHORT) Dusit Hotels and Resorts has opened Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu within Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park in Xinjin, marking its first property in Sichuan Province and eighth in China. The resort features 241 guest rooms, seven private villas, farm-to-table and specialty dining outlets, a pool, spa-style wellness facilities, mahjong rooms, a children’s club,… Read the full news article

World of Hyatt Launches Camp Unwritten Literary Glamping Adventure with Reese’s Book Club and Under Canvas

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(IN SHORT) This summer, World of Hyatt launches Camp Unwritten, an exclusive literary glamping series in collaboration with Reese’s Book Club and Under Canvas. Participants can book immersive weekend retreats—July in Columbia River Gorge with Alexene Farol Follmuth, July in the Great Smoky Mountains with Ally Condie, and August in Moab with the July 2025… Read the full news article

Hyatt Concludes Initial Tender with 82.8% Playa Participation; Subsequent Offer Open Through June 16

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(IN SHORT) Hyatt Hotels Corporation confirmed that 101.9 million Playa Hotels & Resorts shares (82.8% of the outstanding total) were validly tendered by the June 9, 2025 deadline, together with Hyatt’s existing 12.1 million shares bringing total participation to 92.7%, thus meeting all conditions for its $13.50-per-share tender offer (≈$2.6 billion). The subsequent offer period… Read the full news article

Hyatt Debuts Secrets Baby Beach Aruba, Its First Adults-Only Inclusive Collection Resort in Aruba

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(IN SHORT) Hyatt’s new Inclusive Collection property, Secrets Baby Beach Aruba, opens near Baby Beach Bay on Aruba’s southeastern shore as the brand’s first adults-only, all-inclusive resort on the island. The 304-suite property features nature-inspired décor, private balconies or terraces, and an exclusive Preferred Club tier with private pools and butler service. Dining options include… Read the full news article

Lucknam Park to Debut as First British Hotel in Accor’s Emblems Collection Late 2025

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(IN SHORT) Lucknam Park, a distinguished country house hotel near Bath, will become the inaugural British property in Accor’s Emblems Collection in Q4 2025. Celebrated for its heritage architecture, Michelin-starred restaurant, luxury spa, and 500-acre estate, Lucknam Park joins a portfolio defined by “quiet luxury” and intimate, character-rich design. Leadership quotes from Maud Bailly (CEO… Read the full news article