By Digna Kolar Hoteliers, are you tired of uncertainty? Experts across the hospitality industry continue to forecast “cautious optimism,” emphasizing caution as the International Monetary Fund chooses to lower the projections for their annual economic growth forecast to 2.9% from an initial 3.4%. These trends continue to be driven by worldwide inflation and a retraction in consumer spending, but … [Read more...]

Expedia Group Media Solutions, Expedia Group’s global travel advertising platform, has unveiled a new media platform, the first-ever advertising and travel technology platform of its kind that gives travelers the tools to shop and book travel as they are watching travel content, making entertainment tourism bookable, the company reports. Using the “shoppable” platform technology, the company is … [Read more...]

Cronheim Hotel Capital (CHC) has secured a $47-million loan on behalf of investment firm Lexin Capital to refinance the existing note on the 150-room Hyatt House NewYork/Chelsea. CHC sourced the loan with a New York City-based bank on a five-year term and a favorable fixed rate. The hotel, located in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, is near Madison Square Park, Penn Station, the Empire … [Read more...]

Staypineapple, the Pacific Northwest-based boutique hotel brand, has expanded its eco-friendly commitments by identifying and addressing areas where the company can improve on its green initiatives. “Staypineapple has worked incredibly hard over the years to provide exceptional experiences that guests can also feel good about,” said Dina Belon, COO, Staypineapple. “In everything we do, we consider … [Read more...]

Upper-upscale hotels, the property types most associated with business travel, are well represented in the U.S. development pipeline. The volume of projects in the segment points to confidence in the future of business travel, according to STR. “Upper-upscale saw the slowest recovery, but a steady climb in performance and the business travel indicators have supported developer confidence in the … [Read more...]

Quadrum Global has completed the purchase of The Williamsburg Hotel in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg district, making it its fourth hotel in New York City. The company is also the owner and developer of Arlo Soho, Arlo Nomad and Arlo Midtown. The eight-story brick tower, which opened as The Williamsburg Hotel in 2017, is located in Brooklyn’s cultural district. In addition to 147 guestrooms, … [Read more...]

Who doesn’t want to experience a Mekong River cruise? It is one trip that is absolutely worth taking. The Mekong River, which borders China, Myanmar, Thailand, Lao PDR, Vietnam, and Cambodia, is the 12th longest river in the world.  This mighty work of nature provides enough landscapes and a unique experience for tourism. Cruising the Mekong River is a safe, fun, and educational tourism … [Read more...]

Japanese dishes are not only incredibly delicious, but also extremely versatile and healthy – Japan’s culinary offerings really do have something for everyone! On the very first day of your trip to Japan, you will discover that Japanese cuisine has much more to offer than just sushi. You’ll discover regional culinary specialties, taste special vegetables and meats, enjoy tea from different … [Read more...]

The Japan Rail Pass — also known as the JR Pass — is a convenient and reliable way for tourists to make the most of their trip in Japan by offering a way to travel the country both comfortably and quickly. The pass offers unlimited train rides for the duration of either 1, 2, or 3 weeks, and those who prefer to travel in style can opt for the “Green Pass,” which allows them to travel in first … [Read more...]

Cloud-based hospitality platform HotelKey has partnered with OTA Insight to give hotels access to rate data and actionable insights to make more effective pricing decisions. By combining automation and essential data, the partnership empowers hotel leaders and commercial decision-makers to optimize their strategies efficiently and effectively, bringing critical data, all in one place, according to … [Read more...]

Hcareers, a talent acquisition platform for the hospitality sector with an applicant tracking system (ATS) provider, has created an exclusive turnkey technology solution to streamline and optimize how AAHOA membership recruits and retains talent. Through the new Careers with AAHOA Members, powered by Hcareers, AAHOA members will utilize an integrated solution with Hcareers and its applicant … [Read more...]

Virdee took home the top prize in the AAHOA Tech Pitch Competition, copowered by HFTP. A panel of five judges with expertise in technology and hospitality chose Virdee’s guest experience technology platform from a field of eight finalists. Virdee Virtual Reception Software is aimed at helping properties become more efficient. The competition is designed to help identify and elevate companies with … [Read more...]

On the opening day of the 2023 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show, the association revealed the launch of the AAHOA Charitable Foundation. Forming later this year as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the AAHOA Charitable Foundation will aim to support humanity by providing disaster relief; educational scholarships and grants; charitable initiatives for worthy causes; and humanitarian aid. “I … [Read more...]

Florida hotelier Bharat Patel is the new chairman of AAHOA’s board of directors. He became chairman at the conclusion of the 2023 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show in Los Angeles, which set a record level of booth sales for the trade show, making it the largest in AAHOA history. Patel said, “Like the theme from AAHOACON23, I look forward to honoring the past and creating a bolder future by working … [Read more...]

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has revealed plans for Hyatt Studios, an upper-midscale brand in the extended-stay category. The brand, which marks Hyatt’s entry into upper-midscale lodging in the Americas, was conceived through direct collaboration with hotel developers and listening closely to the needs of target guests, according to the company. The announcement is supported by signed letters of … [Read more...]

Extended Stay America has added benefits and savings to its Extended Perks membership program. The centerpiece of the program is the exclusive member rate, which will be available to new members as well as the program’s existing members. The enhanced Extended Perks membership program will build on existing benefits, such as the immediate registration discount, where members receive an … [Read more...]

Hotel management, investment and development company Highgate, has added two executives to its roster with the appointment of Matt Greene to EVP, luxury residences, and Elizabeth Redmond to chief accounting officer. In the newly created position, Green reports to CEO Arash Azarbarzin and oversees the company’s portfolio of managed condo-hotels and residences such as The Elser Hotel in Miami and … [Read more...]

Following nearly two decades of leadership with Noble Investment Group and a 40-year career in real estate and hospitality, Jim Conley will retire and become a senior advisor to the firm. Katherine (Katie) Seitz has joined the company as its new compliance officer. Conley joined Noble in 2006 as CFO before becoming the firm’s first compliance officer. In this role, he led the oversight and … [Read more...]

Mohari Hospitality, an investment firm focused on the luxury lifestyle and hospitality sectors, will acquire Tao Group Hospitality, an operator of restaurants, nightlife and entertainment from Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. and other limited partners. The transaction values Tao Group Hospitality at $550 million and is expected to close next month, subject to customary closing … [Read more...]

Beautiful, vibrant, and pretty damn cool are some of the most common words people use to describe Vancouver. From its welcoming vibe to its scenic views to its mild climate (for Canada, at least), if you’re wondering which Canadian city to visit, Vancouver is a top choice. Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance. I recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, an affordable travel insurance … [Read more...]

Discovering the eco-friendly and cultural aspects of Saarland that help preserve nature and support local communities is a fantastic way to experience this part of Germany. By exploring the Saarland sustainably with awareness and courtesy, you can immerse yourself in local customs while protecting the environment. Whatever your travel preferences, Saarland has it all. Whether you are an … [Read more...]

Choice Hotels EMEA has added four boutique Scandinavian hotels to its upscale Ascend Hotel Collection portfolio, as part of an agreement between Nordic Choice Hotels and The Fortress Hotels. Of historic significance, the Fortress Hotels include Norway’s Oscarsborg Fortress, Kongsvinger Fortress and Reenskaug Hotel; as well as Sweden’s Torreby Castle. The announcement comes as Choice Hotels EMEA … [Read more...]

Red Roof has opened two properties in Virginia, the Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites Virginia Beach – Seaside and Red Roof Inn Suffolk. Located steps away from Virginia Beach, Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites Virginia Beach – Seaside is a 73-room hotel that offers free in-room WiFi, free coffee in the lobby, a business center, a snack center, a seasonal pool and free parking. The hotel is near a … [Read more...]

Paramount Capital Advisors (PCA) sourced a $2-million loan for the 57-room La Quinta Inn & Suites located in Angleton, TX. The conventional loan was successfully funded at 60% loan to cost and will allow the borrower to purchase and renovate the property. The loan was funded at an interest rate of 6.5% with a 5-year term and a 25-year amortization schedule. The borrower was in need of a 40-day … [Read more...]

Have you ever tried Japanese cuisine? It is truly one of the richest and most diverse cuisines out there. The combination of local and international foods makes for an incredible taste experience. The different flavors of Japan make Japanese cuisine so unique and enticing. When we think of Japanese food, sushi is usually the first thing that comes to mind. No wonder, after all, this dish has … [Read more...]

Peachtree Group has appointed Jarred Bussert as VP, information technology. In this newly created role, he is responsible for all aspects of the company’s IT infrastructure, including business applications, information security and data integrity. “Jarred’s experience and achievements demonstrate his commitment to supporting business strategies with technology … [Read more...]

Groupe GM has relaunched its Clarins hotel line, perfumed with Eau Dynamisante. The redesign, according to Groupe GM, better represents its sustainability goals, specifically, its Care About Earth program. We spoke with Guillaume de Beco, general manager, Groupe GM USA, about the relaunch, the company’s sustainability efforts, and, what guests can expect from the line: What hotels are the … [Read more...]

Hospitality technology and cloud-based property management systems company Mews has acquired Hotello, the Montreal-headquartered cloud PMS solution for hotel properties. The acquisition further strengthens the growth strategy for Mews in North America, and more specifically the Canadian market and the company’s commitment to delivering technology that simplifies and automates operations for … [Read more...]

Turkish coffee is much more than just a specialty coffee from Turkey: it actually refers to a method of preparation rather than a specific type of coffee, as many people assume. It is also called Arabic coffee, Greek coffee, or Egyptian coffee, depending on the region or specific preparation. Let’s learn the difference between Turkish and Arab coffees, and discover the tradition and history … [Read more...]

As with any destination, there are always safety concerns to consider before planning a trip. But generally speaking, Penang is safe for travelers. That being said, it’s always important to practice common sense and awareness while traveling anywhere. In this guide, we’ll talk about safety tips for solo travelers, female travelers, and expats. We’ll cover the safest areas in Penang and a few … [Read more...]