What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, June 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Knowland Select launches for hotels with limited meeting space 
  • Surge in last-minute bookings as Brits escape weather 
  • Four Seasons Baltimore offers a Set Sail summer deal 
  • Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina’s 36-hour summer staycation 
  • Hilton named India’s #1 Great Place to Work 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound-w3-June-2024

Knowland Select debuts for space-limited hotels 

Knowland introduced Knowland Select, a new product for hotels with limited meeting space. Knowland Select subscribers will receive a list of target accounts for upcoming need periods directly to the seller’s inbox. It provides a low-cost option to help optimize resources, save time and improve performance while ensuring a flow of qualified local prospects. Identifying active accounts in a particular market can be stressful and time-consuming for sales teams, especially for smaller hotels with smaller staff. 

https://shorturl.at/nHy2V

Last-minute travel bookings soar as Brits look to escape the weather 

Data from Contiki – the leading social travel brand for 18-35s – shows last-minute travel is on the rise, with a 34% increase in bookings in May for travel in June. Contiki has launched a ‘Spin the Wheel’ to help Brits escape the weather this summer – with up to 50% savings on the most popular trips and even chances to win. The digital spin the deal wheel will be available to spin until 30 June, so travellers shouldn’t waste a second! Head to the Contiki website now to spin the wheel and win a prize discount. 

https://shorturl.at/CUPdz

Exclusive summer fun at Four Seasons Baltimore 

Experience unmatched summer adventures with the Four Seasons Baltimore Set Sail Rooms package: enjoy a luxury stay, a 2-hour Inner Harbor cruise, and up to 25% off. This summer, Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore invites guests to experience exceptional adventures in the heart of America’s Charm City. Reserve the Set Sail Rooms package by July 4, 2024, and receive up to 25% off your room rate. Enjoy an unforgettable two-hour Inner Harbor cruise and indulge in the hotel’s resort-like amenities, making this summer offer a must on every traveler’s bucket list. 

https://shorturl.at/F4P3r

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina launches summer staycation 

The Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina has officially launched its latest offering to attract guests: the 36-hour Summer Staycation package. Packed with F&B offers, room upgrades, and a complimentary beach shuttle service, this unique feature will allow for a more relaxed and extended experience. Check-in is guaranteed from 10 am and check-out is until 10 pm the following day. 

https://shorturl.at/bceBK

Hilton named India’s #1 Great Place to Work 

For the second consecutive year, Hilton India has been recognised as India’s #1 company to work for by ‘Great Place to Work’, the renowned global research and consulting firm. This recognition followed a stringent process that surveyed more than five million employees from over 1,750 organisations and validated Hilton’s commitment to creating a best-in-class workplace environment that fosters pride, meaningful connections, and flexibility.  

https://shorturl.at/SbYXc

That’s all folks!   

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W2, June 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • IHG opens first luxury & lifestyle hotel in Hawaii 
  • China adds 22 new national tourist resorts
  • Radisson’s newest Makkah hotel strengthens Saudi expansion 
  • Nikki Beach to launch summer 2024 pop-up in Baku 
  • Rajasthan welcomes ninth Lemon Tree hotel 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound-W2-June-2024

IHG opens first luxury location in Hawaii 

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants announced a partnership with Kauai’s landmark Coco Palms Resort, establishing the first location in Hawaii for IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio. Following a historically sensitive restoration of the property, Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort, will become an inspiring tropical retreat for travelers and the Kauai community. The transformed resort is anticipated to open in 2026. 

https://shorturl.at/yWeGx

China announces 22 new national tourist resorts 

China announced the inclusion of 22 new National Tourist Resorts. They will be enhancing the country’s array of must-visit destinations. It underscores China’s commitment to promoting tourism and highlighting its diverse cultural and natural attractions. 

https://shorturl.at/QjrrS

Radisson expands in Saudi Arabia with new hotel in Makkah 

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of its newest hotel, Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Thakher Alsharqi. Strategically located in the heart of Thakher City, a mere 2.2 km from the revered Great Mosque, the hotel promises to set a new standard for contemporary accommodation in Makkah.  

https://shorturl.at/Kmncj

Nikki beach to pop-up in Baku for summer 2024

Nikki Beach Hospitality Group, the global luxury lifestyle hospitality company, is thrilled to announce the launch of a new pop-up beach club in Baku, Azerbaijan scheduled to open in early July 2024.  The summer attraction will operate until mid-September, aligning with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.  

https://shorturl.at/0DcHQ

Rajasthan gets its ninth Lemon Tree 

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited announces the opening of its ninth property in Rajasthan: Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Urban Square, Udaipur. It is also the brand’s third offering in the City of Lakes after the upscale Aurika Udaipur and the mid-scale Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Udaipur. The property is operated under the franchise division of Lemon Tree Hotels. 

https://shorturl.at/LU4wB

That’s all folks!     

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W1, June 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • HEI Hotels & Resorts acquires The American Hotel Atlanta Downtown 
  • Hyatt and Kiraku launch joint venture to finance first hotels in Japan 
  • Celebrate Eid al-Adha at Varq, Taj Exotica, The Palm, Dubai 
  • Sandbourne Santa Monica opens on Ocean Avenue 
  • Iconic Taj hotel, Kochi reopens to guests 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w1, June 2024

Hei adds American Hotel Atlanta Downtown to its portfolio 

HEI Hotels & Resorts added The American Hotel Atlanta Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton to its portfolio, bringing the total number of hotels managed in the metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia, market to 15. 

https://shorturl.at/Dif5f

Hyatt, Kiraku form new joint venture for Japan’s first hotels

Hyatt Hotels and its development partner, Kiraku, are making significant strides in the Japanese hospitality industry with their joint venture aimed at creating the new ATONA hotel brand. This initiative marks Hyatt’s ambitious foray into developing a series of hotels across regional Japan, all centered around the luxurious concept of hot springs. 

https://shorturl.at/hgpFS

Celebrate Eid Al Adha in Royal Style at Varq, Taj Exotica, Dubai

Renowned for its elegant ambiance and contemporary twist on authentic Indian flavours, Varq invites guests to experience an unforgettable 3-course dinner. Celebrate Eid al-Adha in regal style at Varq, the crown jewel of Indian cuisine at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai. Renowned for its elegant ambiance and contemporary twist on authentic Indian flavours, Varq invites guests to experience an unforgettable 3-course dinner. 

https://shorturl.at/pImkQ

Sandbourne Santa Monica: Beachfront Jewel, Now Open 

The much-anticipated Sandbourne Santa Monica officially opens its doors, introducing a transformative hotel experience along the vibrant Ocean Avenue. This new beachfront masterpiece, designed by the acclaimed Icelandic architect Gulla Jónsdóttir, offers a unique 175-room coastal retreat that promises to revitalize the upscale hotel landscape in Santa Monica.

https://shorturl.at/v56Go

Iconic Taj Hotel, Kochi welcomes guests once again 

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) announces the reopening of Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Kochi, Kerala, following a year-long extensive renovation and redesign. Built in 1935, the hotel’s legendary history has been reimagined with fresh and modern sensibilities, paying homage to the multicultural fabric and maritime history of Kochi. 

https://shorturl.at/WSCHy

That’s all folks!    

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W5, May 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Airbnb gets cosier with Google, ups its marketing spend 
  • Global hospitality spotlight: 28 nations at Hotel Show 2024 
  • Pan Pacific Jakarta opens in Central Thamrin 
  • Luxury and adventure await at Four Seasons Napa Valley 
  • Advani Hotels Reports record Q4 and FY24 revenues 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w5, May 2024

Airbnb enhances Google collaboration, raises marketing spend 

Airbnb had been criticized pre-pandemic for spending too much of its marketing on Google. In addition to leaning away from Google starting in 2019 and 2020, Airbnb tested participating in Google Vacation Rentals, the price comparison service, but ultimately decided not to get involved. Mertz said Airbnb “dials up and down” marketing on Google, where Airbnb sees the opportunity for efficient marketing spending. 

https://shorturl.at/pUrpw

Global hospitality spotlight: 28 nations at Hotel Show 2024 

The Hotel Show 2024 is emerging as a global hospitality showcase with organisers attending events revealing 28 countries have confirmed they will mount national pavilions at the event, which runs at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 4-6 June. The 2024 show, featuring four industry-shaping conferences, will strongly focus on technology, sustainability, and wellness in evolving guest experiences.  

https://shorturl.at/tXKOT

Pan Pacific Jakarta opens in Central Thamrin 

Pan Pacific Jakarta will open on 1 June 2024 as the city’s tallest luxury hotel. Located in Thamrin Nine’s iconic Luminary Tower, the building was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, a world-renowned American architectural firm. The hotel’s 158 rooms are spread across levels 71 to 90, with the exclusive Japanese restaurant Keyaki and rooftop bar offering guests an elevated experience in the city’s heart. This prime location gives guests direct access to some of Jakarta’s most prestigious shopping and entertainment venues. 

https://shorturl.at/flLGQ

Luxury and adventure await at Four Seasons Napa Valley 

This summer, let Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley, the only Five-Star Resort in Calistoga with a Michelin-star restaurant, elevate your vacation dreams. Everyone is treated like a star, whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, a family, or even a Very Important Pet. Our wine country resort is the ultimate summer escape with a wide range of activities and experiences designed to delight and inspire. 

https://shorturl.at/oeYJ2

Advani Hotels achieves highest Q4 and FY24 revenues 

Advani Hotels & Resorts (India) Limited approved the unaudited standalone financial results for the quarter and full year ending March 31, 2024. Revenue improved on a YoY basis by 8%. This is despite a decrease in tourists to Goa due to domestic tourists travelling overseas for holidays and a reduction in foreign tourists. Caravela organised 45 weddings in FY24, an all-time high in the hotel’s wedding business. Additionally, improvements in MICE further boosted revenue. This was achieved without adding any rooms or F&B facilities. 

https://shorturl.at/pfy3F

That’s all folks!    

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W4, May 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • PM Hotel Group acquires Staybridge Suites Tysons 
  • Banyan Tree enters Caribbean market 
  • Starhotels launches Grand Tour Package in Europe 
  • StayVista launches first Vieda property 
  • Almosafer and Red Sea Global redefine luxury tourism in Saudi Arabia 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound W4 May, 2024

PM Hotel Group adds Staybridge Suites Tysons to portfolio 

PM Hotel Group announced the latest addition to its portfolio, Staybridge Suites by IHG Tysons in McLean, Virginia. The partnership between PM Hotel Group and the ownership group can enhance Staybridge Suites Tysons’ commitment to service and accommodations for extended-stay travelers. 

https://shorturl.at/ts8Fo

Banyan Tree is making its first foray into the Caribbean market 

The luxury resort operator just announced the forthcoming Banyan Tree Bimini Resort & Residences in the Bahamas. Spearheaded by Rockwell Island Development Group, the highly anticipated property will be located 48 nautical miles outside of Miami and can be reached via seaplane, private jet, helicopter, or boat. 

https://shorturl.at/fKDnT

Explore Europe’s charm with Starhotels’ new Grand Tour Package 

Starhotels is thrilled to present its Grand Tour, a new bespoke travel offer featuring the prestigious Starhotels Collezione in Florence, Milan, Rome, Siena, Trieste, Venice, Vicenza, London, and Paris. These iconic stops celebrate the history of the cities and the excellence of Italian-made craftsmanship. 

 https://shorturl.at/zWnB8

StayVista unveils its first Vieda property 

StayVista, already known for luxury villa rentals, is offering its new collection, ‘Vieda’. This exclusive collection features only the finest villas in India, backed by StayVista’s decade-long expertise. Vieda promises opulent accommodations and five-star hotel services, including a dedicated trip concierge and personal butler. 

https://shorturl.at/AWeUU

Almosafer, Red Sea Global redefine Saudi luxury tourism 

Almosafer to promote bespoke tourism offerings of Red Sea Global destinations to luxury travellers. Almosafer, Saudi Arabia’s leading travel company (part of Seera Group), has partnered with Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, to showcase and promote Red Sea Global’s tourism developments and bespoke offerings across Almosafer’s portfolio of businesses catering to inbound and domestic travellers. 

https://shorturl.at/7lHrk

 

That’s all folks!   

 

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, May 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Summer vacations are a top priority for travelers 
  • Technavio forecasts boom in hospitality robots 
  • ATM 2024 breaks record with 46,000+ attendees 
  • Park Hotels announces tender offer results 
  • Barceló invests $400M in global expansion 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Newshound W3 May, 2024

Tripadvisor: Travelers are placing high priority on summer vacations 

According to the annual Summer Travel Index released by Tripadvisor, travelers worldwide continue to prioritize summer vacations. Ninety-five per cent of respondents are planning to travel as much (51 percent) or more (44 percent) than last summer, despite some concern about economic headwinds. Over a quarter (26 percent) of U.S. travelers are planning to spend $5,000 or more on their getaways. 

https://shorturl.at/MD6w6

Hospitality robots market to grow by $471.77M by 2028 

Hospitality robots redefine service with efficiency. Technavio forecasts a USD 471.77 million expansion by 2028, boasting a 14.19% CAGR. According to Technavio, the global market for hospitality robots is projected to expand by USD 471.77 million between 2024 and 2028. This market is anticipated to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.19% throughout the forecast period. 

https://shorturl.at/jPFYK

ATM 2024 sees a record 46,000+ attendees 

More than 46,000 industry professionals from over 160 countries – including 33,500 visitors – attended the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which concluded last week in Dubai, UAE. Organisers of the event have revealed this figure is a 15% year-on-year increase in attendees compared to its 30th edition last year. This number sets a new record for the show, in which the team illustrates the “strength, resilience and momentum” of the global travel and tourism sector. 

https://shorturl.at/0YK5L

Park Hotels reports tender offer outcomes 

Park Hotels & Resorts announced today the expiration and final results of the previously announced cash tender offer initiated by its subsidiaries: Park Intermediate Holdings LLC, PK Domestic Property LLC, and PK Finance Co-Issuer Inc. (collectively, the “Issuers”). The Tender Offer was for any and all of their outstanding 7.500% Senior Notes due 2025. It expired at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on May 13, 2024 (the “Expiration Time”). 

https://shorturl.at/Vqgxn

Barceló Hotel Group’s $400M expansion plan 

Barceló Hotel Group, the leading Spanish hospitality management company, reveals its 2024 global expansion strategy with a robust pipeline of new property openings in new and existing key source markets, totalling an investment of over $400 million. In 2024, Barceló Hotel Group will extend its presence in the Middle East, Africa and Türkiye (MEAT) region, with a slated line-up of property openings annually. 

https://shorturl.at/KD10Q

That’s all folks!  

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W2, May 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Booking.com: Family travel expected to increase in summer  
  • Wyndham’s milestone growth across EMEA, 2023 
  • World Travel Awards reveals Middle East 2024 winners 
  • ATM 2024: Prioritizing guest experience in luxury hotels 
  • The Oberoi Group’s South Mumbai residential suites debut 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound W2 May 2024

Booking.com: Summer surge in family getaways 

Booking.com reports that family searches for accommodations for the summer travel season are already seeing an 8 percent increase compared to last year, while flight searches globally are seeing an increase of 21 percent. These figures underscore an interest in travel this summer as families look to make the most of the warmer months ahead. 

https://shorturl.at/vyLOY

Wyndham’s EMEA expansion milestone, 2023 

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with 25 brands and approximately 9,200 hotels, continues to make impressive gains across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia and Africa, unveiling today full-year results for the region for 2023. Among the highlights: the Company introduced 9 brands into new countries, signed 107 franchise agreements, opened 87 hotels, and added 9,500 rooms. 

https://shorturl.at/iEQZ7

World Travel Awards reveals Middle East 2024 winners 

World Travel Awards—the leading authority that recognises and rewards excellence in travel and tourism—has revealed its Middle East 2024 winners. The announcement coincides with the start of the Arabian Travel Market, the region’s leading industry event. Notable winners included Saadiyat Island, named ‘Middle East’s Leading Beach Destination’, and Abu Dhabi, voted ‘Middle East’s Leading Business Travel Destination’.  

https://shorturl.at/ELMRS

ATM 2024: Focus on personalization in luxury hospitality 

This week, industry professionals explored ways to stand out in the Middle East’s oversaturated luxury travel segment at Arabian Travel Market 2024. Panellists at the exhibition’s luxury summit said authenticity, personalisation, and guest experience were among the key considerations for brands looking to distinguish themselves from the competition. 

https://shorturl.at/ivJ78

The Oberoi Group’s South Mumbai residential suites debut 

Situated at the prestigious Nariman Point on Marine Drive with breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the shimmering lights of Queen’s Necklace, The Oberoi Mumbai has long been regarded as one of the city’s finest luxury hotels. Following the recent introduction of The Oberoi Residential Suites, guests can experience unparalleled residential living for extended stays like never before. 

https://shorturl.at/aozEG

That’s all folks! 

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W1, May 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • GCC hospitality boom: UAE market to top US$7 billion by 2026
  • Accor leads hospitality growth across Saudi Arabia 
  • Xenia Hotels & Resorts: Q1 2024 nets $8.5M, steady growth 
  • Minor Hotels to launch 50 properties in India 
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton partners with Grubhub for onsite food delivery

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound W1 May 2024

GCC hospitality boom; UAE market to top US$7B by 2026

Recent data from global research companies indicates a bright future for the GCC hospitality industry, with insights from Deloitte and STR demonstrating sustained growth as tourism continues to be a key priority for regional governments. The upcoming edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), a premier global event in travel and tourism, will serve as a pivotal gathering for hospitality stakeholders when it takes place from 6 to 9 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. RateTiger is taking Dubai by storm from May 6th to 9th! Find us in Hall 4, Booth TT4102. 

https://shorturl.at/KOUW8

Accor drives hospitality expansion in Saudi Arabia 

As the largest hotel operator in Saudi Arabia, Accor is spearheading a strategic transformation of the country’s tourism sector, marking a new era of hospitality in the Kingdom. 

Accor currently operates 13 brands in Saudi Arabia, spanning across the premium, midscale, and economy segments, as well as luxury brands and Ennismore’s lifestyle collective. With leading brands including ibis, Novotel, Adagio, Mercure, Mövenpick, Swissotel, Pullman, Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Banyan Tree and others, the group has solidified its position as a leading hospitality provider, offering a wide range of services and experiences. 

https://shorturl.at/ao479

Xenia Hotels: Q1 2024 nets $8.5M, steady growth 

Regarding Liquidity and Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2024, the Company held total outstanding debt of approximately $1.4 billion with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.47%. It possessed around $140 million in cash and cash equivalents, including hotel working capital, and full availability on its revolving line of credit, resulting in total liquidity of about $590 million. Furthermore, as of the conclusion of the first quarter, the Company possessed about $57 million in restricted cash and escrows. 

https://shorturl.at/kwzB3

Minor Hotels plans 50 new properties in India 

Minor Hotels, a global hotel owner and operator with more than 540 properties in 56 countries, is set to intensify its presence in the dynamic Indian hospitality market, targeting 50 new openings within the next decade. 

The group will focus its strategy on the upper-upscale and luxury hotel segments, where it expects strong interest from owners in its well-established Anantara, Avani, and NH Collection brands. 

https://shorturl.at/puL68

Home2 Suites by Hilton offers seamless Grubhub food delivery

More than 30 percent of travelers struggle with not knowing where to order food and 25 percent worry about not having access to a car to get around, according to a Grubhub survey. Further, nearly 50 percent of travelers said they’d use a delivery app to order forgotten items. With this integration, travelers don’t have to worry about food, transportation or these forgotten items since Grubhub and Home2 Suites make it easy to order from local restaurants and find nearby convenience stores for delivery right to their Home2 Suites hotel. 

https://shorturl.at/koY36

That’s all folks! 

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W4, April 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia: Exciting agenda & stellar speakers 
  • Fostering better hotel-planner partnerships with seven key strategies 
  • UK tops early 2025 holiday bookings, Sabre data shows 
  • Marriott International signs agreement with NEOM 
  • Hilton surpasses 800 hotels in Asia Pacific, sees Q1 2024 growth 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w4, April 2024

Exciting agenda & stellar speakers at Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia! 

Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia has unveiled a stellar lineup of speakers and an action-packed agenda with over 1,200 hotel investment decision-makers expected to attend at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, from 29 April to 1 May 2024. The first morning (29 April) is dedicated to the Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF). GRIF will tap into Riyadh’s growing dining-out scene with main-stage presentations, case studies and panel discussions, F&B workshops, culinary & concept tours, and a dedicated networking dinner. 

https://shorturl.at/KVWZ8

Fostering better hotel-planner partnerships with seven key strategies 

The meetings and events business continues to draw visitors worldwide to the most desired destinations. The path back seems smoother than ever for hoteliers getting their groove back. Indeed, the meetings industry continues to be an essential revenue driver for increasing profitability for hotels of almost any size. For meeting planners, however, the story may be a little different. 

https://shorturl.at/qrTY9

Early 2025 holiday bookings: UK takes the lead; Sabre data indicates 

Sabre has revealed its booking insights, showing that UK travellers are leading the global trend by planning their 2025 trips earlier than travellers from other countries. This shift reflects a major change in travel habits worldwide, where early bookings have become the preferred way to secure desired travel experiences and control costs. Sabre’s data found that British tourists are the most decisive in their travel arrangements, especially for long-haul destinations that combine “sun and culture”. 

https://shorturl.at/cektx

Marriott International signs agreement with NEOM 

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with NEOM to open its second Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Saudi Arabia. Anticipated to open in Trojena, a year-round mountain destination located in the country’s northwest region, the property will offer a complete escape into a private world of luxury.  

https://shorturl.at/euAFN

Hilton surpasses 800 hotels in Asia Pacific, sees Q1 2024 growth 

In the first quarter of 2024, Hilton’s RevPAR grew 7.9% in Asia Pacific versus 2019 levels on top of a strong 2023. The rise is backed by steady growth in leisure and business travel, the continued increase of the pan-Asian traveller, and ongoing strength in international arrivals. China’s outbound travel showed further signs of recovery, with Southeast Asia and Japan benefiting from inflows, while Hilton’s hotels in Singapore and Australia gained from major international music acts.  

https://shorturl.at/kDK27

That’s all folks!

What’s New in Hotel Online Distribution and Tech Trends? W3, April 2024

Here is your weekly industry news round-up. Check out the short snippets here and follow below for more details. 

  • The state of loyalty for travel and lifestyle credit cards in 2024 
  • Springboard Hospitality teams up with Procure Impact 
  • The impact of cultural events on travel marketing revenue 
  • Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort reveals $35M upgrade 
  • Leisure Hotels & Nature’s Heaven’s Kasauli Resort collaboration 

Reach out to us for discussions regarding connectivity, direct booking, rate intelligence, and website design requirements – we are happy to explore new possibilities with you for your property – contact us today. 

Enjoy the read! 

Newshound w3, April 2024

The state of loyalty for travel and lifestyle credit cards in 2024 

Credit card loyalty programs have become one of the most popular ways to access travel rewards and perks. According to Skift Research, roughly a third of U.S. Gen Z and millennial travelers book airline and hotel reservations through credit card platforms, while only a quarter use online travel agencies (OTAs). The report explores how providing consumers with choices creates a sense of abundance and provides more opportunities to match their desires and aspirations. 

https://shorturl.at/qtNPV

Procure Impact and Springboard Hospitality partner up 

Springboard Hospitality announced its collaboration with Procure Impact. By sourcing products from social enterprises, Springboard Hospitality will add new products—ranging from in-room coffee and snacks to wellness products like candles and bath salts—and demonstrate its commitment to driving social impact by supporting vulnerable communities through its pledge of 5,000 hours of work. 

https://shorturl.at/gkAFZ

The impact of cultural events on travel marketing revenue 

Travel marketers know that popular cultural events like the Eras Tour, the Super Bowl, Wimbledon, and Formula 1 racing can significantly boost revenue — but how can they ensure they’re maximizing the potential of these events to increase visibility and capture demand? Expedia Group’s TravelAds and Flight Sponsored Listings are strategically designed for performance marketing, capturing travelers’ attention precisely when deciding to book rather than merely for brand awareness. 

https://shorturl.at/bAEJ6

Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort’s major $35M renovation 

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, situated on the pristine emerald coast of Northwest Florida, proudly unveils its $35 million renovation completion. This exciting announcement coincides with Hilton Inc. being honoured as Fortune’s #1 ‘Best Company to Work for in 2024’. Presenting guests with a delightful retreat, Hilton Sandestin Beach’s renovation commenced with its guest rooms and suites, providing a contemporary beachfront haven for visitors. 

https://shorturl.at/flwIV

Leisure Hotels & Nature’s Heaven’s Kasauli Resort collaboration 

The resort will house 30+ aesthetically designed rooms and furnished cottages in sprawling four acres in the serene Solan district. As part of its expansion strategy, the group plans to create a mixed-use project, such as privately owned furnished apartments with a luxury resort, promising breathtaking views of the Kasauli Hills and lush valleys. Scheduled to welcome guests in early 2026, this resort promises an unforgettable retreat amidst the serene beauty of Kasauli Hills. 

https://shorturl.at/ELSU7

That’s all folks!