"Hospitality is a social business. It's a person to person business-that's how we provide our service. The act of social distancing is foreign to what we know in hospitality. Until this virus has cleared itself from the US, it's going to be hard to resume our level of personalized service to our guests," writes Jim Beley, General Manager of The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary NC. In this article, Beley, a 48-year hotel veteran, weighs in on how COVID-19 has affected the hospitality industry and the steps his team is taking to ensure a successful reopening, whenever that may be.

COVID-19 has impacted every area of business operations, but few have been as affected as communication. Experiencing spikes in incoming requests from anxious customers, even hotels that have had to close their doors temporarily have had to make dramatic changes to their communication strategies. Everything about guest communication has changed overnight. From the conversations brands are having with guests to the resources facilitating these conversations, and most notably the very impact that real-time communications, or the lack thereof, has on an organization's success. It's fair to say that real-time communication has gone from a competitive advantage to a survival strategy. READ MORE

The rise of coronavirus has reset our rhythm as humans, and in slowing down and sheltering in place, we have had time to notice natural features in our surroundings and get back to basics. Social distancing may seem at odds with hospitality, but hotels can learn from the mindful and wellness-oriented activities people are using to ground and reset, from gardening and taking walks, to home cooking and baking, artistic pursuits and wholesome family activities. How might designers shape the 21st guest experience with spaces that nurture guests' inner worlds and push them past comfort zones, reaching deeper into nature? READ MORE

Hoteliers need to be equipped with the most up-to-date and cost-effective business solutions available. Finding the right technology partner can be like finding a needle in a haystack, so it's important that hoteliers come equipped to get the most of out of their investments. Especially for management companies balancing numerous properties, switching to an outsourced business model can make all the difference. For hoteliers looking to cut-costs and streamline their portfolios back-office operations, outsourcing hotel accounting can help tighten up loose ends and improve your management company's financial health. With so many technology solutions available, it's important to know your options and how they can best help your company. READ MORE

Selecting a skincare line is one of the most important strategic decisions you can make for your spa, as this long-term partnership carries a significant investment of time and financial resources. Failure to choose wisely can impact your brand, alienate clientele, and damage the trust of your staff. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the Personal Care, Beauty, and Anti-aging Industry is valued at $1,083B and growing. With more skincare lines introduced every day, there is a massive increase in marketing noise and false claims. This article will help you narrow down your options and find the best choice for your spa. READ MORE