The hospitality industry thrives on innovation and operational improvements, and maximizing convenience and comfort for guests is crucial. However, in today's digital age, the stakes are growing exponentially higher. Brand loyalty increasingly hinges on how well an organization deploys and integrates its digital technologies. In addition, hotels and other hospitality businesses are under increasing pressure to improve efficiencies while cutting costs and providing white-glove service. At the center of this equation is the internet of things (IoT). These connected solutions can establish stronger relationships with guests, while introducing opportunities to improve operations, safety and security - all while trimming costs. Read on...

Although legislation is working its way through Congress to raise the bar on how resort fees are communicated to consumers, these fees are unlikely to go away anytime soon. As consumer awareness evolves regarding these fees and the amenities included, it behooves a hotel owner and management team to be on the forefront of communicating the charges in the most direct way possible and to offer the best array of benefits for the dollars spent. We recently surveyed 50 resorts to uncover not only what their resort fee currently is, but what they offer to the consumer for this fee. Read on...

It is so much more impactful when the whole symphony plays together vs. one instrument. That's why, integrated brand development agency Smarthinking Inc. believes that it is most effective when a company's branding aligns with the experience found within the establishment, giving consumers a full experience. Mark Natale, Smarthinking Inc.'s chief executive officer, says that to be successful, you must take the time to define your brand terms. In his authored piece, he details the crucial questions you should be asking yourself in order to create an unforgettable hospitality brand. Read on...

Even amidst sanctions and geopolitical challenges, entrepreneurship and fearless economic savviness play a role. Espinas Hotel Group has been consistently redefining the shape of Iranian hospitality ever since inception, two decades ago. Experiencing multiple development phases, it is now positioned and poised for growth, both domestically and abroad, ready to expand the worldwide famous Iranian authentic and secular hospitality values. The development growth rate will accelerate, with the professionalization of management and branding. It took Hilton 20 years to grow out of Texas, its birth State. It will take Espinas less to exponentiate its local and global footprint. Read on...

Looking for a way to break out of business as usual during meetings and events? The Westin Nashville's General Manager Jeff Crabiel illustrates how breakout sessions don't have to be energy-draining, cliche-ridden exercises. From meditation sessions to immersive activities, creative partnerships can rescue a meeting from the ordinary, transforming the overall experience into something unforgettable. These fresh and unique approaches won't just improve your events – they'll attract more events as well. Crabiel also shows how these partnerships don't necessarily require heavy lifting on the part of the planner. Often, the best partners can be found right in your own backyard. Read on...