Civil suits against hotel and motel chains for allegedly benefitting financially from human trafficking are on the rise across the country. There were roughly 200 active civil human trafficking lawsuits in 2020. Of those civil cases, 91 were sex trafficking cases and 109 were forced labor cases. Hotels were by far the most common type of entity defendant in civil human trafficking cases. READ MORE

Covid-19 decimated non-profit organizations as people had to brace for the unknown. The travel industry took a loss of $4.5 trillion in 2020, according to WTTC. While the numbers are jarring, hitting the floor provides a limitless ceiling to rebuild stronger and more consciously. With 700,000 hotels worldwide, impact-driven sustainability and community-impact initiatives in destinations can serve as a catalyst that builds resilience and sustainable futures for all. READ MORE

'If you build it, they will come', is now, 'if you build it green, they will come even more eagerly'. The hospitality industry is amid a sea change that's moving sustainable tourism from niche to mainstream, and it would be hard to find a better example than the unique & beloved beachside destination at Gulf State Park in the heart of coastal Alabama, USA, where you'd least expect it. READ MORE

Evaluating and exploring ways a brand may invest and expand its eco-friendly, sustainable, and regenerative programs is vital in today's competitive market. Taking a wholistic approach to developing an effective brand strategy and integrating it across multiple touchpoints is paramount for a successful foundation. The future of travel depends on the decisions that brands are making now with important elements that should be considered. READ MORE

Guests now have more choices for their stays, and wellness is a major factor driving their decisions. Trends show more owners making modest investments in design coupled with strategic communications, paying off in word-of-mouth, brand loyalty and repeat business. Integrated design approaches can provide reductions in operating costs, water use and energy consumption, making the venue simultaneously greener and healthier. READ MORE