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 MORE

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 MORE

While coronavirus is a serious health threat, the risks go beyond wellbeing – with misinformation spreading more quickly than the disease itself. The current media landscape capitalizes on public fear, and communicators must navigate ways to share important information in a way that will get through to stakeholders while clarifying the facts. In an age of click-bait, there are several key factors to consider when tackling communication around a topic as complex and fear-inducing as a new virus strain. READ MORE

Sustainability has become a deciding factor for individuals purchasing travel and accommodation and travel companies are adapting their offerings to meet their needs as reflected in the recently released 2019 Amadeus study: Making a Positive Impact on Travel. From reducing plastic in hotels, decarbonizing, and creating strategic partnerships that generate a positive community impact, Jessica Blotter, the founder of California-based KindTraveler explores 10 adoptable strategies today's hotelier can employ right away to not only advance sustainable travel in 2020, but also create marketing opportunities as well as reduce operating costs. READ MORE

Taking a page out of Gary Chapman's bestselling book, The 5 Love Languages, The Secret to Love that Lasts, Kristi White, VP Product Management at Knowland, takes a look at how the various hotel stakeholders – from Owners and Operations Teams to Group Sales Managers and Revenue Managers communicate and connect. And what better month to do this than in February - the month of love. In this edition, Kristi explores the "love language" of a revenue manager. Is it Words of Affirmation, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Quality Time or Physical Touch? Read this compelling take on how to better connect, work and align with your revenue manager for achieve a long, healthy and profitable relationship. READ MORE