In the unique landscape of hospitality podcasts, *The Last Resort* has carved a niche that offers listeners a front-row seat to the latest trends in luxury travel. This episode brings to light the enchanting experiences of travel designer Anna Gilbert as she recounts her journey through Angama’s luxurious safari lodges in the heart of Kenya.
Hotels
In an exciting development for the travel industry, Preferred Hotels & Resorts has launched a comprehensive portal designed specifically for travel advisors. This new platform consolidates a wide array of functions—including booking capabilities, commission management, and personalized workflows—creating a streamlined experience for users. With over 600 independent hotels in their collection, the portal promises to
The innovative landscape of Las Vegas continues to evolve as Alex Dixon assumes the role of CEO at Genting Berhad’s Resorts World Las Vegas. His appointment on January 16 marks a significant change within the company, especially following a troubling financial period where they reported their poorest quarterly figures in two years. This downturn has
In the competitive travel agency landscape, specialization often proves to be the safest route to success. This is a lesson that Addison Jaynes, the founder of Reliant Destinations, learned through his experiences operating a host agency in the U.K. from 2017 to early 2020. His realization: excelling at multiple services concurrently can be an overwhelming
Hyatt Hotels Corp. is set to make a significant investment in the all-inclusive resort market by acquiring Playa Hotels & Resorts for around $2.6 billion. This acquisition is significant not just in financial terms but also in strategic importance as it allows Hyatt to deepen its foothold within the Caribbean and Mexican resort scene. As
The hospitality industry is witnessing a significant transformation with the impending rebranding of SH Hotels & Resorts to Starwood Hotels. Under the leadership of Barry Sternlicht and CEO Raul Leal, this transition marks a strategic revival of a name that holds considerable affection among seasoned travelers. As the company embarks on this new chapter, its
In the fast-paced world of travel and hospitality, Expedia Group demonstrated resilience and innovative strategy as it reported robust growth across its three primary brands—Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo—in the fourth quarter of 2024. Under the leadership of CEO Ariane Gorin, who took the helm in mid-2023, the company witnessed a resurgence in consumer bookings that
In an exciting development for the entertainment landscape of Las Vegas, the Palm Tree Beach Club is set to make its grand debut in May at the iconic MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. This ambitious project is not just an extension of the hotel’s offerings but represents a collaboration between two major players in the
New Orleans is a vibrant city steeped in a rich tapestry of history, culture, and art. At the heart of this remarkable city lies a neighborhood that tells countless stories of resilience, creativity, and innovation, particularly among the Black community. One such story is that of the Dew Drop Inn, a cultural landmark in the
As travelers seek sanctuary from the bustling hotspots of Greece, the unveiling of Gundari marks an intriguing addition to the idyllic landscape of the Cyclades. Situated on the serene island of Folegandros, this luxurious boutique hotel opens its doors in spring, becoming the first of its kind on the island. With its rich design, commitment
The reestablishment of the name Mount McKinley for North America’s tallest mountain has reignited discussions surrounding identity, culture, and historical acknowledgment in the context of Indigenous rights. This tumultuous debate has unfolded primarily since President Trump’s inauguration, where an executive order aimed at reverting the name back to its previous designation before the 2015 decision
In the recent Q4 earnings call, Hilton’s CEO Christopher Nassetta conveyed notable optimism regarding the economic outlook surrounding the hotel industry and the broader U.S. economy. This confidence appears to stem from the anticipated effects of Donald Trump’s economic policies. Nassetta indicated that compared to previous assessments which were clouded with election-related uncertainties, Hilton is
In the heart of London, where elegance meets history, The Athenaeum Hotel and Residences stands as a beacon of hospitality. This luxurious establishment is not just another destination for weary travelers; it is a place where families create lasting memories. My own experiences at The Athenaeum are deeply etched in my mind, especially my first
Paris is renowned for its neighborhoods, each brimming with distinct charm and personality. Among these, the Latin Quarter emerges as an enduring favorite for many, including those nostalgic for its lively yet intimate atmosphere. The area is a delightful blend of historic intricacies and modern flair, making it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking both
The luxury travel industry, while exhibiting resilience and growth, faces a changing landscape influenced by shifting consumer behaviors and economic realities. As high-end hotels and cruises continue to flourish, there are strong indications that price adjustments may be necessary in the near future. This article delves into the emergence of these trends and the potential
Chateau de la Commaraine, an exquisite 12th-century estate nestled in the picturesque Burgundy region of France, is set to unveil its doors as a premier five-star hotel in late 2025. This ambitious project has been in the works for four years, focusing on an extensive renovation that honors the estate’s storied past while providing modern
Disney’s approach to its park experience continues to evolve, now featuring a premium offering known as the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Esteemed for its exclusive access to expedited lines, this product symbolizes both opportunity and caution in Disney’s expansion strategy amidst fluctuating market dynamics. With a carefully measured rollout, Disney is not only navigating business
In recent years, the luxury cruising sector has witnessed a noteworthy transformation, with several prestigious hotel brands making a significant foray into maritime experiences. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was the pioneer, establishing its nautical presence in the cruising arena back in 2022. Following closely is the Four Seasons Yachts, set to debut its first luxury