The INSPIRE conference is set to be electrified by the insights of industry giants, with Raul Leal of SH Hotels and Raoul Thomas of CGI Merchant Group leading the charge in CEO interviews. These conversations will offer attendees a rare look into the minds driving luxury hospitality forward.
In a recent conversation with Ron Pohl from WorldHotels™ , the ILHA discovered the brand’s ambitious expansion plans, their unique approach to customer loyalty, and how they are reshaping guest experiences. From their roots in Europe to their growth in Asia, and now their focused expansion into North America, WorldHotels continues to redefine luxury hospitality.
In this exclusive interview with Tim Peck, Chairman of OBMI, we delve into the profound philosophy that underpins OBMI’s architectural endeavors, emphasizing their role in forging connections and creating life-changing experiences. Tim discusses how OBMI views architecture as a celebration of heritage and community, going beyond sustainability to embrace regenerative tourism.
In a recent conversation with Amanda Elder, we dove into Kempinski’s current expansion efforts, including their exciting new ventures into residences. Discover the role of emerging trends in shaping Kempinski’s future offerings and guest experiences and how the brand leverages technology, data, and the human touch to create truly tailored experiences.
In the hospitality sector, each staff member’s contribution is integral to overall success. However, a particular segment — the new parents among your staff — face a distinct challenge: sleep deprivation.
This issue isn’t just a nightly struggle at home; it translates directly into their daily roles, diminishing productivity and potentially affecting guest relations. For hotel groups keen on maintaining operational excellence, it’s essential to recognize and address the specific needs of these new parent employees from the outset.
Understanding the Organizational Impact
Sleep deprivation isn’t a mere individual concern; its ripples affect the entire team. Staff facing sleep disturbances may display decreased focus, memory challenges, and hindered decision-making capabilities. Research indicates that fatigue results in millions of lost workdays annually, a sizable chunk of which can be attributed to new parents. This doesn’t just impact the affected staff member, but influences team cohesion and hotel operations.
Elevating Staff Well-being Beyond Working Hours
A hotel group’s investment in staff well-being beyond their shifts speaks volumes about its values and commitment. By proactively addressing sleep challenges faced by new parent staff members, hotel chains can elevate morale and instill a sense of belonging. This not only builds a supportive work environment but solidifies staff loyalty and dedication.
Tailored Solutions for Your Hotel Staff
Sleep Sense Publishing, under the guidance of Dana Obleman, offers hotel chains a meticulously crafted, bespoke solution tailored to the unique needs of new parent staff members.
This offering extends beyond standard online resources. Your staff will gain access to an advanced online learning platform featuring the Internet’s top-rated baby sleep course. Alongside this invaluable content, they’ll benefit from personalized guidance and support directly from Dana and her team, ensuring each parent is well-equipped to help their child achieve restful sleep.
In addition to the online learning platform, Dana herself will lead a webinar, crafted specifically for your employees. This session will directly address their unique concerns and challenges related to parenting and sleep. Through this dedicated approach, new parents receive the tools they need for a balanced work-life dynamic. Such initiatives highlight the hotel’s dedication to staff well-being, establishing the brand as a pioneering figure in all-encompassing employee support.
A Strategic Investment in Staff Well-being
Partnering with Sleep Sense is more than just another benefit for your employees; it’s a strategic move for hotel chains. By offering this tailored support, not only do hotels significantly boost staff productivity and morale, but they also underline a profound commitment to employee well-being. In an industry where the difference often lies in the details, such an initiative clearly distinguishes a hotel brand.
It showcases a hotel that doesn’t just employ staff but genuinely cares for them, going above and beyond to enhance their life both inside and outside of work. In a competitive market, this positions your hotel as a top-choice employer, one that truly values and invests in its team.
Sleep Sense makes offering this benefit to your employees simple and friction-free! Click here to find out how!
About Dana Obleman & Sleep Sense
Dana Obleman, the visionary behind The Sleep Sense™ Program, is renowned for her expertise in helping babies achieve restful sleep. With a professional journey spanning two decades, she’s deeply invested in aiding parents through sleepless nights, drawing inspiration from her personal experiences as a new mother. Boasting degrees in both Psychology and Education, Dana has presented her revolutionary methods to top pediatricians and has been prominently featured in media giants like CNN, Good Morning America, The Washington Post, and WebMD. Under her guidance, over 125,000 parents have discovered the joys of uninterrupted sleep for their children
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the dynamic world of luxury design, exploring how Audra and her team stay attuned to evolving guest preferences, the intricacies of executing visionary projects, and the delicate balance between maintaining design consistency and allowing each brand to have its unique voice.
In a recent conversation with the ILHA, Bruce Rohr shared his profound early experiences that ignited his passion for hospitality, his sources of inspiration drawn from extensive travel, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to creating exceptional guest experiences. This interview offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of luxury hospitality and the importance of mindfulness in delivering exceptional guest satisfaction.
John Kunkel. As the visionary founder and CEO of 50 Eggs, Kunkel has carved a delectable niche for himself and his ventures. We caught up with this culinary impresario to delve into his journey, inspirations, and the secret ingredients that have seasoned his path to success.
Sandor Winkler, Sales and Marketing Director at The Villa Group, sheds light on how the resort group approaches this challenge. He shares insights into their commitment to tailored guest experiences and the fusion of luxury with accessibility across their seven resorts.
Donahue Peebles, a visionary in real estate and community development, is reshaping urban landscapes and promoting economic inclusion through innovative projects. With a dedication to transforming spaces and enhancing diversity, Peebles’ insights offer a glimpse into his impactful journey. He spoke with the International Luxury Hotel Association.
Gamal El Fakih shares his insights on topics ranging from sustainability and guest-centric strategies to cross-functional collaboration and the exciting projects shaping the future of luxury hotels.
In this article we chat to number 1 event planner, Colin Cowie, CEO of Thrive Hospitality and Colin Cowie Lifestyle.
In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Bruce Wardinski, CEO of Playa Hotels and Resorts, a leading hospitality company renowned for its exceptional luxury all-inclusive offerings. As a pioneer in partnering with major internationally recognized brands, Wardinski provides valuable insights into Playa Resorts’ unique positioning in the market, their commitment to delivering an extraordinary guest experience, the integration of sustainability initiatives, and their strategic vision for the future of the all-inclusive segment within the luxury travel industry.
Alexander Schneider is leading a distinctive and innovative approach to luxury hospitality, discussing the brand’s unique vision, strategies for delivering exceptional guest experiences, talent acquisition, and management practices, and the crucial role of sustainability and environmental responsibility in their operations.
Join us at the luxurious Eden Roc Miami on December 11th and 12th, 2023, for an experience like no other. At ILHA INSPIRE, you’ll be surrounded by the industry’s brightest minds who are passionate about making a difference. It’s the ultimate game-changer where you can build valuable connections and make lucrative business deals that unlock the path to success.
With eight years of experience in the market, Jan shares her insights on setting room rates and determining pricing strategies for the Thompson Hotel. She also discusses recent changes in revenue management strategies in response to market conditions and how her team works with other departments within the hotel to align revenue management strategies with broader business goals.
Meet the visionary behind HospitalityRenu, a driving force in the realm of independent luxury hotels and property improvement. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the industry, Robert Reitknecht’s passion for effecting lasting change shines through. HospitalityRenu was born out of a desire to provide a comprehensive solution for managing and enhancing the core of hospitality: guest experiences.
Dustin Imbesi reveals the strategies that he uses to attract a diverse range of guests and events to the Thompson Hotel in Austin. In a post-COVID world, the hotel’s focus is on providing an overall experience for guests, with non-traditional amenities such as a fourth-floor amenity deck, fitness center, and four culinary offerings on-site.
Enter Sébastien Roelly, a name that resonates with culinary enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary dining experience. With a career spanning over 25 years, Roelly’s impressive training and collaboration with acclaimed chefs have solidified his position as a true luminary in the realm of culinary artistry. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of this French-trained virtuoso and his current role as the Executive Chef at the renowned Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, New York.
Sonja Chase talks about what sets their hotel apart in terms of customer experience and amenities. She also shares the hotel’s approach to handling guest complaints, sustainability initiatives, employee training, and plans for future expansion and improvement. With a focus on providing a unique and high-quality experience to guests, the Thompson and tommie Austin aim to become a proud asset to the community in Austin.
Ricardo Farinha, the Chief Commercial Officer of Savoy Signature, offers valuable insights into the brand’s past and future plans. Beginning as a small family business, Savoy Signature has evolved into a collection of six hotels, each offering distinctive and personalized experiences. With a background in project finance and public-private partnerships, Farinha brings a global perspective to his work in project management and financing at Savoy Signature.
Chelsey Leffet, a board member of the ILHA East Coast Chapter, has been recently promoted to Managing Director at HVS. She now leads the Washington, D.C. Consulting & Valuation office and is also the Director of the HVS Northeast region. Chelsey has consulted on hotels of all asset classes and development stages throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including several hostel lodging assets.
Rika Lisslö, a board member of the ILHA East Coast Chapter, has joined the presenting and judging panel for the first season of Hotels By Design. This television series is focused on the world of “design entertainment,” delving into the realms of industrial design, architecture, interior design, landscapes, and gardens. Rika Lisslö is a key figure in the show, sharing her expertise as both a presenter and judge.
Shannon Knapp shares her inspiration for a career in hospitality as well as her approach to ensuring each of the 400+ properties in the Leading Hotels of the World portfolio maintain their high standards of quality and service the company is known for. She also discusses how LHW balances individuality and character with the need for consistency, emerging trends in the luxury travel industry and the steps member hotels are taking to reduce their environmental impact.
The International Luxury Hotel Association’s East Coast Chapter recently hosted a meetup at the newly renovated Kimpton Epic Area 31 in Miami, Florida, which was well attended despite the approaching tropical storm. Guests from the luxury hospitality, spa, and wellness industries enjoyed networking, sharing best practices, and new ideas in a beautiful setting with refreshing cocktails and breathtaking views of Miami Beach.
The International Luxury Hotel Association’s East Coast Chapter recently hosted a successful meetup at the Kimpton Epic in Miami, Florida. Despite the weather conditions with a tropical storm approaching the meetup was well attended and the atmosphere was energizing.
Mark Durliat, CEO and co-founder of Grace Bay Resorts, talks about his career in real estate development and hospitality, the advantages of Turks and Caicos for US vacation home buyers, ensuring profitable exceptional guest experience, the development process for Rock House, and updates on upcoming projects.
In this exclusive interview, we speak with Daniela Trovato, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel and Residences at The Surf Club, who is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of this iconic hotel and providing guidance for three additional distinctive South Florida properties.
Our conversation with Rebecca Hubbard covers a range of topics including valuable lessons learned throughout their career such as the importance of relationships, continuous learning, and purposeful conviction. She shares her approach to overcoming challenges faced during a $140M hotel renovation and her commitment to providing exceptional service for guests. We also explore Becky’s involvement with important industry organizations and their response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Elms Hotel & Spa, a historic Missouri landmark, has undergone a renovation and now offers guests an exquisite blend of modern amenities and original design elements. Among its unique offerings, the hotel is renowned for its iconic paranormal tours, which have gained popularity since it was featured on SyFy’s Ghost Hunters in 2013.
Eric Gavin discusses how Pyramid Luxury & Lifestyle hotels set themselves apart in a competitive market, their approach to ensuring consistency in guest experience, their talent development and retention strategy, how they stay on top of industry trends, and future plans for expanding their hotel portfolio.
Claudia Adriana shares how Andaz San Diego prepares for the peak foodie season in April by increasing events and activations on the rooftop, incorporating specialty menus at its restaurants, and providing prime access for guests to explore even more culinary options in the vibrant Gaslamp District.
Two Michelin starred Chef Arnaud Faye shares how he has preserved The Christopher Hotel in St.Barth’s connection to the French Riviera with his Mediterranean menu and relaxed European vibe at the hotel’s RIVYERA restaurant.
Alper Pztok talks about how working in various cultures has influenced their approach to managing staff and guests. He also discusses the inspiration behind the recent room redesign and the unique features of the Presidential Suite.
In this insightful interview, Michael regales us with the fascinating history of this legendary property, the inspiration behind the extensive renovation, and the exciting new programs and initiatives that have been introduced to entice both the local community and travelers alike. We also delve into the delectable culinary experiences on offer, and discover some of the highlights of the grand reopening of this illustrious landmark.
Donte Johnson is a successful hospitality professional and a native of Washington D.C. After graduating from Saint Peter’s University, he started his career with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants where he held various positions including concierge, director of guest services, area revenue manager, and assistant general manager.
A bullish outlook towards the next year as luxury travel continues to thrive. Lisa Bush on keeping Thompson Nashville relevant and group travel trends and predictions for 2023.
I see more Americans are in search of more culture-filled experiences. It’s not just about fancy stays or first-class commercial flights to major cities you’ve seen in Hollywood movies. Luxury travel is also no longer limited to one socioeconomic group of people. Social media has opened the floodgates and exposed luxury experiences to a larger audience.
As the leader of JLL’s global hotel research platform, Zach tracks industry trends in the Americas, Asia Pacific, and EMEA and spearheads the data acquisition strategy for the hotels and hospitality group. He shares his insight on the increase in the volume of real estate investment transactions in the luxury sector, the growth of international travel and the global investment outlook for 2023.
Angie Clifton talks about the value of empathy, honesty and transparency in leadership, empowering her team to do their best work while creating a culture of growth and innovation.
The hotel food and beverage industry is in a constant state of flux, always adapting to the latest trends and consumer demands. As we head into 2023, the industry is poised for exciting changes driven by nostalgia, sustainability, health, and innovation. From a resurgence of classic flavors and dishes, to a focus on locally sourced ingredients, to a continued emphasis on wellness, to the quest for unique and memorable dining experiences, these trends are all about creating a one-of-a-kind experience for guests.
The high-powered conference included immersive and engaging elements to help elevate its programming even further. Encore served as the strategic production partner, enhancing the event’s impact with a high level of execution. The team transformed the stage with a striking LED wall that reinforced the speakers’ messaging and enabled greater audience engagement during each panel via its Chime Live app, which connected in-person and virtual participants with opportunities to network, watch sessions, and learn more about the featured speakers and products.
Xavier Destribas, Chief Operating Officer The Americas and member of the Management Board of Kempinski Hotels
As travel to Madrid is growing, what can travelers expect or should look for in a luxury hotel experience in the city
Independent hotels are thriving as travelers seek unique experiences that resonate with the local community where they can connect with nature.
Post-pandemic travel continues to thrive, proving to be fairly resilient to inflation. Development is still robust but is complex, with projects difficult to finance and rising interest rates.
Delivering a unique experience while remaining true to their DNA, Viceroy is receiving a lot of attention.
After a great deal of soul searching, W is preparing to reveal its evolved persona and expand into Prague, Budapest, Sydney, Macau – Studio City and Milan.
In the hospitality sector, each staff member’s contribution is integral to overall success. However, a particular segment — the new parents among your staff — face a distinct challenge: sleep deprivation.
This issue isn’t just a nightly struggle at home; it translates directly into their daily roles, diminishing productivity and potentially affecting guest relations. For hotel groups keen on maintaining operational excellence, it’s essential to recognize and address the specific needs of these new parent employees from the outset.
Understanding the Organizational Impact
Sleep deprivation isn’t a mere individual concern; its ripples affect the entire team. Staff facing sleep disturbances may display decreased focus, memory challenges, and hindered decision-making capabilities. Research indicates that fatigue results in millions of lost workdays annually, a sizable chunk of which can be attributed to new parents. This doesn’t just impact the affected staff member, but influences team cohesion and hotel operations.
Elevating Staff Well-being Beyond Working Hours
A hotel group’s investment in staff well-being beyond their shifts speaks volumes about its values and commitment. By proactively addressing sleep challenges faced by new parent staff members, hotel chains can elevate morale and instill a sense of belonging. This not only builds a supportive work environment but solidifies staff loyalty and dedication.
Tailored Solutions for Your Hotel Staff
Sleep Sense Publishing, under the guidance of Dana Obleman, offers hotel chains a meticulously crafted, bespoke solution tailored to the unique needs of new parent staff members.
This offering extends beyond standard online resources. Your staff will gain access to an advanced online learning platform featuring the Internet’s top-rated baby sleep course. Alongside this invaluable content, they’ll benefit from personalized guidance and support directly from Dana and her team, ensuring each parent is well-equipped to help their child achieve restful sleep.
In addition to the online learning platform, Dana herself will lead a webinar, crafted specifically for your employees. This session will directly address their unique concerns and challenges related to parenting and sleep. Through this dedicated approach, new parents receive the tools they need for a balanced work-life dynamic. Such initiatives highlight the hotel’s dedication to staff well-being, establishing the brand as a pioneering figure in all-encompassing employee support.
A Strategic Investment in Staff Well-being
Partnering with Sleep Sense is more than just another benefit for your employees; it’s a strategic move for hotel chains. By offering this tailored support, not only do hotels significantly boost staff productivity and morale, but they also underline a profound commitment to employee well-being. In an industry where the difference often lies in the details, such an initiative clearly distinguishes a hotel brand.
It showcases a hotel that doesn’t just employ staff but genuinely cares for them, going above and beyond to enhance their life both inside and outside of work. In a competitive market, this positions your hotel as a top-choice employer, one that truly values and invests in its team.
Sleep Sense makes offering this benefit to your employees simple and friction-free! Click here to find out how!
About Dana Obleman & Sleep Sense
Dana Obleman, the visionary behind The Sleep Sense™ Program, is renowned for her expertise in helping babies achieve restful sleep. With a professional journey spanning two decades, she’s deeply invested in aiding parents through sleepless nights, drawing inspiration from her personal experiences as a new mother. Boasting degrees in both Psychology and Education, Dana has presented her revolutionary methods to top pediatricians and has been prominently featured in media giants like CNN, Good Morning America, The Washington Post, and WebMD. Under her guidance, over 125,000 parents have discovered the joys of uninterrupted sleep for their children
Julie Oliff is heading up the latest wellbeing retreat of Larry Ellison, co-founder, Oracle and Dr. David Agus, well-known physician and scientist.
The luxury hotel sector in perspective, how inflation will influence market recovery and thoughts on a recession.
The resilience and joy in travel as the WFH Global Nomad trend emerges and the ingredients for a perfect trip are found in the consumer-centric model
The new face of luxury as experiential travel and genuine hospitality are prized and the small acts of kindness count.
The rating process explained, new trends in luxury travel and changes your property can make to elevate the guest experience
Thank you to all who attended the ILHA East Coast Chapter Meetup at the Wharf Intercontinental in Washington, D.C.!
The all-inclusive model is proving to be very resilient as Playa moves out of the pandemic and into the future, with sights on Europe, Saudia Arabia, and beyond.
Operating and managing all Omni’s hotels and activities allows for a faster response time to market trends offering an enhanced level of service.
The International Luxury Hotel Association sat down with Jasen Lew to discuss his vision for the future of guest engagement, communication, and messaging in luxury hospitality, and how Glowing.io can support each hotel’s unique goals.
Three generations of family hospitality leadership managing historic properties were built on the founding principle of ‘building things that last and preserving things that matter.’
At The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad there is over 10,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space filled with natural light, city views and impeccable décor.
The luxury hotel residence model has seen a rise in popularity in recent years.
Luxury travellers are venturing into unique experiences more than ever as travel demand ramps up.
Navigating an extensive renovation project during the pandemic along with challenges attracting and retaining team members were just a couple of the issues Bob Gregson focused on the last couple of years.
ennifer Barnwell talks about how independent hotels are answering the call for deeper, more meaningful travel along with their growing hotel membership and benefits as they expand their value offering for members.
The Dewberry has been named to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Gold List of Best Hotels & Resorts in the World
Tomás Feier talks about his life in hotels.
I’m the fourth generation of my family to work in hotels. I was born in a hotel, and I lived my entire life as a kid in the hotel with staff that cared so much about me. So it was obvious that I would pursue a life in hotels. There were some distractions: my older brother had a model train which he drove through different landscapes and I said to myself: “This is great, I need to be a locomotive driver, because I could have a frequent change of scenery, which was something that I felt I needed to have in the future – but I realised that I could this in the hotel sector.
The return of group business and weddings as travel opens up and their multimillion-dollar renovations with a Grotto Bar hidden amongst two waterfalls inside a swim-through cave.
We continue to celebrate International Women’s Month by recognizing some of the hospitality industry’s leaders.
An overview of the extensive renovations, wellness programming and menu highlights at this AAA Four Diamond Property.
DE&I initiatives across all business levels, attracting talent by thinking differently and creating a realistic roadmap for opening a hotel during Covid.
Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President, Luxury Brands, Marriott International opened the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE conference at the Fairmont Santa Monica, California at the end of last year.
Insight into the challenges of the last two years from the Caribbean and initiatives to ensure guest satisfaction and seamless travel
Reimagining business opportunities and maintaining elevated levels of guest experience while thinking outside the box when recruiting talent.
Quick to respond to the change in consumer behavior during the pandemic, Stay One Degree focused on personalized local experiences and curating specialized packages with Mandarin Oriental in Miami. Guests are requesting longer stays and travel is anticipated to rebound strongly in 2022 with bucket-list trips, family gatherings and FOLO.
Oswell talks about the strength of the Bahamian spirit though the challenges of the pandemic and the importance of empathy, adaptability, listening, learning and innovation to ensure her team feels supported and valued.
. Cheeca has a wellness program featuring water aerobics classes as well as traditional yoga. To cater to the increasing trend of wellbeing, we are adding additional yoga classes, bringing our offerings up to 7 days a week.
Andrews is a former modern dancer, studying dance at Cornell University and choreographed and performed new works in New York City for many years. Her hospitality career began as a front desk agent at 60 Thompson (now SIXTY SoHo) where she moved her way up the ranks to General Manager over the course of ten years. She has since held General Manager roles at multiple boutique hotel properties where she combines her passions and expertise in luxury hospitality, creativity and art.
The role of revenue management has been transformed as it leads the hotel industry out of the pandemic, alongside technology. Arshad Mohan explores new best practices, changes within consumer relationships, and the need for hotels to control their own distribution network.
Company culture and employee satisfaction are high on the agenda as Vincente Jarmillo talks about keeping employees engaged and invested in growing their career with Accor.
As technology innovations lead the way out of the pandemic, David Goldstone tells us how their strategy made them stronger and more customer-focused, while introducing new tech services and solutions that will add to the guest experience.
Necker Island has recently completed a full renovation after the destruction of hurricane Irma and is ready to bounce back after the pandemic with safety protocols and a dream destination folks have been looking forward to after a long hard year.
Customer service, programming and setting your brand apart from the noise are imperative to creating a successful message. Colin Cowie talks about the return of celebrations and his latest book, The Gold Standard: Giving your Customers What They Didn’t Know They Wanted.
Matt talks about how guests are craving a return to normalcy while feeling confident their hotel is doing everything they can to keep them safe.
As European Chapter Head of the International Luxury hotel Association and founder of Global Asset Solutions, which provides hotel asset management for 50+ hotels worldwide, Alex shares his insight on how to optimize operations and capital efficiencies of hotels to drive revenue and investment returns for owners and investors.
Patrick shares his experience dealing with the challenges of the last year and how wellness and mental health are now essential as we emerge out of scarcity and relearn how to connect.
The Spa at Sea Island is a Forbes Five-Star destination resort in Georgia, US that has an award-winning 65,000 square-foot spa and fitness center and is the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five-Star awards for 13 consecutive years.
Fairmont Empress Hotel sits proudly at the centre of culture and history in Victoria, British Columbia. This is the best of all worlds – where contrast meets distinction, opulence blends harmoniously with the understated and fabled history meshes with contemporary affairs. One of the oldest hotels in Victoria and a National Historic Site built in 1908, this grand dame is an alluring blend of classic and contemporary, vintage and cutting-edge.
Kempinski Hotels have moved with agility and flexibility during the pandemic to minimize the impact on both business and staff as well as build a strategic plan for the future. Amanda talks about how they have remained engaged with their guests and the opening of Kempinski Palace Engelberg in June.
Patrick shares his experience dealing with the challenges of the last year and how wellness and mental health are now essential as we emerge out of scarcity and relearn how to connect.
A positive view of the return of leisure travel as Europe still battles the pandemic and unpredictable markets. However, it is clear that although consumer behavior has changed, there is strong demand as soon as it is possible to travel.
A positive outlook for luxury travel as Clayton van Hooijdonk details their new F&B program and preparation for the summer.
LHW recently announced the addition of eight new members to their portfolio and has an anticipated 13 new builds across the world in 2021. Shannon Knapp is optimistic about the recovery of luxury travel and tells us about where she is seeing demand and how the pandemic has influenced consumer behavior.
Anguilla has been protected from COVID by creating a bubble and closing their borders. While this held the pandemic at bay it has consequences for the travel industry. Diego Angarita tells us how they have weathered the storm and are positive for the future.
Hilton launched their CleanStay this summer and has focused on meeting the ever-changing needs of their guests, introducing WorkSpaces by Hilton for those that need a quiet alternative to home. Nils-Arne also talks about exciting new projects in the pipeline and the long term influence the pandemic will have on luxury travel.
Javier expands on new projects they are working on in Dubai, France, and London, as well as a resort project in Sardinia, reminding us that the attention needs to be on how design facilitates a superior guest experience, and not just on the design itself.
A glimpse of the Dream Hotel & Residences, Doha, Qatar, concept and the story behind the culinary superstar playing a senior role in making it happen.
Vishal patel
Shares how sensei has created a
Personalized
Approach to caring for their guests’ healthcare interests with a science
Backed research
And data approach.
A glimpse to the future as WorldHotels creates unique and meaningful experiences for their guests, identifying seven different types of travelers where every individual’s story is heard.
Insight into Hotel Emma’s fascinating history as a reimagined brewery and time proven resilience through the Prohibition and now the Pandemic.
Niamh tells us how Rosewood has prioritized the shifting needs of guests, creating virtual support programs, wellness sabbaticals interwoven with workcations, and a 24-hour intensive immersion program designed to reset one’s circadian rhythm and promote sleep.
Keeping the spirit of hospitality alive in a fluctuating landscape with a sense of community and technology innovations
Talking trends, sustainability and wellness and preparing for the year ahead.
Staying safe and following the CDC and WHO guidelines, along with those of the CIty of Chicago and State of Illinois, have allowed the Kimpton Gray to stay open and still tap into their creativity.
Virtual conference, real prize winners! The ILHA is enormously grateful
to our generous sponsors who not only made the event possible but also fun.
ILHA interviews Tom Underwood, who had just completed his second week as the new CEO of StayNTouch, a leading cloud PMS provider for hotels.
Mia talks about gaining the consumer’s trust and seizing the opportunity to reimagine your hotel wellness offerings to offer a personalized experience that meets everyone’s desires while also ensuring ROI.
Guests are invited to participate in the projects, to contribute their time and expertise or even to simply donate.
Feisal gives an indepth look at how Hilton has been rising to the challenges of the pandemic, the policies and procedures they have put in place to make their guests and staff feel safe as well as their Hilton EventReady program for event planners.
Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa’s personalised service is exemplified through Guest Experience Manager Michael Ferreira.
Roxie will be doing a sound healing meditative experience at the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE2020 Conference. She tells us about the roots of her practice and how she is sharing her art with hotels and her virtual audience.
Hospitality will always be about doing things that make guests happily return. We believe that technology is an important variable in that guest satisfaction equation.
It has been a challenging year for the hotel industry but also the opportunity to stand strong as a brand and respond with grace and compassion.
Insight into their decision to close during the height of the pandemic and preparation for reopening early 2021.
Russell joined HVS in 1995 and was appointed managing director in 1996, becoming chairman in 2012. He has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from HOSPA, the hospitality professionals’ association, in 2011, and the ‘Hall of Fame’ Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hot.E hotel investment conference in London in 2017. He shares his thoughts on the long term effects of the pandemic and strategies to survive.
We worked very hard with our hotel teams to be able to ensure that despite the fact that our safety protocols would have been crucial to a successful reopening, the guest experience would not be inferior because of those protocols.
Anna is the “Wellness Pioneer” of the Six Senses brand and talks to us about how they have pivoted their wellbeing programs to reach their guests while at home and create a blueprint for the future.
Jeff David’s survival strategy has many layers, taking the austere measures necessary to thrive during a pandemic while also remaining mindful of their staff, community and brand DNA.
When the borders to the Maldives closed Jason and his team decided to use the time to take advantage of their setting and get creative with some innovative projects that include sustainable superfood gardening, a jungle gymnasium, “Cluckinghampalace” and more.
The lodging industry is various shades of bad until the COVID case count is reduced.
Mathias gives us an insight into the thoughtful process behind their reopening strategies and the creative initiatives they have put in place to reduce costs and take care of their staff.
Nicolas talks about how his staff are prepared to provide exemplary service while following new safety protocols, and the Integrated Medical Immune Support Immersion at their Holistic Wellness Centre, led by highly trained physicians.
Taj Hotels, a subsidiary of the Indian Hotels Company, expanded into the Middle East with the opening of its second hotel, Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Stephen Meredith tells us how the 200 room hotel with views of the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf, are prepared and ready for their guests.
The International Luxury Hotel Association’s NorthEast Chapter hosted a webinar on The Future of Design where they discussed how they have had to respond to the crisis in current projects and adapt with innovative solutions and technologies while placing a renewed value on vendor relationships as we all face a pandemic reality.
Brands need to stay connected to their community by building trust and engaging with their guests each step of the journey. Safety is key and investment in technology is essential as contactless solutions, AI and loyalty based programs determine success.
Elizabeth reinvented the Las Vegas culinary scene, transforming it into a lively experience with celebrity chefs and world-class dining. Her clients include New York’s Rainbow Room, Montage Resorts, Ritz Carlton Hotels and Resorts, Netjets, Celebrity Cruises, Trump Casinos, and Viceroy Hotels, to mention a few. She also moderated The International Luxury Hotel Association’s webinar on the Future of F&B, facilitating a discussion with experts on real-life challenges in an unprecedented time.
Offering guests a sanctuary that is safe but still retains the DNA of the Aman brand is at the forefront of the group’s philosophy as they navigate the new travel landscape. Advice: your staff are at the center of everything you do. Focus on the elements you can control to offer genuine, heartfelt hospitality.
Habitas is using the downtime to work on its brand expansion into Mexico, Central America, Asia, and the Middle East over the next couple of years. Oliver shares the thought process behind the Habitas concept and their approach to the pandemic.
A glimpse into the life of a unique hotel group stretching the limits on surprising and delighting their guests.
It is inspiring to see such a dynamic and purposeful approach to a catastrophic event. Sebastien talks about Chef Daniel’s generosity towards his team and first responders as his restaurants closed. He also outlines their plan for the future, with safety a priority and innovative ideas to keep guests entertained.
As former chief operating officer for Nobu Restaurants and director of operations for Nobu Hotels, Santi is the opening task force manager for this global brand.
The International Luxury Hotel Association spoke with Romy Bhojwani during the COVID-19 crisis to understand how the hotel industry is being affected and what strategies he is putting in place for the future.
What factors are travelers using to determine whether it is safe to travel and how is this influencing their travel behavior? Market research by H2R Market Research gives a glimpse into the state of the traveler’s mind as they navigate their own journey through the health crisis that is having a profound affect on the luxury hotel sector.
Michelle details creative imaginings their hotels are designing so that guests can have fun while feeling safe. She talks about the last three months in travel, their Open Road Series, and what the future could possibly hold.
Kathy explores options for hotels facing difficult decisions and discusses how lower than normal new construction will assist hotels in the long run.
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas have been the leaders in sustainability and wellness before the concepts were on the radar as trends worth talking about in the industry. Neil goes into depth about their thought process behind the brand and their unique narrative.
Ofra’s first project was the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas followed by the design and construction of the Mirage Conference Center. Both had no budget nor deadline. She has since had a reality check and has done extensive work on both hotels and mixed-use projects. The ILHA asked her how COVID-19 has affected the design industry and its influence for years to come.
Brands need to stay connected to their community by building trust and engaging with their guests each step of the journey. Safety is key and investment in technology is essential as contactless solutions, AI and loyalty based programs determine success.
A glimpse into the future as COVID-19 challenges hotel design to be more sustainable and relevant, moving agiley to reflect the importance of wellness, privacy and space. David T’Kint, who has worked on some of the most prestigious hotel brands, including the Great Scotland Yard in London’s Whitehall, talks about how this will be reflected in the aesthetic experience.
The #1 Internal Communication Solution for Hospitality.
Elizabeth Blau, Founder & CEO of Blau+Associates moderated the International Luxury Hotel Association’s webinar on The Future of F&B, with panelists Santi Rodriguez, Operations Director, Nobu Hotels, Sebastien Silvestri, CEO, Dinex, Steven Kamali, Founder, Hospitality House, and Daniel Hostettler, President, Relais & Châteaux, North America & Group Managing Director, OHM Collection.
Valor Hospitality has been raising the bar on guest experience, investing, owning and operating hotels worldwide that have a unique story to tell, from luxury safari lodges in Africa to the recent acquisition of the Kimpton hotel The Rouge in DC. Euan McGlashan has led the way.
Sustainability is more than a trend, it’s a way of life that the luxury hospitality industry is investing both its time and resources into towards a better future for the next generation and our planet. Arlene tells us about Club Med’s sustainability initiatives, their challenges, and the importance of having the right partners who also want to do the right thing.
The minister spoke at the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE’19 Summit in Miami about how their new government has made tourism a priority and are attracting travelers to visit the beautiful island to explore their unique natural resources.
Matt took part in the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE’19 Summit panel talking about partnerships and the importance of building a network of like-minded partners.
The International Luxury Hotel Association (ILHA) hosted its second in a series of timely and topical webinars, hosted by the NorthEast Chapter, with Navigating Today’s Hotel Financing & Transaction Environment.
Appointed as CEO in 2019, Mr. Smura talks about the group’s expansion internationally, as well as their first property in New York, situated close to Rockefeller Center. At the heart of this growth are the Kempinski Brand Standards that set the tone for personalized guest service along the entire journey.
Azadeh will be speaking on the Partnerships – Expand your Narrative panel at the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE’19 event where she will share how she lead the Pendry Hotels & Resorts’ collaboration with like-minded partners and also Montage International, to create unique experiences for their guests.
Bridget will be talking about how hoteliers need to change their approach to Digital Revenue Optimization to a profit-forward strategy at the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE’19 summit. Here she explains her thinking behind this concept, along with how she has lead phase 1 of their new adaptive website.
Alex has spent the last seven years at The Setai, Miami Beach, leading the Quality and Training program that earned them the 2015 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award. Guest Satisfaction, loyalty and developing new business with high profile partnerships like Art Basel Miami Beach are key components to his successful leadership of the 90-room hotel, 40 luxury suites and the 125-unit residences.
We caught up with our INSPIRE ‘19 emcee Jaclyn Riley, a hospitality brand marketing and communications consultant who launched Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants internationally after overseeing all communications for the hotels and resorts in the Eastern U.S. and the Caribbean.
Deborah joined the Acqualina pre-opening team in 2004 and in 2011 she became a partner in the hotel with ownership interest. She has been the driving force behind their Forbes Five Star Award and AAA Five Diamond award, and heads the hotel’s Executive Committee, seeing the brands long term strategies through from conception to execution.
Jean-Pierre is a visionary design thinker who is dedicated to working with retail brands on interpreting the latest trends for their business and creating strategies that have measurable results. He will be discussing the future at the ILHA’s event in Miami and shares some detail on his talk as well as mistakes brands make when defining their future.
We were fortunate enough to stay at the 1 Hotel South Beach late last year just as the weather was starting to cool but the days warm enough to enjoy an afternoon relaxing around the pool.
Beth spoke at the International Luxury Hotel Association’s INSPIRE’18 Summit in Las Vegas on Creating Experience Through Design and highlighted trends that they have incorporated in recent projects. She has over 25 years of experience in global design and has worked on a diverse portfolio of luxury projects that include the Renaissance Xi’an Hotel in China, the Skye Niseko in Japan, Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, the Elysium Hotel in Paphos, Cyprus, and the Marriott Taghazout Bay opening in Morocco late 2019.
How can you not get excited listening to David talk about his passion for plant-facing cuisine and inspiring guests to take their recipes home? A trendsetter in the luxury hospitality food & beverage realm, he is dedicated to leading the way to wellness through the art of healthy eating.
Stowe was kind enough to host the International Luxury Hotel Association’s launch party for our INSPIRE’18 Summit in Las Vegas at their brand new campus and also moderate the session Insights from the Asset Managers with Romy Bhojwani and David Israel from HotelAVE. His passion for the process of learning and hospitality is palatable and inspiring as he constantly strives to transform the student experience.
We are committed to the philosophy that forward-thinking design, service and guest experiences should be available across all market segments.
A true story of simple beginnings, hard work and a passion for the hotel world that started with a Receptionist position in a 4-star hotel in Hanoi. Do Van Dan understands the importance of guest experience and places it at the core of their philosophy.
So, we look at how you can get your community to adopt you, how do you become the mousetrap that everyone is attracted to. You need to have great therapists, we don’t hire anyone unless they have 2,000 hours on the table.
Mood lighting, themed wake up and drapes slowly opening to a set wake up are other innovations that we are proud of. This leads me into personalization – at the luxury and ultra-luxury level where more than 80% are returning guests, hotels today put tremendous effort into remembering their guest preferences – our technology makes this seamless for a hotel, whether it be their desired room temperature, pillow preference, TV channels or dining requests.
As Co-Founder and Co-President of MSD Hospitality, Ellis O’Connor has an impressive portfolio of properties under his leadership, including the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and the Hualalai Resort, both on the Big Island of Hawaii, and the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows in Santa Monica California.
Educator and consultant for bars, restaurants, and well-known beverage brands, and voted “Best Craft Cocktails of New England” by Yankee Magazine, Jonathan Pogash tells us how hotels are getting it right, where he can work with them on improving their bar program and highlights trends for 2018.
Nadine Sykora has some impressive statistics behind her. She is the top travel influencer and travel videographer on Youtube having made over 800 videos gaining 40 million+ views. Here, she talks about identifying the right travel blogger for your property and how to build a successful partnership where both of you benefit.
The story behind the French luxury swimwear brand, Vilebrequin, is dreamy, spirited and inspirational. Their dedication to true style, quality, and an endless summer comes across in their vibrant prints and interesting collaborations. In this interview, Roland Herlory dips into their story, successful partnerships, and the way forward.
Christian Glauser Benz heads up the expansion of Dream Hotels across all regions with a focus on the South-East US, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The brand is pushing the boundaries of guest experience, incorporating so many of the much talked about hotel trends and focusing on the guest, their journey, and their dream.
Bringing sophisticated technology and self-sustaining infrastructure to a remote island destination is no mean feat. Jonathan Blue takes us through the exciting journey of creating an ultra-luxury, self-sustaining paradise resort in the jungle.
Geoffrey Toffetti began his career in hospitality as a valet, eventually working his way up to Director of Guest services for Fortune Hotels in St. Petersburg Beach, FL (now the Tradewinds Island Grand). During his tenure, he learned the true nature of service, and how to achieve outstanding revenue performance while providing world-class guest experiences.
Tom prefers to do things differently, and The Black Tomato Group is an extension of his philosophy, creating bespoke travel experiences that start with the dream and discover the destination on the way. Here he talks about truly connecting, engaging and creating experiences that are transformative, and tells us about some favorite travel destinations you’ll want to visit.
Daniel Hostettler talks about Relais & Château’s dedication to both their guests and the environment when exploring culinary trends, or, as he prefers, culinary convictions. As President and Managing Director of Ocean House since the development of the resort in 2009, he has played a pivotal role in the exceptional and sincere performance of Ocean House and its two sister properties, the Weekapaug Inn and Watch Hill Inn.
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