Hotel News Now

5 things to know: 3 February 2012

2/3/2012 9:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• ADR forecasts subject to pricing pressures
• Weekly STR data shows improvement for US, Canada hotels
• US employers add 243,000 jobs in January
• Accor: No deal for Groupe du Louvre
• Former Gansevoort hotel on South Beach sold

Checking out: How to sell Room Key

2/3/2012 9:24:00 AM

What do the Cleveland Browns and Room Key have in common? Both lack a clear value proposition—for now.

Island Hospitality aims to shore up portfolio

2/3/2012 9:08:00 AM

The Florida-based management company plans to double the size of its hotel portfolio during the next five years, according to Island’s President Tim Walker.

Stock update: Starwood, Wynn, Supertel

2/3/2012 8:59:00 AM

Included in this week’s update of news from the hotel industry’s public sector: Supertel Hospitality’s shareholders approve a US$30-million investment.

Starwood Hotel execs talk development, economy

2/3/2012 8:38:00 AM

CEO Frits van Paasschen, discussed Thursday the company’s record-setting year of growth and the outlook in emerging markets for the year ahead during the company’s Q4.

STR: Canada results for week ending 28 January

2/3/2012 8:35:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 22-28 January, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 28 January

2/3/2012 8:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 22-28 January, according to data from STR.

Pricing pressures could alter ADR forecasts

2/3/2012 7:27:00 AM

Data collectors point to a bevy of unanswered questions and unknown factors that will determine hoteliers’ pricing power throughout 2012.

Millennials: Look inward before being heard

2/3/2012 7:10:00 AM

If we 20-somethings want to stand out among other individuals, have our ideas heard and be recognized, then we have to first take a look at ourselves.

Hotel managers labor to control labor

2/3/2012 7:02:00 AM

Hotel operators went against the trend during the recovery, holding operating expenses to a modest 3.4% increase.

Hotel Earnings Tracker

2/3/2012 6:58:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Wynn Resorts Limited posted Q4 earnings this week.

Hostmark finds success in Lexington brand

2/2/2012 10:10:00 AM

Hostmark Hospitality continues to find success with the Lexington Collection hotel brand.

5 things to know: 2 February 2012

2/2/2012 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Facebook IPO could value the network at US$100b
• India hotel boom by brand
• Starwood Hotels reports 5.9% Q4 RevPAR gain
• European hoteliers lag in social-media adoption
• US unemployment claims down 12,000

O’Reilly looks to add parts to portfolio

2/2/2012 9:22:00 AM

O’Reilly Hospitality Management eyes public-private partnerships as one way to develop new-build hotels during a time when construction is muted.

Hotel brands bullish on India

2/2/2012 9:21:00 AM

A spate of development announcements highlights major hotel brands’ interest in India. Here’s a company-by-company breakdown of current portfolios and future plans.

Charter One: Three P’s are the key to success

2/2/2012 8:40:00 AM

Executives at Charter One Hotels & Resorts believe a focus on people, product and performance rather than numbers will keep the company strong for years to come.

Starwood Hotels reports 5.9% Q4 RevPAR gain

2/2/2012 7:15:00 AM

During the quarter, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide signed 36 management and franchise contracts and opened 28 properties.

‘Think for yourself’ when forecasting

2/2/2012 7:07:00 AM

Don’t blindly rely on forecast data when settling on your own internal forecasting for the hotel industry, one C-level executive told me.

Hotel industry sentiment falls back to reality

2/2/2012 6:57:00 AM

Reality has finally begun to take hold for most people in this business.

5 things to know: 1 February 2012

2/1/2012 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Room Key faces tough questions from hoteliers
• FelCor to acquire Knickerbocker Hotel in New York for US$115m
• Investors at ALIS reminisce on 2011 deals
• TripAdvisor: Wi-Fi access most important hotel amenity
• Starwood Hotels overhauling loyalty program

Hoteliers raise tough questions about Room Key

2/1/2012 9:07:00 AM

Exit traffic from Brand.com will drive the bulk of Roomkey.com’s visits before a consumer marketing campaign is launched in March. But will it deliver enough eyeballs to compete with the heavyweights?

Indianapolis hotels score with the Super Bowl

2/1/2012 9:02:00 AM

Hoteliers in Indianapolis have reason to celebrate as the city hosts the Super Bowl for the first time, driving up occupancies and room rates in the area.

Celebration and €conomic uncertainty in London

2/1/2012 8:55:00 AM

As London prepares to tackle both economic hurdles and major celebratory events, we’re all asking: What are the city's short-term market expectations?

Positive RevPAR growth for Regional UK, London

2/1/2012 8:18:00 AM

London and Regional U.K. reported positive RevPAR growth during 2011, according to data from STR Global.

Hotel investors talk deals, opportunities

2/1/2012 8:16:00 AM

Speaking on a panel at ALIS last week, hotel investors said they foresee an improving environment for hotels, but the wild card is the availability of debt.

Starwood Hotels to overhaul SPG benefits

2/1/2012 7:35:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide announce new benefits to its Starwood Preferred Guest program.

FelCor to acquire NY Knickerbocker for US$115m

2/1/2012 7:16:00 AM

FelCor Lodging Trust Incorporated will acquire the landmark Knickerbocker Hotel in midtown Manhattan, New York, for $115 million.

Exchange rate impact on room rates

2/1/2012 7:09:00 AM

Changes in the exchange rate can make destinations more or less attractive, depending on the country (and currency) of origin of the traveler.

Broke Europe calls for hotel bed taxes

2/1/2012 6:57:00 AM

Economic volatility coupled with government cutbacks is forcing local authorities to introduce new bed taxes that could hurt the hotel industry.

5 things to know: 31 January 2012

1/31/2012 9:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff
• JLLH: record-setting deal flow in NYC during 2011
• Chesapeake to acquire NYC Hyatt for US$76.5m
• Las Vegas hotels back on track
• Accessing debt requires specificity from borrowers
• Travelodge to open 41 UK hotels in 2012

Chartres digs for deals, builds portfolio

1/31/2012 8:50:00 AM

Leaders of San Francisco-based Chartres Lodging Group aim to increase acquisition activity by more than US$1 billion during the next three years.

How to talk to the banks

1/31/2012 7:43:00 AM

A lot of people are reaching out to banks for money and to potentially buy a bank-owned hotel. Here’s how to cut through all the clutter and grab a banker’s attention.

Travelodge to open 41 hotels in UK in 2012

1/31/2012 7:35:00 AM

Travelodge will be opening 41 hotels (3610 rooms) this year and creating 1,000 new jobs across the UK.

Vegas hotel performance back on track

1/31/2012 7:26:00 AM

Steady increases in occupancy led to double-digit ADR growth throughout 2011 in Las Vegas.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

1/31/2012 7:16:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Hoteliers are embarking on a public-relations spree to shore up MEA’s reputation; investors are taking a wait-and-see approach; and openings and development news from across the region.

Mild winter can’t put freeze on ski resorts

1/31/2012 6:57:00 AM

Snowfall doesn’t correlate to hotel demand—at least if on-slope conditions are at minimally acceptable levels.

Chesapeake to acquire NYC Hyatt for US$76.5m

1/31/2012 6:36:00 AM

Chesapeake Lodging Trust is paying US$414,000 per room for the 185-room Hyatt Place New York Midtown South, which is under development.

NYC hotel transactions hit US$3.5b in 2011

1/30/2012 3:26:00 PM

The volume of hotel transactions in New York reached an all-time record high in 2011.

5 things to know: 30 January 2012

1/30/2012 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• leaders: industry must aggressively market U.S. on global stage;
• lenders discuss their hotel activity during ALIS;
• Denihan planning to double portfolio in five years;
• Olympic organizers return 20% of room inventory; and
• Kayak: iPhone users most likely to buy travel products online.

Denihan looks in all directions for expansion

1/30/2012 9:14:00 AM

The New York-based development-and-management company plans to double its portfolio under the leadership of new president David Duncan.

Access Point closes on senior secured facility

1/30/2012 9:05:00 AM

Access Point Financial is on track to place US$1 billion in loans for hotel improvement/bridge financing by 2015, the company said.

Americans appetite for vacations drives demand

1/30/2012 9:03:00 AM

HIL's six-month growth rate, which has historically confirmed the forthcoming turning points in U.S. hotel business activity, posted a positive gain of 5.7% during December.

Lenders tell their side of the story at ALIS

1/30/2012 8:32:00 AM

Lenders had an opportunity to discuss their hotel sector investment plans during last week’s ALIS conference.

Comp magnets vs. comp repellants

1/30/2012 7:19:00 AM

Whether your hotel is a “comp magnet” or a “comp repellant,” it’s the influence of data that should most concern you.

Reduce risk of management termination

1/30/2012 7:10:00 AM

Owners and operators can eliminate the need for drastic changes by negotiating a less disruptive solution than early management termination.

US tourism faces hurdles to inbound travel

1/30/2012 6:59:00 AM

The global travel industry is growing, but the U.S. is losing its fair share. Competition will require a united effort across all sectors of tourism, travel leaders said during ALIS.

5 things to know: 27 January 2012

1/27/2012 9:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Study reveals importance of international travel;
• optimism prevails at ALIS;
• U.S. GDP up 2.8% in Q4 2011;
• Indy hotel prices up as much as 1,758% for Super Bowl; and
• Pebblebrook provides 2012 outlook.

Checking out: ALIS edition

1/27/2012 8:54:00 AM

Thank goodness I don’t believe in omens. If I did, I’m sure the sky would have fallen this year during ALIS.

STR: US results for week ending 21 January

1/27/2012 8:26:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 15-21 January, according to data from STR.

Deal experts optimistic in 2012

1/27/2012 8:22:00 AM

Improving industry fundamentals, an influx of foreign capital and the possibility of distressed sales have dealmakers expecting an active transactions year in 2012.

The truth about 2012 for hoteliers

1/27/2012 7:25:00 AM

Optimism is about to crash into reality. Are you ready for impact?

It never rains in Southern California ...

1/27/2012 7:11:00 AM

A downpour that coincided with the start of ALIS didn’t dampen the realistic optimism among attendees.

Update: Hotel Acquisition Funds List

1/27/2012 6:00:00 AM

Updated funds include: Apollo Global Fund; Goldman Real Estate Fund; and the Japan Hotel & Resort and Nippon Hotel Fund. (Free registration/ login required.)

IREFAC: Hotel debt market evolving

1/26/2012 10:08:00 AM

During the closing session at ALIS on Wednesday, members of the Industry Real Estate Financing Advisory Council said the changing debt market is likely to draw out the closings of hotel transactions.

5 things to know: 26 January 2012

1/26/2012 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR weekly data for US and Canada;
• highlights from day three of ALIS conference;
• 53 hotels officially become Hyatt House;
• Robert Morse named COO of Americas at IHG; and
• WSJ: Two boutiques in NYC set for foreclosure.

Poland, Ukraine gear up for UEFA

1/26/2012 9:33:00 AM

STR Global reports on the latest hotel pipeline in Poland and Ukraine in light of the upcoming UEFA European Football Championship.

Banks stepping up to maintain hotel values

1/26/2012 8:50:00 AM

One of the biggest surprises during the recession was banks’ willingness to inject capital to maintain distressed hotels on their balance sheets. Many owners, on the other hand, have not been as diligent.

Anaheim-Santa Ana tops weekly increases

1/26/2012 8:34:00 AM

The market's occupancy rose 29.5%, its ADR was up 16% and its RevPAR jumped 50.2%.

STR: Canada results for week ending 21 January

1/26/2012 8:24:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 15-21 January, according to data from STR.

Hyatt officially unveils Hyatt House

1/26/2012 8:10:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels will rebrand 38 Hyatt Summerfield Suites and 15 Hotel Sierra hotels to Hyatt house.

ALIS attendees finally have it right

1/26/2012 8:04:00 AM

The only way to describe the sentiment at the first major investment conference of the year is “reserved optimism,” as attendees like some aspects of what’s going on but know challenges lie ahead.

Expansion on agenda for Spanish hotel chains

1/26/2012 7:31:00 AM

Chief executives from Meliá Hotels International, NH Hoteles and Barceló Hotels & Resorts provide detailed company updates during last week’s FITUR travel trade fair in Madrid.

Republicans, democrats, inaugurations, oh my!

1/26/2012 6:55:00 AM

Preparing for a major event requires months of planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you get started.

5 things to know: 25 January 2012

1/25/2012 10:10:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IMF cuts growth forecast for global economy;
• Day 2 of HotelNewsNow.com ALIS coverage;
• Choice redefines Comfort brand family;
• Hilton claims fastest growing major hotel company;
• survey: Hotel owners facing PIP challenges.

Hotels see benefits in Africa’s mobile trend

1/25/2012 9:58:00 AM

Mobile technology is advancing rapidly in the African market, and some hoteliers have already found the key to boost mobile bookings.

Trump talks hotels at ALIS

1/25/2012 9:49:00 AM

Donald Trump shared his tips for real-estate success to ALIS delegates Tuesday—and got in a few jabs at President Obama along the way.

ALIS: Leaders debate success of Room Key

1/25/2012 9:25:00 AM

Not every hotel executive on stage during a general session at ALIS said Room Key would be a success. One claimed it wouldn’t work at all.

Caribbean hotels report increases in 2011

1/25/2012 8:43:00 AM

The Caribbean hotel industry reported increases in all three key performance metrics in 2011, according to data from STR.

Novotel’s high-tech room tests new standards

1/25/2012 7:25:00 AM

Accor’s Novotel brand has partnered with Microsoft to create the room of the future, in which high-tech features might become the brand standards of tomorrow.

Trends in luxury ADR premiums

1/25/2012 7:15:00 AM

Luxury ADR premiums are a bellwether of overall hotel industry performance. Which of the top markets have returned to previous peaks?

Distribution Channel Analysis study released

1/24/2012 3:08:00 PM

To help hoteliers from all facets of the industry better understand the complexities of hotel room distribution, the AH&LA teamed with STR to create a special report, “Distribution Channel Analysis; a Guide for Hotels.”

Distribution study available for download

1/24/2012 2:51:00 PM

The comprehensive report discusses the effects of channel mix on profitability and what the industry can expect in the near term in the distribution landscape.

Choice shifts focus to Comfort brand family

1/24/2012 12:34:00 PM

The Comfort brand family, which includes Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites, has embarked on a multi-faceted plan to strengthen and revitalize its 2,000 domestic hotels.

5 things to know: 24 January 2012

1/24/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR, PwC update lodging forecasts;
• HotelNewsNow.com recaps Day 1 of ALIS conference;
• Southwest Value Partners takes over Transwest properties;
• Survey: Majority of execs remain bullish on the marketplace;
• Amsterdam hotels are resilient to downturn.

CEOs: 2011 momentum carrying into 2012

1/24/2012 9:26:00 AM

A panel of CEOs from around the hotel industry said falling unemployment, a rise in hotel transactions and growing demand signify a strong 2012 for the industry.

ALIS: Marriott, Zell share insights, opinions

1/24/2012 9:11:00 AM

Hotel legend Bill Marriott and real-estate icon Sam Zell tell conference attendees that having cash on hand is the best tool a company can have during an economic downturn.

STR: Modest increases expected in '12, '13

1/24/2012 9:05:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry is expected to report steady increases in both 2012 and 2013, according to the most recent forecast from STR, in partnership with Tourism Economics.

HVS: Events leading Amsterdam's quick recovery

1/24/2012 8:34:00 AM

Recovering conference market puts Amsterdam’s hotel sector on a strong footing for future growth, says HVS London.

Total property transactions increase in 2011

1/24/2012 8:13:00 AM

Total hotel property transactions in 2011 amounted to US$14 billion, compared to US$8.6 billion in 2010, according to data from STR Analytics.

ALIS: US hotel data paints picture of recovery

1/24/2012 7:55:00 AM

Three of the industry’s smartest data wonks shared optimistic outlooks for the U.S. hotel industry in a rapid fire, 150-second roundup.

ALIS: US outlook shows more growth, financing

1/24/2012 7:30:00 AM

The U.S. economy is experiencing sustained growth, said John Silvia, a managing director and chief economist of Wells Fargo Securities. Perhaps more promising? Banks are lending.

Strategic plans vs. reality in development

1/24/2012 7:10:00 AM

There’s a big difference between building a hotel to capture forecasted increases in demand and building one to meet an existing market need.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

1/24/2012 6:58:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Hyatt introduces Hyatt House in India; China Lodging pursues an aggressive expansion strategy; and IHG will launch a new upscale chain in India.

Strong appetite for deals in US: DLA Piper

1/23/2012 2:00:00 PM

DLA Piper 2012 Hospitality Outlook Survey reveals “strong” appetite for deals
near-term deal flow expected to continue, led by private equity investors.

PwC US releases 2012 Lodging Industry Forecast

1/23/2012 12:05:00 PM

With improved occupancy, focus turns to pricing in 2012, according to PwC US Lodging Industry Forecast.

5 things to know: 23 January 2012

1/23/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR’s Randy Smith wraps up 2011, looks ahead to 2012;
• Starwood reports record growth in 2011;
• Google Hotel Finder adds new function;
• Abu Dhabi reports 17% growth in hotel guests in 2011; and
• Expedia launches last-minute deals program.

STR Global: Americas results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:45:00 AM

In 2011, the Americas region reported a 4.2% increase in occupancy to 60.2%, a 3.8% gain in average daily rate to US$104.26 and an 8.2% jump in revenue per available room to US$62.79.

STR: US hotels report strong results in 2011

1/23/2012 9:45:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported increases in all three key performance metrics in 2011, according to data from STR.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:34:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced positive results in the three key performance metrics in 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Supertel on brink of new strategy

1/23/2012 9:27:00 AM

Supertel Hospitality plans to move into the business of acquiring midscale and upper-midscale hotels if its shareholders approve a US$30-million investment from an Argentinean real-estate company.

STR Global: MEA results for 2011

1/23/2012 9:24:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa region reported mostly negative performance results in 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR: US hotel performance for December

1/23/2012 9:17:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in December reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

STR Global: Europe results for 2011

1/23/2012 8:34:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for 2011, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Operating margins expected to rise in 2012

1/23/2012 8:27:00 AM

It will be tough for the U.S. hotel industry in 2012 to match the somewhat unexpected high performance growth of last year, but there is reason for optimism.

Authors discuss release of distribution report

1/23/2012 6:59:00 AM

The 214-page Distribution Channel Analysis study, which will be released Tuesday at ALIS, has been dubbed “a comprehensive study on the value of each of the channels.”

5 things to know: 20 January 2012

1/20/2012 10:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases weekly, monthly performance data;
• hoteliers react to Obama’s plan for visa reform;
• Marriott preparing to open five more EDITIONs;
• Trump Soho will go up for sale; and
• Fitch: demand trends continue to show solid recovery.

Hoteliers applaud Obama’s plan for visa reform

1/20/2012 9:41:00 AM

President Barack Obama said this month a task force has been created to improve the visa process for certain travelers. Hoteliers say it will lead to increased international demand, especially in port cities.

Checking out: Obama’s travel initiative, more

1/20/2012 9:17:00 AM

President Obama’s plans to boost inbound travel to the U.S. is a win for the country’s hotel industry.

Canada results for week ending 14 January

1/20/2012 9:08:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 8-14 January, according to data from STR.

Stock update: Rezidor, Supertel

1/20/2012 9:01:00 AM

In this week’s update of public hotel company news: Rezidor and Carlson form a new entity and Supertel Hospitality receives an additional investment.

STR: New Orleans leads December increases

1/20/2012 8:32:00 AM

New Orleans experienced the largest increases in all three key performance metrics in December, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 14 January

1/20/2012 8:06:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 8-14 January, according to data from STR.

Room Key: Operators like site, question costs

1/20/2012 7:45:00 AM

While many hotel operators are excited at the prospect of saving money on commissions by using RoomKey.com, some are concerned they will have to fork over additional funds to make it work.

Croatia makes strides to encourage development

1/20/2012 7:22:00 AM

Croatia’s government is thawing restrictions that thwarted hotel development in the past.

US hotel transactions gaining speed

1/20/2012 6:54:00 AM

There were 130 single-asset deals of more than US$10 million, representing deal volume of approximately US$8.9 billion during 2011, according to LW Hospitality Advisors LLC’s Select Major 2011 U.S. Hotel Sales Survey.

AH&LA endorses Obama's travel initiative

1/19/2012 12:14:00 PM

President Obama announced Thursday he has issued an executive order aimed at boosting travel and tourism.

5 things to know: 19 January 2012

1/19/2012 10:18:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Carlson, Rezidor become Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group;
• JLLH: 2012 transaction volume will match 2011 at US$15 billion;
• STR Global releases hotel construction data from key regions;
• Accor will sell two high-profile properties; and
• Chicago's Elysian earns top spot on TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

COO talks Carlson, Rezidor alliance

1/19/2012 9:42:00 AM

The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, a new entity announced Wednesday, was more than a year in the making, Carlson COO Thorsten Kirschke said. Aligning each company’s brands will require just as much diligence.

Qualia, Louvre partner for Poland development

1/19/2012 9:16:00 AM

Qualia Development and Louvre Hotels Group sign a strategic franchise partnership for the development of Golden Tulip across Poland.

Bad debt looms over hotel sector

1/19/2012 8:48:00 AM

A day of reckoning approaches for hotels saddled with debt from the frothy days of 2006 and 2007.

Dr. Doom’s real-world prediction for 2012

1/19/2012 8:26:00 AM

Outside of the fantasy land of hotel industry conferences, real-estate professionals know the sector is headed for another challenging and uncertain year ahead.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for December

1/19/2012 8:19:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 496 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for December

1/19/2012 8:12:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 143,484 rooms, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for December

1/19/2012 7:49:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,460 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

ALIS venue a three-tiered operation

1/19/2012 7:16:00 AM

Managing the operations at L.A. Live—a multibranded property including a JW Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and Ritz-Carlton Residences—requires a special skill set and involves a combination of resources.

ALIS speakers share outlook on 2012

1/19/2012 6:57:00 AM

As hoteliers gear up for ALIS, moderators from various sessions share with HotelNewsNow.com what to expect from their panels, as well as the U.S. hotel industry this year.

Design of the times

1/18/2012 4:14:00 PM

Creating a comprehensive guest experience encompasses many facets from financing to construction to architecture aesthetic. HotelNewsNow.com examines the changing landscape of hotel design.

Carlson, Rezidor merge under one name

1/18/2012 1:00:00 PM

While the legal status and ownership structure of Carlson and Rezidor remain the same, the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group will pursue the global alignment and management of its brands.

Americas hotel deals to hold steady in 2012

1/18/2012 12:41:00 PM

Healthy operating fundamentals and an abundance of equity capital will support a buoyant market for hotel transactions

Accor's CFO confirms no asset spin-off

1/18/2012 10:11:00 AM

Responding to an earlier report, Accor’s CFO said during a conference call Tuesday the company is not planning any changes to its structure.

5 things to know: 18 January 2012

1/18/2012 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Special report examines evolution of hotel architecture, design;
• President Obama will unveil new U.S. tourism policy;
• Wynn Resorts denies charges from largest shareholder;
• survey: Free Wi-Fi is a must when choosing a hotel room; and
• Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide moves headquarters.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis is unique, timeless

1/18/2012 9:40:00 AM

John C. Portman’s unique design aesthetic contributed in making a timeless hotel that continues to be a part of the Peachtree center, an iconic landmark in Atlanta.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for December

1/18/2012 9:31:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 17,869 rooms, according to the December STR Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for Dec.

1/18/2012 9:22:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 197 hotels, according to the December 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Cutting edge or on the edge?

1/18/2012 8:40:00 AM

Time-lapse video of a 30-story hotel built in 15 days goes viral and is another example of how cutting-edge thinking can change the hotel industry.

STR Global: Spain, Portugal see RevPAR growth

1/18/2012 8:34:00 AM

STR Global reported double-digit RevPAR growth in Lisbon, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands year-to-November 2011 compared to the same timeframe in the year prior.

Today’s architects design, build experiences

1/18/2012 8:31:00 AM

Consumers have unprecedented power over market trends, so today’s hotel architects focus on the guest experience and enhancing that experience on multiple levels.

Construction financing market challenging

1/18/2012 8:04:00 AM

The pace of construction debt flowing into the hotel sector has all but slowed to a trickle, lending experts report.

Rising steel prices don't deter renovations

1/18/2012 7:47:00 AM

Construction companies are turning to renovation work as their main business driver, but the price of steel—up as much as 50% during the past two years—has become a hindrance.

Accor reports 2.5% 2011 revenue growth

1/17/2012 12:56:00 PM

Record expansion aided Accor's revenue uptick, as the company opened 318 hotels comprising 38,700 new rooms in 2011.

5 things to know: 17 January 2012

1/17/2012 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• UNWTO: International arrivals in 2012 on track to reach 1 billion;
• travel exports up 13.5% through first 11 months of 2011;
• China's GDP growth slows to 8.9% during Q4 2011;
• study: three factors that will define travel in 2012; and
• Google's Freshness Update provides better search results.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

1/17/2012 9:30:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: a look back at how many hotels opened in the Americas; hotel stocks in 2011 underperform; and a list of recent key openings and transactions.

Tourism arrivals to hit record 1b: UNWTO

1/17/2012 9:07:00 AM

International tourist arrivals are on track to surpass the 1 billion during 2012, despite headwinds that could slow the overall pace of growth, according to the UNWTO.

Brand.com bookings increase 6.1% in Q3

1/17/2012 8:57:00 AM

The hotel-direct channel was the fastest growing within the distribution landscape, according to TravelClick. Online travel agencies, however, reported the largest increase in average daily rate.

The lost art, science of front-desk yielding

1/17/2012 8:48:00 AM

There are thousands of dollars being lost at the point-of-sale by front-desk personnel who have not been properly trained to handle the walk-in and/or rate-sensitive customer in person.

Do you have an (un)competitive set?

1/17/2012 8:32:00 AM

Only 45% of U.S. hotels and 37% of European hotels named as primary competitors are named back as a primary competitor by the same properties.

Positive November RevPAR for Japan

1/17/2012 8:06:00 AM

Hotel performance in Japan has suffered following the earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, but the country’s hotel industry is making a comeback, according to STR Global’s Japan Hotel Review.

Barometer sample content

1/15/2012 12:05:00 PM

5 things to know: 13 January 2012

1/13/2012 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Amanresort sale stalls because of low bids;
• Choice buys land parcels to spur Cambria development;
• brands offer new revenue management platforms;
• Western Australia tourism hotspots report low occupancy; and
• MGM to build new resort in Massachusetts.

STR: US results for week ending 7 January

1/13/2012 9:36:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 1-7 January, according to data from STR.

Checking out: The biggest story of 2012

1/13/2012 8:54:00 AM

It took less than 11 days for the most important story of 2012 to drop in the new year. It took the six brands behind Room Key quite a bit longer to get the platform up and running.

Brands work to simplify revenue management

1/13/2012 7:46:00 AM

Many of the globe’s largest hotel companies are offering new platforms and support to help property-level managers tackle the increasingly complex discipline of revenue management.

Choice buys land parcels to drive development

1/13/2012 7:38:00 AM

The franchisor acquired five land parcels through distressed sales during the past 18 months, and the land will be sold back to Cambria Suites developers at cost.

5 things to know: 12 January 2012

1/12/2012 9:43:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. transactions volume hits US$8.9b in 2011;
• STR: luxury segment tops weekly performance in U.S.;
• NYC transactions market to gain strength in 2012;
• US unemployment claims up 24,000 last week; and
• Best Western adds inventory to Room Key.

REITs awakening in 2012

1/12/2012 9:33:00 AM

Real-estate investment trusts are starting to kick the tires on potential hotel deals again as macroeconomic clarity returns.

Canada results for week ending 7 January

1/12/2012 9:20:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 1-7 January, according to data from STR.

STR reports 3,377 rooms open in Canada in 2011

1/12/2012 9:09:00 AM

In 2011, 34 new properties comprising 3,377 rooms opened in Canada, according to data from the STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

NYC deals will continue in 2012

1/12/2012 8:50:00 AM

The strong operating performance of hotels in New York is one factor leading to an expanding deal market in the city, transaction experts said.

Luxury hotels lead weekly increases

1/12/2012 8:27:00 AM

The segment’s occupancy rose 3.6% to 51.9%, its ADR was up 5.7% to US$267.63 and its RevPAR increased 9.4% to US$138.96.

Panicking about distribution? Pump the brakes

1/12/2012 7:49:00 AM

Too many hoteliers— too many headlines— are claiming a new product is the be-all, end-all savior for simplifying hotel online distribution. It’s time to stop and take a deep breath.

Big hotel brands get personal on social media

1/12/2012 7:12:00 AM

Size can be a hindrance on social media, where personal interactions are worth more than blanket communication. Here’s how several major hotel companies are thinking small to generate big returns.

Brands team to launch Roomkey.com hotel search

1/11/2012 9:51:00 AM

CEO John F. Davis said Room Key will allow consumers to compare brands but still book direct and will charge “significantly less” commissions.

5 things to know: 11 January 2012

1/11/2012 9:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Six major chains launch hotel search engine;
• investors taking wait-and-see approach in MEA;
• STR: 70,291 rooms expected to open in U.S. in 2012;
• California hotel foreclosures jump 65.9% in Q4; and
• GBTA: Business travel spend up 7.6% in 2011.

Hoteliers, government work to rebrand MEA

1/11/2012 9:02:00 AM

After a tumultuous year, hoteliers and government officials are working together in the Middle East/Africa to rebrand the region as an attractive tourism destination for domestic and inbound guests.

Trends that will shape the US hotel industry

1/11/2012 8:42:00 AM

2011 was a rebound year and performance results were strong, but they mostly were driven by easy comparables.

STR reports 38,409 new rooms opened in '11

1/11/2012 8:28:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry during 2011 opened 373 new properties with 38,409 rooms, which resulted in a 0.5% increase in existing room supply, according to data from STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

STR Global reports updated India hotel data

1/11/2012 7:25:00 AM

India’s hotel industry showed overall year-to-date November 2011 growth in performance data and the supply pipeline, STR Global announced today in conjunction with the start of the Hotel Investment Forum India conference in Mumbai.

Hotel investment largely on hold in MEA

1/11/2012 7:19:00 AM

Hotel investors are a taking a wait-and-see approach after the Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East/Africa region, though some bright spots have emerged.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

1/10/2012 10:19:00 AM

Company mergers and acquisitions—some completed, some proposed, some called off—highlight this roundup of news from the European hotel industry.

5 things to know: 10 January 2012

1/10/2012 10:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. holiday week data shows winners and losers;
• ILIA aims to level the playing field for independents;
• U.S. hotel business activity slows in December;
• TripAdvisor abandons dirtiest hotel list; and
• natural resource fuels Pennsylvania hotel industry.

ILIA gives voice to independent hotels

1/10/2012 10:00:00 AM

The Independent Lodging Industry Association is a new voice that aims to help independent hotels thrive.

How do the holidays treat hoteliers?

1/10/2012 9:37:00 AM

In one week, hoteliers experienced one of the least busy days (Christmas Eve) and one of the busiest days (New Year’s Eve) of the year. Let’s peek at the data to see how the industry fared.

Efficiency in renovation: 4 key considerations

1/10/2012 9:12:00 AM

It is crucial to consider the following points in order to maintain a fully-operational hotel property while renovations are underway.

Hoteliers work to sell the destination

1/10/2012 8:56:00 AM

Hoteliers around the world are pairing with local and global destination marketing organizations to reel in extra business this year as leisure travel increases.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index falls 15.3% in '11

1/10/2012 8:48:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended December with a 2.7% increase to 2,003 and was down 15.3% during 2011.

HIP: US hotel growth continues to slow

1/9/2012 4:56:00 PM

HIP's six-month growth rate, which has historically confirmed the turning points in U.S. hotel business activity, had a positive rate of 1.3% in December, following a positive rate of 2.4% in November.

5 things to know: 9 January 2012

1/9/2012 10:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• NYC hoteliers mixed on new convention center plan;
• U.S. preliminary hotel results show RevPAR gains;
• Green Street Advisors: U.S. commercial property values plateau;
• Travelodge and Chatwal target aggressive expansion; and
• Louvre opened 63 hotels during 2011.

Visitors return to Vienna. Will rate follow?

1/9/2012 9:58:00 AM

Downside risks likely will dominate in the short term, but the Vienna hotel market’s long-term outlook suggests a return to prosperity.

NYC hoteliers torn on new convention center

1/9/2012 9:23:00 AM

New York City hoteliers are weighing the pros and cons of the governor’s proposed plan to revitalize the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and develop a state-of-the-art facility in Queens.

If the home team wins, hometown hotels win

1/9/2012 8:31:00 AM

In this installment in the Sunday Night Football article series, data analysis from STR Analytics tracks trends in hotel performance if the hometown NFL teams wins or loses.

Regional centers across China report growth

1/9/2012 7:44:00 AM

The Chinese hotel market’s performance has remained positive year-to-November, according to STR Global.

Rezidor announces organizational changes

1/9/2012 7:32:00 AM

The Rezidor Hotel Group announces an organizational optimization of their regional operations offices in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Be my guest: 7 ways to improve service

1/9/2012 7:04:00 AM

Here are seven ways to adjust to new competitive realities and consistently deliver outstanding customer service.

Checking out: 2012 trends, CEO shifts, more

1/6/2012 9:54:00 AM

In this inaugural blog, which will become a Friday fixture on HotelNewsNow.com, I explore key trends to watch in 2012 and two notable CEO changes at major hotel companies.

5 things to know: 6 January 2012

1/6/2012 9:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases weekly U.S., Canada hotel data;
• revenue managers in 2012 resolve to raise rates;
• hotel litigation explodes as economy deteriorates;
• union poster requirement delayed until April; and
• Hooters Hotel sale expected in March.

Revenue-management resolutions for 2012

1/6/2012 9:21:00 AM

The most important resolution for revenue managers might be familiar, while others in this list require complete shifts in thinking.

Canada results for week ending 31 December

1/6/2012 8:59:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 25-31 December, according to data from STR.

2012 Hotel Resolutions

1/6/2012 8:53:00 AM

In the final installment of this four-part special report, hotel revenue managers share their top five resolutions for 2012.

STR: US results for week ending 31 December

1/6/2012 8:37:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 25-31 December, according to data from STR.

Hoteliers: Speak now amid political pressure

1/6/2012 6:57:00 AM

Politicians, politics and policies impact the U.S. hotel industry in countless ways. As an industry, we must wake up to the fact that we cannot be silent.

Carlson appoints interim midscale leader

1/5/2012 10:31:00 AM

Scott Meyer replaces Steve Mocgk and will report to Thorsten Kirschke, chief operating officer, Carlson Hotels, and president, Carlson Hotels, Americas.

5 things to know: 5 January 2012

1/5/2012 9:04:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• JLLH: Global deals market to be flat in 2012;
• North American airlines maintained on-time performance;
• hotel operators must abandon excuses in 2012;
• 2012 is the year of maturing debt for hotels; and
• early rate negotiations see increases.

HIP: US hotel recovery outpacing economy

1/5/2012 8:47:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Pulse index rose to a reading of 106.4 in November, following an increase of 0.4 % in October. The index was set to equal 100 in 2005.

JLLH: Flat hotel sales in 2012

1/5/2012 8:46:00 AM

Global hotel deals will hold steady in 2012, reaching upwards of US$30 billion in transaction volume, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels.

Business travelers define hotel preferences

1/5/2012 8:30:00 AM

A recent Deloitte survey reports a generational divide might explain varying hotel preferences among business travelers, and the findings could help hoteliers capture additional guests as corporate travel is expected to increase in 2012.

REITs not ‘bullied’ over stock price drops

1/5/2012 8:11:00 AM

REIT stock prices will “rocket back up” when clarity returns to the market, Ken Cruse of Sunstone Hotel Investors said.

Chilling out at the ice hotel

1/5/2012 7:47:00 AM

Operating an ice hotel that is open for three months each year is different than managing a “normal” hotel. But, in many ways, the same strategies are executed.

Debt maturities loom over hotels in 2012

1/5/2012 7:21:00 AM

With billions of dollars of debt scheduled to mature in 2012, hotel companies are scrambling to restructure or refinance.

5 resolutions for hotel operators in 2012

1/5/2012 6:40:00 AM

Hotel operators should avoid using the common, “But we’re in a recession,” excuse, among other important resolutions.

5 things to know: 4 January 2012

1/4/2012 9:47:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: IHG to launch China brand in next six months;
• 5 pressing issues in hotel security;
• DLF reportedly nears deal to sell Aman Resorts business;
• North American hotel sector off to good 2012 start; and
• LaSalle closes on US$396.2m NYC deal.

New China Lodging CEO details expansion plans

1/4/2012 9:31:00 AM

China Lodging Group’s newly appointed CEO, Qi Ji, is disappointed with the development thus far of the company’s Seasons Hotels and Hi Inns brands. Aggressive expansion is on the agenda for 2012.

Whetsell to oversee Loews’ growth strategy

1/4/2012 9:29:00 AM

Loews Hotels aims to become a more familiar brand by way of portfolio growth, and newly appointed CEO Paul Whetsell said there are opportunities for acquisition and ground-up development.

11 issues hotels will face in 2012

1/4/2012 8:36:00 AM

From data crunching to OTAs to having a new consumer group to deal with, hoteliers will face plenty of hurdles during 2012—but what’s so new about that?

5 pressing hotel security concerns for 2012

1/4/2012 8:25:00 AM

With a new year comes news challenges for hotel security professionals. Here are five of the most pressing.

The trends in STR’s 2011 Trend Reports

1/4/2012 7:57:00 AM

Here’s a snapshot of the most and least requested markets and brands, among other tidbits of STR Trend Report trivia.

‘CapEx Conundrum’ requires balancing act

1/4/2012 7:01:00 AM

Capital expenditures are expected to increase for the first time since 2008. Those looking for easy answers to the questions of “How much?” and “Who’s going to pay?” will be disappointed.

Loews names Paul Whetsell to CEO

1/3/2012 12:57:00 PM

Paul Whetsell most recently served as a member of the board of directors for Virgin Hotels. He founded CapStar Hotel Company in 1987 and spent time as chairman of Interstate Hotels & Resorts.

LaSalle acquires Park Central for US$396.2m

1/3/2012 10:21:00 AM

The deal for the 934-room hotel was financed with cash on hand, borrowings from LaSalle Hotel Properties' senior unsecured credit facility, and the issuance of 296,300 operating partnership units valued at US$27 per share.

5 things to know: 3 January 2012

1/3/2012 9:23:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Strategic approach needed for 2012 social-media success;
• IHG lifting reward rates for 25% of hotels;
• hotel owners, operators react to Bill Marriott stepping down;
• states could see demand lift from primaries; and
• China Lodging Group shuffles leadership team.

Marriott owners react to Bill Marriott’s move

1/3/2012 9:07:00 AM

As J.W. “Bill” Marriott prepares to step down as CEO of Marriott International and transition into the role of executive chairman, Marriott-branded property owners and operators reflect on his contributions to the hotel industry.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

1/3/2012 8:31:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Accor sells a 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1; Marriott execs are bullish on Africa; and a roundup of development news from the region.

The what, why and how of hotel connectivity

1/3/2012 7:55:00 AM

During the past several years, there has been a lot of discussion and focus on connectivity in the world of hotel electronic distribution. But exactly what is connectivity, and what is the benefit?

5 social-media resolutions for hoteliers

1/3/2012 7:40:00 AM

Don’t call it the Wild Wild West anymore. Social-media success in 2012 requires a strategic, top-down approach with goals and outcomes in mind.

US primary election impact on hotel demand

1/3/2012 7:04:00 AM

The Republican presidential nomination contest is heating up. But is it having a correlating impact on the hotel industries in states that host primary elections?

5 things to know: 30 December 2011

12/30/2011 10:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• International tourism spending in U.S. on record pace;
• STR weekly performance data for U.S. and Canada;
• IHG to exceed US$130m in mobile bookings in 2011;
• survey: New Year’s Eve room rates soar in NYC; and
• U.S. economy gaining momentum

2011 Year in Review

12/30/2011 7:55:00 AM

Google’s Hotel Finder experiment went live in late July with mostly OTAs and CRS providers supplying rates and availability, as reported in the 25 February article “Hoteliers on board with new Google features.” Today, several major hotel chains appear in searches as well.

Canada results for week ending 24 December

12/30/2011 7:42:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 18-24 December, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 24 December

12/30/2011 7:23:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 18-24 December, according to data from STR.

Google Hotel Finder revisited

12/30/2011 7:02:00 AM

5 things to know: 29 December 2011

12/29/2011 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Abu Dhabi hotel guest numbers up 16% in 11 months;
• brands dominate social-media platforms;
• US unemployment claims up;
• hotel investment to grow in Central and Eastern Europe; and
• how to optimize a pay per click budget.

Rewriting a revenue manager’s job description

12/29/2011 7:42:00 AM

Panelists on a recent webinar said today’s revenue managers are changing an “old-school” mentality about their profession by presenting alternative pricing and distribution solutions.

Hoteliers follow Facebook with booking engines

12/29/2011 7:07:00 AM

Hoteliers began incorporating Facebook booking engines in earnest during 2011, as reported in the 23 March article “Facebook leads to hotel room revenue.” But at least one consultant says they have little to show for it.

5 things to know: 28 December 2011

12/28/2011 10:03:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Expedia launches verified reviews program;
• Chesapeake acquires NYC Holiday Inn for US$52.2m;
• HVS: investment sentiment in France conservatively optimistic;
• consumer confidence increases in December; and
• CNNMoney: U.S. economists more hopeful about economy.

Renovation financing remains limited

12/28/2011 7:49:00 AM

After the 29 March article “Options limited for owners facing renovations," few lenders opened their floodgates throughout 2011. And brands are knocking even harder on the door with required capital improvements.

The spirit of giving back

12/28/2011 7:11:00 AM

Organizations such as the Atlanta Hospitality Alliance, the Network of Executive Women in Hospitality, Motel 6 and TownePlace Suites by Marriott show the true meaning of the holiday season. Tell us how your group compares.

Chesapeake buys NYC Holiday Inn for US$51.2m

12/27/2011 2:51:00 PM

Chesapeake Lodging Trust acquired the 122-room Holiday Inn New York City Midtown-31st Street for approximately US$428,000 per room.

5 things to know: 27 December 2011

12/27/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global releases November hotel performance results;
• Residence Inn to expand and launch “Possibilities” prototype;
• HVS: European hotel board effectiveness improves;
• Ascend Collection reports record growth in 2011; and
• Priceline.com and agoda.com release top New Year’s Eve destinations.

Choice, Summit move on after dust up

12/27/2011 7:46:00 AM

Choice Hotels International and Summit Hotel Properties each have focused on growth since Choice stripped Summit of 11 franchise licenses, which was reported in the 30 March article “11 Choice-branded hotels lose franchise licenses.”

Residence Inn looks forward to possibilities

12/27/2011 6:59:00 AM

With new leader Diane Mayer in place, Marriott International's upper-end extended-stay brand looks to expand its global presence while launching a new room prototype aimed at maintaining its brand-wide consistency.

5 things to know: 22 December 2011

12/22/2011 10:07:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Supreme Court will hear hotel financing case;
• U.S. unemployment claims drop to 2008 levels;
• weekly performance data for U.S., Canada;
• deal volume will peak in the select-service sector in 2012; and
• U.S. conference centers show recovery in performance.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific results for Nov.

12/22/2011 10:07:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced positive results in the three key performance metrics during November 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global: Europe results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:50:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for November 2011, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR: US results for week ending 17 Dec.

12/22/2011 9:42:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 11-17 December 2011, according to data from STR.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:37:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 4.3%, its ADR increased 3.5% and its RevPAR was down 1% in November.

Hotel credit bidding draws Supreme Court’s eye

12/22/2011 9:31:00 AM

The U.S. Supreme Court in 2012 will take up the issue of whether lenders should be able to bid for their own collateral with debt at bankruptcy auctions.

STR Global: Americas hotel results for Nov.

12/22/2011 9:11:00 AM

The region's occupancy rose 4.4%, its ADR was up 4.1% and its RevPAR increased 8.6%,

Canada results for week ending 17 December

12/22/2011 8:59:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 11-17 December, according to data from STR.

HSMAI Europe plans rev management event

12/22/2011 7:28:00 AM

Revenue Management 2.0 is scheduled for 9 February 2012 in London.

Virgin Hotels development strategy revisited

12/22/2011 7:12:00 AM

Virgin Hotels’ patient approach to development, as reported in the 9 June article “Virgin taking deliberate steps in launch plan,” paid off with an acquisition of the Old Dearborn Bank Building in downtown Chicago.

5 things to know: 21 December 2011

12/21/2011 10:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases monthly performance data for November;
• Blackstone CEO sheds light on company’s investment strategy;
• TripAdvisor begins trading as an independent public company;
• British consumers use m-commerce in booking process; and
• companies expected to manage travel differently in 2012.

8 US hotel recovery trends revisited

12/21/2011 9:16:00 AM

As part of our year-in-review coverage, HotelNewsNow.com will update the most-read articles from the year. Today, STR’s Bobby Bowers revisits key recovery drivers from the 23 May article “8 trends shaping the US hotel recovery.”

STR: US hotel performance for November

12/21/2011 9:12:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in November reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

San Francisco hotels lead Nov. ADR, RevPAR

12/21/2011 9:03:00 AM

The market’s ADR increased 19.5% to US$158.42, its RevPAR was up 31.4% to US$118.78 and its occupancy rose 10% to 75%.

Segmentation trends: Group vs. transient

12/21/2011 7:14:00 AM

Given the favorable hotel market conditions, the time to monetize group demand is now.

5 things to know: 20 December 2011

12/20/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotels should close out 2011 on a positive note;
• Iberostar inks US$120m deal with Thomas Cook;
• JLLH: Rooftop bar revenues reaching new heights;
• top three social-media strategies for brands; and
• airport frustrations remain high with holiday travelers.

Hotels will close out 2011 on a good note

12/20/2011 9:34:00 AM

According to a survey conducted by AAA and forward-looking booking data from Pegasus Solutions, holiday travel between 23 December and 2 January nearly will approach 2006 peaks.

Hotel logic vs. real-estate logic in Brazil

12/20/2011 9:02:00 AM

For Brazil’s hotel industry to succeed in this next wave of development, investors must scrutinize which opportunities are good for hotel development versus which are good for real-estate development.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

12/20/2011 8:36:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Chinese outbound tourism is up in Q3; Accor acquires a 48-hotel management portfolio; and HNA calls off deal with NH Hoteles.

Iberostar inks US$120m deal with Thomas Cook

12/20/2011 7:18:00 AM

The Spanish hotel company will purchase a 51% share in five hotels and a golf course from the troubled British tour operator’s portfolio.

The 7 steps of hotel innovation

12/20/2011 7:01:00 AM

The need for innovation seems to be in vogue these days. Here’s how to make it happen at your hotel company.

5 things to know: 19 December 2011

12/19/2011 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• column: revenue managers should be empowered;
• Expedia offers tips for capturing last-minute holiday guests;
• Hotel AG expects to close 78 deals in early 2012;
• Romania’s hotel tax will be 1% beginning in 2012; and
• two more Mint Hotels convert to DoubleTree.

Gothenburg hotels buoyed by corporate demand

12/19/2011 9:26:00 AM

Gothenburg has a strong business demand base all year round, as well as a strong leisure demand in the summer months generated by various sporting, cultural and music-related events and festivals.

The future of revenue management is now

12/19/2011 9:02:00 AM

Winning hotel companies will be those that have the right revenue managers to lead the way.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:30:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 494 hotels, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe hotel pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:21:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 139,006 rooms, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Gothenburg, Sweden, hotels poised for growth

12/19/2011 8:18:00 AM

Reports from Colliers International Hotels and HVS in London show strong recovery in the Gothenburg hotel market. But several new projects will put pressure on rate in the years ahead.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for November

12/19/2011 8:15:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,443 hotels, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Italy reports favorable results YTD October

12/19/2011 7:57:00 AM

Hotel performance in Italy showed a generally favorable view, as measured by year-on-year percentage change for the year-to-date October 2011.

Hotels reaping benefit of holiday parties

12/19/2011 7:44:00 AM

Hoteliers who marketed hosting holiday parties this past summer—particularly with a "Christmas in July" theme—are seeing dramatic sales increases this year.

UPDATE: Marriott fires back with Waikiki suit

12/16/2011 10:45:00 AM

In a lawsuit filed this month, Marriott International claims Aqua Hotels & Resorts persuaded the owner of the former Waikiki Edition to switch management companies, resulting in a loss of at least US$65 million for Marriott.

5 things to know: 16 December 2011

12/16/2011 10:08:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott lobs bombshell at Aqua in Waikiki;
• Accor buys 48-hotel management portfolio;
• Chinese outbound tourism up 26% in Q3;
• STR Global reports Americas pipelines; and
• HVS: U.K. hotel sector fate tied to debt financing.

Stock update: Ashford, Marcus, Strategic, more

12/16/2011 10:01:00 AM

Included in this week’s stock update: Ashford Hospitality Trust focuses on upcoming debt maturities; The Marcus Corporation releases second-quarter results; and Strategic Hotels & Resorts reduces and extends its preferred stock tender offer.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for November

12/16/2011 9:10:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 28,958 rooms, according to the November STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR reports Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for Nov.

12/16/2011 9:00:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 131 hotels, according to the November STR Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: US results for week ending 10 December

12/16/2011 8:43:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 4-10 December, according to data from STR.

You said it: 16 December 2011

12/16/2011 8:22:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of intriguing comments and quotes: Expedia Worldwide’s president comments on the company’s new-found attitude; and a reader advises hoteliers to monitor their usage of opaque sites.

A wish list for the US hotel industry

12/16/2011 8:13:00 AM

With a new year come new opportunities. Here is my wish list for the hotel industry during 2012.

Accor acquires 48-hotel management portfolio

12/16/2011 7:43:00 AM

Accor strengthened its position in Australia and New Zealand with the acquisition of Mirvac, a hotel management company, with 48 hotels in its portfolio.

Forget appraisals; retain those in the know

12/16/2011 7:32:00 AM

Appraisals go stale the minute they’re issued, and they typically lack key market insight. If you really want to know whether a project makes sense, retain a senior hotel industry consultant.

HVS: Financing key to UK hotel sector success

12/16/2011 7:11:00 AM

An improved outlook for the UK's hotel sector into 2012 will depend largely on investments from traditional sources such as banks, but also new sources such as institutional investors.

Canada results for week ending 10 December

12/15/2011 9:39:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 4-10 December 2011, according to data from STR.

5 things to know: 15 December 2011

12/15/2011 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. jobless claims hit three-year low;
• New Orleans tops weekly performance;
• Schulze’s partner provides buying clout;
• survey: hotel reviews increasingly important; and
• travel buyers still not green, survey finds.

New Orleans hotels top weekly performance gains

12/15/2011 9:34:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 16.3% to 69.8%, its ADR was up 25.1% to US$136.23 and its RevPAR increased 45.5% to US$95.14.

Ashford managing debt maturities

12/15/2011 9:10:00 AM

Having already restructured its US$203.4-million mortgage loan, Ashford Hospitality Trust is talking with lenders about the REIT’s 2012 debt.

Expedia finds value in Facebook users

12/15/2011 9:03:00 AM

Expedia reported a significant lift in transactions on Expedia.com as a result of its Expedia FriendTrips sweepstakes held on Facebook earlier this year.

Schulze’s new partner provides buying clout

12/15/2011 8:57:00 AM

Partnering with private equity firm Stoneleigh Capital gives Horst Schulze the capital clout he needs to ramp up expansion of his Capella Hotel Group, formerly West Paces Hotel Group.

Mike Leven bullish on Las Vegas group demand

12/15/2011 7:37:00 AM

What better person to ask about the future of group business demand than the president and COO of Las Vegas Sands Corporation?

5 things to know: 14 December 2011

12/14/2011 9:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Sorenson named Marriott’s CEO;
• Italy’s tourism code misses the mark;
• euro hovering near 2011 low;
• big changes at Schulze’s West Paces; and
• demand on the rise for Brazil’s resorts.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

12/14/2011 9:37:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Weekly performance in the Americas region is rising; PKF forecasts a continued recovery; and Arne Sorenson is named Marriott International’s new CEO.

Mixed fortunes for Australian hotel performance

12/14/2011 9:23:00 AM

Australian hotel performance presented a mixed picture across the major markets, reports STR Global, the leading provider of market data to the world’s hotel industry.

Preparing for 'Boutique 2.0' and beyond

12/14/2011 9:15:00 AM

Boutique is becoming the hotel type of choice for young professionals. The trick will be to create a highly personalized experience at each property as owners and operators become more organized behind the scenes.

Schulze’s West Paces partners with investor

12/14/2011 9:10:00 AM

In addition to changing its name from West Paces Hotel Group to Capella Hotel Group, Horst Schulze’s management company has partnered with a private equity firm to spur investment in its luxury brands.

FastBooking, STR Global annpartnership

12/14/2011 8:39:00 AM

FastBooking and STR Global announce a partnership accord through which they will work together to strengthen market knowledge of FastBooking hotel partners.

Apollo/Driftwood JV begin hotel search

12/14/2011 8:35:00 AM

The joint venture of Apollo Global Real Estate and Driftwood Hospitality Management has spent approximately US$40 million from its hotel acquisition fund.

Italy’s tourism code misses mark, hoteliers say

12/14/2011 8:29:00 AM

The Italian Code of Tourism was passed to remove a complex bureaucratic web that inhibited hotel performance, but its implementation might only exacerbate the problem.

Sorenson named Marriott's CEO

12/13/2011 5:47:00 PM

Marriott International president and COO Arne Sorenson will replace J.W. Marriott Jr. as the company's CEO on 31 March.

5 things to know: 13 December 2011

12/13/2011 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HNA nixes €431.6m deal with NH Hoteles;
• Host terminates Grand Hyatt D.C. acquisition;
• STR: U.S. pipeline falls 6.3% during November;
• PKF forecast shows ADR accelerating; and
• European owners largely optimistic about recovery.

Expedia: Commissions are ‘absolutely’ fair

12/13/2011 9:50:00 AM

Expedia is making significant investments to better its relationships with supplier partners—including a new-found attitude check—but don’t expect a narrowing of margins.

HNA calls off €431.6m deal with NH Hoteles

12/13/2011 9:33:00 AM

The deal, signed in May, would have had China-based tourism and airline company HNA acquire a 20% stake in Spanish chain NH Hoteles.

Red Roof’s NextGen to drive US$10 ADR premium

12/13/2011 8:42:00 AM

The economy brand’s recently announced NextGen prototype used years of consumer testing and feedback to yield an economy take on boutique.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for Nov. 2011

12/13/2011 6:51:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,861 projects totaling 310,196 rooms, according to the November 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 12 December 2011

12/12/2011 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Expedia touts global reach;
• OTAs among Google’s biggest advertisers;
• Ashford restructures US$203.4m mortgage loan;
• mystery trips provide opaque alternative; and
• Indian rupee hits record low.

Mystery travel: A new distribution channel

12/12/2011 9:35:00 AM

Mystery trips are one of the latest travel trends to hit North America, and hoteliers around the globe are capitalizing on the opportunity to sell their inventory in an opaque manner.

Expedia touts global reach

12/12/2011 9:28:00 AM

As the world gets smaller, visa programs simplify and new travel classes emerge, Expedia executives are shifting their focus to driving increased global demand.

Cold showers and the future of sustainability

12/12/2011 8:27:00 AM

As sustainability permeates business and society, hotel guests are more inclined to question “green” initiatives that ask them to sacrifice parts of their stay.

Ashford restructures US$203m loan

12/12/2011 7:49:00 AM

The restructuring extends the maturity date of the loan and provides for a new interest rate equal to LIBOR plus 4.5% with no LIBOR floor.

Sonnenblick on land acquisition spree

12/12/2011 7:44:00 AM

Sonnenblick Development LLC is in land-acquisition mode and plans to develop seven resort properties in the United States.

Opportunity abounds in India’s religious circuit

12/12/2011 7:42:00 AM

Global chains are trying to carve off their piece of the approximately 450 million domestic tourists who took a religious pilgrimage in India during 2010.

5 things to know: 9 December 2011

12/9/2011 10:58:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases preliminary November 2011 U.S. lodging data;
• Hotel lenders increasingly opting to avoid foreclosure;
• Strategic extends preferred shares offering;
• US$2 trillion of global real estate up for sale; and
• seasonally adjusted weekly unemployment claims down.

Stock update: Accor, Starwood, Strategic

12/9/2011 8:38:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the sector’s publicly traded companies: Accor sells a stake in Hotel Formula 1; Starwood acquires a stake in Design Hotels AG; and Strategic extends its offering to purchase preferred shares.

STR: US results for week ending 3 December

12/9/2011 8:35:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy fell 2.7%, ADR was up 2.7% and RevPAR increased 5.4%.

Expedia needs you

12/9/2011 8:11:00 AM

It’s evident that Expedia is worried about Google’s entrance into the travel-distribution space and needs backup heading into that fight.

You said it: 9 December 2011

12/9/2011 8:05:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of intriguing comments and quotes: A CEO explains his position on development in Iraq; a reader stresses the importance of training management-level employees.

Vantage entrusts CRS to Sabre to boost bookings

12/9/2011 7:22:00 AM

Vantage Hospitality Group on Wednesday announced a partnership with Sabre Hospitality Solutions to expand the former’s booking capabilities on social media and mobile.

5 things to know: 8 December 2011

12/8/2011 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Vantage CEO open to adding another brand;
• U.S. and Canada report weekly performance gains;
• Accor sells 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1;
• 170 hotels planned to open in U.K. in 2012; and
• Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels names new global CEO.

Vantage CEO open to adding another brand

12/8/2011 9:39:00 AM

During the company’s annual conference, CEO Roger Bloss said Vantage Hospitality could acquire, or even launch, a brand to complement the existing chains in its portfolio.

Canada results for week ending 3 December

12/8/2011 9:33:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 27 November-3 December 2011, according to data from STR.

Accor sells 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1

12/8/2011 9:28:00 AM

Accor announced today the sale of its 52.6% stake in Hotel Formula 1 to its historical South-African partner, Southern Sun Hotels, a subsidiary of the Tsogo Sun group.

New Orleans tops weekly hotel increases

12/8/2011 9:04:00 AM

The market’s occupancy rose 14.4%, its ADR was up 17.5% and its RevPAR increased 34.4%.

Strategy helps speed meetings business recovery

12/8/2011 8:44:00 AM

Strategic meetings management creates both opportunity and challenges for hoteliers in the post-recession era.

A customer is for life, not just for the holiday

12/8/2011 8:37:00 AM

The holidays can prove stressful for operators but also profitable. Here are some tips to make it a season to remember.

Hotel demand up in key central African cities

12/8/2011 8:33:00 AM

Hotel demand grew strongly across the three main economic centres in Western and Eastern Africa for year-to-date October 2011, compared to the previous year, according to data from STR Global.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index down 2.7% in Nov.

12/8/2011 8:24:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended November with a 2.7% decrease to 1,951.

Hotel Price Index: A look at Rome

12/7/2011 1:03:00 PM

According to the latest Hotel Price Index report from STR Global and Horwath HTL, Rome remains at the top of the most-visited cities in Italy, followed by Venice and Milan.

UK hotels unfazed by public-sector strike

12/7/2011 10:04:00 AM

Tens of thousands of public-sector workers in the U.K. went on strike last week, though the impact on hotels was minimal, if anything.

5 things to know: 7 December 2011

12/7/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• TripAdvisor spinoff from Expedia approved;
• tough goings for hotel IPOs in 2012;
• new austerity budget pushes Ireland’s VAT to 23%;
• Google cost per click down through third quarter; and
• UK public-sector strike had little impact on hotels.

IPO landscape bleak for foreseeable future

12/7/2011 8:36:00 AM

Hilton Worldwide still tops the list of high-profile hotel companies that are rumored to go public, but according to analysts, it’s difficult to get investors excited about any hotel stock today.

‘Tis the season (all year long) to give back

12/7/2011 7:26:00 AM

Charitable outreach doesn’t have to stop after the holidays. Here are a few resources to keep your team involved all year long.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

12/6/2011 10:31:00 AM

The development announcements continue to heat up in Europe as major global brands bounce back from recession.

5 things to know: 6 December 2011

12/6/2011 10:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Protests a drag on Cairo hotels;
• Deloitte study: 2012 business travel looking strong;
• panelists: Capital available for global luxury hotels;
• Starwood buys nearly 50% stake in Design Hotels; and
• Finland hotels showing strength.

Cairo hotels struggle after protests

12/6/2011 9:55:00 AM

Hoteliers had expectations of strong end-of-year hotel performance in Cairo, but November’s protests eliminated expectations for recovery.

Hyatt House design shakes up segment

12/6/2011 9:39:00 AM

Looking to rebrand its extended-stay portfolio, Hyatt Hotels Corporation creates a home-like feel with its Hyatt House concept.

Luxury hotel executives like the current trends

12/6/2011 9:00:00 AM

Speaking during last month’s European Hotel Investment Conference, several luxury-hotel executives said properties in key gateway cities are performing well, and they’re looking forward to a robust 2012.

Finland reports growth in performance results

12/6/2011 8:39:00 AM

The Finnish hotel industry is showing growth across the board in year-to-date 2011 performance results in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR Global.

Starwood buys near 50% stake in Design Hotels

12/6/2011 7:09:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has acquired a 49.8% stake in Design Hotels AG, a company that represents and markets independent hotels.

5 things to know: 5 December 2011

12/5/2011 11:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Western hotel brands establishing presence in Iraq;
• North American airline cancellations down in November;
• Four Seasons moving forward with global development;
• Brazil, Mexico highlight development in Americas region; and
• setting and achieving revenue management goals.

Four Seasons’ global expansion moves forward

12/5/2011 10:45:00 AM

President and CEO Kathleen Taylor sees the company’s 86-property portfolio expanding to 150 by mixing resorts with a strong collection of urban hotels.

Hilton looks to grow in North America

12/5/2011 9:45:00 AM

Matthew Sparks, Hilton Worldwide’s new VP of luxury and corporate development, sees potential in growing Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria and Conrad luxury brands globally and domestically.

International brands see progress in Iraq

12/5/2011 9:36:00 AM

Hilton Worldwide has signed a deal, and Best Western International and Marriott International have each signed two deals in Erbil, Iraq. But management will not come without challenges.

Development execs detail Americas plans

12/5/2011 8:11:00 AM

Hotel development experts are bullish on the Americas region, especially Brazil and Mexico.

Data shows full recovery still far away

12/2/2011 9:55:00 AM

Most expectations are that the U.S. hotel industry won’t be back to pre-recession levels until 2013. Adjusted with inflation, it could be even longer.

5 things to know: 2 December 2011

12/2/2011 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Data shows full recovery still far away;
• Starwood board approves US$250-million share repurchase;
• survey shows how consumers react to poor mobile sites;
• U.S. unemployment hits lowest mark since March 2009; and
• Hampton portfolio in England for sale after foreclosure.

STR: US results for week ending 26 November

12/2/2011 9:09:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 20-26 November 2011, according to data from STR.

Moving from online channels to ecosystems

12/2/2011 8:38:00 AM

Online travel agencies, brand.com, social media, mobile apps and websites—they’re all interconnected parts of the booking process.

You said it: 2 December 2011

12/2/2011 8:07:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of comments and quotes: A GM stresses the importance of multicultural marketing; a commenter is appalled by a new third-party’s approach to scoring deals for travelers.

Lift hotel standards with constant reinforcement

12/2/2011 7:41:00 AM

Just like a concert pianist who has to practice the pieces played in concert regularly, hotel service standards must be continuously reinforced to keep staff performing at peak levels.

5 things to know: 1 December 2011

12/1/2011 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• UK travel disrupted amid pension reform strike;
• despite holiday, weekly metrics up in U.S. and Canada;
• extended-stay RevPAR expected to outpace industry;
• AmEx: Global meetings demand on the rise; and
• stats on email opens, click activity on mobile devices.

STR: Canada results for week ending 26 November

12/1/2011 9:01:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 20-26 November, according to data from STR.

Upper-midscale hotels top ADR, RevPAR increases

12/1/2011 8:27:00 AM

The upper-midscale segment's ADR rose 3.9% and its RevPAR increased 9.4% during the week of 20-26 November.

London's hotel profits stay on par

12/1/2011 8:02:00 AM

A combination of new supply and the macroeconomic environment have challenged hotel profitability in London in recent years, according to a report from STR Global and Whitebridge Hospitality.

TravelClick: ‘Focus on numbers, not news’

12/1/2011 7:56:00 AM

Kristi White of TravelClick said hoteliers in most regions are doing a good job of not overreacting to discouraging economic headlines and instead are choosing to hold rates.

Extended-stay 2012 RevPAR to outpace industry

12/1/2011 7:16:00 AM

Extended-stay hotels’ relatively large share of business travelers and of revenues from the top 25 U.S. markets should cushion the anticipated slowdown in the rate of RevPAR increases.

Hotels feeling health-care reform effects

12/1/2011 7:03:00 AM

Hotels saw premiums rise by 3% to 4% as President Obama’s health-care reform plan continued its phase-in.

Hotel execs duke it out in Vegas

12/1/2011 6:31:00 AM

Hotel executives from across the industry battled it out inside a boxing ring in Las Vegas last month—and yours truly had a ringside seat.

Fall travel season to drive 4% ADR growth

11/29/2011 10:41:00 AM

Despite muted growth in committed occupancy, ADR for the North American hotel industry is expected to end the fourth quarter with a 4% increase over the previous year, according to forward-booking data from TravelClick.

Attorneys: St. Regis judgment could be landmark

11/29/2011 10:24:00 AM

Attorneys said the US$44-million lawsuit won by Castillo Grand LLC against Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide should serve as a warning about entering into a development project without clearly defined design guidelines in place.

5 things to know: 29 November 2011

11/29/2011 10:11:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Attorneys: St. Regis suit could be landmark;
• how American Airlines’ bankruptcy will affect you;
• TravelClick expects bump in fall season ADR, RevPAR;
• improving fundamentals in commercial real estate; and
• China Lodging Group’s RevPAR up 6% over last month.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

11/29/2011 10:04:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: The Middle East sees performance rise in October; Sun Resorts Limited posts a larger third-quarter loss; and opening and development news from across the region.

7 tech issues that keep your GM up at night

11/29/2011 9:44:00 AM

Owners must understand these technology-related issues that trouble GMs and, more importantly, guests.

Important insights into the OTA-supplier debate

11/29/2011 9:16:00 AM

An objective journalist poses two questions regarding the OTA-supplier relationship: 1) Who ultimately is the “supplier?” and 2) Is the relationship stymied by a generation gap?

How to manage hotel ownership transitions

11/29/2011 8:25:00 AM

Buyers and sellers must be committed to ensure a seamless transition from one owner to the next. Here’s how to make that happen.

The why, when and extent of hotel repositionings

11/29/2011 8:16:00 AM

As owners reevaluate portfolios in the new normal, many might consider repositioning their assets to various levels of extent.

5 things to know: 28 November 2011

11/28/2011 10:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Owner awarded US$44m in Starwood contract dispute;
• weekly performance results for U.S. and Canada;
• Louvre Hotels, Jin Jiang Inn partner for reservations;
• Pillar will terminate management contracts at seven hotels; and
• report: Interstate is preparing to go public.

STR: Canada results for week ending 19 November

11/28/2011 9:51:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 13-19 November 2011, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 19 November

11/28/2011 9:40:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy rose 4.1%, its ADR was up 3.7% and its RevPAR increased 7.9% during the week of 13-19 November.

How to target diverse hotel market segments

11/28/2011 8:58:00 AM

Panelists during an IHM&RS session on marketing to multicultural traveler segments shared key insights and best practices.

Castillo Grand wins US$44m against Starwood

11/28/2011 8:52:00 AM

Castillo Grand LLC has obtained a US$44 million award against Sheraton Operating Corp as a result of Sheraton’s multiple breaches of its management contract with the owners and developers of the former St. Regis Hotel and Resorts.

Hotel price optimization strategies are key

11/28/2011 8:42:00 AM

Experts during an HSMAI University webinar outlined key points to help revenue managers optimize room rates as demand continues to increase into 2012.

Multicultural marketing key to new hotel demand

11/28/2011 8:20:00 AM

The face of the American traveler is changing and hoteliers need to speak to these emerging, diverse market segments to secure new business.

5 things to know: 23 November 2011

11/23/2011 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Host closes on US$1b credit facility;
• Bangkok floods create operational headaches;
• Apple exec provides affirmation to hoteliers;
• social media lacks loyalty, survey finds; and
• U.S. unemployment claims slightly up.

Challenges remain as waters recede in Bangkok

11/23/2011 9:22:00 AM

While the floodwaters are beginning to pull back, Bangkok’s hoteliers still face a bevy of operational challenges that are impeding recovery and performance.

The fight for guests heats up

11/23/2011 9:17:00 AM

A new third-party intermediary that allows hoteliers essentially to steal guests from hotels down the street could take the street-corner business from competitive to cut throat.

Holistic approach crucial in hotel turnarounds

11/23/2011 7:53:00 AM

An experienced management team will implement a balanced approach that gives equal emphasis to revenue enhancement and expense-control management.

Development spotlight: The Siam, Bangkok

11/23/2011 7:44:00 AM

The Siam, a 39-room luxury property in Bangkok, is scheduled to open in March 2012.

5 things to know: 22 November 2011

11/22/2011 9:47:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global releases October hotel performance results;
• TravelClick: Thanksgiving travelers will give ADR a boost;
• U.K. hoteliers report blackmail attempts via TripAdvisor;
• new technologies to shake up distribution strategies; and
• HIL: U.S. hotel business activity up during October.

STR: US hotel performance for October

11/22/2011 9:24:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in October reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

5 standout innovations from PhoCusWright

11/22/2011 9:23:00 AM

A few technologies caught my eye at my first-ever PhoCusWright Conference. Should you consider adding them to your distribution strategy?

Bandwidth Reports provide complete view

11/22/2011 9:11:00 AM

STR Analytics’ Bandwidth Reports give subscribers a unique advantage to look at data beyond averages.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

11/22/2011 9:09:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: Starwood hits a hotel milestone with its recent openings; China’s domestic hotel chains accelerate rapid growth into 2012; and flooding in Bangkok causes a decline in hotel performance.

Thanksgiving to drive ADR in top 25 US markets

11/22/2011 9:05:00 AM

More travelers are expected to hit the road during the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday weekend, driving ADR 4.7% compared to last year, reports TravelClick.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for October

11/22/2011 8:57:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 3.4%, its ADR was up 7.3% and its RevPAR increased 3.6%.

STR Global: Europe hotel results for October

11/22/2011 8:42:00 AM

The European hotel industry reported positive performance results when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for October.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific hotel results for Oct.

11/22/2011 8:30:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 2%, its ADR increased 8.4% and its RevPAR was up 6.2% in October.

STR Global: Americas hotel results for October

11/22/2011 7:51:00 AM

The region's occupancy rose 2.8%, its ADR was up 4% and its RevPAR increased 6.9%.

Hotels revamp Black Friday, Cyber Monday deals

11/22/2011 7:49:00 AM

Hoteliers add unique offers and pull from what worked in previous years to offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that compete with online flash-sale sites.

US hotel future business activity up in October

11/22/2011 7:30:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Leading indicator edged up 0.2% during October following a decrease of 0.4% during September.

5 things to know: 21 November 2011

11/21/2011 9:50:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. hotels report steady gains in October;
• Expedia CEO keeping a watchful eye on Google;
• hotel brands willing to fund key assets in Europe;
• social media, mobile and apps top of mind for hoteliers; and
• more bad news for shaky global economy.

Distribution leaders dish on evolving space

11/21/2011 9:23:00 AM

A who’s who of leaders in the travel distribution space discuss the supplier-OTA relationship, extending products to the social space, creating a travel-related business from scratch and more.

Adding key assets in Europe on brands’ radars

11/21/2011 9:10:00 AM

Executives from major hotel companies tell attendees of Deloitte’s European Hotel Investment Conference they’re always on the lookout for properties, even if it means leveraging their own balance sheets.

Upscale hotels lead ADR, RevPAR increases in Oct

11/21/2011 8:32:00 AM

The upscale segment's ADR rose 4.7% and its RevPAR increased 7.7% during October.

Ireland market boasts strong investment outlook

11/21/2011 7:47:00 AM

The Emerald Isle was hit hard by the global downturn, but a favourable investment environment fostered by pro-business government incentives bodes well for the hotel industry’s future.

5 things to know: 18 November 2011

11/18/2011 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• positives signs from European investment conference;
• lenders say deals still are getting done;
• JLLH: 38.6% more global investors have ‘buy’ strategy;
• survey says property values are heading upward; and
• Zell, Hilton buy Elysian in Chicago, will convert to Waldorf.

Hotel executives still see growing metrics

11/18/2011 9:50:00 AM

During this week’s European Hotel Investment Conference, leaders of Carlson Hotels Worldwide and InterContinental Hotels Group said they like the direction the hotel industry is headed and have big plans for some of their own brands.

Hilton takes steps to level OTA playing field

11/18/2011 9:43:00 AM

Speaking to an audience primarily made up of third-party intermediaries at the PhoCusWright Conference, Hilton’s Paul Brown defended suppliers by addressing pricing, distribution, reviews and more.

Panelists: Debt deals getting done

11/18/2011 9:33:00 AM

Volatility has rocked the hotel real-estate finance sector during the past three months, but that doesn’t mean the leverage well is dry, lenders said.

Stock update: Host, Supertel

11/18/2011 9:26:00 AM

Host prices an offering and Supertel gets a big South American investment in this week’s roundup of public hotel company news.

STR: US results week ending 12 November

11/18/2011 9:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 6-12 November, according to data from STR.

You said it: 18 November 2011

11/18/2011 7:52:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of comments and quotes: Marriott’s Ed Fuller offers advice to hotel-industry executives; a reader believes tourism in Morocco will be negatively impacted by the lack of quality customer service in the country.

What corporate hotel guests want

11/18/2011 7:45:00 AM

Business travellers have different needs and priorities than average leisure guests. Make sure you cover all these basics.

Branded boutiques shift focus outside of US

11/18/2011 7:37:00 AM

Global consumers are hungry for branded boutique hotels, but U.S.-based companies face a challenging balancing act between a scalable business model and a truly unique guest experience.

Horwath HTL Market Reports

11/18/2011 7:02:00 AM

The following is a series of monthly market reports from Horwath HTL that examine local business conditions in various hotel markets throughout the world. Installments run on or about the 20th of each month.

JLLH: Investors’ intentions to buy on the rise

11/17/2011 1:32:00 PM

The top five cities for acquisitions include Stockholm, Copenhagen, Chicago, Milan and San Francisco, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels' Hotel Investment Sentiment Survey.

Supertel sells US$20m stake to IRSA affiliate

11/17/2011 9:25:00 AM

Supertel Hospitality announced Thursday that it has entered into a purchase agreement for the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock to Real Estate Strategies L.P., an affiliate of IRSA.

Canada results for week ending 12 November

11/17/2011 9:05:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy ended the week up 4.2%, its ADR increased 2.1%, and its RevPAR was up 6.4%.

San Francisco weekly hotel occupancy tops 90%

11/17/2011 8:48:00 AM

San Francisco/San Mateo ended the week with a 18.9% increase in occupancy to 91.9%.

Business activity growth slows for US hotels

11/17/2011 8:43:00 AM

HIP, a composite indicator that gauges monthly overall business conditions in the U.S. hotel industry, was flat at a reading of 105.3 in October.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for Oct.

11/17/2011 8:40:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 198 hotels, according to the October 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR: Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for October 2011

11/17/2011 8:33:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 134 hotels totaling 19,139 rooms, according to the October 2011 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 17 November 2011

11/17/2011 7:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• TripAdvisor’s Kaufer: Google’s practices ‘disingenuous’;
• Solomons speaks out against OTAs;
• STR reports weekly performance, pipeline data;
• inbound Chinese traffic to increase 274%; and
• Supertel sells US$20-million stake to South American investment firm.

PhoCusWright: Travel innovation is ‘thriving’

11/17/2011 7:34:00 AM

During his company’s conference, the founder and chairman of PhoCusWright presented six trends he sees in the travel innovation space.

IHG’s Solomons hits nail on head about OTAs

11/17/2011 7:28:00 AM

IHG CEO Richard Solomons talks openly about how the company’s Best Price Guarantee is a direct response to online travel agencies’ brash approach to booking hotel rooms.

Inbound travel from China to increase 274%

11/17/2011 7:20:00 AM

The number of Chinese inbound tourists to the United States is projected to grow nearly three-fold during the next five years, and hotel companies are working hard to better understand the segment to capture their fair share.

TripAdvisor CEO discusses fake reviews, Google

11/17/2011 7:13:00 AM

TripAdvisor CEO Steve Kaufer, in an interview with HotelNewsNow.com conducted outside of the PhoCusWright conference, called Google’s practices ‘disingenuous.’

F1 race boosts occupancy in Abu Dhabi

11/16/2011 10:01:00 AM

Hotel occupancy performance in Abu Dhabi following the Formula 1 Grand Prix that took place last weekend (11-13 November) was up compared to 2010.

5 things to know: 16 November 2011

11/16/2011 9:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• OTAs chipping away at hotel demand;
• STR Global: Europe, Asia/Pac, MEA pipeline updates;
• demand in China could be weakening;
• 2012 budgets focus on renovations, sales; and
• CMBS showing signs of life.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for Oct. 2011

11/16/2011 8:52:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 471 hotels, according to the October 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe pipeline for Oct. 2011

11/16/2011 8:47:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 841 hotels rooms, according to the October 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific pipeline for Oct. 2011

11/16/2011 8:35:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,373 hotels, according to the October 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Growth in hotel expenses to slow in 2012

11/16/2011 7:34:00 AM

In putting together 2012 budgets, hotel companies appear to be focusing on renovations and sales and marketing efforts.

OTA demand share increases in 2011

11/16/2011 7:27:00 AM

New data shows online travel agencies have slightly increased their share of U.S. hotel roomnights booked during the first half of 2011.

5 things to know: 15 November 2011

11/15/2011 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Data companies update 2012 forecasts;
• crafting the perfect hotel tweet;
• Fuller reflects on nearly four decades at Marriott;
• Supertel reports Q3 earnings; and
• Host prices note offering.

Guyana hotel market turning a corner

11/15/2011 9:09:00 AM

New hotel projects reflect a growing campaign committed to sustainable tourism development in Guyana.

Data firms outline updated 2012 forecasts

11/15/2011 8:37:00 AM

A panel of prognosticators outlined their latest forecasts among other insights during a general-session panel at the AH&LA’s 2011 Hospitality Leadership Forum.

3 more competencies for HR in a changing world

11/15/2011 7:53:00 AM

To keep pace with rapid changes in the hotel industry, human resources professionals must focus on developing their competencies in a variety of skills.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

11/15/2011 7:39:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: performance and pipeline data; a focus on the U.S. regaining lost international visitation; and brands entering new markets.

Bloomberg touts hotel development in NYC

11/15/2011 7:35:00 AM

By the end of the year, New York City will reach 90,000 hotel rooms, the mayor said, on the same day it was announced that a supplemental hotel tax of .875% will be renewed.

Ed Fuller’s career comes full circle at Marriott

11/15/2011 7:19:00 AM

As Ed Fuller gets closer to his retirement in March, he looks back on what is now a nearly 40-year career with one of the hotel industry’s most recognizable brand names.

5 things to know: 14 November 2011

11/14/2011 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR’s Chad Church explains downward forecast revision;
• Demand in the Caribbean is back, but not rate;
• Randy Smith’s take on the hotel industry;
• ambassadors are the key to Brand USA’s success; and
• Starwood hits hotel opening milestones.

Airlift issue causes turbulence in Caribbean

11/14/2011 9:29:00 AM

Hoteliers speaking during last week’s Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference & Operations Summit fretted over the changing nature of U.S. airlines that serve the region.

Fox settling in as Fairmont Hotels’ president

11/14/2011 9:16:00 AM

Newly appointed president of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Jennifer Fox will be visiting Fairmont properties in Asia and the Middle East as she familiarizes herself with her new company.

Boutique evolved: 5 key trends

11/14/2011 9:06:00 AM

With independent hotels and international hotel chains running side by side, the boutique sector has become extremely competitive and some key trends have developed.

Challenges, chances await Caribbean hoteliers

11/14/2011 9:04:00 AM

With an environment similar to other regions, hotel operators in the Caribbean find strengthening demand doesn’t necessarily create substantially higher rates.

The current state of the U.S. lodging industry

11/14/2011 9:01:00 AM

While there continue to be enough potholes ahead to proceed with considerable caution, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy the current state of the industry while it lasts.

Sunday Night Football RevPAR premium tops MNF

11/14/2011 8:42:00 AM

Cities that host Sunday Night Football have more pricing power than their Monday Night Football host city counterparts.

Ambassadors will drive success of Brand USA

11/14/2011 8:30:00 AM

The more than 200 million ambassadors living outside of America’s borders are integral to the success of the recently launched Brand USA, said the organization’s CEO, Jim Evans.

Economy’s sad state forced lower forecast

11/14/2011 8:18:00 AM

STR’s Chad Church explains the research company’s downward revision to its forecast for 2012.

Mint deal catapults Hilton growth in Europe

11/11/2011 1:20:00 PM

Blackstone’s decision to purchase and rebrand eight former Mint hotels will bring DoubleTree by Hilton’s European portfolio to 28 and Hilton Garden Inn’s European portfolio to 18.

China’s domestic chains accelerate growth

11/11/2011 10:05:00 AM

Domestic hotel chains in China are experiencing record openings, but shifts in business models have brands approaching growth differently.

5 things to know: 11 November 2011

11/11/2011 9:53:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Two hotels collapse in latest Turkey quake, at least 10 dead;
• PhoCusWright: U.S. travel sector will erase recession losses soon;
• China hotel companies accelerate growth;
• bomb warning lifted for three Nigerian hotels; and
• Eurozone financial crisis will be ‘protracted,’ Fitch Ratings says.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for Oct. 2011

11/11/2011 9:47:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,835 projects, according to the October 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

You said it: 11 November 2011

11/11/2011 9:42:00 AM

This week’s roundup of comments and quotes come from HotelNewsNow.com’s World Travel Market coverage: A hotel exec says any type of advertising will benefit the U.S. travel industry; a reader believes it might be too late for the U.S. to catch up to other destinations.

Stock update: Home Inns, China Lodging, more

11/11/2011 9:32:00 AM

A trio of China-based companies highlights this week’s list of Q3 earnings reports.

STR updates 2011, 2012 forecasts

11/11/2011 9:18:00 AM

In 2012, the U.S. hotel industry's occupancy is predicted to rise 0.2%, its ADR is expected to be up 3.7% and its RevPAR is projected to increase 3.9%.

Top travel CEOs meet for job reform

11/11/2011 9:17:00 AM

Jim Abrahamson, Ed Walter, Stephen Joyce and Chris Nassetta were in Washington on Thursday to show support for the USTA’s newest plan to create jobs by reforming the U.S. visa waiver system.

STR: US results for week ending 5 November

11/11/2011 8:59:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 30 October-5 November 2011, according to data from STR.

Disney: Q4 revenue up 11%

11/11/2011 8:20:00 AM

The company reports increased guest spending reflected higher average ticket prices, daily hotel room rates and food, beverage and merchandise spending.

Brand USA

11/10/2011 1:34:00 PM

The Brand USA campaign aims to help the U.S. to regain lost international visitation market share.

5 things to know: 10 November 2011

11/10/2011 10:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Preliminary October figures reflect slowdown;
• HPT-Sonesta deal scrutinized by analyst, lawyers;
• Experts discuss realistic expectations for India;
• Belmonte brings Centerstone, Key West together; and
• U.S. initial unemployment claims drop by 10,000.

Risk management: A hotelier’s guide

11/10/2011 9:13:00 AM

Risk management, which drives revenues in addition to protecting the well being of guests, is more important than revenue management, concluded a panel at the World Travel Market.

Istanbul reports positive ADR, RevPAR

11/10/2011 9:07:00 AM

The Istanbul hotel market experienced positive growth in both ADR and RevPAR year-to-September.

Centerstone, Key West brands partner

11/10/2011 9:00:00 AM

Owners of the Centerstone and Key West brands have partnered to form Vimana Franchise Systems, a company that will offer licenses for both brands and refresh the Key West portfolio.

Inside Morocco’s hotel building boom

11/10/2011 8:56:00 AM

Major hotel companies are working to develop their presence in key markets throughout Morocco.

HPT-Sonesta deal scrutinized

11/10/2011 8:51:00 AM

A tangled web of affiliates involved in the acquisition of the Sonesta brand is raising questions about fiduciary responsibility and conflict of interest.

Canada results for week ending 5 November

11/10/2011 8:43:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry's occupancy fell 3.6%, its ADR ended the week virtually flat with a 0.1% decrease and its RevPAR was down 3.6%.

Developing in India can be cumbersome

11/10/2011 8:42:00 AM

Experts during a recent webinar highlighted what hoteliers need to know before entering the Indian market.

San Francisco tops ADR, RevPAR weekly increases

11/10/2011 8:31:00 AM

The market’s ADR increased 23.2% to US$169.05 and its RevPAR was up 31.5% to US$133.74.

LodgeNet’s TV channels outperform cable

11/9/2011 1:41:00 PM

LodgeNet Interactive Corporation, has cracked the code on hotel guest viewing preferences with a suite of server-based interactive television channels called “Guest Choice.”

5 things to know: 9 November 2011

11/9/2011 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG RevPAR growth slows in October;
• debating fairness of management contracts;
• Google+ Pages open for business;
• how to boost search-engine rankings; and
• survey: Travelers will continue to spend in 2012.

Focus on Europe shows gateway prowess

11/9/2011 9:10:00 AM

As Deloitte readies to play host to its 23rd annual hotel investment conference, one company executive said Europe is a tale of two situations—the haves and have nots. And Nick van Marken doesn’t expect it to change much in 2012.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index up 21.7% in October

11/9/2011 8:50:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended October with a 21.7% increase.

Google+ Pages open for business

11/9/2011 8:49:00 AM

Hotel companies can now create pages—make that multiple pages—for their brands and businesses.

IHG RevPAR growth slows after strong Q3

11/9/2011 8:30:00 AM

Growth in RevPAR slowed to 4.7% in October, impacted primarily by political unrest in the Middle East, said CEO Richard Solomons on the company’s third-quarter earnings call.

3 ways to boost hotel search-engine rankings

11/9/2011 7:53:00 AM

Use these steps to help increase visibility in the hotel space on Google, Bing and other search engines.

Debating fairness of management contracts

11/9/2011 7:46:00 AM

Miguel Rivera, senior VP at HVS Asset Management & Advisory, said incentive-based, rather than base-fee contracts, would leave operators to be judged and compensated more accurately.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

11/8/2011 10:14:00 AM

Multi-hotel development plans from the global chains highlight this month’s roundup of European hotel industry news.

8 key trends in global travel

11/8/2011 10:06:00 AM

The Global Trends Report, released at the World Travel Market, revealed some interesting insights about travelers and the travel industry.

Sale of HPT Marriotts pushed into 2012

11/8/2011 9:46:00 AM

Hospitality Properties Trust is putting its portfolio of 21 Marriott International-branded hotels on the market for a second time.

5 things to know: 8 November 2011

11/8/2011 9:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hilton to rebrand Mint Hotels;
• IHG, Melia Hotels release Q3 results;
• HPT delays sale of portfolio of Marriott hotels;
• Jim Evans leads launch of Brand USA in London; and
• Global Trends Report reveals travel trends by region.

Westin to open three new hotels in China

11/8/2011 9:12:00 AM

Westin will grow its portfolio by 50% by April 2012 with plans to double its footprint by 2014.

IHG’s systemwide RevPAR up 6.4% in Q3

11/8/2011 8:53:00 AM

In its third-quarter earnings report, InterContinental Hotels Group said RevPAR growth was led by Greater China and the U.S., which were up 10.8% and 8%, respectively.

Meliá Hotels reports strong RevPAR boost

11/8/2011 8:49:00 AM

A decline in revenue of 0.7% and reduction in EBITDA of 18.3% as compared to the same time frame in 2010 can be attributed to the sale last year of the Tryp brand, which boosted revenues.

What’s on tap for Brand USA?

11/8/2011 8:29:00 AM

At the launch of Brand USA on Day 1 of the World Travel Market 2011 in London, officials said the focus is for the U.S. to regain lost international visitation market share.

Ready or not, here they come?

11/8/2011 8:22:00 AM

As Brand USA details its first-ever marketing plan at the World Travel Market in London, hoteliers in the U.S. prepare for a surge in foreign guests.

HPT: Q3 RevPAR up 7.7%

11/8/2011 7:45:00 AM

The real-estate investment trust reported growth in the key metrics of RevPAR, ADR and occupancy during the third quarter.

AHLA, DHS: If you see something, say something

11/7/2011 3:52:00 PM

This week, the Department of Homeland Security, the AH&LA, LodgeNet and several U.S. hotel chains announced a new partnership that will significantly expand the “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.

5 things to know: 7 November 2011

11/7/2011 10:13:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• ‘Level heads’ led to finalizing Innkeepers deal;
• Condé Nast winners share what they do to stand out;
• 'Brand USA' launches new strategy in London;
• London’s leisure travel expected to decline during Olympics; and
• Perseus building a portfolio of hotels in French Alps.

'Level heads' led to finalizing Innkeepers deal

11/7/2011 9:39:00 AM

The parties involved in the revival of Cerberus Capital Management LP’s and Chatham Lodging Trust’s billion-dollar deal for 64 Innkeepers USA Trust hotels were able to put aside hurt feelings and get a deal done, Chatham’s chairman, president and CEO said.

Perseus building French Alps portfolio

11/7/2011 9:28:00 AM

London-based private-investment partnership Perseus Capital Partners has acquired the Hôtel Le Val Thorens in France, its first step in establishing a presence in the French Alps.

Hotels scramble to snag government business

11/7/2011 8:19:00 AM

As government business continues to decline into 2012, hoteliers launch innovative marketing plans surrounding per-diem rates and lean on corporate travel business in the meantime.

Aftershocks or new tremors?

11/7/2011 8:08:00 AM

Big picture economic and political questions muddy the waters for a recovering industry. Here are a few of the key factors to watch as we move into the latter part of 2011.

Market report: St. Petersburg, Russia

11/4/2011 1:30:00 PM

The Saint Petersburg, Russia hotel market experienced a 10.4% increase in RevPAR year-to-date through August 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, according to STR Global.

5 things to know: 4 November 2011

11/4/2011 10:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Plans for “Brand USA” will be unveiled next week;
• airline dispute costs Australian hotels US$10.3m;
• Red Lion buys 10 hotels in attempt to clean up portfolio;
• study: San Francisco, Detroit, Dallas are top hotel markets; and
• Expedia offers tips on working with OTAs to build off-peak business.

Stock update: FelCor, Gaylord, more

11/4/2011 9:53:00 AM

In Q3 results this week: Chesapeake reports 9.3% pro forma RevPAR growth; Gaylord said net roomnights sold increased by 320,000; and FelCor continues to pay down debt.

U.S. struggles to attract international guests

11/4/2011 9:39:00 AM

While the U.S. continues to clamor for pieces of the international visitation pie, the Corporation for Travel Promotion unveiled its inaugural plans in London.

Airline dispute costs Australian hotels US$10.3m

11/4/2011 8:59:00 AM

The two-day Qantas airline grounding impacted thousands of travelers and left Australian hotels with a weekend of cancellations and lost revenue.

STR: US results for week ending 29 Oct.

11/4/2011 8:20:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 23-29 October 2011, according to data from STR.

MGM expects ‘robust’ ROI from US$275m plan

11/4/2011 8:17:00 AM

MGM Resorts International will invest US$275 million in seven of its wholly owned assets to improve its room and public areas. Executives expect a hefty ADR premium as a result.

Red Lion’s 10-hotel buyout ‘transformational’

11/4/2011 8:13:00 AM

Red Lion on Thursday announced it purchased 10 hotels formerly leased by iStar Financial for US$37 million.

You said it: 4 November 2011

11/4/2011 8:09:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of quotes and comments: A customer advocate says the use of resort fees is a dishonest practice; readers debate details of the corporate espionage suit recently filed by Hersha Hospitality Management.

Red Lion reports 3.5% RevPAR increase in Q3

11/3/2011 4:05:00 PM

The company's RevPAR for comparable owned and leased hotels increased 3.5 percent year over year.

5 things to know: 3 November 2011

11/3/2011 10:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HPT to buy Sonesta International;
• acquisitions, renovations have major effect on property staff;
• PMZ offers advice to owners with looming debt maturities;
• Hyatt remains focused on growth; and
• independent segment tops weekly performance.

MGM rooms revenue up 11% in Q3

11/3/2011 10:03:00 AM

Rooms revenue from wholly owned domestic resorts increased 11% with a 13% increase in RevPAR at the company’s Las Vegas Strip resorts.

Critical tasks for ownership change, renovations

11/3/2011 9:38:00 AM

There’s only one thing hotel leadership needs for the benefits of an acquisition and renovation to outweigh the monetary and emotional costs: a plan.

HPT buying Sonesta International Hotels

11/3/2011 9:28:00 AM

Sonesta’s management team will remain intact and it will continue to operate several Royal Sonesta hotels and be available to operate other hotels for HPT.

Hoplamazian: Hyatt’s focus remains on growth

11/3/2011 9:26:00 AM

The goals of Hyatt Hotels Corporation didn’t change during the third quarter. The company is still focused on expanding its presence in global markets throughout the world, president and CEO Mark Hoplamazian said.

10 takeaways from Best Western convention

11/3/2011 9:20:00 AM

Best Western International’s executives touched on many subjects during the company’s annual convention in Florida this week. Here’s a sampling of what they had to say.

Canada results for week ending 29 October

11/3/2011 9:12:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry rose 7.5% in occupancy, 2.7% in ADR, and 10.4% in RevPAR during the week of 23-29 October.

Mezz, preferred equity debt ready to fill void

11/3/2011 9:05:00 AM

There is a shortage of capital from mezzanine and preferred-equity players who are ready to fill the gaps left by looming debt maturities in the hotel market, said Peter Berk, president of PMZ Realty Capital.

Independent hotels lead weekly increases

11/3/2011 8:36:00 AM

The independent hotel segment increased 7.8% in occupancy, 5.9% in ADR, and 14.1% in RevPAR during the week of 23-29 October.

5 things to know: 2 November 2011

11/2/2011 9:49:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotel execs discuss Europe debt crisis;
• Hyatt, Gaylord report Q3 earnings;
• L.A. hotel transactions up 77%;
• FelCor execs prepare round two of asset sales; and
• Egencia: Corporate rates up 2-7% in 2012.

FelCor delevers through aggressive asset sales

11/2/2011 9:46:00 AM

The hotel real-estate investment trust has sold eight hotels during the past year to reduce its debt ratio from nine times to seven times. FelCor plans to sell 32 more hotels from its 77-property portfolio.

Hoteliers respond to Europe debt deal

11/2/2011 9:29:00 AM

News of the Europe debt deal caught the attention of hoteliers throughout the world. How will it impact the hotel industry? Read on.

Best Western talks rate, distribution strategy

11/2/2011 9:26:00 AM

Rollout of the company’s descriptor program has been the centerpiece of Best Western International’s 2011, but the company has other initiatives up its sleeves that executives hope will improve operations.

Marriott’s development rolling in Europe

11/2/2011 8:10:00 AM

Despite widespread uncertainty in the region, executives at Marriott International are pushing to double the company's European portfolio to 80,000 rooms.

Hyatt reports 9.2% RevPAR increase in Q3

11/2/2011 7:36:00 AM

Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR increased 9.2% (6.9% excluding the effect of currency) in the third quarter of 2011 compared to the third quarter of 2010.

Gaylord Q3 adjusted RevPAR up 2.1%

11/2/2011 6:28:00 AM

Gaylord Entertainment Company's group business "continues to recover," Chairman and CEO Colin Reed said in a statement.

Fox appointed president of Fairmont

11/1/2011 10:12:00 AM

Jennifer Fox succeeds Chris Cahill, who yields the role of president to focus on his duties as COO, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Fairmont's parent company.

5 things to know: 1 November 2011

11/1/2011 9:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• BWI’s descriptor program hits ‘critical mass’;
• Interstate adds Noble’s management arm;
• Edinburgh hotels have a lot going for them;
• Radisson Blu Aqua debuts in the U.S.; and
• RNC tells Tampa hoteliers to cut contracted rates.

Strength, uncertainty in Edinburgh, Scotland

11/1/2011 9:00:00 AM

The Edinburgh hotel market has a lot going for it: numerous demand drivers all year long; strong fundamentals; relatively low supply. But area hoteliers are warily approaching 2012.

Best Western descriptors attain ‘critical mass’

11/1/2011 8:45:00 AM

More than 800 Best Westerns have achieved either the Plus or Premier level within Best Western International’s descriptor program.

Noble, Interstate form management platform

11/1/2011 8:31:00 AM

Noble Investment Group and Interstate Hotels & Resorts announced Tuesday that Noble’s hotel operating business, Noble Management Group, has become part of the Interstate organization.

Hotel Investors Gauge 3Q results

11/1/2011 8:25:00 AM

Debt and equity trends remained steady during the third quarter despite hiccups in the market, according to the Hotel Investors Gauge.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

11/1/2011 8:14:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: Dubai sees year-to-September demand growth; Capital Hill Hotels Limited acquires two London hotels from Morgans Hotel Group Company; and opening and development news from across the region.

Transparency crucial with extra fees

11/1/2011 7:50:00 AM

U.S. hotels are likely to collect US$1.8 billion in resorts fees and other surcharges by year-end 2011. But at what cost?

FelCor reports 5% RevPAR increase during Q3

11/1/2011 7:48:00 AM

RevPAR (for 67 comparable hotels) was US$99.04, a 5% increase compared with the same period in 2010. The increase was driven by a 3.3% increase in average daily rate.

HIL: Recession probability nears threshold

10/31/2011 9:04:00 AM

The probability of the hotel industry entering into recession in the near-term, which is detected in real-time by the Hotel Industry Leading indicator, registered 44.2% in September.

5 things to know: 31 October 2011

10/31/2011 9:00:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• London hoteliers offer more handicap-accessible rooms;
• guest commitment varies by brand;
• Expedia earnings buoyed by hotel revenues;
• Fitch: US$3.8b CMBS defaults in Q3; and
• HIL: probability of hotel recession up in September.

STR Global reports on Bangkok flooding

10/31/2011 8:30:00 AM

As flood waters continue to infiltrate Bangkok and the surrounding areas, daily data shows the situation is continuing to deteriorate for hoteliers, according to STR Global.

London hoteliers eye £2b tourism segment

10/31/2011 8:30:00 AM

London hoteliers are ramping up development of accessible rooms to capture their share of the £2-billion (US$3.2 billion) tourist segment for travelers with special needs.

Room Mate to move into key global markets

10/31/2011 8:05:00 AM

After opening Room Mate Waldorf in Miami Beach, Florida, last month, the company is moving at full speed to find opportunities in other cities.

Sunday Night Football hurts MNF demand

10/31/2011 7:57:00 AM

The success of NBC’s Sunday Night Football is enjoyed by both viewers and networks, but has it benefited the hotel industry?

Stock update: Choice, Starwood and more

10/28/2011 9:56:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and Choice Hotels International were among the companies reporting Q3 RevPAR gains this week.

5 things to know: 28 October 2011

10/28/2011 9:32:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
•    ISHC members share insight on China, India;
•    Innkeepers USA Trust deal finally closes;
•    Choice focused on building Cambria, Ascend Collection;
•    Hersha: Ex-employees spun ‘web of deception’; and
•    Starwood Hotels invests for future sales.

Starwood Hotels: Investing for future sales

10/28/2011 9:28:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide is investing in its 59 company-owned assets to generate higher returns in potential sales when the transactions market picks back up.

World’s stage is big enough for hotels

10/28/2011 9:19:00 AM

A trip to Istanbul for the ISHC conference reveals just how intertwined hotels are in global affairs.

Interstate acquires Crowne Plaza Tampa East

10/28/2011 9:10:00 AM

Interstate Hotels & Resorts announced that it has acquired the 265-room Crowne Plaza Tampa East in Florida through a joint venture with Waramaug Hospitality, LLC and a private investment group.

Hersha: Ex-employees spun ‘web of deception’

10/28/2011 9:01:00 AM

Hotel investment company Hersha Hospitality Management LP has accused two former workers of possibly stealing “thousands” of confidential electronic documents before leaving to take jobs at a competitor.

Choice continues Cambria, Ascend expansion

10/28/2011 8:31:00 AM

Choice Hotels International’s Cambria Suites brand and Ascend Collection hotels are still trying to get a “foothold” in the industry, Steve Joyce, Choice’s president and CEO, said during the company’s third-quarter earnings call Thursday.

US hotel performance for week ending 22 Oct.

10/28/2011 8:30:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy rose 4%, ADR was up 4.4%, and RevPAR increased 8.6% during the week of 16-22 October.

You said it: 28 October 2011

10/28/2011 7:58:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of quotes and comments: A hospitality expert advises European hoteliers on how to boost guest satisfaction levels; a reader believes Virgin Hotels made a hasty decision with the Old Dearborn Bank Building in Chicago.

Facilitate employee feedback at your hotel

10/28/2011 7:50:00 AM

Employee feedback is imperative for uncovering problems, but that doesn’t mean employees are always willing to provide that feedback. Here’s how to get them to open up.

Chatham/Cerberus close Innkeepers deal

10/27/2011 3:14:00 PM

The joint venture of affiliates of Cerberus Capital Management LP and Chatham Lodging Trust closed on its billion-dollar acquisition of 64 former Innkeepers USA Trust.

5 things to know: 27 October 2011

10/27/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Europe approaches resolution to debt crisis;
• European guest satisfaction decreases;
• Miami tops weekly RevPAR increases;
• Apple inspires Schrager’s new Public brand; and
• AmEx predicts 2012 rate increases for business travel.

Service key to quell sinking satisfaction in Europe

10/27/2011 9:45:00 AM

Guest satisfaction scores were down across the board, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 European Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study. Which brands were winners and which were losers?

IHG execs identify top goals for 2012

10/27/2011 9:39:00 AM

A major initiative to reposition Crowne Plaza will take the lead, but each department at IHG will make tweaks to capitalize on growing demand and help franchisees increase RevPAR and market share.

Canada results for week ending 22 Oct.

10/27/2011 9:33:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 16-22 October 2011, according to data from STR.

How Apple inspired Schrager’s Public brand

10/27/2011 9:24:00 AM

Ian Schrager’s new Public hotel brand features a style of “uncategorized” service akin to that of an Apple store.

Starwood Hotels report 11.6% Q3 RevPAR gain

10/27/2011 9:08:00 AM

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide reported Q3 RevPAR was up 7.4% in constant dollars.

Miami reports strongest weekly RevPAR gain

10/27/2011 9:07:00 AM

The market ended the week of 16-22 October with a 32.8% increase in revenue per available room.

Hong Kong resurgent with RevPAR gains

10/27/2011 8:10:00 AM

Hotel performance in Hong Kong is in a healthy state, according to data from STR Global.

Update on CMBS loans and a dose of reality

10/27/2011 8:07:00 AM

Industry “experts” claim the general economy does not apply to the hotel industry. Great. We have now unhooked the hotel industry from GDP, the economy and reality.

Choice: 5.4% Q3 domestic RevPAR growth

10/27/2011 7:01:00 AM

The Silver Spring, Maryland-based company expects 6.5% RevPAR growth during the fourth quarter this year.

5 things to know: 26 October 2011

10/26/2011 9:47:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Floods dampen Bangkok hotel performance;
• IHG panel: Wall Street won’t affect profits;
• Wyndham reports strong Q3 earnings;
• Meliá kick starts European development; and
• Marriott spins off vacations subsidiary.

STR announces departure of Mark Lomanno

10/26/2011 9:43:00 AM

STR announced today that Mark Lomanno is leaving the company effective 31 October 2011, after more than 20 years of service.

Wyndham execs talk hotel hold strategy

10/26/2011 9:31:00 AM

While Wyndham Hotel Group might not be actively marketing its recently opened Bonnet Creek hotel, executive Stephen P. Holmes, during a Q3 earnings conference call Wednesday, made clear the company does not want to own hotels.

Experts: Wall Street won’t affect profits

10/26/2011 9:13:00 AM

Outside influences such as the economy and unstable financial markets shouldn’t affect the way hoteliers approach their business, a panel of industry experts said Tuesday.

The legality of hospitality dress codes

10/26/2011 8:49:00 AM

Hospitality employers spend time, money and energy creating the right “look” for employees. But is it legally safe?

Rome tops Meliá’s luxury expansion in Europe

10/26/2011 8:33:00 AM

Meliá Hotels International is set to open the Gran Meliá Rome in December, a move that marks a focused effort to expand the company’s luxury brand throughout Europe.

Marriott Vacations Worldwide spin-off approved

10/26/2011 7:59:00 AM

Marriott International, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors approved the spin-off of its wholly owned subsidiary, Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation.

Wyndham Hotels report 6.3% Q3 RevPAR gain

10/26/2011 6:29:00 AM

Third-quarter revenue increased by 14% to US$1.2 billion.

STR Global: demand grows in Nordic markets

10/25/2011 12:20:00 PM

The Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden all showed increases in demand in year-to-September results, according to STR Global.

5 things to know: 25 October 2011

10/25/2011 10:05:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Virgin Hotels 'thrilled' to launch in Chicago;
• Crowne Plaza execs dish on brand repositioning;
• IAHI rebrands as IHG Owners Association;
• China outbound travel continues to increase; and
• Rushmore: boutique investment worth the risk.

Probability of US hotel industry recession jumps

10/25/2011 10:03:00 AM

The probability of the hotel industry entering into recession was 20% during September, up from 15.8% reported in August, according to e-forecasting.com.

Group, business segments fuel future bookings

10/25/2011 9:59:00 AM

Future bookings data from TravelClick paints a picture of strength for the North American hotel industry. But will the trend continue?

Istanbul panel talks global visas, development

10/25/2011 9:40:00 AM

Gerald Lawless of Jumeirah, Ed Fuller of Marriott and Tony Potter of Corinthia discussed issues affecting hotels worldwide as they addressed the International Society of Hospitality Consultants’ annual conference.

US Q3 hotel deals see price drop

10/25/2011 9:34:00 AM

The average U.S. hotel sold for just less than US$40 million during the third quarter, down from more than US$90 million during the second quarter.

Crowne Plaza will target ‘the striver’

10/25/2011 9:18:00 AM

The IHG brand eyes a young, successful business traveler while asking owners for capital investment for new bedding, a new service program and improved fitness and F&B facilities.

IHG owners group adopts new name, strategy

10/25/2011 9:01:00 AM

The owners’ association of InterContinental Hotels Group hotels has rebranded itself from the International Association of Holiday Inns, or the IAHI, to the “IHG Owners Association.”

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

10/25/2011 8:53:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Asia/Pacific region: IHG, Alila, MGM and Hyatt announce plans for development; long-term travel forecasts from the UNWTO; and PhoCusWright presents at ITB Asia 2011.

Increase in valuation lifts hoteliers’ optimism

10/25/2011 8:47:00 AM

Hotel investment in cities such as Miami, New York, L.A., and Las Vegas will reward risk-taking investors, HVS’ Steve Rushmore said during the Lifestyle/Boutique Hotel Development Conference.

STR reports Q3 2011 results

10/24/2011 5:52:00 PM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy increased 4% to 66.5%, its ADR rate rose 3.8% to US$102.96, and its RevPAR was up 7.9% to US$68.44.

Virgin Hotels announces first property

10/24/2011 1:53:00 PM

Virgin is "thrilled" to launch the brand in Chicago, said Anthony Marino, the group's managing partner of leisure and hospitality.

5 things to know: 24 October 2011

10/24/2011 8:57:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial team:
• Hotels reportedly collapse in Turkey earthquake;
• STR Global posts September hotel performance;
• Hampton continues to evolve;
• Brazil sees increase in international bookings; and
• state court clears way for Harmon hotel resolution.

ABVI, Lexington receive Gold Magellan award

10/24/2011 8:54:00 AM

Americas Best Value Inn and the Lexington Collection captured a prestigious Gold Magellan Award from Travel Weekly for the second straight year, this time for its consumer promotion We’ve Got You Covered.

Hampton turns to guests, developers for innovation

10/24/2011 8:37:00 AM

Leaders at the upper-midscale brand are focused on staying ahead of the pack and leading innovation in its segment.

Optimistic forecast bodes well for hotel sales pros

10/24/2011 8:04:00 AM

New data suggests hotel sales pros can no longer use the economy and high unemployment as an excuse for why they can’t book more business from U.S. corporations.

‘Funky money’ key to get boutiques off the ground

10/24/2011 7:54:00 AM

Money is hard to come by for any hotel, let alone brandless boutiques. Fortunately, there exist tax credits and cost reliefs for adaptive reuse projects.

STR Global: MEA September performance

10/21/2011 9:49:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa region reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics during September 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to STR Global.

STR Global: Asia/Pac. results for Sept.

10/21/2011 9:45:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced mostly positive results in the three key performance metrics during September 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to STR Global.

LaSalle turns focus back to operations

10/21/2011 9:34:00 AM

Hotel real-estate investment trust LaSalle Hotel Properties is turning its attention back toward operations—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few acquisitions-related loose ends to tie up along the way.

STR Global posts Sept. '11 results for Europe

10/21/2011 9:29:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for September 2011, according to STR Global.

5 things to know: 21 October 2011

10/21/2011 9:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott learns lesson from Waikiki Edition drama;
• LaSalle puts focus on operations;
• don’t expect hotel CMBS life in 2011;
• Hard Rock continues flexible expansion strategy; and
• U.S. initial jobless claims fall.

Stock update: Q3 earnings roundup

10/21/2011 9:13:00 AM

Accor, DiamondRock Hospitality Company, LaSalle Hotel Properties, and Wynn Resorts Limited all reported earnings this week. Here’s how they did.

STR Global: Americas report increases in Sept.

10/21/2011 9:12:00 AM

The Americas region recorded positive results in the three key performance metrics when reported in U.S. dollars for September 2011, according to STR and STR Global.

You said it: 21 October 2011

10/21/2011 9:08:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of quotes and comments: An exec advises hoteliers to complete PIPs in time or suffer the consequences; a reader isn’t so sure revenue managers would go for the Southwest pricing model in the hotel industry.

‘Boutique’ has officially lost its meaning

10/21/2011 9:01:00 AM

Underwriting standards and the need for strong marketing systems have made true boutique hotel projects nearly impossible.

Hard Rock strikes chord with brand licensing

10/21/2011 8:54:00 AM

Hard Rock Hotels & Casino’s recently announced deal to rebrand three Palace Resorts properties in Mexico is the next phase in the company’s flexible approach to expansion.

CMBS still down despite Deutsche deal

10/21/2011 8:49:00 AM

Deutsche Bank AG’s reported US$609-million CMBS sale notwithstanding, the hotel commercial mortgage-backed securities market is dead and buried. But sources said signs of life will eventually reemerge.

Steve Wynn opines on Occupy Wall Street

10/21/2011 8:43:00 AM

The chairman and CEO of Wynn Resorts Limited gave a from-the-heart soliloquy on the economy and the Occupy Wall Street protests during an earnings call.

STR: US performance for week ending 15 Oct.

10/21/2011 8:33:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 9-15 October 2011, according to data from STR.

Marriott ‘relaunching’ Edition out of pocket

10/21/2011 8:25:00 AM

Marriott International has bought property to develop Editions in London, New York and Miami Beach, and has letters of intent for properties in Abu Dhabi, Mexico City and Bangkok.

STR: US hotels report strong RevPAR increases

10/21/2011 7:59:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in September reported increases in all three key performance metrics, according to data from STR.

5 things to know: 20 October 2011

10/20/2011 10:15:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Innkeepers, Cerberus, Chatham reach new US$1b deal;
• STR releases U.S., Canada data;
• Pegasus: corporate demand, rate keep building;
• European hotels cost more on brand.com than OTAs; and
• Google’s Hotel Finder is going global.

DiamondRock deals 3 hotels to Inland American

10/20/2011 9:22:00 AM

As part of the company’s goal to focus on high-growth, top 25 markets, DiamondRock Hospitality Company on Wednesday announced the sale of hotels located in Kentucky, Atlanta and Texas for US$262.5 million.

Bad publicity in the Internet age

10/20/2011 9:18:00 AM

Marriott International found out the hard way this month the Internet can be as harsh as it can be kind.

Hotels report strong September performance

10/20/2011 9:14:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported a RevPAR increase of 10% during September, the largest since March, according to data from STR.

Independent hotels lead ADR, RevPAR increases

10/20/2011 8:38:00 AM

The independent hotel segment reported an ADR increase of 5% and a RevPAR gain of 9% for the week ending 15 October.

Elevating the role of revenue manager

10/20/2011 8:34:00 AM

The revenue manager has to take a leadership role and gain the support of others in the organization for the potential of the role to be realized. Here’s how.

No slowdown in corporate demand, rate

10/20/2011 8:29:00 AM

Electronic booking data from Pegasus Solutions shows September corporate rates grew year over year by 3.5% globally and by 4.6% in North America alone.

Canada results for week ending 15 Oct.

10/20/2011 8:21:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry rose 1.4% in occupancy, 1.1% in ADR, and 2.5% in RevPAR for the week of 9-15 October.

3 keys to hotel development in China

10/20/2011 8:05:00 AM

Developing a hotel in China doesn’t work the same way as in western countries. If you persist with a traditional approach, you most likely will go home empty handed.

Hard Rock to launch all-inclusive hotels in Mexico

10/20/2011 7:47:00 AM

Hard Rock International announced an agreement with Palace Resorts LLC to transform Palace Resorts properties in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Maya into Hard Rock Hotels.

Take 2: Innkeepers strikes new deal

10/19/2011 3:07:00 PM

The deal announced Wednesday represents a sales price nearly 10% lower than the US$1.13-billion deal for the 64 hotels that was originally proposed last summer.

5 reasons why hotels will outgain the economy

10/19/2011 9:53:00 AM

Despite the negative sentiment and strong headwinds facing the economy, we can think of five reasons why U.S. hotels will weather this storm quite well.

STR Global: MEA pipeline for Sept.

10/19/2011 9:37:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 481 hotels, according to the September 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 19 October 2011

10/19/2011 9:29:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global: Europe, Asia/Pacific, MEA pipeline data for September;
• Accor, DiamondRock release Q3 earnings;
• niche OTAs trying to compete with the big boys;
• a new pricing structure for hotels?; and
• Supplier travel prices in Latin America could see big jumps in 2012.

STR Global reports Asia/Pac. pipeline for Sept.

10/19/2011 9:08:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 314,433 rooms, according to the September 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global reports Europe pipeline for Sept.

10/19/2011 9:04:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 824 hotels, according to the September 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

Can niche OTAs compete with the big guys?

10/19/2011 8:39:00 AM

AAHOA’s My Best Hotel Rate and Magnuson’s Global Hotel Exchange might have been launched with the right idea, but both will require significant capital to make them relevant to travelers.

STR, newBrandAnalytics partner on social media

10/19/2011 8:33:00 AM

STR named newBrandAnalytics as its social media analytics partner this week.

The end of yield management

10/19/2011 8:06:00 AM

Southwest Airline’s new pricing structure offers three fares that never change. Could the same work for the hotel industry?

Accor reports Q3 revenue gain

10/19/2011 6:48:00 AM

Revenue at the France-based company increased by 2.7% as reported and by 5.8% on a like-for-like basis.

STR Global: C./S. America pipeline for Sept.

10/18/2011 9:54:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 29,243 rooms, according to the September 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 18 October 2011

10/18/2011 9:38:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG signs 12 contracts for new China brand;
• owners facing maturing CMBS debt must stay flexible;
• Caribbean/Mexico, C./S. America September pipeline data released;
• Dubai sees August YTD demand growth; and
• Davidson relocates HQ to Atlanta.

STR reports Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for Sept.

10/18/2011 9:35:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 130 hotels, according to the September 2011 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Dubai's stabilized supply helps boost RevPAR

10/18/2011 9:09:00 AM

Demand growth in Dubai’s hotel industry was up 16.5% year-to-date through August compared to the previous year, according to STR Global.

How to lead your team from sidelines to victory

10/18/2011 8:57:00 AM

Solid training prepares your team before they step onto the field. But good coaching doesn’t stop there. Here are tips to become a better leader at your hotel.

Hotels' maturing debt raises eyebrows

10/18/2011 8:52:00 AM

Because many hotels with maturing debt are surviving through low-floating interest rates, panelists during last week’s Fishing for Solutions conference said they believe the issue will come to a head sooner rather than later.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

10/18/2011 8:36:00 AM

In this week's roundup of news from the Americas region: Operating performance still rising; brands hope to capitalize on the potential of Colombia; Loews Hotels is looking for a new president and CEO; and key hotel deals from the Americas region.

Russian market leads Hilton's growth in Europe

10/18/2011 8:21:00 AM

Four new hotels increase portfolio to 23 hotels either trading or under development in Russia with a multi-site development agreement for an additional 11 projects.

Davidson to relocate office to Atlanta

10/18/2011 8:10:00 AM

Officials of Davidson Hotels & Resorts announced Tuesday the company will open a new headquarter office in Atlanta.

5 things to know: 17 October 2011

10/17/2011 9:37:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Jack Adler reflects on time at Loews;
• Fitch Ratings: CREL CDO delinquencies edge up;
• Choice drumming up developer interest in Cambria brand;
• guest problems you don’t know about can still hurt you; and
• European room rates drop by 7% in September.

Special servicers speak up, albeit quietly

10/17/2011 9:19:00 AM

With so many troubled hotel assets being serviced, these specialists have plenty to say about the current environment—just don’t quote them on it.

Loews’ Adler looks forward to other opportunities

10/17/2011 9:12:00 AM

After a 23-year career with Loews Hotels, president and COO Jack Adler has decided to retire from the company and seek opportunities elsewhere in the hotel industry.

Alila to open 17 new projects in Asia

10/17/2011 8:45:00 AM

As it celebrates its 10-year anniversary, the Alila Hotel and Resorts boutique brand is set to more than double its portfolio by year-end 2013, said president Mark Edleson.

Rugby World Cup boosts hotel performance

10/17/2011 8:29:00 AM

The Rugby World Cup 2011 is boosting hotel performance in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand.

What you don’t know about your guests’ problems

10/17/2011 8:25:00 AM

Not all problems are created nor reported equally. Noise, for example, is the most common guest problem across the industry at 16%, yet it is only reported 43% of the time.

New strategy draws developer interest in Cambria

10/17/2011 8:07:00 AM

Choice Hotels is shifting geographic strategies, targeting different guests and deploying equity to help fund Cambria development, which one developer said “takes some risk off the table.”

Stock update: Ashford, Host and more

10/14/2011 9:25:00 AM

Included in this week’s update of public hotel company news: Ashford Hospitality Trust prices a stock offering; Host Hotels & Resorts reports Q3 earnings; and Sunstone Hotel Investors addresses its near-term debt.

5 things to know: 14 October 2011

10/14/2011 9:01:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Tisch, Adler cede roles at Loews Hotels;
• Autograph downplays Marriott affiliation on new website;
• Wall Street Journal: Cerberus-Innkeepers deal back on;
• Hyatt CEO talks recovery regions, new brand on Bloomberg; and
• U.K. unemployment highest in 17 years.

Autograph’s bold move deserves tip of the hat

10/14/2011 8:18:00 AM

The move to wipe the Marriott name from the Autograph Collection’s new website, which launched Thursday, is a step in the right direction for the hotel industry.

You said it: 14 October 2011

10/14/2011 8:15:00 AM

This week: IT experts talk about what keeps them up at night and a reader says forming partnerships with nearby attractions will yield a great return on investment for hotels.

UK travel confidence wanes despite travel rebound

10/14/2011 8:09:00 AM

The incidence of travel increased within Germany, France and the U.K. But while the travelers in the former two countries are showing signs of optimism, consumers in the U.K. are growing more pessimistic.

STR: US results for week end 8 October

10/14/2011 8:08:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 2-8 October 2011, according to data from STR.

Accor sells seven Paris Suite Novotels

10/14/2011 8:07:00 AM

Accor received €77 million (US$106.37 million) from the sale of the Paris-area properties.

New Autograph site debuts without Marriott name

10/14/2011 7:25:00 AM

To emphasize the unique experiences guests can share in its portfolio of independent hotels, the Autograph Collection has removed Marriott branding and the Marriott booking engine from its new website, which launched Thursday.

Rapid City: Portrait of American leisure

10/14/2011 6:12:00 AM

Leisure travel hit a hiccup this year in Rapid City, South Dakota, as the U.S. economy faltered, but hoteliers are optimistic the market will find its footing in 2012.

Tisch, Adler cede roles at Loews Hotels

10/13/2011 2:03:00 PM

Current CEO Jonathan Tisch will remain as chairman of Loews, while President and COO Jack Adler is set to retire effective early next year.

STR: US hotels report slight performance gains

10/13/2011 9:18:00 AM

Occupancy rose 1.5% to 64.4%, ADR increased 2.8% to US$104.48, and RevPAR finished the week up 4.3% to US$67.32.

5 things to know: 13 October 2011

10/13/2011 9:16:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR reports weekly performance data for U.S., Canada;
• Capital-market cloudiness forcing Host to re-assess;
• UNWTO: International arrivals forecast to reach 1.8 billion by 2030;
• 83 U.S. hotels representing US$6.7 billion traded in Q3; and
• PKF-HR: hotels should be optimistic when budgeting for 2012.

Canada results for week ending 8 Oct.

10/13/2011 9:03:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported slight decreases in the three key performance metrics for the week of 2-8 October 2011, according to data from STR.

Financial markets cause Host to step back

10/13/2011 9:00:00 AM

Even with a strong balance sheet and low hotel valuations, Host Hotels & Resorts is having a difficult time assessing whether it’s a good time to buy hotels.

Denihan eyes turnaround opportunities to fuel growth

10/13/2011 8:48:00 AM

Denihan Hospitality Group aims to double its size within the next five years by acquiring troubled assets in need of a deep turnaround.

STR Global Market Forecasts: RevPAR growth in '11

10/13/2011 8:34:00 AM

STR Global’s Market Forecast is projecting mostly year-on-year improvements in revenue per available room for the remainder of 2011 with some slowdown expected in 2012 for the 45 markets available.

Gaylord waiting on Colorado development incentives

10/13/2011 8:32:00 AM

City-approved incentives in hand for its proposed development in Aurora, Colorado, Gaylord Entertainment Company now needs only to have the state of Colorado approve its portion of the incentives package.

HVS: Hotel values to increase in Russia, CIS

10/13/2011 8:09:00 AM

Hotel values in Russia, the CIS and Georgia are expected to increase 7% by the end of 2011—nearly double the forecasted growth rate of hotels in Europe.

Speakers set for inaugural CHICOS event

10/12/2011 2:58:00 PM

5 things to know: 12 October 2011

10/12/2011 9:52:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• PCI, PII security is top concern for hotel tech leaders;
• ADR growth boosts Q3 revenue for Host Hotels & Resorts;
• Canyon Capital looks for lending opportunities in top 25 markets;
• WSJ: Trump to buy Doral Golf Resort for US$170m; and
• Ritz-Carlton Shanghai wins Conde Nast “best hotel” award.

IT leaders: Security concerns stifle innovation

10/12/2011 8:38:00 AM

Asked what keeps them up at night, several hotel technology leaders representing brands and hotel owners said personally identifiable information breaches are their top concern.

Hotel groups unite to reduce PCI scope

10/12/2011 8:30:00 AM

Hotel groups are taking action to keep guests’ credit-card data safe by working together to develop a solution in which they can avoid storing the information altogether.

Haunted hotels and the ghost of Elizabeth

10/12/2011 8:22:00 AM

I never saw the ghost of Elizabeth at Hotel Conneaut, though her lingering presence left its mark during childhood visits.

Canyon looking to lend

10/12/2011 8:12:00 AM

Fresh off its bridge loan made to HRI Lodging and Carey Watermark Investors, Canyon Capital Realty Advisors LLC is looking for more opportunities in and out of the United States’ top 25 markets.

Host reports Q3 RevPAR, ADR gain

10/12/2011 7:39:00 AM

The REIT said its Q3 net loss narrowed to US$35 million from US$61 million a year ago.

5 things to know: 11 October 2011

10/11/2011 9:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: U.S., Canada pipelines continue downward trend;
• Danziger discusses opening of Wyndham’s first owned hotel;
• MGM will develop Bellagio, MGM Grand, Skylofts in Mumbai;
• W Buckhead building put on foreclosure notice; and
• USA Today: Airlines blame travel-budget cuts for demand loss.

MJS Hotels focuses on Arizona

10/11/2011 9:20:00 AM

The management company announced a turnaround strategy to help revive the struggling Phoenix market.

High-impact, low-cost ways to win guests

10/11/2011 8:57:00 AM

Good rivalries are borne out of competitors’ similarities, not differences. The key to winning guests is fighting for that extra 3%.

Wyndham diverts from strategy with Orlando resort

10/11/2011 8:45:00 AM

Wyndham Hotel Group’s first fully owned property is unique in that it is a newly constructed property in a time of severely muted industry supply growth.

STR reports Canadian hotel pipeline for Sept.

10/11/2011 8:32:00 AM

The Canadian hotel development pipeline is down 6.3% year over year, according to the September 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

10/11/2011 8:27:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of Europe hotel news: Interstate eyes growth in the region; Jupiter Hotels acquires 24 Jarvis properties; and Marriott International ramps up development in Italy.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for September

10/11/2011 8:19:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline is down 10.5% year over year, according to the September 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

5 things to know: 10 October 2011

10/10/2011 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR president discusses return of ADR on Fox Business;
• Russia, Turkey and Poland are hotspots for future IHG growth;
• New leaders detail Value Place strategy;
• Morgans parting with Sanderson, St Martins Lane in London; and
• Deutsche Bank sells US$609 million in CMBS debt.

New leaders, same growth goals for Value Place

10/10/2011 9:06:00 AM

New president/COO Kyle Rogg said he and new CEO Dan Weber expect the Value Place extended-stay brand to continue its pace of expansion.

Structuring management agreements with REITs

10/10/2011 8:51:00 AM

Hotel operators must ensure their hotel management agreements anticipate a lease structure and include appropriate protections to avoid the worst-case scenario when dealing with REITs.

STR Global partners with Horwath HTL in India

10/10/2011 8:23:00 AM

STR Global is pleased to announce the expansion of its worldwide operations to India.

IHG execs confident in Europe ‘growth story’

10/10/2011 8:02:00 AM

InterContinental Hotels Group continues to see RevPAR growth in Europe and demand for new properties. Turkey and Poland are hot new markets, and aggressive growth is planned for Russia.

Morgans selling London hotels

10/10/2011 7:48:00 AM

Middle Eastern investor Capital Hill Hotels Limited is acquiring the Sanderson and St. Martins Lane hotels in London for US$295 million.

5 things to know: 7 October 2011

10/7/2011 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases preliminary data for US;
• Apple REIT deals keep flowing;
• Marriott expects a strong 2012;
• Green Street Advisors: commercial property values flat; and
• U.S. unemployment rate holds at 9.1%.

Apple REIT deals continue despite slower market

10/7/2011 9:20:00 AM

While other hotel real-estate investment trusts have left the buying game, it’s business as usual for the Apple REIT Companies, said president Justin G. Knight.

You said it: 7 October 2011

10/7/2011 8:57:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: A revenue management expert explains the pitfalls that trip up hoteliers on the way to recovery and a reader disagrees that Ian Schrager is an innovator in the industry.

Stock update: Ashford, Marriott

10/7/2011 8:49:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of public hotel company news: Marriott International expects a positive 2012 and Ashford Hospitality Trust guidance indicates a Q3 RevPAR boost.

Sorenson: Marriott optimistic about 2012

10/7/2011 8:44:00 AM

RevPAR growth will be in the range of 3% to 7% in 2012 at Marriott International, as executives said during a Thursday conference call that they have not noticed weakening demand in the company’s hotel business.

STR: US results for week ending 1 Oct.

10/7/2011 8:41:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy rose 2.7%, its ADR was up 1.3% and RevPAR increased 4.1%.

Give your guests a reason to stay with you

10/7/2011 8:28:00 AM

Letting guests know what there is to do at and around your hotel is a great way to stand out amongst your competition, particularly if it is something they won't get elsewhere.

STR Global: Typhoon boosts Tokyo occupancy

10/7/2011 8:06:00 AM

Tokyo’s daily hotel performance came back to normality after the 21 September typhoon “N°15” shook the city and its rail network.

5 things to know: 6 October 2011

10/6/2011 10:28:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Summer demand beats STR forecast;
• mobile bookings require easy payment process;
• DLA Piper: Investors bearish on commercial real estate;
• Ashford reports solid Q3 RevPAR guidance; and
• three common traits of successful conferences.

Summer hotel performance exceeds expectations

10/6/2011 10:10:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry outperformed STR’s initial summer forecast as demand reached record-setting heights.

Marriott reports Q3 earnings

10/6/2011 8:51:00 AM

Worldwide comparable systemwide RevPAR rose 8.7% in actual dollars for the company during the quarter.

STR: US hotels report softer week

10/6/2011 8:42:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry’s occupancy rose 2.7% to 62.8%, its ADR increased 1.3% to US$101.14, and its RevPAR finished the week up 4.1% to US$63.52.

Canada results for week ending 1 October

10/6/2011 8:34:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry fell 1% in occupancy, its ADR was down 1.9%, and its RevPAR decreased 2.9%.

‘Electronic wallet’ will boost mobile booking

10/6/2011 8:27:00 AM

The development of applications to ease the payment process will take mobile booking to the next level, but it will require upfront capital investments from hoteliers, experts said.

Independent managers offer flexibility in contracts

10/6/2011 8:04:00 AM

Recent experiences driven by the volatile economic environment have shown owners desire the flexibility (and lower costs) independent hotel managers offer.

Summer demand beats STR forecast

10/6/2011 7:54:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported a 4.2% increase for the summer 2011, according to data from STR.

ABVI, Lexington add to loyalty programs

10/5/2011 2:10:00 PM

Vantage Hospitality Group’s hotel brands, which include Americas Best Value Inn, Canadas Best Value Inn, Lexington Hotels, and Lexington Inns, have now added hundreds more benefits and discounts to their unique loyalty programs.

5 things to know: 5 October 2011

10/5/2011 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Expedia seeks ‘symbiotic’ bond with Google;
• TravelClick: Q4 hotel demand strong in North America;
• Hong Kong tops Chinese outbound tourist destinations;
• Five Mile purchases notes of 64 Red Roof Inns; and
• former Marriott exec Eisemann joins IHG.

Expedia seeks ‘symbiotic’ bond with Google

10/5/2011 9:32:00 AM

As Google continues to establish itself as a major player in the travel distribution landscape, Expedia is seeking a partnership in what Jay Hubbs, a senior director with the OTA, called a “very tight part of the ecosystem.”

Travel outlook strong for remainder of 2011

10/5/2011 9:04:00 AM

As the third quarter of 2011 comes to a close, TravelClick’s September 2011 North American Hospitality Review indicates that hotel demand for the remainder of 2011 will continue to be strong.

Eisemann joins IHG's Americas team

10/5/2011 9:03:00 AM

Joel Eisemann, formerly of Marriott International, was appointed senior VP and chief development officer for the Americas region. Jim Anhut will assume the role of senior VP, Americas Brand Management.

Five Mile purchases notes of 64 Red Roof Inns

10/5/2011 9:02:00 AM

Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels sold of a series of non-performing mortgage loans secured by a portfolio of 64 Red Roof Inn Hotels to Five Mile Capital.

5 ways to improve OTA distribution

10/5/2011 8:48:00 AM

Hotel revenue managers need to have a firm understanding of their demand drivers and competitive landscape to effectively manage distribution across various online travel agencies, Expedia’s Jay Hubbs said.

Hotel execs share performance predictions

10/5/2011 8:38:00 AM

With the hotel sector’s Q3 earnings season about to begin, several executives chime in with their thoughts on where they believe the sector is headed.

European survey reveals key brand insights

10/5/2011 8:29:00 AM

Best Western International was the most improved brand over 2009 and Hilton was the top brand of 2010, according to the Pan European Hotel Guest Survey 2011, conducted by British consultancy BDRC Continental.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index down 8.9% in Sept.

10/5/2011 8:22:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index fell 8.9% in September and 30.3% year-to-date 2011.

Cost containment continues to drive profits

10/5/2011 8:15:00 AM

Several hoteliers are continuing measures installed during the downturn, and data from PKF Hospitality Research shows muted expense growth through 2012.

LodgeNet hosting 4th annual tech symposium

10/4/2011 12:35:00 PM

LodgeNet Interactive Corporation is hosting its 4th annual Customer Technology Symposium October 4 through October 6 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in suburban Chicago.

5 things to know: 4 October 2011

10/4/2011 9:43:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Jupiter Hotels Limited acquires 24 Jarvis hotels;
• Abrahamson lays out Interstate’s growth plans in Europe;
• AH&LA responds to government conference cost cutting;
• Italy’s hotel sales muted; and
• Despite turmoil, Marriott's incoming MEA head sees growth prospects.

Marriott’s incoming MEA head sees growth

10/4/2011 9:18:00 AM

Alex Kyriakidis sees much room for growth in the region that has been ravaged economically, politically and militarily during the past three years.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

10/4/2011 9:02:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region: South Africa faces a FIFA World Cup hotel supply hangover; private equity funds seek strategic buyers; and opening and development news from across the region.

Abrahamson: Interstate eyes growth in Europe

10/4/2011 8:30:00 AM

Interstate Hotels & Resorts is placing a renewed focus in Europe, as exemplified by the management company’s JV with Netherlands-based TVHG Budget Group Beeher BV.

Deal volume slows to trickle in Italy

10/4/2011 8:21:00 AM

Hotel deal volume in Italy is down approximately €950 million (US$1.26 billion) from its peak, despite an influx of assets on the market.

Schrager’s new strategy worth keeping an eye on

10/4/2011 8:05:00 AM

First came the boutique hotel. Now iconic hotelier Ian Schrager is back with a new approach that likely will be copied by others in the industry for years to come.

Accor signs 24 Mercure hotels in UK

10/4/2011 6:22:00 AM

In what is the biggest franchise deal for Accor this year, 24 hotels, or 2,664 rooms, will open under the Mercure hotel brand across the U.K., bringing the total number of Mercure hotels in the U.K. to 68.

5 things to know: 3 October 2011

10/3/2011 10:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Joie de Vivre, Thompson Hotels merge; plan new brands;
• hoteliers less receptive to price negotiations;
• Kayak puts IPO on hold;
• NH Hoteles awaits benefits of HNA JV in China; and
• Kyriakidis to head Marriott's MEA division.

Joie de Vivre, Thompson merge; plan new brands

10/3/2011 10:14:00 AM

A merger between the two like-minded lifestyle hotel companies will pave the way for domestic and international growth, including plans to introduce or acquire additional brands.

HEI eager to fill the hotel REIT void

10/3/2011 9:55:00 AM

HEI Hotels & Resorts has acquired five hotels during 2011. Now with hotel REITs largely out of the picture, the owner/operator is looking to deploy the remainder of its US$515-million Fund III.

Reclassification has been tough on hotel lending

10/3/2011 9:33:00 AM

Executives from Premier Capital Associates believe the reclassification of hotels as investor real estate has played a big role in there being less debt available for deals.

Q&A with HEI’s Russ Urban

10/3/2011 8:59:00 AM

Russ Urban, HEI Hotels & Resort’s senior VP of acquisitions and development, talked about the company’s acquisition strategy during an interview at the Lodging Conference.

Brands spending to capitalize on luxury rebound

10/3/2011 8:40:00 AM

The Luxury Collection and Conrad Hotels launched brand marketing campaigns to target “new luxury” traveler this fall as both chains rapidly expand their global presences.

What are cost reductions costing you?

10/3/2011 8:21:00 AM

Striking the right balance between cost-reducing efficiencies and service always will be a challenge. Here are three examples to help.

JV with China’s HNA bodes well for NH Hoteles

10/3/2011 8:08:00 AM

The Spanish hotel group will take advantage of HNA’s knowledge in identifying the best locations and local management teams in China.

5 things to know: 30 September 2011

9/30/2011 9:40:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HVS says Germany hotels are leading Europe’s recovery;
• PhoCusWright: new Chinese traveler trending toward OTAs;
• Blog: Are you fit for a hotel makeover reality show?;
• U.S. consumer spending slowed in August; and
• U.S. initial weekly unemployment claims fall by 37,000.

Stock update: Ashford, Pebblebrook, Supertel

9/30/2011 9:30:00 AM

In this week’s update of public hotel company news, Ashford increases its stock repurchase program, Pebblebrook indicates it is temporarily stepping away from acquisitions, and Supertel looks to bolster its balance sheet.

HVS: Germany leading European recovery

9/30/2011 9:03:00 AM

The German hotel sector is experiencing one of the fastest recoveries in Europe, with the convention market putting Munich out in front.

Supertel stock could be delisted

9/30/2011 8:56:00 AM

Supertel has until 19 March 2012 to get its stock price above the US$1 per share threshold or else it faces a potential Nasdaq delisting.

Marriott ramps up development in Italy

9/30/2011 8:43:00 AM

The company is in the processing of adding four hotels to its Autograph Collection in the country.

You said it: 30 September 2011

9/30/2011 8:36:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of colorful quotes and comments: A social-media expert says brands must assist franchisees with social-media efforts; a reader disagrees that hoteliers should capitalize on the demand for Wi-Fi.

STR: US hotel results week ending 24 September

9/30/2011 8:30:00 AM

Occupancy rose 4.1% to 66.8%, ADR increased 4% to US$107.24, and RevPAR finished the week up 8.3% to US$71.65.

Pandox awaits next opportunity cycle

9/30/2011 8:21:00 AM

Anders Nissen, the CEO of Stockholm-based Pandox, is preparing to expand the hotel-ownership company when banks begin selling assets.

From ‘no’-tel to hotel in primetime

9/30/2011 8:14:00 AM

TV chef Gordon Ramsay and a mystery hotel expert will be checking into failing hotels in two new shows that are currently casting.

5 things to know: 29 September 2011

9/29/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• AAHOA could terminate Choice Hotels relationship;
• Pebblebrook officials talk acquisitions, strategy;
• STR: U.S., Canada see rise in key metrics;
• hotels, resorts lead travel segments in ad spend; and
• new name, new strategy for Great American Hotel Group.

AAHOA threatens to part ways with Choice

9/29/2011 9:55:00 AM

In a letter to Choice’s chairman, the Asian-Indian hotel owners group calls out the hotel giant for alleged “unfair business policies and practices.”

Orlando hotels post largest weekly RevPAR increase

9/29/2011 9:44:00 AM

The market’s RevPAR was up 39% to US$56.33 for the week ending 24 September, according to STR.

Canada results week ending 24 September 2011

9/29/2011 9:40:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry’s occupancy rose 2.6% to 77.4%, ADR was up 4.2% to CAD$138.14, and RevPAR increased 6.9% to CAD$106.89.

New name, bigger goals for Great American

9/29/2011 9:29:00 AM

New Hampshire-based Great American Hotel Group, formerly known as Ocean Hospitalities, is looking to add partial ownership to its resume after a long run as a third-party management company.

What does ‘value’ mean to your guests?

9/29/2011 8:57:00 AM

Hoteliers on a webinar presented by HSMAI and STR suggested creating a unique selling proposition of what your hotel is offering today and customizing that value for each guest.

Pebblebrook execs talk deal strategy

9/29/2011 8:20:00 AM

During a webcast earlier this month, officials at Pebblebrook Hotel Trust detailed the company’s acquisition strategy and provided their thoughts on the state of the hotel sector.

Time is money with electronic distribution

9/29/2011 8:05:00 AM

Making sure you’re in front of your customer—that your product is on the shelf or on the menu—is what electronic distribution is all about.

5 things to know: 28 September 2011

9/28/2011 10:17:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Accor will invest in Ibis rebrand, sell off Motel 6 assets;
• historical sale prices for the top 10 U.S. brands;
• HTNG, hoteliers working on framework for credit-card security;
• HVS: Hotel management fees miss the mark; and
• TripAdvisor debuts widget to display reviews on hotel sites.

Amorosia: Motel 6 committed to growth, low prices

9/28/2011 9:26:00 AM

After Olivier Poirot’s voluntary departure and Accor’s shift in focus to Ibis, Jim Amorosia, the newly appointed CEO of Motel 6 and Studio 6, is quick to point out his continued commitment.

Accor commits €150 million to ‘fast’ Ibis rebrand

9/28/2011 9:22:00 AM

Accor's COO says the France-based parent company will pay for signage changes for roughly 130 All Seasons hotels and roughly 515 Etap hotels to join the new Ibis “mega brand.”

Flexibility fuels Richfield’s expansion

9/28/2011 9:09:00 AM

Denver-based Richfield Hospitality has several options—including third-party management, providing equity or debt—when it comes to building its portfolio.

Protectable interests in management agreements

9/28/2011 8:24:00 AM

There is little precedent to support an owner’s abrupt termination of a hotel management agreement.

TripAdvisor debuts widget for hotel websites

9/28/2011 8:16:00 AM

TripAdvisor’s widget allows users to display rating and reviews, solicit for more reviews and promote the local area's points of interest.

10 largest hotel brands’ average sale prices

9/28/2011 7:54:00 AM

A study of values for the Top 10 brands in the United States indicates a wide range of historical sale prices for the time period between 2007 and August 2011.

Hotel groups work to secure credit-card data

9/28/2011 7:38:00 AM

At least 16 major hotel groups from around the world plan to work together to develop an industry security framework for handling sensitive credit-card data.

5 things to know: 27 September 2011

9/27/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Explaining the lack of under-US$20-million deals;
• Expedia: international inbound bookings up significantly;
• Best Western launches descriptors, Plus brand worldwide;
• The Flamingo in Las Vegas overhauling its casino; and
• Former Starbucks, Microsoft exec named CEO of Booking.com.

Ritz-Carlton's new platform makes memories social

9/27/2011 9:38:00 AM

The concept: Help travelers build memories through unique and individualized hotel offerings that go beyond perfumed bath amenities and fluffy bath robes.

Social media: ‘Test early. Test often. Fail cheaply.’

9/27/2011 9:33:00 AM

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to social media. Hoteliers must experiment in various platforms to see what works best for them.

Hotel value proposition: Factors of success

9/27/2011 9:29:00 AM

Your hotel’s value proposition is not just the rates you set and the flag you fly. It is a combination of many important factors.

Small deals face big obstacles

9/27/2011 9:28:00 AM

Despite a lot of interest in the buying and selling of assets valued at less than US$20 million, there aren’t a lot of deals happening.

Global hotel pulse: Asia/Pacific news

9/27/2011 9:25:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of hotel news from the Asia/Pacific region: Marriott, Starwood, Caesars continue aggressive expansion plans; business-traveler survey reveals key trends; Royal Orchid to add Indian mid-market brand.

Iconic Concorde Hotels seeks to grow portfolio

9/27/2011 9:20:00 AM

Paris-based Concorde Hotels and Resorts is aiming to grow on both the managed and affiliate front.

The Lodging Conference—escape from reality

9/27/2011 8:40:00 AM

I love going to hotel conferences. One can escape reality by sitting in the early sessions and listening to the data people report what was and extrapolate that into dreamy forecasts.

Expedia partners tap into influx of travelers to U.S.

9/27/2011 8:20:00 AM

Expedia released data showing that international inbound bookings from specific super regions to key U.S. destination cities are up significantly over last year.

5 things to know: 26 September 2011

9/26/2011 9:51:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• more investment, distribution news from Lodging Conference;
• Jones Lang LaSalle: ‘Safe haven’ status lifts Dubai hotels;
• Marriott continues momentum with new hotel in Shanghai;
• online platforms crucial to on-boarding success; and
• Melia, DoubleTree take big steps in foreign lands.

Hotel on-boarding the online way

9/26/2011 9:39:00 AM

Hotel companies are turning to robust online platforms to attract the best and brightest and ensure a smooth and speedy orientation.

REIT hotel acquisitions ‘basically done now’

9/26/2011 9:03:00 AM

The REITs are sitting out of the next round of acquisition activity, and private equity is unlikely to fill the void, panelists said during the Lodging Conference.

Development Spotlight: Shanghai Marriott City Centre

9/26/2011 8:39:00 AM

The new 720-room Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre will be the largest full-service, Marriott-branded hotel in Shanghai when it opens next month.

Global Hotel Exchange's intriguing possibilities

9/26/2011 8:32:00 AM

The Magnusons enter the OTA world with high hopes, but there are some hurdles to clear as the Exchange looks to get hoteliers onboard.

5 keys to persuasion in budget season

9/26/2011 8:20:00 AM

Most managers will have an opportunity to set their course for the year ahead, and effectively presenting their cases will mean the difference between a year of rewarding work and a year of hanging on through despair.

STR Global: Continued growth in S. America

9/26/2011 8:15:00 AM

The South American hotel industry reported mostly positive performance results.

5 things to know: 23 September 2011

9/23/2011 9:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• continued coverage from The Lodging Conference;
• booking data shows boost in corporate, leisure travel;
• STR: weekly U.S. hotel performance increases;
• Google’s antitrust scrutiny hits highpoint this week; and
• unemployment claims drop 9,000 to 423,000.

You said it: 23 September 2011

9/23/2011 9:49:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: A REIT CEO comments on investors’ fears to take risks; a reader disagrees that drug violence in Mexico is spreading south.

7 ways to prepare for uncertainty

9/23/2011 9:37:00 AM

During a general session at the Lodging Conference, hotel executives shared tips to navigate what might be a troubling 2012.

Owners share their thoughts

9/23/2011 9:10:00 AM

Hotel owners have reasons for sleepless nights, and during The Lodging Conference they talked about what keeps them awake and what opportunities there are to seize.

Stock update: Pebblebrook, Supertel

9/23/2011 9:01:00 AM

In this week’s roundup of public hotel company news: Pebblebrook provides an update on its share offerings and Supertel faces a possible Nasdaq stock delisting.

Pegasus IDs positive trends in booking data

9/23/2011 8:47:00 AM

Future booking data for the next four months should have hoteliers breathing a sigh of relief as both corporate and leisure travel is expected to rebound from a stock-market-driven slowdown.

Good service starts with good design

9/23/2011 8:36:00 AM

Here are several key principals you should consider when creating spaces in the back of house.

13 ways to structure a hotel workout

9/23/2011 8:21:00 AM

The purpose of a workout is a joint attempt by the borrower and the lender to salvage a valuable property. The courses of action are quite extensive.

STR: US results for week ending 17 September

9/23/2011 7:57:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 11-17 September, according to data from STR.

Hotel experts uncertain over strength of recovery

9/22/2011 10:10:00 AM

With the Lodging Conference as a backdrop, key data providers and company executives project a feeling of anxiety as the hotel industry tries to maintain its positive economic footing.

5 things to know: 22 September 2011

9/22/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• global monthly hotel updates from STR, STR Global;
• Hilton Garden Inn lobby refresh puts “garden” back in brand;
• coverage from Day One of The Lodging Conference;
• U.S. stocks down big in early trading after Fed comments; and
• Cambria Suites adds three major markets.

STR: August US hotel performance strong

9/22/2011 9:56:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry increased 3.7% in occupancy, 3.4% in ADR, and 7.2% in RevPAR for August.

Canada results for week ending 17 September

9/22/2011 9:51:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 11-17 September 2011, according to data from STR.

STR: Miami reports strong weekly increases

9/22/2011 9:41:00 AM

Miami reported the largest increases in occupancy (+19.9% to 74%) and RevPAR (+33.5% to US$90.08) for the week.

More than words: Your vision, mission and values

9/22/2011 9:18:00 AM

Thoughtful vision, mission and value statements clearly define your organization’s culture and help employees gain a wider understanding of your organization’s big-picture goals.

MEA hotel results for August

9/22/2011 9:15:00 AM

The region's occupancy fell 9.5%, ADR rose 12.9% and RevPAR decreased 2.2% in August.

HGI's lobby refresh makes sense—and dollars, too

9/22/2011 9:05:00 AM

Following its lobby refresh, Hilton Garden Inn properties have more of a (gasp!) garden feel.

STR Global posts August results for Europe

9/22/2011 9:05:00 AM

The European hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics when measured in euros during August.

Asia/Pacific performance improves in August

9/22/2011 8:59:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced mostly positive results in the three key performance metrics during August 2011 when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global: Americas report increases in August

9/22/2011 8:48:00 AM

The Americas region rose 3.5% in occupancy, 3.8% in ADR and 7.4% in RevPAR in August.

Handle management changes professionally

9/22/2011 8:43:00 AM

In the recent wake of several high-profile hotel management switches, hoteliers say changing management companies can be incredibly stressful for property-level employees and should be handled with the utmost care.

Cambria Suites entering key markets across US

9/22/2011 8:22:00 AM

Choice Hotels International announced three development deals for the Cambria Suites brand in Washington, D.C., Houston, and White Plains, New York.

REIT-driven pricing expectations hold strong

9/22/2011 8:07:00 AM

As their capital bases erode, hotel real-estate investment trusts have largely left the buying market. Their pricing expectations, on the other hand, are still holding strong.

5 things to know: 21 September 2011

9/21/2011 10:12:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR, PKF-HR release updated hotel data;
• Sources: Hyatt House's strategy puts company on good course;
• Las Vegas Sands plans Asia growth;
• STR's Freitag justifies negative NYC RevPAR forecast; and
• IHG’s Solomons exudes confidence in European market.

With Wi-Fi demand up, can you capitalize?

9/21/2011 10:03:00 AM

With cellular providers recently capping data usage, one wireless expert said demand for Wi-Fi at your hotel will skyrocket and offers a handful of ways to reap the benefits.

Hyatt House aims to ‘lead the target’

9/21/2011 9:36:00 AM

Timing of research and acquisitions could help position the new Hyatt House brand as a fresh-faced growth vehicle in a stagnant development market, according to extended-stay executives.

Sands to reach further into Asia

9/21/2011 8:59:00 AM

South Korea, Japan, Vietnam or Taiwan could be the site of Las Vegas Sands Corporation’s next Asia/Pacific development.

‘You know, New York is not the US.’ ‘Nonsense!’

9/21/2011 8:58:00 AM

When we recently forecast 2012 RevPAR growth for New York City to be negative, it sent shockwaves through the investment and operating community.

Direct sales: The lost art

9/21/2011 8:34:00 AM

Here are six tips to assist you and your direct sales team to achieve top performance regardless of market conditions and product offering.

PKF boosts RevPAR forecast

9/21/2011 8:26:00 AM

PKF-HR forecasts RevPAR for U.S. hotels will rise 7.2% in 2011, compared to the company's previous projection of 6.9% growth in June.

STR: Hotel performance holds steady in August

9/21/2011 8:14:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry reported steady performance results in August, according to data from STR.

Oasia Hotel Singapore built around hospitality

9/21/2011 8:07:00 AM

Far East Hospitality’s latest hotel, the flagship Oasia Hotel Singapore, reflects the company’s emphasis on service.

5 things to know: 20 September 2011

9/20/2011 10:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hyatt rebrands extended-stay collection as Hyatt House;
• HIL: probability of U.S. hotel recession up;
• drug violence continues to shake Mexico hotel industry;
• IHG beefs up “Best Rate Guarantee”; and
• Value Place names new CEO.

IHG steps up its best rate guarantee program

9/20/2011 9:38:00 AM

Now, any guest who finds a qualifying, lower room price for an IHG hotel elsewhere online will receive their first night free.

Hyatt rebrands extended-stay as Hyatt House

9/20/2011 8:56:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is evolving its extended-stay brand into Hyatt House. Hyatt will rebrand its entire portfolio of 38 Hyatt Summerfield Suites hotels, as well as 16 Hotel Sierra hotels that Hyatt recently acquired from LodgeWorks, L.P.

How to encourage referrals

9/20/2011 8:27:00 AM

Gaining a loyal guest is one thing. Gaining a loyal guest who generates extra business on your behalf is something else entirely—and something for which any hotel sales professional should aspire.

Mexico drug violence spreads

9/20/2011 8:02:00 AM

Mexico’s murder wave appears to be moving south and threatening coastal luxury properties, speakers said during a conference last month.

Oversupply impacts South Africa hotel results

9/20/2011 7:57:00 AM

The influence of many new hotels in the country have impacted the industry's performance a year after hosting the FIFA World Cup.

IHG owners share concerns, successes

9/20/2011 7:53:00 AM

The 2011 Membership Survey from IAHI, The Owners Association for InterContinental Hotels Group, shows that although 80% of owners are challenged with revenue growth, they believe financial performance will return to pre-recession levels during the next two years.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

9/20/2011 7:46:00 AM

Included in this month’s roundup of Americas news: U.S. cities are still split on OTA tax collection; Hurricane Irene leaves lasting impact; and Caribbean seeing more visitors, less spending.

Probability of US hotel recession rises in August

9/20/2011 6:17:00 AM

The probability of the U.S. hotel industry entering into recession in the near-term registered 12% in August, according to e-forecasting.com’s Hotel Industry Leading indicator, or HIL.

5 important drivers for hotel defaults

9/19/2011 1:20:00 PM

More than two-thirds of the loans due this year and last were extended or else they would have defaulted.

5 things to know: 19 September 2011

9/19/2011 9:36:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global pipeline updates;
• Interstate forms Netherlands JV;
• JD Power shares further guest insights;
• PwC releases Q2 Manhattan Index; and
• economic uncertainty looms over real-estate conference.

Hanson: CapEx to address lobbies, guestrooms

9/19/2011 9:32:00 AM

The forecasted increase in CapEx, according to NYU’s Bjorn Hanson, will primarily address upgrades to lobbies, guestrooms and curb appeal, in that order.

Caribbean: Visitors up, but expenditures weaken

9/19/2011 9:18:00 AM

Although the luxury market remains a reliable source of business, visitor expenditures are down and booking windows are shorter as a result of the lingering effects of the global downturn.

Real estate conference marked by wariness

9/19/2011 8:59:00 AM

There are perceived opportunities in selected circumstances, said a group of owners, lenders and operators at the annual RealShare Hotels conference in New York.

STR Global reports MEA pipeline for August

9/19/2011 8:35:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 463 hotels, according to the August 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global reports Asia/Pac. pipeline for August

9/19/2011 8:24:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 310,230 rooms, according to the August 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global reports Europe pipeline for August

9/19/2011 8:16:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 819 hotels, according to the August 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

ADR, guest satisfaction: Opportunity and action

9/19/2011 8:15:00 AM

Satisfaction across the guest experience was down. Surprisingly, however, satisfaction with costs and fees is up, despite an increase in average daily rate.

Cost of capital advantage gone for REITs

9/19/2011 8:10:00 AM

The recent upheaval in the markets has eroded the capital base of REITs and leveled the playing field for other buyers who want to get in on the hotel acquisitions game.

5 things to know: 16 September 2011

9/16/2011 10:25:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• wildfires pinch pricing power from Austin hotels;
• Bloomberg: Blackstone will buy, reflag Mint Hotels;
• pipeline data for Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America;
• global rate picture showing signs of improvement; and
• iconic Broadmoor hotel in Colorado changes hands.

Austin hoteliers juggle evacuees, concertgoers

9/16/2011 9:51:00 AM

Hotel occupancy outside Austin, Texas, shot up to 83% last week after hundreds of families lost their homes in a wildfire. With the Austin City Limits Music Festival this weekend, some are concerned there may not be enough room.

Global hotel rate review

9/16/2011 9:45:00 AM

Average daily rate is up in the Americas, Asia/Pacific and Europe regions, but political volatility has depressed growth in the Middle East/Africa.

3 musts for retaining top talent

9/16/2011 9:09:00 AM

Providing an employee with challenges, growth potential and a safe environment to explore their goals is a sure path to keeping key team members happy and thriving in your company.

STR: US results for week ending 10 Sept.

9/16/2011 8:55:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 4-10 September 2011, according to data from STR.

Central/South America pipeline for August

9/16/2011 8:47:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 27,728 rooms, according to the August 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

You said it: 16 September 2011

9/16/2011 8:47:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: A commenter is shocked by a 9/11 remark; a REIT CEO says he will not be selling anytime soon.

STR reports Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for Aug.

9/16/2011 8:39:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 129 hotels, according to the August 2011 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Listen to Steve Hennis on Commercial RE Show

9/16/2011 7:56:00 AM

Steve Hennis, director at STR Analytics, will be a guest on the Commercial Real Estate Show at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

5 things to know: 15 September 2011

9/15/2011 9:31:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S., Canada hotels show positive weekly results;
• cities remain split over OTA tax issue;
• Accor report reveals trends for Asia/Pacific region;
• HVS: London boutique market to ‘effectively’ double by 2013; and
• U.S. weekly unemployment claims rise by 11,000.

Canada results for week ending 10 September

9/15/2011 9:16:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 4-10 September 2011, according to data from STR.

Business-travel survey outlines Asia/Pac trends

9/15/2011 9:08:00 AM

Accor’s report on Asia/Pacific business trends indicates travel will remain relatively constant from the first half to the second half of 2011.

Luxury hotels lead RevPAR increases

9/15/2011 9:01:00 AM

The luxury segment jumped 26.6% in RevPAR during the week ending 10 September 2011.

Cities still split on OTA tax issue

9/15/2011 8:58:00 AM

Recent rulings on the amount of tax OTAs remit have come down on different sides of the fence. Columbus, Georgia, is back in the news after a state bill was introduced.

STR Global announces new Chinese markets

9/15/2011 8:25:00 AM

STR Global is pleased to announce its continued expansion in China with the launch of the new markets of Hainan and its southern resort city of Sanya.

6 ways to leverage a hotel recovery

9/15/2011 8:11:00 AM

Read on for points that are critically important to not only survive a slow-growing economy but also to set your hotel up for future success.

London market to see more boutique rooms

9/15/2011 7:54:00 AM

By 2013, an additional 2,544 rooms will be added to the London boutique hotel sector, effectively doubling its size.

Study: Fall business travel remains constant

9/15/2011 7:29:00 AM

Nearly three-quarters of business travelers report they will travel more or the same amount this fall compared to fall 2010, according to a Best Western study.

5 things to know: 14 September 2011

9/14/2011 9:48:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Horwath global survey reports positive sentiment;
• HIP index stays flat in August;
• Google releases flight-booking tool;
• property-level projections are wrong: Hennis;
• U.S. hotel investment parameters become more aggressive: USRC.

5 keys to hotel booking conversions

9/14/2011 9:40:00 AM

You can put your hotel on every OTA, GDS and flash-sale site on the Web, but unless customers actually convert and book your rooms, your efforts are for naught.

Orient-Express Hotels' Brazilian portfolio refinanced

9/14/2011 9:35:00 AM

Credit Agricole CIB, HSBC Bank Bermuda Ltd and Barclays Corporate have refinanced Orient-Express Hotels' Brazilian Portfolio.

Hotel renovation case studies: Success in Europe

9/14/2011 9:34:00 AM

Several recent hotel renovations in Europe have proved to be beneficial for business, according to their operators.

All projections are wrong (part 3)

9/14/2011 9:01:00 AM

Not everything goes up. At some point, we need to accept the imperfection in the marketplace and learn to use that knowledge to better understand the risks both on a market level and a property level.

Horwath HTL Global Sentiment Survey 2011

9/14/2011 8:18:00 AM

The four-question survey focuses on the outlook for occupancy, average room rate and total revenue.

Dr. Doom and the black swans

9/14/2011 8:13:00 AM

The black swans have landed, and that spells trouble for the hotel industry. The key to navigating this bumpy road is keeping your eye on the right metrics.

US hotel business activity flat in August

9/14/2011 8:01:00 AM

The Hotel Industry Pulse index, which gauges overall monthly business conditions in the U.S. hotel industry, edged up 0.1% in August to 101.8.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for Aug. 2011

9/13/2011 9:44:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,951 projects, according to the August 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report.

Eastern Europe emerges as hot spot

9/13/2011 9:25:00 AM

Speakers at last week’s Hotel Investment Conference Europe told attendees the region is ripe for more expansion; however challenges remain for all of the continent.

Global hotel pulse: Europe pulse

9/13/2011 9:05:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of news from the Europe hotel industry: Two major chains set growth goals of 100; recovery remains spotty; and the von Essen portfolio begins to sell.

5 things to know: 13 September 2011

9/13/2011 8:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Accor restructures ibis brand;
• U.S. pipeline down 12.4% in August;
• REIT CEOs assess market outlook;
• Hurricane Irene hotel performance; and
• Temenos resort sells for US$15m.

Experts weigh in on hotel investment in Italy

9/13/2011 8:53:00 AM

Local experts outline the hotel performance and investment potential of this Mediterranean market at last week’s Hotel Investment Conference Europe.

REIT CEOs: Deal pace will increase soon

9/13/2011 8:49:00 AM

A panel of REIT CEOs expressed their optimism over the direction in which the hotel sector is headed and said the slowdown in U.S. hotel deals won’t last much longer.

Tracking Irene's impact on hotel performance

9/13/2011 8:33:00 AM

To track the impact of Irene on the hotels in the days leading up to the storm and during that weekend, STR used a map provided by the NOAA to approximate the completed path of the hurricane.

Accor restructures international economy brands

9/13/2011 8:30:00 AM

Accor’s newly structured economy offerings comprise ibis, ibis styles and ibis budget. Motel 6 and Studio 6 will remain in the Americas.

Vantage again named to Inc.'s list

9/12/2011 10:10:00 AM

Vantage is the only company named to fastest-growing private comany listing in each of the past six years.

IHG plans 100 hotels in Russia, CIS by 2020

9/12/2011 9:09:00 AM

5 things to know: 12 September 2011

9/12/2011 8:57:00 AM

5 things to know: 12 September 2011
From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. August preliminary data show RevPAR, occupancy increases;
• hotel investors look for Brazil foothold;
• Google Places erroneously reporting some open businesses as closed;
• JLLH: hotel transactions, though slowing, will stay active; and
• IHG gunning for 100 Russia/CIS hotels by 2020.

Property promotions: September 2011

9/12/2011 8:44:00 AM

Guests respond to “Naked Stripped Down Rate” promotion and Holiday Inn feels the love from its “Pay it Forward” social-media campaign.

Investors eye development in thriving Brazil

9/12/2011 8:33:00 AM

With a RevPAR increase of 34.7% year to date through July and a shortage of rooms, Brazil has emerged as an attractive market to investors.

JLLH: Hotel deal market to stay active

9/12/2011 8:17:00 AM

While slowing, the hotel market will stay active because of private equities' emergence as a buyer, restricted supply, and investors' search for cash-flowing, value-add properties, Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels reports.

Forget fake reviews, make sure your hotel is open

9/12/2011 8:14:00 AM

More businesses are reporting their location has been “closed” by Google Places users, a move that could be detrimental for hoteliers.

Stock update: Whitbread, Orient-Express

9/9/2011 9:41:00 AM

Included in this week’s update of public hotel company news: the Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index dives in August, and Premier Inn reports strong Q2 results.

5 things to know: 9 September 2011

9/9/2011 9:35:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• HotelNewsNow.com commemorates 9/11;
• STR releases weekly performance data;
• Hyatt workers strike in four U.S. cities;
• IAHI member survey reveals optimism; and
• Aloft surpasses 50-property mark.

Hoteliers share their thoughts on 9/11

9/9/2011 9:33:00 AM

Hoteliers were each asked one question: How did 9/11 shape your career and/or outlook over the past 10 years? Responses follow.

9/11 by the numbers

9/9/2011 9:26:00 AM

A look back at hotel data reveals a sobering picture of performance on 9/11 and the days and weeks that followed.

Eyewitness to history

9/9/2011 9:17:00 AM

I was barely two weeks into my graduate school career at Baruch College in Manhattan on 9/11. Read on for my recollections of that generation-defining day.

Manhattan manager: Instincts took over on 9/11

9/9/2011 9:12:00 AM

Frank Nicholas, then-managing director of a 148-room hotel three-and-a-half blocks from the World Trade Center, said the chaotic day was underscored by a desire to serve the guest.

NYC hotel association chief recalls 9/11

9/9/2011 9:09:00 AM

Joe Spinnato’s most vivid recollection of the tragic events come from a meeting with Mayor Giuliani the day after, when he learned the number of firefighters lost exceeded 300. He lost 32 firefighter friends on 9/11.

You said it: 9 September 2011

9/9/2011 9:06:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: A social-media expert advises hotels to be personable online; a reader says price gouging is bad business.

Hoteliers commemorate events, effects of 9/11

9/9/2011 9:01:00 AM

Memories of 9/11 are characterized by personal accounts and experiences from hoteliers in New York and around the nation. U.S. hotel performance data provides an equally sobering perspective.

Canada performance for week ending 3 Sept.

9/9/2011 8:52:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported positive results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 28 August-3 September, according to data from STR.

STR: US results for week ending 3 September

9/9/2011 8:05:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry increased 6.6% in occupancy, 4.8% in ADR, and 11.6% in RevPAR.

HSMAI Europe: Chains talk rev management

9/8/2011 1:08:00 PM

On Thursday 1 September 2011, leading European chains gathered in Oslo for the first meeting of the HSMAI European Revenue Management Advisory Board.

STR Global awards young student

9/8/2011 10:00:00 AM

HSMAI Europe has the great pleasure to announce that our own Hans Stenseng, leader of the HSMAI Student division, has won a prize awarded by STR Global for his essay on the future of the hotel industry.

Hotel brands and the value proposition

9/8/2011 9:29:00 AM

Franchisors and owners discussed the merits of brands in this economic environment during a session on the first day of the Hotel Investment Conference Europe in London.

Hotel Stock Index down 15.4% in August

9/8/2011 9:13:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended August with a 15.4% decrease to 1,807.

5 things to know: 8 September 2011

9/8/2011 9:09:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• U.S. Labor Department audits require proactive measures;
• The Doral golf resort agrees to sell for US$170 million;
• Pan Pacific unveils refreshed brands;
• U.S. commercial property prices inched up in August; and
• trivago: London has one of the worst online reputations.

The story behind Modus Hotels

9/8/2011 9:04:00 AM

Potomac Hospitality Services studied Kimpton and Morgans and decided to create a collection of individual hotels to utilize economies of scale without brand fees or product improvement plans.

‘Lawdits’ key amid wage and hour crackdown

9/8/2011 8:43:00 AM

As the U.S. Department of Labor begins to target the hotel industry for wage and hour compliance, experts are calling for self-audits, or ‘lawdits,’ as a proactive measure to avoid potential fallout.

Europe’s hotel market remains spotty

9/8/2011 8:29:00 AM

While there are pockets of good performance, especially in the luxury segment, hotels throughout Europe face challenges brought on by the overall economy.

Hotel experts assess double-dip odds

9/8/2011 8:26:00 AM

With the hotel industry’s recovery seemingly thrown off track by the recent capital markets chaos, HotelNewsNow.com reached out to a variety of hotel experts for their opinion on whether a double dip is in the industry’s future.

Louvre targets 100 hotel openings a year

9/7/2011 10:20:00 AM

Following last year’s purchase of 225 Golden Tulip hotels, Louvre Hotels Group’s rebranding in April is symbolic of the company’s soaring international ambitions.

5 things to know: 7 September 2011

9/7/2011 10:10:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• London hoteliers gear up for Olympics;
• Louvre Hotels Group ramps up global expansion;
• strong economy is lifting Santiago hotel results;
• Kimpton to raise another fund; and
• Priceline chief: Google’s travel efforts under ‘legal cloud.’

London hoteliers prepare for 2012

9/7/2011 8:47:00 AM

Opportunities and challenges are plentiful as the city’s hotels look ahead to a year full of major events.

Steady economy lifts Santiago hotels

9/7/2011 8:29:00 AM

Chile’s strong GDP performance during the downturn helped keep occupancy, ADR and RevPAR strong in Santiago.

S. American hotel market growing strong

9/7/2011 8:26:00 AM

Attendees of this month’s South American Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference in Chile likely will have a lot to smile about given South America’s strong performance in 2011.

QR stands for great marketing tool

9/7/2011 7:50:00 AM

Though they’re new in the marketplace, and untested, the time for hotels to use QR codes is now because they set a property apart from the competition.

5 things to know: 6 September 2011

9/6/2011 9:53:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Experts share 19 social media tips;
• fall travel season to bring higher rates;
• U.K. ad authority to probe TripAdvisor;
• summary of summer sustainability dialogue; and
• Premier Inn reports strong Q2 results.

Global hotel pulse: Middle East/Africa news

9/6/2011 9:48:00 AM

In this roundup of news from the Middle East/Africa region, STR Global updates the MEA pipeline outlook; hotel companies are spending big to get a foothold in Africa; and MEA openings and management contracts.

4 social media case studies

9/6/2011 9:34:00 AM

Social media is about more than posts and updates—it’s about interacting with guests and facilitating loyalty and awareness.

As leaves fall this autumn, expect rates to go up

9/6/2011 9:26:00 AM

With the unofficial end to the summer season behind us, hoteliers should expect to see the return of the corporate customer and their higher-rated business.

San Fran. to finish 2011 with largest ADR growth

9/6/2011 9:04:00 AM

San Francisco is projected to end 2011 with the largest ADR and RevPAR increases, according to the STR Market Forecast.

19 (more) Social Media 2.0 tips

9/6/2011 8:24:00 AM

Taking charge of the conversation is of the utmost importance, but there are other things to keep in mind as social media becomes part of a hotel’s daily operations.

Key insights from sustainability dialogue

9/6/2011 8:18:00 AM

This past summer was both busy and productive for the hotel industry’s dialogue on sustainability. While the overall takeaway stressed more guidance and collaboration, several other key insights arose.

All projections are wrong (part 2)

9/6/2011 8:13:00 AM

The surprising reality is it is easier to predict within a reasonable range of accuracy where ADR and RevPAR performance will be in 10 years than it is to predict where it will be in five years or even two years.

UPDATE: Innkeepers responds to Cerberus

9/2/2011 8:50:00 AM

In a statement, Innkeepers says Cerberus Capital Management and Chatham Lodging Trust "are not excused" from acquiring 64 Innkeepers hotels.

5 things to know: 2 September 2011

9/2/2011 8:48:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: All performance metrics were up last week;
• Austin’s unique demand generators drive growth;
• updates on two legal battles being fought outside courtroom;
• TravelClick: Occupancy, ADR will be up on Labor Day; and
• Premier Inn adds 11 hotels to its development pipeline.

Stock update: Starwood Property Trust, Sands China, more

9/2/2011 8:36:00 AM

Included in this week’s update: Melco International Development Limited and Sands China Limited report six-month profits.

Don’t forget the GDS channel

9/2/2011 8:33:00 AM

The “robust” GDS channel is still showing signs of growth and deserves the attention of revenue managers, according to a TravelClick webinar.

Treat me like a kid, and I’ll act like one, too!

9/2/2011 8:24:00 AM

Your hotel staff isn’t comprised of children, so why would you train them as if they were? In the second of back-to-back columns, training guru Jim Hartigan explores the final three principles of adult learning.

You said it: 2 September 2011

9/2/2011 8:22:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: IHG is repositioning Crowne Plaza; a reader calls a columnist’s team activity a “waste of time.”

Price gouging after a disaster

9/2/2011 8:19:00 AM

In the case of Hurricane Irene, one Brooklyn hotel cashed in big on evacuees. Was it good business or bad form?

Austin, Texas: Unique in spirit, hotel development

9/2/2011 8:11:00 AM

With additional demand generators coming online, including a Circuit of Americas facility and an additional convention center hotel, Texas’ state capital is booming with development.

STR: US results for week ending 27 August

9/2/2011 8:11:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week of 21-27 August 2011, according to data from STR.

5 things to know: 1 September 2011

9/1/2011 9:55:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hotels served as a safe haven during Hurricane Irene;
• bankruptcy filing prolongs Waikiki hotel saga;
• Hyatt closes on LodgeWorks portfolio acquisition;
• Cerberus responds to Innkeepers’ lawsuit; and
• Red Roof Inns says recapitalization will lead to growth.

East Coast hotels see performance impact

9/1/2011 9:49:00 AM

Data from STR shows metrics declined through Saturday, 27 August, in a newly created sample of hotels in the path of Hurricane Irene.

East Coast hoteliers seek normalcy after Irene

9/1/2011 9:41:00 AM

Reports from the hardest hit areas show hotels served as a safe haven for displaced residents and vacationers.

STR: Canada results for week ending 27 August

9/1/2011 9:29:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 21-27 August 2011, according to data from STR.

I’m not a kid anymore, so stop training me like one!

9/1/2011 9:03:00 AM

Your hotel staff isn’t comprised of children, so why would you train them as if they were? In the first of two columns, training guru Jim Hartigan explores the first three principles of adult learning.

Hotel tales from the road

9/1/2011 8:58:00 AM

After a 12-night road trip comprising four major industry events, here are some key takeaways and insights.

Red Roof: recapitalization will lead to growth

9/1/2011 8:56:00 AM

Five Mile Capital Partners and Westmont Hospitality Group have committed more than US$70 million for renovations after purchasing a large chunk of Red Roof's portfolio.

Hyatt officially closes on LodgeWorks deal

9/1/2011 8:55:00 AM

After a hiccup that pared the original deal from 24 hotels to 20, Hyatt on Wednesday officially closed on a portfolio purchase of LodgeWorks assets. Hyatt will have management and/or franchise rights to an additional four hotels.

STR: Weekly performance strong despite Hurricane Irene

9/1/2011 8:44:00 AM

Occupancy rose 4.5% to 62.8%, ADR increased 3.2% to US$99.79, and RevPAR finished the week up 7.8% to US$62.63.

SHARE Center to provide resources to educators

9/1/2011 8:35:00 AM

The SHARE Center was officially introduced to educators at this year’s 65th annual ICHRIE Convention, held 27-30 July 2011.

Brazil hotels continue revenue success

8/31/2011 2:47:00 PM

Unprecedented increase in international investors evaluating hotel real estate

Management of Waikiki Edition returned to Marriott

8/31/2011 1:42:00 PM

The owners of the hotel were ordered by a New York state judge to return the hotel to Marriott’s control as of 8:30 p.m. today.

5 things to know: 31 August 2011

8/31/2011 10:02:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• IHG to Crowne Plaza owners: ‘Move up or move out’;
• Bloomberg: JV buys US$700m in Red Roof Inn debt, gets 143 hotels;
• PwC lowers RevPAR forecast following economic outlook reset;
• Market Metrix: guest satisfaction up slightly;
• Kerzner might sell Atlantis Dubai to pay for Atlantis Bahamas.

Guestroom technology trends

8/31/2011 9:18:00 AM

A virtual panel of hotel technology experts weighed in on the most important guestroom tech necessities and next-gen advances.

PwC lowers RevPAR forecast, citing economy

8/31/2011 9:13:00 AM

Revenue per available room growth projections were decreased to 7.5% and 6.2% in 2011 and 2012, respectively.

Market Metrix: Jumeirah leads in customer satisfaction

8/31/2011 9:03:00 AM

Most industry segments reported higher satisfaction scores, with upper midscale (+1.0 to 84.0) and luxury (+0.9 to 89.4) posting the biggest gains.

Stop, look and listen before investing in hotel tech

8/31/2011 8:53:00 AM

Before investing in hotel technology, stop to reflect and observe what travelers really want and need.

IHG to Crowne Plaza owners: ‘Move up or move out’

8/31/2011 8:37:00 AM

Next up for IHG is a repositioning of its Crowne Plaza brand, with hopes of moving to the upper-upscale segment. Along the way, IHG plans to remove about 40 hotels from the brand, or 10% of its portfolio.

Takeaways from TripAdvisor’s Master Class

8/31/2011 8:32:00 AM

There is a common misconception of what TripAdvisor scores tell travelers about a hotel.

Global Hotel Pulse: Asia/Pacific news

8/30/2011 9:39:00 AM

In this month’s roundup of the Asia/Pacific region, several studies address the investment market in the region.

5 things to know: 30 August 2011

8/30/2011 9:34:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Marriott responds to Waikiki Edition ouster;
• Innkeepers USA Trust sues Cerberus, Chatham for “reneging;”
• hotels detail security learning experiences after 9/11;
• feature: the lifestyle of a live-in general manager; and
• study reveals 39% make purchases with handheld devices every month.

Traveler intent and late-summer demand

8/30/2011 9:27:00 AM

What vacation hot spots are leisure travelers eyeing for their late-summer sojourns?

Innkeepers sues over killed deal

8/30/2011 9:02:00 AM

Bankrupt Innkeepers USA Trust is suing Chatham Lodging Trust and an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management to try to get the groups to stick by their agreement to acquire 64 Innkeepers hotels.

Marriott responds to ‘illegal’ Waikiki ouster

8/30/2011 8:48:00 AM

In a statement, the company refers to the loss of its first Edition hotel as a “deeply unfortunate, regrettable, and illegal event.”

All projections are wrong (part 1)

8/30/2011 8:19:00 AM

People might not like bad weather, but it is a reality. The same is true with the hotel industry. However, hotel projections only seem to incorporate bad weather when people can see it outside their window.

Live-in GMs: True work-life balance

8/30/2011 8:07:00 AM

At iconic hotels in urban markets, living at the “top of the store” comes with its perks.

Lessons learned from hotel attacks

8/30/2011 8:01:00 AM

Two hotel security experts detailed the many lessons hotels learned from the terrorist attacks that have occurred since 9/11.

5 things to know: 29 August 2011

8/29/2011 10:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Former Waikiki Edition changes name, management;
• airlines scramble to resume service after Hurricane Irene;
• a tremendous amount of investor interest in London;
• California single-asset sales up 90% in 1H 2011; and
• Fitch: US$17.3b in commercial mortgage loans to mature in 2012.

Spotlight: InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya

8/29/2011 10:22:00 AM

Set to open in November, the hotel is part of a multi-million dollar complex that Rossiyskiy Kredit Bank is developing on Tverskaya.

Owners boot Marriott, rename Waikiki Edition

8/29/2011 10:16:00 AM

Amid claims of mismanagement and poor operating performance, the owner of the former Waikiki Edition has ousted Marriott International as manager of the property and renamed the hotel.

Hotel investment heats up in London

8/29/2011 10:11:00 AM

Opportunity abounds throughout the U.K. hotel market, and London stands out as an attractive outlet for hotel investment.

Experts detail hotel security plans

8/29/2011 10:04:00 AM

Presenters during Saturday’s Global Congress on Legal, Safety, & Security Solutions in Travel outlined measures hotels should take to keep from being the next terrorist target.

How to lead your GMs to success

8/29/2011 9:33:00 AM

Here are six tips on how to lead GMs, those individuals who are critical to a hotel’s success.

STR Analytics launches new forecasting tool

8/29/2011 8:16:00 AM

STR Analytics announces the release of DataCast, a report that alters the landscape of hotel forecasting methodology by allowing the user to adjust the forecast to better evaluate market potential.

5 things to know: 26 August 2011

8/26/2011 10:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Hyatt cuts back on LodgeWorks deal;
• hotels scramble to accomodate hurricane-displaced guests;
• revised U.S. per diems released;
• global bookings on pace despite market volatility; and
• New World COO lends insight on Rosewood deal.

Irene: Hotel guests flee North Carolina coast

8/26/2011 10:07:00 AM

Inland hotels were scrambling Friday morning to accommodate new guests whom were displaced from their vacations.

As Dow dips, hotel bookings stay on pace

8/26/2011 10:01:00 AM

Despite widespread market volatility throughout the global economy, hotel bookings appear unfazed.

Hyatt cuts back on LodgeWorks deal

8/26/2011 9:49:00 AM

Hyatt Hotels Corporation disclosed in a regulatory filing it will acquire 20 LodgeWorks properties instead of 24.

Growth leads to softer China performance

8/26/2011 8:58:00 AM

The latest batch of second-quarter earnings results from China shows signs of declining occupancy, ADR and RevPAR as hotel companies absorb more rooms.

You said it: 26 August 2011

8/26/2011 8:53:00 AM

A reputation consultant advises hoteliers to listen to what is being said online; a reader shares the benefits of using Google’s pay-per-click products.

STR: US results for week ending 20 Aug.

8/26/2011 8:40:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry experienced increases in all three key performance metrics during the week 14-20 August 2011, according to data from STR.

Most Fed per diem rates remain similar to 2011

8/26/2011 8:20:00 AM

The U.S. General Services Administration announced new rates for non-standard areas of the continental United States, in effect 1 October through 30 September.

Travelodge: First UK budget brand to offer free Wi-Fi

8/26/2011 8:08:00 AM

Travelodge has announced it's the first UK budget hotel chain to offer its customers free Wi-Fi in its Bar Cafés across the country.

New World onboards Rosewood, plans Asia growth

8/26/2011 7:43:00 AM

The company's COO said the new portfolio of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts will be a global brand; New World and pentahotels brands will be Asia-focused.

Getting the most out of the data you have

8/26/2011 7:35:00 AM

Revenue managers frequently suffer “data envy.” But when looking at how to spend your money, the more important factor is ROI.

5 things to know: 25 August 2011

8/25/2011 10:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Miami-Hialeah leads occupancy and RevPAR gains;
• Atlantis reports 'minimal' impact from Irene;
• Harmon hotel demolition likely to be long-term battle;
• Choice Hotels offers renovation financing; and
• U.S. weekly unemployment figures increase.

Hurricane Irene: Atlantis reports ‘minimal’ impact

8/25/2011 10:25:00 AM

As the worst of the storm passed Nassau, some guests and staff took safety in emergency shelters. The island’s most iconic hotel reported all guests and staff were safe.

Door could slam shut on US hotel deals

8/25/2011 10:20:00 AM

After briefly regaining its footing this year, the hotel transactions market is once again under threat. This time, the topsy-turvy U.S. capital markets are to blame.

9/11 effects on the US travel industry

8/25/2011 10:13:00 AM

Ten years after 9/11, the U.S. hotel industry is still struggling to get back on its feet. The USTA highlights three key steps to move forward.

STR: Miami hotels report strong weekly results

8/25/2011 10:03:00 AM

Miami-Hialeah reported the largest occupancy and RevPAR increases for the week ending 20 August 2011.

Hotel presidents talk technology at Memphis

8/25/2011 9:33:00 AM

Hotel industry leaders discussed the challenges and opportunities inherent in social media and OTAs during a presidents’ panel at the Southern Lodging Summit at Memphis.

Hotels call on third-party ORM firms

8/25/2011 9:27:00 AM

It’s no secret that hotels often find unwanted (and sometimes unwarranted) reviews online, which can impact the bottom line. Here’s what you need to know about the tactics employed by the companies called in to rescue your reputation.

STR: Canada results for week ending 20 Aug.

8/25/2011 9:03:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported slight increases in the three key performance metrics for the week of 14-20 August 2011, according to data from STR.

Special Report: Building a reputation

8/25/2011 8:12:00 AM

Travelers rely so heavily on peer experiences that to not manage it, to not stay on top of guest comments, is to ignore one of the most important parts of your brand.

5 things to know: 24 August 2011

8/24/2011 10:22:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Trust International discusses Google partnership;
• Accor reports 1H profit;
• HIL indicator down slightly in June;
• AmEx reports business travel hotel pricing strength; and
• Marriott finally launches mobile apps.

Accor reports first-half profit

8/24/2011 9:58:00 AM

The company emphasized pure-hotel model efficiency after disposition of Lenôtre, during a conference call Wednesday.

Google Hotel Finder clients ‘pleased’ with results

8/24/2011 9:40:00 AM

Hotel CRS provider Trust International considers Google’s pay-per-click products an alternative to OTAs and says client hotels already are using Google products to shift traffic to their own sites.

‘Reputation management is revenue management’

8/24/2011 9:33:00 AM

Introducing readily available online guest feedback into a hotel’s revenue management strategy is growing in popularity and success.

Fixed and variable hotel expenses

8/24/2011 8:29:00 AM

As the hotel industry climbs out of the deepest and most prolonged recession experienced in recent history, these findings can act as a guideline of when to introduce additional expenses for management.

US hotel business activity losing steam

8/24/2011 7:54:00 AM

The U.S. Hotel Industry Leading indicator decreased 0.6% during June after going up by the same amount in May, according to economic research firm e-forecasting.com.

5 things to know: 23 August 2011

8/23/2011 9:59:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• July global hotel monthly results released;
• Brazil sees RevPAR boost, JLLH says;
• essential steps for hotel sale success;
• Glasgow’s BDL to build portfolio; and
• hotel guests rank cleanliness over security.

Global hotel pulse: Americas news

8/23/2011 9:27:00 AM

July demand continues to impress; Brazil hotels continue revenue success; and a roundup of key openings and deals round out this month’s spotlight on the Americas region.

Tablet computers bring amenities into tech age

8/23/2011 9:22:00 AM

Wondering what the tech-savvy hotels are doing with the latest gadgets? Here’s a look at one hotel’s iPad app and tips on how to get your own app started.

STR Global: MEA hotel results for July

8/23/2011 9:12:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa region reported decreases in all three key performance metrics during July when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global posts July results for Europe

8/23/2011 9:08:00 AM

The European hotel industry posted positive results in year-over-year metrics when reported in U.S. dollars, euros and British pounds for July, according to data compiled by STR Global.

STR Global: Asia/Pac. performance improves in July

8/23/2011 8:56:00 AM

Hotels in the Asia/Pacific region experienced mostly positive results in the three key performance metrics during July when reported in U.S. dollars, according to data compiled by STR Global.

Address online guest feedback internally

8/23/2011 8:52:00 AM

Done well, true reputation management is a function that touches many aspects of a hotel’s operations. Making changes to operations naturally improves your hotel’s reputation.

STR Global: Americas report increases in July

8/23/2011 8:41:00 AM

The Americas region recorded positive results in the three key performance metrics when reported in U.S. dollars for July, according to data compiled by STR and STR Global.

STR: July sets record for roomnights sold

8/23/2011 7:59:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry in July reported the largest number of rooms sold during a single month, according to data from STR.

Chatham, Cerberus terminate Innkeepers deal

8/22/2011 9:56:00 AM

Chatham Lodging Trust and Cerberus Capital Management called off their deal to acquire 64 hotels owned by Innkeepers USA Trust.

5 things to know: 22 August 2011

8/22/2011 9:48:00 AM

5 things to know: 22 August 2011
• U.S. July demand breaks record;
• Chatham, Cerberus terminate Innkeepers agreement;
• taking reputation management to the next level;
• CREL CDO delinquencies decline again: Fitch Ratings; and
• Scotland seeks international hotel investors.

Demand records are made to be broken

8/22/2011 9:36:00 AM

In July 2011, the U.S. hotel industry sold 105,760,239 total hotel rooms, according to STR, breaking a record for the most rooms sold in a single month. But don’t pop the bubbly just yet.

San Francisco hotels sail with steady demand

8/22/2011 9:29:00 AM

Widespread increases across San Francisco’s diverse demand drivers has propelled the market to the head of the U.S. hotel industry.

July demand increases 3.6%, reporting most roomnights sold

8/22/2011 9:20:00 AM

In July, the U.S. hotel industry reported the largest number of rooms sold during a month, reporting a 3.6% increase over July 2010, according to data from STR.

European hotels on recovery track

8/22/2011 9:08:00 AM

STR Global’s Konstanze Auernheimer said European hotels are still in recovery, though that recovery could be knocked off track by looming global economic problems.

Reputation management should be a team effort

8/22/2011 8:25:00 AM

Part One of a four-part series on hospitality reputation management, “Developing a reputation,” focuses on who should shoulder the responsibility.

Deal pricing analysis: Benefits post closing

8/22/2011 6:32:00 AM

In situations where the deal pricing analysis has not been done for closing, it can still be completed immediately after the closing.

5 things to know: 19 August 2011

8/19/2011 8:54:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• More pain for global stock markets;
• hotels find help in the cloud;
• Buddy’s back in the game;
• Architecture Billings Index drops for fifth straight month; and
• U.S. initial unemployment claims rise.

Stock update: China Lodging, MGM, more

8/19/2011 8:48:00 AM

In this week’s public hotel company update: 7 Days Group Holdings Limited and China Lodging disclose hotel development efforts; Chatham Lodging Trust closes on a first mortgage loan; and MGM's founder sells stock.

Hotels find savings, other benefits, in the cloud

8/19/2011 8:33:00 AM

There’s a cloud hanging over the hotel industry, and industry professionals are reaping the benefits by moving technology out of properties.

You said it: 19 August 2011

8/19/2011 8:26:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: An HDC panelist says problem resolution for guests is critical; and a reader advises hoteliers to take a closer look at the Chinese market.

STR: US results for week ending 13 August

8/19/2011 8:24:00 AM

The U.S. hotel industry's occupancy rose 1.3%, ADR was up 3.4%, and RevPAR increased 4.8% for the week of 7-13 August.

Jumeirah-McIlroy venture more than just marketing

8/19/2011 8:22:00 AM

While McIlroy ended up in fourth place after the four professional golf majors of 2011, Jumeirah’s sponsorship of the whiz kid is well played.

64% of US schools back in session by Monday

8/19/2011 8:13:00 AM

64% of U.S. school districts will be back in session by Monday, which typically means a slight decrease in transient occupancy, according to data from the School Break Report.

Pharos sees light in hotel industry’s tunnel

8/19/2011 7:56:00 AM

Four years after selling his hotel interests, Buddy Watson is ready for another round as he launches Pharos Hospitality to acquire, underwrite, operate and/or asset manage hotels.

Paid search producing results for hoteliers

8/19/2011 7:35:00 AM

Paid search advertising is a cost-effective, high-yield e-marketing tool that helps drive consumer Internet searchers to hotel-booking engines.

Hersha: portfolio sale largest in REIT’s history

8/18/2011 10:12:00 AM

Hersha Hospitality Trust entered into an agreement to sell 18 hotels to Starwood Capital for US$155 million, a portfolio sale in line with transaction experts’ expectations for the second half of 2011.

Innkeepers mum on reported deal closing delay

8/18/2011 9:36:00 AM

A spokeswoman for Innkeepers USA Trust would not confirm or deny a report that proposed buyer Cerberus Capital Management has put off closing the deal.

5 things to know: 18 August 2011

8/18/2011 9:33:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• Report: Cerberus delays closing deal for Innkeepers USA Trust;
• Hersha Hospitality Trust selling 18 ‘non-core’ properties;
• U.S., Canada weekly hotel data released by STR;
• most travel managers don’t track ancillary fees; and
• Africa is a growth market for hotels.

Hotels weigh guest freebies

8/18/2011 9:20:00 AM

Offering complimentary items to guests in this shaky economy can be tough, but the ROI is worth it, according to hoteliers.

How not to waste recruitment costs and effort

8/18/2011 8:27:00 AM

Orient new hires correctly the first time. Doing so will not only leave them better prepared for their jobs, it will leave you with a better return on the costs and effort associated with on-boarding.

Nashville tops weekly occupancy, RevPAR gains

8/18/2011 8:24:00 AM

Nashville's occupancy rose 14.6%, ADR was up 13.4%, and RevPAR increased 30% during the week of 7-13 August.

STR: Canada results for week ending 13 August

8/18/2011 8:07:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 8-13 August, according to data from STR.

Copenhagen posts strong 1H 2011 hotel results

8/18/2011 7:57:00 AM

The Copenhagen hotel market experienced a 12.5% increase in RevPAR for the first six months of 2011, according to STR Global.

5 things to know: 17 August 2011

8/17/2011 9:24:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR Global: Caribbean/Mexico, Central/South America pipelines;
• hotel rates down in many European cities;
• W Austin owner reports US$700K deficit attributed to fixing glass;
• BHA wants British government to deliver on promises; and
• Residence Inn Midtown Atlanta sells for US$25.25 million.

Stratus addressing W Austin’s falling glass

8/17/2011 8:52:00 AM

After a series of falling glass panels forced the W Austin Hotel & Residences to close, Stratus Properties, which has a 40% interest in the property, recorded a US$700,000 Q2 charge for estimated repair costs.

Where to look for U.S. hotel debt

8/17/2011 8:41:00 AM

Debt has been tough to come by for quite some time. Prospective borrowers will boost their chances of finding capital if they know where to look.

Germany’s hotel industry shows vitality

8/17/2011 8:15:00 AM

High barriers to entry and economic stability make the European country a priority for development, despite lower rates and RevPAR.

STR Global: C./S. America hotel pipeline for July

8/17/2011 8:11:00 AM

The Central/South America hotel development pipeline comprises 27,457 rooms, according to the July 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR reports Caribbean/Mexico pipeline for July

8/17/2011 8:07:00 AM

The Caribbean/Mexico hotel development pipeline comprises 125 hotels, according to the July 2011 STR Construction Pipeline Report.

Strong RevPAR growth forecast for extended stay

8/17/2011 8:00:00 AM

Slower ADR and occupancy growth than initially expected will thwart the segment’s record-setting prospects.

STR Global: Mixed fortunes for the Netherlands

8/17/2011 7:53:00 AM

The hotel industry in the Netherlands shows a mixed year-to-date performance.

Global hotel pulse: Europe news

8/16/2011 9:49:00 AM

A flurry of developments and deals highlight this week’s roundup of Europe hotel industry news.

China economy brands continue rapid growth

8/16/2011 9:41:00 AM

China Lodging Group has grown its three economy brands to 516 hotels in just six years and plans to open 240 new hotels in 2012. Future growth will be a balanced mix of leased and franchised hotels.

5 things to know: 16 August 2011

8/16/2011 9:27:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• July pipelines released for Europe, Asia/Pacific, Middle East/Africa;
• China Lodging, Summit Hotel Properties report Q2 earnings;
• hotels worldwide doing their part to prevent human trafficking;
• MGM submits plan to implode Harmon Hotel; and
• Euro area, EU 27 GDP up 0.2% in Q2.

Ill-fated Harmon’s story might end with a bang

8/16/2011 9:04:00 AM

MGM submitted a plan to implode the Harmon Hotel, which has sat empty since CityCenter’s grand opening in December 2009.

China Lodging reports Q2 results

8/16/2011 8:51:00 AM

Net Revenues increased 24.8% year-over-year to RMB547.7 million (US$84.7 million), net income attributable to China Lodging Group was RMB40.3 million (US$6.2 million), and the company opened 43 new hotels in the second quarter.

Hotels are hub of human trafficking prevention

8/16/2011 8:21:00 AM

Activists call for the hotel industry to take a proactive stance against modern-day slavery.

STR Global: MEA hotel pipeline for July

8/16/2011 8:16:00 AM

The Middle East/Africa hotel development pipeline comprises 460 hotels, according to the July 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Europe hotel pipeline for July

8/16/2011 8:11:00 AM

The Europe hotel development pipeline comprises 800 rooms, according to the July 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report.

STR Global: Asia/Pacific hotel pipeline for July

8/16/2011 8:04:00 AM

The Asia/Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,244 hotels according to the July 2011 Global Construction Pipeline Report.

CityCenter plans to demolish unfinished Harmon Hotel

8/15/2011 3:27:00 PM

In response to a directive from Clark County to resolve the public safety concerns arising from alleged faulty construction at the Harmon Building, CityCenter submitted a plan of action to demolish the unfinished structure.

STR Global: Belgium market conditions improve

8/15/2011 9:57:00 AM

The Belgium hotel market has seen modest but positive changes in RevPAR across all significant markets during the first half of 2011

5 things to know: 15 August 2011

8/15/2011 9:56:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR: Prelim U.S. data shows 5% to 7% RevPAR gain in July;
• Macau a land of riches for casino-hotels;
• Travelodge starts £135-million rural push;
• Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index down 4.7% in July; and
• hotel attack kills at least 12 in Pakistan.

Macau holds riches for casino-hotels

8/15/2011 9:43:00 AM

Gaming revenue in Macau last year reached an estimated US$23 billion—five times that of the Las Vegas Strip.

Hilton rolls out welcome mat for Chinese

8/15/2011 9:30:00 AM

Hilton launches Hilton Huanying tomorrow. The program offers Chinese travelers authentic amenities and services.

DPA: REITs and the allocation of intangibles

8/15/2011 9:22:00 AM

Savvy buyers know the benefits of allocating the price across real estate, tangible personal property and intangible personal property.

European midscale hotel update

8/15/2011 9:17:00 AM

The midscale segment might be a performance and supply laggard, but hoteliers aren’t cashing out of the segment just yet.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index down 4.7% in July

8/15/2011 8:33:00 AM

The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index ended July with a 4.7% decrease.

5 things to know: 12 August 2011

8/12/2011 9:44:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff
• CBRE: Signs of capital withdrawal in CMBS market;
• Whitbread sale-and-leaseback to net £53.8 million;
• NYLO Providence/Warwick reopens after flooding;
• hotels abuzz about beekeeping; and
• U.S. weekly unemployment claims dip.

Hotels abuzz with onsite beekeeping

8/12/2011 9:15:00 AM

Hotels the world over are welcoming bees into the fold of sustainable operations.

NYLO Providence/Warwick set to reopen

8/12/2011 8:48:00 AM

More than a year since closing because of historic flooding in Rhode Island, the NYLO Providence/Warwick will have its reopening Monday.

STR: US hotel results week ending 6 August 2011

8/12/2011 8:42:00 AM

Occupancy rose 1.4% to 71.2%, ADR increased 3.3% to US$102.52, and RevPAR finished the week up 4.8% to US$72.99.

You said it: 12 August 2011

8/12/2011 8:38:00 AM

In this week’s roundup: STR’s Jan Freitag says now is the time to build; and a reader suggests it’s time to stop cutting corners in F&B operations.

Stock update: Q2 earnings coverage

8/12/2011 8:34:00 AM

Included in this week’s roundup of second-quarter hotel company earnings: IHG reports global RevPAR grew by 6.7%; MGM sees recovery in Las Vegas; and Supertel transitions 90% of its properties to regional management companies.

Hot.E to provide regional focus

8/12/2011 8:23:00 AM

Among the breakout sessions, Italy and Russia hotel performance will be explored in depth.

Clearing out my HDC notebook

8/12/2011 8:20:00 AM

There was a lot of data to sift through during last week’s Hotel Data Conference. Here’s more insight you haven’t seen yet.

Video: Conquering online distribution

8/12/2011 7:56:00 AM

The expansion of online distribution channels, particularly Google, has many hoteliers concerned about their impact on rates. Experts at the third annual Hotel Data Conference explained how revenue managers can leverage their relationships with these channels.

5 things to know: 11 August 2011

8/11/2011 10:26:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff:
• STR releases weekly performance results for U.S., Canada;
• how new construction will affect the hotel landscape;
• in-depth look at high-school hospitality programs;
• column: 5 tips to better manage Gen Y; and
• Home Inns & Hotel Management offers Motel 168 update.

Which brands are building new hotels?

8/11/2011 9:47:00 AM

When supply growth returns in 2013 and 2014, will we finally be able to try out some new hotels from the new brands?

‘Smart’ hoteliers are breaking ground today

8/11/2011 9:43:00 AM

For private hotel real-estate investors who can wait a few years for big returns and don’t need to visit the banks for help, now is the time to break out the shovels.

Home Inns updates Motel 168 deal

8/11/2011 9:35:00 AM

Anti-trust discussions with the Chinese government for the deal are “proceeding well,” Home Inns CEO David Sun said.

Programs use high schools to fill hotel labor gap

8/11/2011 9:24:00 AM

At least two U.S.-based programs are training high schoolers in the hopes they’ll take their talents to the hotel industry.

STR: Canada results for week ending 6 August

8/11/2011 9:19:00 AM

The Canadian hotel industry reported mixed results in the three key performance metrics for the week of 31 July to 6 August 2011, according to data from STR.

5 tips to better manage Generation Y

8/11/2011 9:06:00 AM

This cohort multi-tasks exceptionally well and is selective in receiving information. Here’s how to translate strengths and weaknesses into success at your hotel.

STR reports US hotel pipeline for July 2011

8/11/2011 9:06:00 AM

The total active U.S. hotel development pipeline comprises 2,990 projects, according to the July 2011 STR/McGraw Hill Construction Dodge Pipeline Report released this week.

STR: Midscale lags in weekly hotel results

8/11/2011 8:19:00 AM

Midscale was the only segment in the U.S. hotel industry to report decreases in all three key performance metrics during the week ending 6 August.

Home Inns reports Q2 results

8/11/2011 6:41:00 AM

Home Inns opened 88 hotels during the second quarter.

5 things to know: 10 August 2011

8/10/2011 10:10:00 AM

From the desks of the HotelNewsNow.com editorial staff.
• London riots raise tourism concerns;
• HIP increases in July;
• U.S. stocks open lower amid Fed updates;
• top 25 U.S. markets could reach demand ceiling; and
• Oberoi raises concerns for Indian hotel industry.

STR: Niche segment performance overview

8/10/2011 10:01:00 AM

Niche segments, such as boutique, all-suites and resorts, account for nearly 50% of total U.S. room demand and 73% of revenue, according to STR.

Top 25 US markets hit demand ceiling

8/10/2011 9:53:00 AM

The year-over-year demand percentage increase for June 2011 year-to-date is weaker than year-end 2010.

HPT on contract amendments, target acquisitions

8/10/2011 9:25:00 AM

During its second quarter earnings call, Hospitality Properties Trust gave some insight into its recent contract modifications with Marriott International and InterContinental Hotels Group.

HPT reports Q2 increases in key metrics

8/10/2011 9:06:00 AM

HPT reported increases in occupancy, ADR and RevPAR during the second quarter.

Disney reports FYQ3 rate increases

8/10/2011 8:55:00 AM

Increased guest spending reflected higher average ticket prices, daily hotel room rates and food, beverage and merchandise spending.

Social media: Don’t just sign up. Do it right!

8/10/2011 8:43:00 AM

You’ve signed up your hotel on Facebook and Twitter. Now what?