Author: Kai Lennox

Disney’s beloved Test Track at Epcot will make its highly anticipated return on July 22, 2025, after closing in early 2023 for extensive updates. This revitalized attraction will be sponsored by General Motors and promises an enhanced experience that will thrill both newcomers and returning guests. Exciting Updates to Test Track New Musical Score One of the standout features of the revamped Test Track is its fresh musical score, designed to elevate the overall sensory experience. The new soundtrack aims to immerse riders in the automotive theme, creating a captivating journey from start to finish. Enhanced Scenes and Effects The…

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall Hyatt’s Strategic Acquisition of Playa Hotels Hyatt Hotels Corporation has successfully concluded its $2.6 billion acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts, marking a significant expansion of Hyatt’s all-inclusive resort portfolio across the Caribbean and Mexico. This acquisition was finalized on June 17, 2025, and will greatly enhance Hyatt’s offerings in popular vacation destinations. Details of the Acquisition Initially announced in February, this acquisition encompasses the purchase of 15 resorts, eight of which were already operating under Hyatt’s well-known Ziva and Zilara brands. With this move, Hyatt secures a wider range of exceptional properties, including: Secrets La…

Smith has taken on a pivotal role as the Group President and Managing Director of the International Division, bringing extensive expertise in the booming All-Inclusive hotel market across Latin America and the Caribbean. Under his leadership, Aimbridge Hospitality is poised for significant growth in this burgeoning sector, which has seen a surge in popularity. According to STR data, All-Inclusive hotels are expanding at an astonishing rate, growing four times faster than other leisure accommodation segments. This growth can be attributed to an increasing demand for curated experiences, enhanced services, and luxury offerings that meet the evolving expectations of travelers. As…

Waikiki, located on the stunning island of O‘ahu, is a prime destination for luxury travelers, and two hotels showcase the diversity and allure of this famous area: The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, and Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club. The Royal Hawaiian: The Pink Palace of the Pacific The Royal Hawaiian hosts an oceanfront luau twice a week This iconic hotel, affectionately known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, has been a luxurious haven since its opening on February 1, 1927. Nestled on Waikiki Beach, this historic hotel features a stunning combination of Spanish-Moorish architecture, with 528 rooms…

Parador de Santo Estevo CREDIT Tourist Office of Spain Spain boasts a unique accommodation experience with its state-owned luxury hotels known as Paradores. With 98 establishments and counting, these hotels are situated in exquisite historical sites, including castles, palaces, monasteries, and convents, all while showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the regions they inhabit. Discovering Paradores: A Unique Hospitality Experience The term "Parador" translates to "places where you stop and relax." Each Parador accommodates an average of 65 rooms and ranges from three to five stars, providing guests with delightful local and regional dining options. Remarkably, the first Parador opened…

Amid a significant shift in the travel industry, Hyatt has announced a reduction of its U.S. customer service workforce by 30%. This strategic move directly impacts guest services and support teams while maintaining staffing levels in loyalty programs, social media, and concierge roles. The Rise of AI in the Travel Industry This workforce reduction aligns with a growing trend across the travel sector, where companies are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency. Automated systems are now handling many routine customer service tasks, which has prompted leading hospitality brands to rethink their staffing needs. While Hyatt has not…

In a significant move aimed at enhancing support for its travel partners, AIC Hotel Group has embarked on the creation of a new department dedicated to entrepreneurs and business growth within the travel industry. This strategic initiative underscores the company’s commitment to fostering strong relationships across the distribution channel, particularly for world-class resorts. Focus on Business Development AIC Hotel Group’s expansion includes the addition of 13 Business Development Managers operating across 11 territories in the United States. This robust network of professionals is instrumental in streamlining processes, creating efficiencies, and strengthening partnerships within the travel sector. By working closely with…

Adam Stewart, the Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, has recently forged a significant franchise agreement with AC Marriott to develop a new hotel in Montego Bay, St. James. This development marks an important milestone as it will be the second hotel under his leadership and the inaugural European Plan (EP) hotel of its kind in the Montego Bay region. New Hotel Details The upcoming hotel will feature 168 rooms and will be constructed on the site of the former Sandals Carlyle, which is slated for demolition. This strategic location is only four minutes away from Sangster International Airport, making it…

Just weeks after its significant acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts valued at USD $2.6 billion (CAD $3.73 billion), Hyatt is swiftly moving to sell all 15 Playa-owned resorts. The divestiture is set to be made to Tortuga Resorts, a joint venture between KSL Capital Partners and Rodina, for USD $2 billion. Overview of the Sale The all-inclusive resorts included in this transaction are located across Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. These properties significantly enhance Hyatt’s portfolio, which previously benefited from the acquisition of Playa’s establishments, including resorts operating under its Ziva and Zilara brands. Hyatt will maintain management…

Bay Gardens Resorts in Saint Lucia is promoting an enticing getaway package that combines adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for Canadian travelers seeking an escape in the Caribbean. This exclusive offer features a variety of amenities designed for families and individuals alike. The package includes non-motorized water sports, allowing guests to explore the beautiful waters of Saint Lucia at their own pace. Additionally, high-speed WiFi is available, ensuring that guests can stay connected during their stay. For convenient travel, a complimentary shuttle service between different Bay Gardens properties enhances the overall vacation experience. Families will appreciate that…