Vince Alonzo

Best Practices

Westin Ups the Ante on Sleep with Next-Gen Heavenly Bed

As the travel industry pivots towards a focus on wellness, Westin Hotels & Resorts is investing in its signature offering: sleep. The brand unveils its next-generation Heavenly Bed, a product refresh designed to further elevate the sleep experience for guests.

Technology

Attendees Can Ditch the Concierge Desk for An AI BFF

Travelers staying at select Renaissance Hotels will soon have instant access to vetted, insiders’ picks for vibey cocktail bars, under-the-radar attractions, top-rated breakfast spots and more through an exciting new virtual concierge service.

Event Design

Marriott Brings Neurodiversity Under Its Events Umbrella

Partnering with Google's Experience Institute (Xi) initiative, The Neu Project, Marriott has integrated neuroinclusive practices into its large-scale customer events, a first for the industry.

Industry Stats

Americas Buck Global Trend as Hotel Construction Slows

The global hotel development pipeline is showing signs of cooling, with most regions experiencing a decline in new projects compared to last year, according to data from CoStar, a leading real estate data provider. The Americas, however, stands out as the lone bright spot, with construction activity increasing across all stages of development.

Industry Stats

U.S. Hotels Cut Growth Outlook as Inflation Squeezes Budgets

The U.S. hotel industry is facing a less rosy outlook as hotel operators are facing a squeeze on both sides. Rising labor costs are putting pressure on profit margins, while inflation is dampening demand.

Experts

Is Your AI Assistant Crashing Your Meetings?

Are we ready for AI integration in the workplace, especially when it comes to such a nuanced aspect as human interaction? While proponents tout its efficiency-boosting potential, real-world examples demonstrate the need for caution and robust safeguards.

Technology

SurveyMonkey: Feeling the Squeeze?

For meeting and event planners in search of an online survey platform to engage with attendees and potential attendees, the digital world overflows with options, for the seemingly simple task of crafting a poll.

Event Design

The Future of Meetings: AI, Sustainability, and Appeasing Gen Z

The way we meet is evolving, and conference centers are taking note. According to a new report by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC), the industry is embracing new technologies, adapting to changing attendee preferences, and prioritizing sustainability. The IACC's "Meeting Room of the Future" report, based on insights from 170 global venue operators, highlights several key trends

Event Design

What Actually Happens At The Met Gala?

The Met Gala. A name synonymous with extravagant fashion, A-list celebrities, and an air of exclusivity. But what happens beyond the flash of cameras and the throngs on the red carpet? For curious onlookers, the inner workings of this annual fundraiser remain shrouded in mystery. Thankfully, Sarah Jessica Parker, a seasoned Met Gala attendee, recently shed some light on the experience during an interview on the Today Show.

Best Practices

How to Fight Late Registration

The world of event planning is grappling with a new reality: attendees are waiting longer than ever to commit to attending conferences and trade shows. A recent report by Maritz, a global event management company, sheds light on this trend and its potential consequences.