Vince Alonzo

Destinations

Paddle Power: Resorts Trade Tennis for Pickleball

Sports facilities and resorts around the country are scrambling to build pickleball courts or convert current tennis or basketball courts to keep up with the demand for the sport.

Incentives

Hyatt Unveils New All-Inclusive Resort Ideal for Incentive Travel

Meeting and event planners looking for a luxurious, adults-only escape in Mexico can take note: Hyatt Hotels Corporation has officially opened Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres. This 507-room resort strengthens Hyatt's presence in the Mexican Caribbean, offering a secluded location ideal for both meetings and incentive travel.

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