Travel & Tourism

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 - Putting inclusive tourism in the spotlight

Tourism can be a catalyst for equality. Today, an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide live with a significant disability, and a staggering 80% of them reside in developing countries and emerging destinations. When people with disabilities travel, they are typically accompanied by two to three others—highlighting a clear opportunity for destinations and businesses to expand both their workforce and customer base.

Yet persistent challenges remain. Despite some progress, people with disabilities continue to face discrimination and barriers that limit their ability to travel or secure jobs in the tourism industry. Many job seekers with disabilities do not view tourism as a realistic career option—leaving businesses at risk of missing out on valuable talent and untapped markets.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 - Celebrating a legacy of leadership in tourism

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, UN Tourism welcomed His Excellency Mr. José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero to its Madrid headquarters on 18 March 2025. The organization paid tribute to the former President of the Government of Spain (2004–2011) for his pivotal role in promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism during his leadership.

Driving tourism growth and resilience

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 19, 2025 - UN Tourism, the Basque Culinary Center, and Tanzania to Host Groundbreaking Forum in Arusha This April

Bringing the Continent’s Flavors to the Forefront
Following the success of its inaugural edition in Zimbabwe, the Second Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa will take place in Arusha, Tanzania, from April 23–25, 2025. Organized by UN Tourism in collaboration with the Basque Culinary Center and the United Republic of Tanzania, the event is set to position gastronomy tourism as a vital engine for sustainable and inclusive development across the African continent.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - Strategic refinance backs iconic Montauk resort

In a major move reaffirming confidence in premium hospitality assets, Smith Hill Capital and Bain Capital have closed a $235 million refinancing for Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa. Acting on behalf of BLDG Management and Metrovest Equities, the deal highlights investor interest in high-end, experience-driven resorts even amid evolving capital markets.

An unrivaled luxury destination on Long Island’s coast

A distinctive beachfront property

Spanning 20 acres and boasting 2,000 feet of private beach frontage, Gurney’s Montauk is situated on the eastern tip of Long Island in Montauk, New York. The resort features 158 accommodations, including guestrooms, suites, beachfront cottages, and private residences.

Comprehensive luxury amenities

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - Accor and Propreal Capital Partners partner once again to bring French elegance to Porto’s historic heart

A strategic milestone in Porto’s luxury hospitality scene
Global hospitality leader Accor has announced the signing of Sofitel Porto in collaboration with Propreal Capital Partners, with the hotel set to open its doors in 2028. This marks the second Sofitel-branded property in Portugal and highlights Accor’s ongoing commitment to expanding its luxury offerings across the Iberian Peninsula.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – Kempinski Hotels has announced an expanded collaboration with BTG Hotels (Group) Co. Ltd., reinforcing a joint venture that has shaped luxury hospitality in China for more than two decades. This renewed commitment includes a multi-year investment strategy focused on expanding the presence of both companies in China’s dynamic luxury and lifestyle hotel market.

Bold vision for future growth in China

New investment plan to expand Kempinski’s footprint

The joint venture between Kempinski and BTG Hotels, established in 2001 through Key Co., is set to enter an ambitious new chapter. With 22 properties already under its belt, the partnership will now drive growth through the development of Chinese heritage hotels, the launch of a new lifestyle brand, and enhanced brand synergy.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - Hyatt Studios Mobile / Tillmans Corner marks a new era in extended-stay travel

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has officially opened its first-ever Hyatt Studios property in Mobile, Alabama, ushering in a new chapter for the company’s extended-stay offerings. The launch of Hyatt Studios Mobile / Tillmans Corner follows a successful soft opening earlier this year and was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Hyatt leaders, hotel partners, and local dignitaries.

A strategic move to meet rising demand

“The grand opening of Hyatt Studios Mobile / Tillmans Corner marks an exciting milestone as we continue to expand our offerings to meet the growing demand for extended stay accommodations,” said Dan Hansen, global head of Hyatt Studios.

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - Vimal (Ricky) Patel Takes Office as Secretary of AAHOA

Election held during the 2025 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show

AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) has announced its newly elected board of directors for the 2025-26 term, naming Vimal (Ricky) Patel as the new Secretary. The announcement was made at the 2025 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, an event that continues to spotlight leaders dedicated to advancing the hospitality industry.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

Patel brings deep experience and proven results to his new role

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - HREC Investment Advisors Facilitates Multi-Hotel Deal in Key Detroit Submarkets

HREC Investment Advisors has announced the sale of three Sonesta-branded hotel properties in Michigan, a transaction that underscores the region’s appeal to seasoned hospitality investors.
The portfolio includes the 94-room Sonesta Simply Suites Detroit – Novi, the 122-room Sonesta Select Detroit – Novi, and the 148-room Sonesta Select Detroit – Auburn Hills. All three properties were acquired by a Michigan-based hotel owner/operator.

Strategic Representation by HREC

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 18, 2025 - A landmark debut in late spring
Populus Hotels expands its eco-forward portfolio

Populus Hotels has announced the highly anticipated opening of Populus Seattle in late spring, unveiling Pioneer Square’s first rooftop bar and a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience rooted in sustainability and local culture. The 120-room property, a transformative adaptive reuse of the historic Westland Building, is developed by Urban Villages and managed by Aparium Hotel Group.

Preserving history, advancing sustainability
A model for responsible development