June 2, 2026

Sponsored By Travel Outlook and Track Hospitality Software Register your team and participate live, or later receive and view the recording, of Doug Kennedy’s next 40-minute training webcast scheduled for Friday, June 19, at Noon ET. Register Here “Today’s reservations salespeople have to quote and defend fast-changing rates and availability restrictions to savvy, deal-seeking consumers who are pre-informed,” says Kennedy, “they have checked rates across multiple booking channels and are asking really tough questions.” Too often, untrained staff awkwardly answer questions, allowing these hot leads to slip away and book at a costly OTA, or perhaps to select another hotel entirely. This webcast helps reservations sales agents present and explain rates, along with other “levers” revenue leaders use to optimize revenues in the era of dynamic pricing algorithms. Sales tactics covered include: A better way of explaining why rates change according to demand and are higher during periods of high occupancy. How to “downsell” when the last remaining accommodations are lower-tier, less-desirable options How to “upsell” when the last remaining accommodations are top-tier, possibly larger or higher-priced options than what was originally requested. Explaining mid-stay rate variance. What to say when the rates have gone up by the time they call back. Overcoming objections to minimum stays when the caller cannot extend their dates. Favorably framing discounted rates. Avoid offering discounts when they are not requested or needed. Recordings of previous webcasts are available on KTN’s YouTube channel and are now also being distributed on your favorite podcast channel or on KTN’s Spotify channel . Everyone who registers for this and all KTN webcasts receives a link to the recording, even if they cannot attend. The 40-minute format is perfect for “lunch and learns” or excerpts can be shared at staff meetings. The target audience is anyone who is interested in upskilling themselves or others, and the topic areas are broad enough to be relevant for all sectors of the lodging industry. “We are grateful to the generosity of our sponsors who have allowed us to offer complimentary admission,” said Kennedy. “It takes a lot of time to design, promote, and deliver these events, and so we would normally charge a registration fee, but this series is now completely free to all.” Sponsors include: Travel Outlook , the only KTN Certified call center, and Track Hospitality Software , whose products include a Track PMS and Pulse reservations CRM. Complimentary registration can be accessed at www.KTNwebcast.com . Here are the additional topics scheduled so far. Proactive, Polite, and Productive Hotel Sales Prospecting Friday, July 24 (Noon ET) REGISTER HERE As the booking of routine meetings, BT travel, and social events becomes an increasingly automated, self-service process, the long game for a successful hotel sales career is to level up one’s prospecting skills. This webcast covers a mix of organizational habits and practical sales tactics that will help salespeople go beyond simply converting inbound leads and instead focus on hunting down new revenue. How to make proactive prospecting a daily habit. Embracing

Integration with Shiji’s Daylight PMS enables seamless Accounting and POS connectivity while unifying hospitality data across systems. Berlin, June 2, 2026 – Shiji, the global leader in hospitality technology, announced today a…

International tourist arrivals grew 2% over the first quarter of 2026, despite disruption caused by the crisis in the Middle East in March. According to the latest data from UN Tourism, some 307 million tourists traveled internationally in the first quarter of 2026 , about 6 million more than the same period of 2025. While the start of the year saw sustained travel demand overall (+2.5% cumulative growth in January and February), the Middle East conflict impacted performance in March (+0.4%). The conflict is expected to reduce growth in international arrivals by 1 to 2 percentage points below UN Tourism’s initial forecast of 3% to 4% for 2026, depending on the conflict’s duration and scope. Aside from disruptions in flights to, from and within the Middle East and effects on traveler confidence, the spike in oil prices and jet fuel shortage in some markets is increasing air fares and reducing flight capacity also in other regions. More expensive travel coupled with uncertainty about air connectivity, could redirect demand towards closer tourism destinations while also affecting overall travel demand. UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais said: The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is disrupting travel patterns well beyond the region itself, including rising inflation, particularly in transport and accommodation. This is placing pressure on travelers, businesses and destinations alike. Even amid this uncertainty, international tourism continued to show resilience in the first quarter of 2026, with 307 million people traveling internationally, a 2% increase on last year. At a time of growing geopolitical and economic pressure, this reinforces tourism’s wider role in supporting economies, creating opportunity and sustaining communities far beyond the sector itself. By region: Europe and Africa see strongest performance in first quarter The latest World Tourism Barometer by UN Tourism provides a regional breakdown of results for Q1: Europe , the world’s largest travel destination region, saw over 130 million international tourists in Q1 2026, a 4% increase, building on the strong momentum of 2025 (+5%). Some destinations benefited from the redirection of tourism flows. Southern Mediterranean Europe and Northern Europe both saw a 4% increase in arrivals in Q1 2026, while Central Eastern Europe (+6%) continued its recovery. Arrivals in Africa (+4%) continued to grow in Q1 2026, with North Africa recording a 4% increase supported by strong double-digit figures in March (+18%). Arrivals in Sub-Saharan Africa also increased 4% in Q1. Asia and the Pacific recorded 3% growth this first quarter, somewhat slower than expected due to mixed performance among destinations. Strong results were recorded in February (+9%) but were more moderate in March (+2%), as disruptions affecting Middle Eastern air hubs contributed to a 27% decline in South Asia. Oceania (+9%) and North-East Asia (+5%) saw particularly robust results in Q1 2026. Overall, arrivals in Asia remained 11% below pre-pandemic values (89% of Q1 2019 levels). The Americas recorded 2% more international arrivals this first quarter of 2026, with strong growth in Central America (+18%) but weaker in South America (-1%). In the Middle

Only 31% of LGBTQ+ travelers globally say they are ‘out’ when they travel 40% are willing to hide their identity in order to experience a bucket list destination Closeted LGBTQ+ travelers are the only segment of the community where a majority (53%) don’t report feeling anxious when traveling 37% feel safer asking AI sensitive questions about the local LGBTQ+ scene than asking a human Booking.com released its latest Travel Proud Research Report, the company’s most expansive and cross-cutting survey to date, focused exclusively on the attitudes, actions and perceptions of LGBTQ+ travelers. With insights from 13,300 LGBTQ+ travelers across 19 countries, the research highlights the broad range of experiences across different parts of the community. Trade-offs LGBTQ+ travelers make to experience the world safely A striking finding in this year’s report: the LGBTQ+ travelers who report the fewest negative experiences and who appear to be the most confident - are those who identify as ‘not out’. Travelers who are ‘not out’ are the least likely to have had a negative experience related to their sexuality on a trip in the last twelve months (34% compared to 62% of all LGBTQ+ travelers globally, rising to 73% for LGBTQ+ travelers who identify as trans). They are also the only group where a majority didn’t report feeling anxious when travelling (53%) compared to 30% globally and just 20% of polyamorous travelers. It’s a stark reminder that the "safest" LGBTQ+ travelers are often the ones who are most effectively able to hide parts of who they are. The decision to conceal parts of their identity; whether by choice or out of necessity, is sadly a reality shared by the majority of the LGBTQ+ travelers surveyed. Only 31% of respondents globally are out when traveling, compared to the 68% who are out to close friends. This number grows further when asked about where LGBTQ+ travelers want to go; with 40% willing to hide their identity in exchange for experiencing a bucket-list destination, highlighting that, for many, deciding between exploring the world and being fully themselves still involves profound trade-offs. Precautions and anxiety on the rise, particularly for trans travelers Further to that, 44% of LGBTQ+ travelers also say that they are taking more precautions than they were a few years ago; actions like sharing live locations with trusted contacts to manage anxiety (25%), deleting dating apps before border crossings (16%), using VPNs to disguise activity or access blocked sites (19%) and carrying burner phones (18%) are common. 48% of LGBTQ+ travelers constantly scan their surroundings before showing affection to their partner in public. The data also highlights the particular challenges faced by trans travelers. They are the only group where the percentage who have become more anxious about travel outpaces their peers who’ve become more relaxed in recent years. With 43% feeling more anxious in the last few years compared to a global average of 27%. And while for most demographic groups, being ‘out in public late at night or after dark’ is the most

Overall, 66% of accommodations expect positive development in the next 12 months 60% report strong overall economic situation However, differing outlooks emerge between large vs small operators: 72% of chains report a positive economic situation compared to 55% of independents 94% of large properties feel prepared for cybersecurity risks but only 60% of properties with less than ten staff feel the same Only 9% of large properties see cybersecurity as their top future concern compared to 21% of smaller businesses AMSTERDAM - Today, European tech and travel leader Booking.com released the sixth edition of its annual Accommodation Barometer, exploring the outlook, opportunities and challenges that are front of mind for accommodation professionals across Europe. Drawing on insights from 1,240 executives and managers across 24 markets from the European accommodation sector, this year’s report affirmed the resilience and stability maintained by an industry that has faced many headwinds in recent years. But amid the overall positivity, key concerns highlighted priority areas for continued development particularly in addressing divisions between large and small businesses. Steady growth and confidence levels bolstering adaptations to new market dynamics Overall economic sentiment continues to hold, with 66% expecting positive development in the coming season and 60% reporting a strong general financial situation. Across the board, shifting marketing dynamics saw properties of all sizes report a similar experience: average daily rate growth moderated, with a three percentage point YoY drop in those reporting increases (40% in 2026 vs 43% in 2025), balanced by 50% seeing growth in occupancy rates, up 10% YoY. However, while collective perceptions paint an optimistic picture, the findings highlight growing pressure on smaller and independent accommodations to keep pace with larger operations. In key business metrics, chains report more favourably on economic conditions with 72% rating their situation positively compared to 55% of independents. Similar patterns emerge across other key performance indicators including room rates (47% chains observed increases in the six months before the survey vs 37% of independents) and occupancy developments (56% chains observed increases vs 46% of independents). Further divisions also emerge around key industry concerns, with particular challenges in the cybersecurity space and in navigating seasonal swings and external disruptions. Cybersecurity: readiness gaps emerge as AI rapidly accelerates risks At a high level, two-thirds of European accommodations (66%) feel their cybersecurity preparedness is sufficient, underpinned by wide adoption of core protections such as regular software updates (86%), network security tools (85%) and secure payment processing (80%). But delving deeper, a clear cyber-readiness gap emerges between accommodations with large versus small operations. Nearly all respondents with 250 or more employees (94%) consider themselves adequately prepared, compared to only 60% of those with fewer than ten staff. While safeguards are common across the board, smaller operators are less likely to implement more advanced or ongoing practices: less than half (49%) offer staff training compared to 89% of larger employers, with similar gaps emerging for regular IT security audits (60% vs 89%) and engagement with specialist third-party providers (62% vs 95%). When

SHENZHEN, China - Pudu Robotics , a global leader in commercial service robotics, and Shenzhen Culture & Tourism Industry Development Co. Ltd （Abbv. Shenzhen CITD Co. Ltd) have officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement to jointly develop the world's first full-scenario robot-serviced hotel on the West Artificial Island of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link , one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in China. Designed as a next-generation hospitality destination, the hotel will integrate robots across every major service scenario, including guest reception, room delivery, cleaning, food service, and guest support. Powered by embodied AI and multi-robot collaboration, the project represents one of the industry's most comprehensive deployments of robotics in a real-world hospitality environment. This partnership represents an important step toward large-scale deployment of embodied intelligence in premium hospitality environments. It also provides an opportunity to explore new service models where AI and robotics work together to deliver intelligent, end-to-end experiences in the real world. Cong Guo, Co-founder and CTO of Pudu Robotics A Global Landmark for the Future of Hospitality The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is widely recognized as one of the world's most complex cross-sea transportation systems, combining bridges, tunnels, artificial islands, and underwater interchanges into a single engineering marvel. As a strategic gateway connecting key cities across the Greater Bay Area, the West Artificial Island provides a unique platform to showcase next-generation technologies to visitors from around the world. With a long-term vision extending toward 2030, Pudu Robotics and Shenzhen CTID Co. Ltd will implement the project in multiple phases, progressively introducing advanced robotics and AI capabilities to create a new global benchmark where hospitality, tourism, and intelligent automation converge. According to the project roadmap, the hotel will enter a phased rollout beginning this year. A trial operation is scheduled to commence by the end of 2026, opening selected guest rooms and robot-powered services to the public. Early visitors will be among the first to experience a seamless hospitality journey powered by robotics—from automated welcoming and intelligent check-in to autonomous in-room delivery services. A Preview of the Hotel of Tomorrow To showcase the vision behind the project, Pudu Robotics transformed the signing ceremony into a live demonstration of future hotel operations, presenting a comprehensive portfolio of robotic solutions operating together in a hospitality setting. Guests experienced autonomous retail and delivery through FlashBot 's intelligent vending system, where beverages were automatically retrieved and delivered following a mobile order. The PUDU T300 demonstrated heavy-duty luggage transportation and autonomous elevator interaction, highlighting its 300-kilogram payload capability. Meanwhile, the PUDU CC1 Pro and PUDU MT1 cleaning robots performed real-time cleaning operations throughout the venue, demonstrating AI-native waste detection and autonomous floor maintenance. BellaBot Pro served freshly brewed coffee to guests while interacting through voice and lighting effects, while KettyBot Pro continuously delivered refreshments and snacks throughout the event while displaying event information on its advertising screen. The showcase concluded with interactive performances from PUDU D5 , offering attendees a glimpse of how robotics can create engaging and

Most investors overlook the hidden signals that hint at industry turning points—until it's too late. Stephen Grambling, a seasoned expert in gaming, lodging, and leisure stocks at Morgan Stanley, shares how to decode market movements shaped by technology, branding, and macroeconomic shifts that can make or break hospitality investments. In this eye-opening conversation, Stephen reveals his unique framework for analyzing hotel stocks—rooted in the timeless principles from Graham and Dodd—and how it adapts to today's rapidly evolving landscape. Discover how key industry inflection points, technological disruptions, and the K-shaped economy impact valuations and investor opportunities in a sector often misunderstood. His insights challenge conventional wisdom, especially around brand proliferation, hotel valuations, and the future of REITs. {{cta id="4"}} Tune in to hear: Why the persistent undervaluation of hotel REITs is a market anomaly and the potential for consolidation or take-private opportunities. How AI and digital distribution are both threats and catalysts for industry profitability, with real examples of early adopters experimenting with automation and data-driven strategies. The impact of macro factors like the Middle East conflict, inflation, and household wealth on global travel patterns and hotel performance. What the shifting consumer landscape—driven by the K-shaped economy and aging owner bases—means for luxury versus economy hotel demand and asset management. Practical questions to ask CEOs during earnings calls to unlock hidden risks and opportunities buried in their metrics.

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH ), a leader in the extended stay segment, today announced the opening of its 30th Everhome Suites® hotel. Located in Georgetown, Texas, the milestone reflects the company's continued strength and execution in one of lodging's most attractive growth categories. Since the brand's debut in 2022, Everhome Suites has rapidly expanded its footprint, reinforcing Choice Hotels' leadership position in extended stay and demonstrating the company's ability to scale new brands while delivering value for owners and guests. Nearly half of all new economy and midscale extended stay construction currently underway in the U.S. are a part of the Choice Hotels system, and the company continues to deliver with eleven consecutive quarters of double-digit extended-stay room growth. Everhome Suites Georgetown, located outside of Austin, exemplifies the brand's success in markets with strong, repeatable drivers. The Georgetown area is fueled by corporate and project-based demand from major local employers—such as Dell Technologies, Whole Foods Market, and Southwestern University—in addition to continued manufacturing expansion tied to large-scale developments, further reinforcing the appetite for extended stay in the region. Guests also benefit from proximity to Inner Spaced Cavern, Blue Hole Park, and Lake Georgetown. As extended stay continues to evolve, success increasingly belongs to companies that can pair scale with deep segment expertise. The opening of our 30th Everhome Suites is more than a brand milestone – it's another example of Choice Hotels' leadership in extended stay and our ability to execute in a competitive environment. Our platform is designed to grow alongside long-stay demand – combining disciplined operations with a scalable model that helps owners capture opportunity and deliver long-term, reliable performanceю Matt McElhare, Vice President and Extended Stay Segment Lead, Choice Hotels International The Georgetown, Texas opening is part of a broader wave of growth, with additional recent openings in Panama City Beach, Florida and Stockbridge, Georgia to further demonstrate Everhome Suites' national momentum. These projects highlight the brand's expanding geographic footprint along with repeat developer and operator relationships. Beyond the milestone, this achievement reflects Choice Hotels' sustained leadership, scale, and momentum in extended stay, built through years of investment in a dedicated operating platform. With eight Everhome Suites under construction, and 40 in the pipeline as of Q1 2026— the brand's rapid expansion of thoughtfully designed rooms and amenities reflects a focus on fundamentals that are durable and nationally consistent—supported by corporate project work, manufacturing growth, and relocation activity. With close to 600 extended stay hotels across the segment, Choice Hotels offers guests options for a variety of stay occasions and needs while providing owners with the benefit of one of the industry's largest extended stay platforms. Created for travelers seeking apartment-style accommodations during longer stays, Everhome Suites' recently redesigned prototype features spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, contemporary design, and thoughtfully curated amenities that help guests feel at home while traveling. The brand delivers a true midscale extended-stay experience, combining the comfort and convenience of residential living with the service and reliability of a hotel