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Rising Travel Costs Reshape How Americans Travel in 2026, Internova Travel Group Research Finds

Rising Travel Costs Reshape How Americans Travel in 2026, Internova Travel Group Research Finds

🛫 Rising travel costs in New York are influencing American travel behavior, as reported by Internova Travel Group. Business class airfare increased to $4,500, while luxury hotel rates rose by 4.9% in North America. Expedition cruise costs climbed over 20% since 2023. In 2026, 27% plan to travel more, with 60% relying on travel advisors. Despite economic uncertainty, strategic, experience-driven travel is prioritized, with a focus on expert planning and value.
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WITT Launches New Global Accreditation for Wellness Hospitality Professionals

🏨 WITT launched the WITT Accredited Professional (WITT AP) credential, the first global wellness accreditation for hospitality professionals, aiming to certify those who develop wellness-centered experiences. Grounded in Core Wellness Standards and Five Pillars of Wellness, it targets hotel leadership and related roles. Graduates earn a professional certificate, digital badge, and directory listing. This supports career growth in the burgeoning wellness travel sector, enhancing expertise and organizational value.
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Choice Hotels International Accelerates Growth in Canada with Six New Ascend Collection Properties in Québec

```html 🏨 In early 2026, Choice Hotels International expands its Ascend Collection with six new properties in Québec, Canada, strengthening the brand's presence by 20%. The hotels are located in Montréal, Brossard, Orford, Thetford Mines, and Venise‑en‑Québec. The deal, led by Bing Zhao, supports rapid growth after consolidating Choice Hotels Canada. In Q3, Canadian RevPAR rose by 7%. The company's global portfolio now exceeds 150,000 rooms outside the U.S. ```
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2026 Hospitality Outlook: how AI is reshaping hotel experiences

🏨 In 2026, AI will transform the hospitality industry, as outlined by Mews. Generative AI will enhance booking processes, while agentic AI will optimize hotel operations. Automation will free staff for personalized guest interactions, without replacing human touch. The report emphasizes investing in AI for sustainable growth and guest satisfaction. Mews supports over 12,500 customers in 85 countries, backed by $410 million in funding. Early adopters of AI will gain a competitive edge in the industry.
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Hospitality Financial Leadership: The Luggage

🏨 The Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, underwent a significant renovation in 1988, closing for 6 months and resulting in one fatality. The renovation, which doubled the budget, was completed by summer 1989. The Canadian Pacific Presidents Conference was the first major event hosted post-renovation. Notable attendees included William Stinson, Canadian Pacific's chairman. The conference involved complex logistics, such as misplaced luggage and a shortage of phone lines, highlighting the challenges of hotel management.
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The Restaurant Floor: Life in the Fast Lane

🚗 Andrew Hopson likens working in Food & Beverage to a road trip. In restaurants, like driving, control and presence are crucial. Starting service is akin to turning a car ignition, while achieving a smooth operation echoes finding a driving rhythm. Missing an exit can add 15-20 minutes to a journey, similar to service mishaps in hospitality. Quick adjustments during traffic jams parallel problem-solving in a bustling restaurant environment. A great soundtrack enhances both journeys and work experiences.
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Red Lion Hotels, Inns & Suites by Sonesta Opens in Junction City, Kansas

🏨 Sonesta International Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Red Lion Inn & Suites Junction City, located at 1133 South Washington Street, Junction City, Kansas. This 81-room, midscale hotel offers an exterior corridor design. Guests can benefit from the Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program. The Red Lion brand is known for its welcoming service and proximity to outdoor adventures. For more information, visit their [website](https://www.sonesta.com/red-lion-inn-suites/ks/junction-city/red-lion-inn-suites-junction-city).
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The New Landmark of Kowloon East: Royal Garden Expands in Tseung Kwan O

🏨 Hong Kong, January 2026: The Royal Garden Kowloon East opens in Tseung Kwan O, marking the first expansion in 44 years for the Royal Garden brand. The 366-room resort, formerly Crowne Plaza, features seven villas, themed family rooms, and a 25-meter outdoor pool. Dining highlights include Ponentino, opening July 2026, offering Italian cuisine. Eco-conscious design by LAAB Architects caters to Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha, with phased openings throughout 2026.
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Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica Unveils Multi-Million-Dollar Transformation, Debuting All-New Coastal-Inspired Design and Santa Monica’s Only Rooftop Ballroom

🏝️ Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica unveils a $16 million renovation completed in fall 2024. The hotel now features 315 redesigned guestrooms, 15,000 sq ft of meeting spaces, and the all-day Coastal Harvest Bar & Kitchen. Highlights include 11 event spaces and Santa Monica's only rooftop ballroom, the 4,526 sq ft Delfina Ballroom. The hotel offers amenities like a heated saltwater pool, beach cruiser bicycles, and is centrally located on Pico Boulevard. Perfect for corporate travelers and community gatherings.
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Sonesta Opens The Midtown Hotel, MOD Collection by Sonesta in Boston, MA

🏨 Sonesta International Hotels Corporation announced the opening of The Midtown Hotel, MOD Collection by Sonesta at 220 Huntington Avenue, Boston's Back Bay. This 159-room upscale hotel was recently renovated and caters to modern lifestyles. Guests can earn or redeem points through the Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the hotel is part of the playful and flexible MOD Collection, which offers curated F&B and eclectic design.
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