Follow Hotels.com in one place. This hub gathers the latest news and product changes around the Expedia Group booking brand, curated by 10 Minutes News from trusted sources. Keep up with a major consumer travel platform.
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Marriott’s Nine-Year Alibaba Partnership Gives AI Agent Superior Booking Capabilities, Boosting Chinese Market Success
9 October 2026💸 Marriott’s AI agent, developed over nine years with Alibaba, outpaces competitors on Fliggy by offering booking and upselling services, demonstrating a relationship gap. In China, AI-mediated hotel bookings grew 800% in September. A U.S. sample shows TRevPAR fell 8.8% while RevPAR rose 6.3%, indicating overestimated revenue health. Trust remains a non-replicable asset AI can’t replace. Signals show a 194% growth in searches for repurposed hotels, urging a marketing strategy audit by 2027.
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Generative AI Adoption in B2B Buying Reaches 89%, Trust and Prior Experience Become Key Differentiators
9 October 2026📈 Jun Kwon’s article highlights the evolving landscape of hospitality sales, emphasizing a shift from information advantage to trust as a competitive edge. Notable data include Forrester’s 2024 survey, where 89% of B2B buyers use generative AI, and a 2025 6sense report revealing that 95% of winning vendors were initially shortlisted. Research shows 70% of hotel guests prefer human interaction. AI aids efficiency, but human relationships remain crucial for building trust and ensuring repeat business.
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Marriott Integrates AI Booking on Fliggy, Surpassing 800% Growth in China’s Holiday Travel Bookings
9 October 2026📱 In China, AI agents on Alibaba’s Fliggy processed 200 million orders during the February Spring Festival, including 55 million milk tea cups. Hotel AI bookings rose over 800%, with Marriott using a dedicated “door” in Fliggy for easy hotel and package access. In the US, Google enabled hotel bookings in AI Mode with 10 companies, including Marriott. On Fliggy, Marriott’s AI commands extend beyond rooms to offerings like afternoon tea, enhancing direct sales.
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Hotels.com Report Reveals Adaptive Reuse Trend with 194% Increase in Searches for Salvaged Stay Hotels
9 October 2026🏨 Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu in Japan, originally an elementary school, saw a 194% rise in searches. Bodmin Jail Hotel in the UK, a former prison, had searches up 110%. Fontevraud L’Ermitage in France, once an abbey, offers historical ambiance. “Salvaged Stay” hotels, according to Hotels.com, utilize adaptive reuse, transforming historical buildings into hotels, offering guests a unique experience. Such accommodations, like Union Station in Nashville, provide both historical charm and modern comforts.
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Marriott Introduces Exclusive AI Booking Access on Alibaba’s Fliggy, Expanding Sales Beyond Room Reservations
9 October 2026📈 Oct 9, 2026: In China, Marriott has integrated with Alibaba’s Fliggy, offering a dedicated access point for AI agents to sell hotel packages, unlike other hotels that use a shared search. During February’s Spring Festival, Alibaba’s Qwen AI app processed 200 million orders. Fliggy AI bookings soared by over 800%, yet hotel figures remain undisclosed. Marriott established its Fliggy presence through collaboration with Alibaba since 2017, allowing AI-driven sales of packages, unlike other hotel chains on the platform.
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Why Hotel Operators Need to Think More Like Owners
8 October 2026Asset-light growth can help hotel companies scale faster, but owners still carry the capital risk. Operators with skin in the game may be better positioned to test ideas, challenge investment assumptions, and focus on long-term hotel value.
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ROAST Shoreditch Will Open at Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch This October, Bringing the Celebrated British Restaurant to East London
8 October 2026This article was written by Luxury Hospitality Mag. Click here to read the original article ROAST, the acclaimed Borough Market restaurant renowned for championing exceptional seasonal produce and market-fresh ingredients, is set to open its second London restaurant this October at Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch. ROAST Shoreditch will build on more than two decades of success at Borough Market, bringing its distinctive approach to modern British dining to one of London’s most creative neighbourhoods. The new 135-cover restaurant will offer all-day…
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Treehouse Hotel Manchester is Branching Out
7 October 2026This article was written by Luxury Hospitality Mag. Click here to read the original article Treehouse Hotel Manchester is climbing higher. Following a headline-making debut in March 2025, the groundbreaking hotel from the one-of-a-kind hospitality brand created by Barry Sternlicht, Founder and Chairman of Starwood Hotels, is unveiling a major expansion. The hotel is introducing new rooftop destinations, a collection of premium suites that transform the property’s upper levels into a magical escape high above the city, and more ways…
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Bar Prince Unveils Mythical Legends: A New Cocktail Menu Inspired by Scotland’s Most Enchanting Folklore
7 October 2026This article was written by Luxury Hospitality Mag. Click here to read the original article Following the success of last year’s Connected Icons, Bar Prince at The Balmoral invites guests into a world of myth, magic and storytelling with the launch of its newest cocktail menu, Mythical Legends. Launching this autumn, Mythical Legends draws inspiration from Scotland’s most enduring folklore, transforming legendary creatures and ancient tales into an immersive cocktail experience. From unicorns and selkies to witches, dragons and kelpies,…
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Eivind Hjulstad of Citybox Hotels on Scandinavian Design, Budget Done Right, and Why the Middle Market Is Running Out of Time
7 October 2026This post was originally published on this site.Hosted by Hotel Mogel’s Adam Mogelonsky, Hospitality Net’s Brand Insiders is a video series dedicated to discussing innovative hotel brands with the hoteliers, owners, developers and executives who are making it a reality. Designed to be around an hour in length, head over to Hospitality Net to watch or listen to this interview with Eivind Hjulstad CEO of Citybox Hotels. The link to the full video can be found here. The post Eivind Hjulstad…
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Travel + Leisure Co. and Wyndham to Expand Sports Illustrated Resorts with New Hotel Developments in the U.S.
6 October 2026🏟 In 2023, Travel + Leisure Co. launched Sports Illustrated Resorts, partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to expand into traditional hotels. The first resort opened in Nashville with 185 suites. Upcoming destinations include Chicago (expected 2027), Baton Rouge (2027), and Tuscaloosa (2028). Wyndham’s 120 million-member loyalty program enhances the brand’s hospitality impact. Sports Illustrated Resorts leverages a 70-year legacy in sports, culture, and entertainment to provide unique travel experiences.
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Concord Hospitality Expands Portfolio by Managing Over a Dozen New Hotels Across Key U.S. Markets
6 October 2026🏨 Concord Hospitality expands its portfolio, managing over a dozen hotels and restaurants across key U.S. markets: North Carolina, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. New additions include One Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and The Satire, Autograph Collection. Upcoming openings: The Union Hotel Flemington, NJ (100 rooms) and The Beckworth Hotel Charlotte, NC (240 rooms), launching in early 2027. Concord strengthens presence with expertise in digital marketing and food & beverage, focusing on creating exceptional guest experiences.
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91% of Hotels Use AI, but Only 22% Monitor AI Search Visibility, Reveals 2026 Industry Study
5 October 2026💻 The h2c AI Opportunity Study 2026, released on October 2, surveyed 113 hotel groups with over 8,200 properties. 91% use AI, but only 28% have a company-wide AI strategy, and 13% report measurable ROI. 70% expect AI booking channels to boost direct bookings, yet only 22% monitor AI search brand visibility. HOTREC’s European Hotel Distribution Study 2026 found 51% of hotels report OTA rate undercuts, increasing 8 points since 2023.
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Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt Cite AI as Both Risk and Advantage to Direct Booking in Annual Reports and Calls
5 October 2026💻 February 10, 2026, Marriott expressed optimism about AI boosting direct bookings, but warned shareholders that AI could erode brand loyalty. By June, Marriott launched Ask Bonvoy following a 43 million increase in loyalty members, totaling 271 million. Hilton’s direct business exceeds 80%, while Hyatt anticipates retaining most business through its channels. Google introduced hotel booking within AI Mode in August. Booking’s AI-generated traffic remains under 1%, with precise bookings from agents undisclosed by both chains and OTAs.
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Choice Hotels’ Chief Human Resources Officer Patrick Cimerola to Retire in 2026 After 25 Years of Service
2 October 2026📈 Patrick Cimerola, Chief Human Resources Officer of Choice Hotels, will retire at the end of 2026 after a 25-year tenure. He joined Choice Hotels in 2001, playing a critical role in its growth and transformation. The company, a global leader with over 7,500 hotels in 46 countries, will conduct an executive search for his successor. Cimerola will remain as an advisor to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
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H World Group’s Hua Xiao AI System Automates 1.8 Million In-Stay Requests Across 10,000 Hotels in China
2 October 2026💻 In late 2025, The Lux Collective trained 133 senior executives with a 20-week AI-powered program in Mauritius, the Maldives, Zanzibar, and Réunion. Accor’s app logged over 542,000 cleanliness checks in 2025 across 611 hotels, boosting customer satisfaction. Accor’s procurement achieved “Leading” maturity in June 2026. H World deployed AI in over 10,000 hotels, completing 1.8 million tasks. Radisson’s AI matches online prices in real-time since July 2026. Wyndham’s AI saves 40-80 hours per review in a 9,300-hotel network.
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Meta’s Muse AI Agent Blocked by Hilton, Redirects Booking Attempt to Expedia in Washington, D.C.
2 October 2026📅 On September 29, 2026, Gaurav Sharma used Meta’s AI, Muse, to book a Hilton hotel in Washington, D.C., for under $250, but was blocked by Hilton’s site. In September 2026, over 70% of travelers used AI for research, yet less than 16% booked with AI. Google’s AI Mode began hotel bookings with major partners. AI referrals to hotel sites grew fourfold, though AI bookings remain low. Younger travelers, especially Gen Z, lead AI usage.
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Expedia Expands Rapid Activities API, Acquires Tiqets and CarTrawler to Enhance Travel Experience Offering
2 October 2026📅 Oct 2, 2026: Expedia launched a beta for its Rapid Activities API, allowing partners to sell museum tickets and tours. Expedia acquired Tiqets and CarTrawler in 2026 to expand offerings beyond lodging. Booking.com integrates hotel bookings with Air India, aiming for a Connected Trip. Airbnb adds car hire and grocery delivery. Marriott’s Bonvoy Tours started in 2017. Expedia’s tours will open to all partners in early 2027, offering a comprehensive travel experience. 77% of travelers prefer booking on a…
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Stayntouch Expands Partnership with InnVest Hotels to Deploy Digital Registration Cards Across Six Canadian Properties
30 September 2026💻 Sept. 30, 2026, in Bethesda, MD, Stayntouch expands its partnership with InnVest Hotels, Canada’s largest hotel operator, to digitize check-ins at six properties using Digital Registration Cards. This innovation reduces paperwork, enhances data accuracy, and boosts guest engagement. InnVest manages over 100 hotels across Canada, with 81 in its portfolio, making it the largest hotel owner and operator in the country. Stayntouch has been InnVest’s partner since 2024.
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Spire Hospitality Launches Strategic Asset Performance Division Led by Shozib Khan to Enhance Hotel Portfolio Performance
30 September 2026📈 Spire Hospitality, based in Irving, Texas, has unveiled its Strategic Asset Performance division to enhance hotel and portfolio performance. Shozib Khan, with 25+ years of experience, is promoted to Senior Vice President to lead this initiative. The division integrates financial strategy, technology, AI, and business intelligence to improve asset value. This strategic shift emphasizes predictive financial planning and direct execution, aiming to foresee opportunities and improve hotel performance across Spire’s portfolio, including brands like Marriott and Hilton.
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Choice Hotels Expands Upscale Portfolio with Six New Properties Across Cambria and Ascend Collection Brands in the U.S.
30 September 2026🏨 Choice Hotels International has expanded its upscale footprint with six new properties in the U.S. and Vermont. Two Cambria Hotels in Colorado Springs and Jacksonville, and four Ascend Collection properties in Sarasota, Mishicot, and Peru have been introduced. Cambria Hotel Colorado Springs offers 97 rooms and a rooftop bar, while Jacksonville’s location features a fitness center and outdoor pool. Choice Hotels now boasts over 300 upscale properties in the U.S. and nearly 150 in development.
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Preferred Hotels & Resorts Expands Legend Collection With 11 New Properties Across Five Continents in 2026
30 September 2026🏨 Preferred Hotels & Resorts expands its Legend Collection with 11 new properties in 2026, reaching over 125 worldwide. Notable additions include The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, launched in July 2026 in India, and Serras Sevilla, opened in September 2026 in Spain. The highly anticipated Wynn Al Marjan Island in the UAE will debut in spring 2027. Offering unique cultural experiences, these properties cater to the evolving preferences of luxury travelers across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle…
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ChatGPT and Google Prioritize OTA Prices, Impacting Independent Hotels’ Visibility and Pricing Control
30 September 2026📱 ChatGPT, on June 25, examined 240 hotel price queries, reading OTA sites like Booking.com and Expedia 46% of the time, yet linking to them only 11%. Booking.com held 62.57% of US ad space in July. Google, requiring hotels to provide price feeds, stops its auto-rate identification on September 30. In the EU, Google’s search results now separate reseller prices from hotel prices. Late August saw Google introducing bookings via AI Mode using 10 partners, excluding independents.
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ChatGPT and Google Display Hotel Prices from OTAs, Undermining Direct Rate Control by Hotels
30 September 2026💵 September 30, 2026, worldwide: ChatGPT retrieves hotel prices primarily from OTAs like Booking.com and Expedia, shown in over 46% of 240 queries. It cites these sources only 11% of the time. Google, since September 30, requires hotels to send their rates if they wish to advertise. In Europe, Google’s changes from September 8 result in separate blocks for hotels/resellers, while in the U.S., Google’s AI books through ten partners, excluding independents.
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Google Launches AI Mode for Hotel Booking in U.S., Enabling Chat-Based Reservations with Traveler Payment Approval
29 September 2026💻 In August 2026, Google launched AI Mode hotel bookings in the U.S., enabling AI agents to reserve rooms with payment approval from travelers via Google Pay. AI queries for planning grew 80% faster over six months, but 68% prefer trusted brands. The system uses the Universal Commerce Protocol to improve AI hotel bookings, accessible to hotels via OTAs. Careful pricing and consistent information are crucial to success in this competitive landscape.
