LODGING Magazine

As hotter summers make outdoor dining more challenging, hotels are looking for ways to keep patios, rooftop bars, and other open-air venues comfortable while minimizing the added energy cost. In an interview with LODGING, David Rames, HVAC R&D leader at Midea, discussed how advances in ductless cooling technology can help operators create more inviting outdoor spaces, improve energy efficiency, and turn climate resilience into a revenue-generating investment rather than an operational expense.

The AI Hospitality Alliance has assembled eight workstream committees to begin addressing the priorities identified in its 12-month roadmap.

AHLA, Hotels Canada, and Hoteles Por México together called for a long-term extension of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

SAG HARBOR, New York & JACKSON HOLE, Wyoming—Blue Flag Capital, in partnership with in-house management company Collared Martin Hospitality, announced the openings of Faraway Sag Harbor and Faraway Jackson Hole. With these openings, Blue Flag Capital and Collared Martin Hospitality are expanding Faraway Hotels beyond New England for the first time, bringing the brand to the Hamptons waterfront and the American West.

AAHOA applauded Governor Josh Shapiro for enacting House Bill 1286, requiring human trafficking awareness training.

PALM SPRINGS, California—V Capri Palm Springs, a Dolce by Wyndham hotel, announced its next chapter under Sam Nazarian’s sbe Entertainment Group (sbe) as

AHLA President and CEO Rosanna Maietta issued a statement regarding committee passage of the American Franchise Act

Soft brands have been surging in popularity among owners of unique hotels seeking enhanced visibility to the growing number of experiential travelers. The scale of the parent brand’s distribution network and loyalty program helps these owners reach guests who prefer “authentic experiences that reflect the destination they’re visiting,” observed Scott Styron, president of Asheville, North Carolina-based LaTour Hotels & Resorts. “They want hotels with character and a sense of place rather than the same experience in every market.”

A new Global Rescue Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey highlighted how experienced international travelers are continuing to travel abroad.

Sonesta International Hotels announced significant portfolio expansion during the first half of 2026, with 22 new hotel openings.