Articles tagged “SkiftX Showcase: Hospitality”

The definition of loyalty is being rewritten to focus less on points accumulation and more on customer experience. Global Hotel Alliance’s new report reveals that guests want programs that feel personal, not transactional.

Following the success of the inaugural event, Skift India Forum returned bigger and better in 2025 as we brought together industry leaders, visionaries, and innovators in the travel industry to…

The guest journey begins at the terminal, and cruise lines are upgrading infrastructure to match that reality. MSC Cruises is shaping the industry's future with North America’s largest and most technically advanced cruise terminal located at PortMiami.

The hospitality talent crisis won’t solve itself. Industry leaders must invest in continuous employee development to close competency gaps in personalization, sustainability, and technology. Without decisive action, hospitality risks falling short in both service standards and employee retention.

By emphasizing its authentic roots, culture, and decades-long presence in the Caribbean, Sandals Resorts aims to remind travelers that it offers more than just luxury — it delivers an experience that is uniquely and unmistakably Caribbean.

Modern sustainability in travel is no longer just about environmental initiatives. Hotel brands must also consider their impact on local communities and commitments to cultural heritage. With those pillars in mind, Boutique Group is paving the way for a new “responsible luxury” model in Saudi Arabia.

Loyalty programs used to feel cookie-cutter — you had points, but your options were limited to a standard king-size suite or a business-class seat. Today, points let you dream bigger (and more luxe), whether it’s a secluded wellness retreat, a private cultural tour, or a completely custom vacation rental.

Why do we choose one hotel over another? Why do we come to work every day? These simple questions reflect a growing need in the hospitality industry to cultivate a sense of purpose — a guiding principle for navigating the demands of an increasingly complex world.

Generative AI is transforming hospitality with personalized guest experiences, optimized workforce management, and operational efficiency. Through smart rooms, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven tools like chatbots, hotels are elevating service while supporting staff.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to luxury hospitality, but Accor believes it’s up to major brands in the space to push the envelope. After a major rebranding, Sofitel has taken up the mantle of redefining luxury by investing heavily in team training, taking a stand for sustainability, and more.