KOHALA COAST, HAWAII—Hawaii Island’s first resort, the iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, originally envisioned by Laurance S. Rockefeller, unveils its $180+ million, multi-phased renovation representing the most extensive transformation in the propertys 60-year history. An Autograph Collection hotel and part of the expansive Mauna Kea Resort—which also includes The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and Mauna Kea Residences—the reimagined Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is now fully open to welcome both returning and first-time guests, carrying forward Rockefeller’s vision of harmonizing world-class hospitality with Hawaii’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship. The comprehensive renovation unveils 252 fully reimagined guestrooms and suites, a refreshed family resort pool featuring a new oceanfront hot tub, and five private...

I have reported on different systems hotels and resorts have employed to reduce/eliminate the use of plastic water bottles on property—water bottle refill stations, water systems that provide filtered water or sparkling water for settings such as restaurants or meetings, the giving away of reusable bottles to encourage use of refill stations, and even water-from-air systems. It is imperative that the lodging industry do its part to remove single-use plastic water bottles from the waste stream. Globally, 5 billion plastic water bottles are consumed each year. This past week I had an opportunity to chat with Rob Duffin, founder and CEO of...

MIAMI—The Global Wellness Summit (GWS) released its annual Future of Wellness report, the longest-running, most detailed (150-page) forecast of the big ideas that will transform health and wellness in the coming year. There have been more shakeups in the wellness market in the last couple of years than in the last 20. The market has been rewritten by high-tech, medical, hyper-optimizing approaches—from the boom in longevity clinics to the avalanche of diagnostics and wearables. At the same time, powerful new desires for a no-tech, deeply human, social and emotional wellness are raging. These polarities, which now define the wellness market, resonate across the new...

SINGAPORE—Banyan Group, an independent global hospitality company, enters 2026 following a year that marked a significant step in its global expansion. With 100 hotels and resorts, over 140 spas and galleries, and more than 20 branded residences now in operation across over 20 countries, the Group is advancing into its next phase of growth with new market entries, strengthening of its multi-brand portfolio, and deepening of guest experiences. Crossing the 100-resort milestone marks a new chapter for Banyan Group as it builds on its legacy by expanding into new and meaningful markets, strengthening its brands, and deepening its focus on...

LONDON—Six Senses London, the first U.K. destination from the Six Senses brand, has confirmed it will open to guests in early 2026. Set within The Whiteley in Bayswater, the restored Grade II-listed landmark has been reimagined by Foster + Partners, uniting classic architecture and contemporary design in the heart of West London. Six Senses London will feature 109 guestrooms and suites, many with private terraces, and 14 branded residences designed by AvroKO in collaboration with EPR Architects. Whiteley’s Kitchen, Bar and Café will bring a spirited, modern approach to neighborhood dining with maverick British cuisine and a touch of West London character. Menus will champion local producers and bold, seasonal flavors, while...

AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE—A new sanctuary has arrived along the Belize Barrier Reef. Reef Haven Belize, a thoughtfully reimagined all-inclusive retreat, has officially opened its doors, welcoming travelers seeking a slower pace, deeper connection, and immersion in nature and culture. Designed as a laid-back coastal haven surrounded by sea, tropical greenery, and open sky, Reef Haven Belize invites guests to Pause. Breathe. Belong.—a philosophy rooted in presence, simplicity, and the warmth of Belizean hospitality. The resort is centered on meaningful, experience-led moments that invite guests to unplug, connect, and stay grounded in the present. Situated just offshore from Ambergris Caye, Reef Haven Belize...

TOKYO—1 Hotels, the mission-driven luxury lifestyle brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, announced that 1 Hotel Tokyo is now accepting reservations. Set to welcome guests in March 2026, this biophilic sanctuary marks the brand’s highly anticipated debut in Japan. Rising above the skyline within the Akasaka Trust Tower—part of Mori Trust’s ambitious new Tokyo World Gate Akasaka development—1 Hotel Tokyo is a nature-infused space that redefines sustainable luxury in the heart of one of the world’s most innovative cities. Reflecting a shared ambition to create a hotel that looks to the future—combining elevated design with environmental responsibility—the property is...

WILMINGTON, DEL.—Allied Market Research published a report, titled, Wellness Retreat Market by Retreat Type (Yoga Retreats, Meditation Retreats, Fitness/bootcamp Retreats, Personal Development Retreats and Adventure/nature Retreats), Location (Beach Resorts, Mountain Resorts, Urban Retreat Centers and Countryside Retreats), and Duration (Week-long Retreats and Week-end Retreats): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022–2032. According to the report, the global wellness retreat market was valued at $180.5 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $363.9 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 7.4 percent from 2023 to 2032. Download Sample Pages of Research Overview at https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A322350. Prime Determinants of Growth The demand within the wellness retreat market is driven...

SINGAPORE—Banyan Group, an independent global hospitality company, and Mandai Wildlife Group announce the grand opening of Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. Owned by Mandai Wildlife Group, the resort marks Banyan Group’s debut in Singapore and is a key addition to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the city-state’s wildlife and nature destination. “As we mark our 100th hotel with our first in Singapore, Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree represents a deeply meaningful homecoming. It brings together our legacy of design-led hospitality with our commitment to stewardship and shared impact,” said Eddy See, President and CEO, Banyan Group. “Here, guests are invited to slow down, reconnect...

AMSTERDAM—Travel has always been personal, but in 2026 it will move far beyond one-size-fits-all itineraries. In 2026, travelers will reject conventions and lean into passions that feel distinctive and truly their own. From adrenaline-fueled compatibility tests to mystical detours and stays in futuristic homes, every trip becomes a bold expression of individuality and identity: this is who I am, this is what I want, and this is what I love. Now in its tenth year, Booking.com’s Travel Predictions spotlight how people want to experience the world. Over the years, these insights have revealed shifts in travel, from Cool-cationers chasing cooler climates given extreme...