The program has grown to 319 rural destinations across 65 countries since 2021, with applications for 2026 recognition due June 9.
News
Helping or hindering? AI and technological advances in the hospitality sector
The article argues that AI should enhance rather than replace human judgment in hospitality, emphasizing the industry's opportunity to offer authentic connection in an increasingly automated world.
Hotels Enter the Ask and Book Era as AI Reshapes Discovery, Distribution, and Operations, According to NYU SPS and BCG
NYU and BCG study reveals 37% of travelers use AI for trip planning while hotels face 65% staffing shortages and 11.2% labor cost increases in North America.
German Outbound Travel Confirms Europe’s Strength and the Rise of Culture-Nature Destinations
Data Appeal and Mabrian analysis shows Germans increasingly favor European destinations combining cultural heritage with natural beauty, with Italy capturing nearly 20% of German stays across six regions.
Full Year 2025- Hungarian Hospitality Market: Strong Performance and a Promising Outlook
Budapest posted the second-highest RevPAR in Central Europe, with 75% of 2025 room supply from international brands and domestic buyers driving 60% of transactions.
Shiji’s Infrasys POS surpasses 500 live installations in Europe amid record growth
Shiji's milestone reflects growing demand for cloud-native F&B technology among major hotel brands like IHG and Mandarin Oriental.
The Hidden Cost of OTAs: Chargebacks Hotels Didn’t Sign Up For
A Manhattan hotel eliminated OTA-related chargebacks by implementing ID verification technology that captures guest documentation for dispute defense.
The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2026 to Take Place in Paris
The prestigious awards ceremony moves from London to Paris for the first time since 2023, with extended voting periods and new Academy leadership.
Apaleo strengthens French expansion with appointment of Nicolas Suissa as Country Lead
Nicolas Suissa joins from Amadeus to lead Apaleo's expansion in France, where the company already manages 100+ hotels with API-first PMS technology.
Hilton Clinches Top Spot as Malaysia’s Best Workplace in Inaugural Ranking
Hilton will open five new Malaysian properties in 2026, including debuts for Waldorf Astoria and Conrad brands in Kuala Lumpur.
