Marriott Accelerates CitizenM Expansion in Asia-Pacific

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Hard Rock’s “Guitar” Tower Rises on the Vegas Strip

Hard Rock is transforming the former Mirage site in Las Vegas into a massive guitar-shaped tower. The redevelopment includes a major renovation of the existing tri-tower structure and an expansion of casino space from 90,000 sq ft to about 175,000. The iconic guitar silhouette is now becoming visible above the construction walls, signaling real progress on the project. Hard Rock targets a reopening of the resort by late 2027. This will reintroduce a large-scale resort with a refreshed loyalty program under the Hard Rock brand. Read more

Prospect Berkshires Opens with Cedar-Clad Nature Cabins

Prospect Berkshires has launched a new retreat in Egremont, Massachusetts, featuring 49 cedar-clad “nature cabins” set around a lakeside landscape. Designed to feel rooted in nature, the cabins use natural materials like cedar and white pine, while offering modern comfort and Scandinavian-inspired interiors. The resort spans about 30 acres and includes amenities such as a sauna, seasonal pool, and outdoor gathering spaces. Its central building, Cliff House, draws on the site’s heritage and houses a restaurant, check-in area, and community spaces. The vision behind the hotel is to reconnect guests with nature, creativity, and relaxation in a calm, unhurried environment. Read more.

Tipping Hotel Housekeeping — What’s the Right Amount?

Many guests overlook tipping hotel housekeepers, but it remains a key part of hospitality etiquette. NerdWallet recommends tipping $1 to $5 per day, depending on hotel quality and service. Daily tipping is better than a lump sum because different housekeepers may service your room on different days. Cash is preferred — leaving the tip visibly with a short “thank you” note makes it clear for the staff. Tip amount can be adjusted based on room size, messiness, extra requests, or number of occupants. Read more.

Stein Eriksen Lodge Takes Home World’s Best Ski Hotel Award

Stein Eriksen Lodge has been honored as the World’s Best Ski Hotel at the World Ski Awards. The award highlights the hotel’s luxury ski experience, mountain access, and high-end service. This recognition reinforces the lodge’s reputation as a top-tier winter destination for ski enthusiasts. The win may boost its visibility among international travelers looking for premium ski accommodations. Read more.

Eastwind Hotel + Bar Expands with New Rooms and Dining Concept

Eastwind Hotel + Bar in the Catskills has added 12 new guest rooms in a recently unveiled section called the Mountain House. The expansion retains Eastwind’s minimalist, design-led glamping feel, with Scandinavian influences and cozy mid-century furnishings. Alongside the rooms, the hotel has launched a new restaurant concept named Dandies, curated by the brand’s co-founder and F&B director. This move brings Eastwind’s total to 32 rooms, deepening its footprint while preserving its nature-rooted character. The expansion is framed as a new chapter for the flagship property, elevating guest experiences without losing its boutique charm. Read more.

Marriott Accelerates CitizenM Expansion in Asia-Pacific

Marriott is fast-tracking its expansion of the citizenM brand across Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. Marriott acquired citizenM earlier this year in a deal valued at US$355 million. Currently, citizenM has only two operating hotels in the region: in Kuala Lumpur and Taipei. The expansion aligns with Marriott’s strategy to grow its lifestyle and select-service portfolio under the Bonvoy ecosystem. The deal will help Marriott tap into a younger, design-conscious traveler segment looking for tech-enabled, efficient stays. Read more.

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