🧾 U.S. Hotels Increase Background Checks Amid Immigration Scrutiny

🧾 U.S. Hotels Increase Background Checks Amid Immigration Scrutiny

U.S. hotels performed 36% more employee background checks in the first half of 2025 compared to last year, reacting to stricter immigration policies and a Department of Homeland Security reversal on enforcement guidelines in hospitality settings. With immigrants comprising a significant share of hotel staff—housekeepers (34%) and cooks (24%)—this reflects rising caution among employers to avoid legal risks. Read more.

🏂 Austria’s Winter Resorts Gain U.S. Visitors

Austria's winter tourism remains strong, with 72.38 million overnight stays recorded in the 2024-25 season—a 1.8% increase. U.S. visitors are on the rise, contributing to nearly 1 million hotel nights. While staying slightly behind pre-pandemic highs, this reflects growing interest in Austrian ski resorts among American travelers. Read more.

⭐ Michelin Key Hotels 2025 Global List Coming October

The Michelin Guide will debut its inaugural global "Key" awards in October 2025 to recognize top hotel excellence worldwide. Properties will receive between one and three Keys, assessing architecture, design, service, value, and local authenticity. This milestone marks Michelin’s significant expansion into luxury hotel curation. Read more.

🎸 Hard Rock’s Reverb Lifestyle Brand Expands to Alabama

Hard Rock is developing its first Reverb by Hard Rock hotel in Florence, Alabama, in partnership with Sak Capital Partners. Slated to open in early 2028, the 155-room music-themed lifestyle property will include 2,000+ sq ft of event space, celebrating Florence’s rich heritage in soul, R&B, rock, and blues. Read more.

🏨 Ace Hotel Nearing Sale to Japan’s Seibu Prince

Ace Hotel International is reportedly close to being sold to Japan's Seibu Prince Hotels for up to $85 million, including earn-outs. The deal would transfer ownership of the brand known for its culturally driven boutique hotels, as part of Seibu Prince’s strategic expansion. Read more.

🏡 Rental Escapes Adds Villas in London and Kitzbühel

Luxury villa platform Rental Escapes has expanded its portfolio with several high-end properties in London’s Knightsbridge and ski-town Kitzbühel, Austria. The move meets growing demand for private, concierge-led stays, and complements their existing global offerings in Europe and North America. Read more.

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