On Experience

True luxury doesn't come from glitz. It is generated by the 10% extra effort a team delivers beyond already high standards.

Big brands have a tendency for stasis: I'm particularly interested to see how AI and new technology will soften the ground for a new wave of hospitality entrepreneurs and visionaries to shape a very dynamic industry, particularly in emerging markets like Saudi.

Alaska may not be the sexiest carrier in North America, but its brand management and consistent execution across various customer touch points is a masterclass.

Peninsula has taken a slow, thoughful approach to expansion as other brands stamp out luxury hotels like razor blades. Key to the thoughtful brand management is the brands COO, Peter Borer, who is obsessive over brand clarity.

When it comes to airline loyalty, if everyone is "elite" no one is. As Delta rebalances its loyalty program, customers need to remember it is a business in the service of shareholders. I'm surprised it has taken this long for programs to arrive at this revenue-driven conclusion.

Cambodia is in its earliest stages of establishing conservation during a precarious time. There are lessons to be learned in Africa, and David Steyn, GM of Shinta Mani Wild tented camp, is helping to broker them.

As the hyper luxury category spirals upwards, there is new white space for elevated boutique hotels that still offer five-star service. A new Paris opening is a perfect reference for what this category should look to.

We're back with another installment of inspiration in hotels and hospitality, with an emphasis on craft and touch amidst a hyped-up business cycle for luxury. Here are a few brands, ideas, and services that deserved a hat tip in the first half of 2023.

Texas hotelier Liz Lambert has linked up with noted architect Bjarke Ingels and 3D printing firm ICON to reimagine the future of El Cosmico. Despite the bleeding edge tech, the emphasis will be on the spirit of self reliance and community that defined the early iterations of the property.

Under Canvas's new ULUM brand is going after a well-heeled, outdoors-centric crowd and sees the opportunity sitting between the glitz of Amangiri and the more minimal brand the company created with Under Canvas.