New opening in France : Pantoufle, the Provence – Pied-à-terre that defends the right to longe!

Pantoufle’s story is set in Marsanne, a hilltop village in the beating heart of Drôme Provençale. Since 1905, the central square of this unspoiled haven has been proudly overlooked by a stunning building that features exposed stone walls, Roman roof tiles and a structure that combines Provençal tradition with bourgeois influences. Today, a new chapter is being written within these hundred-year-old walls with the unveiling of Pantoufle, an original hotel concept where lounging is neither something to be ashamed of nor an option but instead a proudly defended right! In the heart of a charming village, Pantoufle is a destination off the beaten path, far from the tumult of tourist hotspots… an unexpected haven of peace. A second home, a countryside vacation, a pied-à-terre to let go in. Like a ship casting off, set down your bags and take the time to really live, completely unapologetically. For now, all you have to do is slip on your quilted slippers and make yourself at home.

IHG UK & Ireland boosts leisure portfolio with Hotel Indigo Torquay signing

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Hotel Indigo Torquay with The Fragrance Group. The 153-room hotel marks the 26th open and signed Hotel Indigo in IHG’s UK & Ireland portfolio. Hotel Indigo Torquay adds to the market’s growing luxury and lifestyle collection and bolsters IHG’s reputation in one of the UK’s premier leisure destinations.

Marriott Celebrates its 2025 J. Willard Marriott Awards of Excellence Honorees

Marriott International, Inc. is proud to celebrate the winners of the 2025 J. Willard Marriott Awards of Excellence at the company’s annual ceremony, which brings together associates from around the world. Established in 1987 and named after Marriott’s founder, the J. Willard Marriott Awards of Excellence recognize outstanding individuals, teams and properties for their exemplary achievements, commitment to excellence and extraordinary service to communities, guests and each other.

UN Tourism Names Dr. Larry Dwyer as Winner of 2025 Ulysses Prize

The Ulysses Prize is UN Tourism’s highest academic honor, awarded to individuals whose work has significantly advanced the understanding and development of tourism through knowledge creation and its practical application. Since its establishment, the Prize has recognized the world’s foremost thinkers whose contributions have shaped the future of the sector.

OTAs vs. Metasearch: The Hotel Marketing Dating Game

Imagine you’re navigating the dating app scene. OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) are like matchmakers who introduce your hotel to a broad pool of potential guests. You pay them a commission for every successful match (booking). On the other hand, Metasearch platforms are more like dating profile collectors, they show your hotel alongside others but let the guest choose where to book, including directly with you.

Issue 790: The Independent Hotel as a Cultural Force

Boutique hospitality is asserting its influence across business, policy, and culture. With BLLA’s Boutique Hotel Investment Conference returning to New York on June 4, the spotlight is once again on independent hotel ownership and capital strategy—an area gaining fresh momentum amid shifting traveler values and investor priorities.