Wyndham Edges Choice Hotels in Goldman's Sector Face-Off

The final vote isn’t in yet, but it looks like large cruise ships will continue to be allowed to dock on Saturdays in Alaska’s capital.

Choice Hotels began to push upmarket when it debuted the Cambria brand in 2005. The hotel franchisor lacked upscale expertise, as it had been best known for midscale brands, such as Quality Inn and Comfort Inn, and economy brands, like Rodeway Inn.

Good morning from Skift. It’s Thursday, October 3, 2024 and here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today. 

The global hotel industry is experiencing varied performance across regions in 2024, with some markets thriving while others struggle.

Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, sees a “10-year golden run” ahead for economy hotels, driven by the $1.5 trillion U.S. infrastructure bill. With only 20% of the funds allocated so far, Ballotti expects strong hotel demand from infrastructure workers needing affordable extended stays near project sites.

Remember 2014? Pharrell’s “Happy” was inescapable, everyone on social media was dumping ice water on their heads for charity, and Marriott decided it was high time to create its first select-service brand aimed at 20-somethings.

Read more about the winners for the best airports in the US here.

Every year, Condé Nast Traveler readers weigh in on their favorite hotels, airlines, cruises, islands, and more in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Luggage is also among the categories you voted on this year, applauding the brands you trust the most for durable, practical suitcase and bags. After all, no matter the trip—be it a safari, cruise, city escape, or weekend in the woods—you need something to carry your belongings. And for many of us, that same carry-on, duffel bag, or backpack becomes our trusty travel companion for years at a time. Below, find your fellow readers’ favorite luggage brands, plus a few of each brand’s most popular pieces of luggage, should you be looking to add a new roomy weekender or sturdy suitcase to your collection.

See all of the Reader's Choice Awards winners here.

Singapore’s hotel market is surging ahead of Hong Kong’s, capitalizing on travelers attending the city-state’s major events while Hong Kong struggles.

When Erin Hynes and Lucas Amormino quit their jobs in Canada to travel around the world for six months, most of their loved ones were supportive.

Good morning from Skift. It’s Friday, September 27, and here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today.