US Hotels Archives - The Hotel Guide https://thehotelguide.com/category/us-hotels/ Stay for a Day, or a Lifetime. Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:04:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://thehotelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/cropped-THG-Instagram-1-32x32.png US Hotels Archives - The Hotel Guide https://thehotelguide.com/category/us-hotels/ 32 32 Colorado Resort Debuts Life-Sized Gingerbread Mountain Cabin https://thehotelguide.com/colorado-resort-debuts-life-sized-gingerbread-mountain-cabin/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=colorado-resort-debuts-life-sized-gingerbread-mountain-cabin https://thehotelguide.com/colorado-resort-debuts-life-sized-gingerbread-mountain-cabin/#respond Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:06:56 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33403 Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center officially unveiled its eight-foot-tall Gingerbread Mountain Cabin, now on display in the resort’s main lobby for the 2025 holiday season. Crafted entirely from gingerbread, icing, and candy, the life-sized cabin features more than 2,000 pounds of ingredients, including: 450 pounds of gingerbread dough 172 pounds of flour 108 pounds…

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Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center officially unveiled its eight-foot-tall Gingerbread Mountain Cabin, now on display in the resort’s main lobby for the 2025 holiday season.

Crafted entirely from gingerbread, icing, and candy, the life-sized cabin features more than 2,000 pounds of ingredients, including:

  • 450 pounds of gingerbread dough
  • 172 pounds of flour
  • 108 pounds of molasses
  • 100 pounds of powdered sugar and 65 pounds of granulated sugar
  • 1,000 gumballs (stretching nearly half a football field)
  • Over 50 pounds of ground coconut flakes for snow

The display includes sugar-sculpted poinsettias and holly, sugar and gingerbread lanterns, a cookie wreath, and skis—a nod to Executive Pastry Chef Brielle Fratellone, head of 5280 Pastry. The project began in July 2025 with concept design, moved into engineering and construction in September, and transitioned to gingerbread baking on Oct. 1.

“This gingerbread mountain cabin is the result of months of hard work and creativity from both the pastry and engineering teams,” said Fratellone. “Our pastry cooks truly enjoyed baking and decorating this edible artwork. I hope coming to see the Gingerbread Mountain Cabin becomes a yearly tradition for guests at Gaylord Rockies.”

More than 25 pastry cooks contributed to the project, which spanned 4.5 months from concept to completion, including six weeks of dough production and a three-day final assembly. The team even created spreadsheets to track thousands of cookies, including the 425 gingerbread shingles adorning the roof.

Guests can experience the cabin up-close—and smell it from across the lobby. “We keep the spices in the dough to ensure the house fills the air with a warm gingerbread aroma,” Fratellone added.

The Gingerbread Mountain Cabin will remain on display through Jan. 1, 2026, marking the resort’s second major gingerbread installation, joining the gingerbread city window display in Mistletoe Village. Each pastry cook creates their own gingerbread house or building within the window display, offering a unique showcase of team talent.

More Culinary Experiences at Gaylord Rockies Resort

The gingerbread masterpiece is part of the larger Christmas at Gaylord Rockies celebration, featuring beloved and new seasonal dining experiences:

  • NEW: Feast with the Grinch – A spirited dining experience hosted by everyone’s favorite green and grouchy character, complete with appearances from Max and plenty of Who-ville whimsy.
  • Resort Dining – Holiday menus, themed cocktails, Auntie Anne’s pretzels, and Cinnabon favorites.

Gingerbread Decorating Corner – Guests can personalize their own gingerbread cookies made fresh by the Gaylord Rockies pastry team, and meet Nutmeg, the resort’s jolly gingerbread man.

The dining experiences complement ICE!, Gaylord Hotels’ signature holiday attraction, along with Candy Cane Mountain Indoor Snow Tubing and other festive activities. Guests are encouraged to book early, as many ticketed experiences sell out on peak weekends. For tickets, packages, overnight stays or more information, visit ChristmasatGaylordRockies.com.

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Top 10 Luxury Hotels Unveiled https://thehotelguide.com/top-10-luxury-hotels-unveiled/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-10-luxury-hotels-unveiled https://thehotelguide.com/top-10-luxury-hotels-unveiled/#respond Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:04:51 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33396 The Hotel Guide’s 2025 Awards Edition celebrates the most exceptional luxury hotels across the United States—properties that define excellence through elevated design, world-class service, and unforgettable guest experiences. This year’s Top 10 Luxury Hotels showcase destinations that continue to raise the standard for refined travel. Leading the list is Acqualina Residences & Resort, a coastal…

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The Hotel Guide’s 2025 Awards Edition celebrates the most exceptional luxury hotels across the United States—properties that define excellence through elevated design, world-class service, and unforgettable guest experiences. This year’s Top 10 Luxury Hotels showcase destinations that continue to raise the standard for refined travel.

Leading the list is Acqualina Residences & Resort, a coastal sanctuary renowned for Mediterranean-inspired architecture, impeccable service, and lavish oceanfront accommodations that make every stay feel restorative and indulgent.

Amangiri, set in the untouched landscapes of southern Utah, remains a benchmark of modern minimalism. Its dramatic desert surroundings, holistic wellness programs, and unparalleled privacy create a transformative luxury escape.

In New Mexico, Four Seasons Resort Santa Fe blends timeless Southwestern culture, culinary artistry, and handcrafted luxury. Its adobe-style casitas and serene desert setting offer an elevated retreat with authentic regional charm.

The Boca Raton earns recognition for its iconic waterfront presence, vibrant redesigns, and expansive dining and wellness offerings that make it one of Florida’s most dynamic luxury destinations.

Hotel Crescent Court in Dallas marries refined European influence with Texas hospitality, offering sumptuous suites, an acclaimed spa, and walkability to the city’s cultural heart.

A historic favorite, The Brown Palace in Denver captivates with its century-old architectural beauty, majestic atrium, and legacy of personalized service rooted in timeless luxury.

Chicago’s beloved The Drake continues to shine with its grand lakefront views, storied elegance, and legacy as one of America’s most iconic luxury hotels.

In Arizona, The Phoenician Resort delivers desert luxury at its highest level—complete with expansive pools, championship golf, curated dining, and artful modern design.

Rounding out the list is The Thompson San Antonio, a contemporary urban retreat known for its sleek design, rooftop experiences, and elevated boutique-luxury atmosphere.

Together, these hotels represent the very best of American luxury travel—destinations where craftsmanship, culture, and comfort converge to create unforgettable stays.

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Christmas Suite at Westgate Las Vegas https://thehotelguide.com/christmas-suite-at-westgate-las-vegas/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=christmas-suite-at-westgate-las-vegas https://thehotelguide.com/christmas-suite-at-westgate-las-vegas/#respond Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:44:51 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33389 At Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, the holidays never really end. The resort’s one-of-a-kind Christmas Suite – Las Vegas’ only year-round holiday-themed hotel suite – lets guests step into a cozy winter wonderland in any season, from peak December celebrations to Christmas-in-July escapes and festive weekends “just because.” This 1,500-square-foot specialty suite is brimming…

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At Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, the holidays never really end. The resort’s one-of-a-kind Christmas Suite – Las Vegas’ only year-round holiday-themed hotel suite – lets guests step into a cozy winter wonderland in any season, from peak December celebrations to Christmas-in-July escapes and festive weekends “just because.”

This 1,500-square-foot specialty suite is brimming with holiday spirit: three beautifully decorated Christmas trees, twinkling garlands, a crackling electric fireplace, festive in-suite bar, and the suite’s whimsical “elf-on-the-shelf” bathrooms. Designed to feel like a luxurious holiday lodge tucked just off the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, the Christmas Suite blends nostalgic décor with the comfort and service of a lengenday Las Vegas resort.

“Our Christmas Suite keeps the magic of the season going long after the decorations come down everywhere else,” said Dawn Rawle, SVP of Marketing & Entertainment. “It’s perfect for holiday purists who never want Christmas to end, families looking for a memorable celebration, or content creators and couples who love a festive backdrop any time of year.”

The Christmas Suite is part of Westgate’s broader collection of signature themed suites, each offering an unforgettable, story-worthy stay.

Christmas, Whenever You Want It.
For more information on Westgate Las Vegas specialty suites – including the Christmas Suite – visit the Westgate Theme Suites page or call 702-732-5111.

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Presidio Lodging Offering Full-Property Buyouts https://thehotelguide.com/presidio-lodging-offering-full-property-buyouts/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=presidio-lodging-offering-full-property-buyouts https://thehotelguide.com/presidio-lodging-offering-full-property-buyouts/#respond Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:21:04 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33361 Imagine hosting your next corporate retreat, milestone celebration, or leadership gathering in the heart of a national park, with the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop. Presidio Lodging now offers the ultimate in exclusivity with full-property buyouts at its boutique hotels, creating one-of-a-kind group experiences that combine privacy, natural beauty, and historic charm. With capacity…

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Imagine hosting your next corporate retreat, milestone celebration, or leadership gathering in the heart of a national park, with the Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop. Presidio Lodging now offers the ultimate in exclusivity with full-property buyouts at its boutique hotels, creating one-of-a-kind group experiences that combine privacy, natural beauty, and historic charm.

With capacity for up to 200 guests across the Lodge at the Presidio and the Inn at the Presidio, buyouts allow companies and groups to take over both properties, transforming them into private retreats. Both hotels are LEED Gold–certified, ensuring a stay that is as environmentally responsible as it is memorable.

The Best View in San Francisco
Perched on the edge of the Presidio, the Lodge at the Presidio boasts what many consider the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Guests wake up to sweeping vistas of the bridge, the San Francisco Bay, and the forested parklands, setting an inspiring stage for both work and play.

Value Meets Exclusivity
Unlike large resort buyouts that may be out of reach, Presidio Lodging’s intimate scale makes exclusive experiences more financially viable for a wide range of organizations. From leadership off-sites to company-wide retreats, groups benefit from an unmatched blend of value and prestige.

Meet in a National Park — Partner Venues Within Steps
In addition to Presidio Lodging’s boutique meeting rooms, groups also have access to a network of partner venues across the Presidio, including:

  • Golden Gate Club — Up to 300 guests; Spanish Colonial Revival elegance with indoor-outdoor spaces and sweeping bridge views.

  • Outdoor Lawn Venues — From an intimate fireside gathering to a party for 6,000, the Presidio’s outdoor spaces are glorious.

  • Presidio Officers’ Club — Historic event halls and courtyards ideal for retreats and receptions.

  • Log Cabin — Rustic charm and a private lawn for intimate gatherings.

  • Presidio Golf Course Clubhouse & Tented Terrace — Ideal for dinners, receptions, or outdoor events with lush golf course views.

  • Funston House & Inn Meeting Rooms — Smaller historic homes and board-style meeting spaces for breakouts or executive sessions.

  • Presidio Bowling Center — A retro-style bowling alley and lounge, perfect for team-building, casual gatherings, and after-hours fun.

  • The Presidio Theatre — Theatre seating for 600, with outdoor garden and lower lobby for receptions.

  • The Walt Disney Family Museum — With a variety of spaces to accommodate from 100-300 guests.

This ecosystem of venues allows planners to fully customize programs, from strategic sessions to outdoor team-building and unforgettable celebrations, with Presidio Lodging as a restful home-base.

Case Studies in Success

Groups such as Praxis have embraced the buyout model, reserving both properties for multi-day programs that incorporate meetings, curated dinners, and outdoor experiences, fully utilizing the Presidio’s blend of history, nature, and community.

Miller Starr Regalia, a well-established real estate law firm, also hosted a successful corporate retreat for all office staff and their spouses at the Lodge at the Presidio. The weekend buyout retreat was intended to be more of a relaxing getaway and teambuilding, with minimal programming in order to allow the attendees the opportunity to connect with nature and each other.

Lodging Amenities

Both the Lodge at the Presidio and the Inn at the Presidio sport lobbies with cozy fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, which provide gathering spaces all year-around. Both properties offer complementary European-style, continental breakfast each morning and wine and cheese hour in the evening, and nearby restaurants provide dining or catering options.

A Destination That Tells a Story

“There’s simply nothing like hosting a meeting at the Presidio. Where else can you step out of a strategy session and be greeted by sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, trails through a national park, and the history of San Francisco all around you? Our hotels and partner venues create an inspiring backdrop where ideas flow, teams connect, and memories are made. It’s the perfect blend of exclusivity, natural beauty, and city sophistication,” comments Terry Haney, Managing Director of Presidio Lodging.

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Andaz Launches Crafting New Perspectives, A Global Series https://thehotelguide.com/andaz-launches-crafting-new-perspectives-a-global-series/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=andaz-launches-crafting-new-perspectives-a-global-series https://thehotelguide.com/andaz-launches-crafting-new-perspectives-a-global-series/#respond Wed, 19 Nov 2025 22:32:50 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33357 The Andaz brand unveils Crafting New Perspectives, a global celebration of artistry and place. The series transforms Andaz properties into immersive cultural destinations through original, site-specific installations by emerging and established local artists. Rooted in Andaz’s philosophy of honoring the distinct spirit of each destination, the series, developed in collaboration with Roadbook, invites artists to…

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The Andaz brand unveils Crafting New Perspectives, a global celebration of artistry and place. The series transforms Andaz properties into immersive cultural destinations through original, site-specific installations by emerging and established local artists.

Rooted in Andaz’s philosophy of honoring the distinct spirit of each destination, the series, developed in collaboration with Roadbook, invites artists to reimagine the emotional and sensory essence of their cities, translating landscape, culture, and atmosphere into visual form. Each installation becomes a dialogue between artist and environment, extending beyond the gallery to engage guests and locals alike.

To honor the exhibition, each chosen artist will host an intimate dinner at the property. Guests from across the fields of art, fashion, and music will come together for a spirited evening of conversation and connection. The decor and menu will draw inspiration from both each city’s natural landscape and artist’s aesthetic.

“At its heart, Andaz hotels are about connection between people, places, and the cultures that surround them. Crafting New Perspectives invites us to see the world through the eyes of creative minds who bring local stories to life, reminding us that inspiration is everywhere. We just have to be curious enough to see it.” Says Amar Lalvani, President and Creative Director, The Lifestyle Group, Hyatt.

Following the dinner, the exhibition will then be displayed at the property for four weeks.

Crafting New Perspectives will be debuting this Fall at the following properties:

●  Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalow (11th November until 8th December 2025): Ceramist Rika Kova, whose sculptural work capturing the raw textures and meditative tones of the Sonoran Desert

●  Andaz Savannah (18th November until 15th December 2025): Trish Andersen [DM4] will transform the property with her tactile, color-rich expressions inspired by the city’s natural rhythms

●  Andaz Bangkok (11th February until 11th March 2026): Collage artist Nakrob Moonmanas [DM5] fuses heritage and modernity in a vibrant visual narrative that mirrors the city’s dynamic contrasts.

●  Andaz Lisbon (Spring 2026)

More than an exhibition series, Crafting New Perspectives redefines how hospitality can nurture and showcase creativity. Each Andaz property serves as a living canvas, where art doesn’t just hang on walls but lives in the heart of the experience.

Through these installations, Andaz hotels continue to shape a new model for culturally rooted travel, one that celebrates and supports local creative talent, and invites guests to see the world through a fresh, imaginative lens.

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Bellagio’s Conservatory Unveils Festive New Display https://thehotelguide.com/bellagios-conservatory-unveils-festive-new-display/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bellagios-conservatory-unveils-festive-new-display https://thehotelguide.com/bellagios-conservatory-unveils-festive-new-display/#respond Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:19:47 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33353 Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens invites guests to embark on a whimsical adventure with its new display, “All Aboard for Holiday Bells and Whistles” on view through January 3, 2026. Brought to life by renowned designer Ed Libby and Bellagio’s talented Horticulture team, the Conservatory transforms into a dazzling train-inspired wonderland to celebrate the timeless joy…

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Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens invites guests to embark on a whimsical adventure with its new display, “All Aboard for Holiday Bells and Whistles” on view through January 3, 2026. Brought to life by renowned designer Ed Libby and Bellagio’s talented Horticulture team, the Conservatory transforms into a dazzling train-inspired wonderland to celebrate the timeless joy of coming home for the holidays. Adding to the experience, the Peppermint Express returns with treats baked by Bellagio’s pastry chefs, while The Garden Table makes its holiday debut, offering guests an exclusive dining experience.

“When designing this display, our goal was to capture the twinkle, nostalgia and pure enchantment that make this special time of year so extraordinary,” said Libby. “This year’s exhibit invites guests on a heartwarming journey that celebrates the magic of travel, the warmth of connection and the breathtaking beauty of the holidays.”

West Bed
At the heart of the West Bed, a Swarovski star crowns a majestic tree dressed in thousands of miniature LED lights and ornaments. Beneath it, the Peppermint Express miniature train chugs merrily around the tree trunk, complete with a live-feed camera that allows guests to watch its journey in real time. To the left, a festive train overflows with beautifully wrapped gifts as busy elves hurry to deliver toys to good boys and girls. On the right, a gingerbread house adorned with ruby-red hearts and snow-like icing serves as the home to The Garden Table, making its holiday debut. This one-of-a-kind dining experience, tucked within the exhibit, features brunch by Sadelle’s and dinner by MICHAEL MINA Bellagio.

North Bed

The North Bed bursts with the sound and spirit of the season as oversized brass instruments, elegant bells and grand red-and-green drums set a joyful rhythm above a glistening pond fed by gentle fountains. A gilded storybook invites guests into a world of music, memories and holiday spirit, while nearby LED screens come alive with displays of a holiday train departing the snowy North Pole and traveling through festive MGM Resorts destinations before arriving at Bellagio. The sensory journey continues as delightful holiday music and a seasonal fragrance with notes of orange and warm spices fill the air. Bellagio’s bespoke “Bella” holiday candle is available for guests to purchase at the Giardini Store.

East Bed 
New to the East Bed, The Bellagio Express, inspired by traditional train ornaments, is conducted by Elvie the Elf as the locomotive carries larger-than-life ornaments and gifts. Guests can walk through the train itself, following a whimsical, walkable path that winds through the display for an up-close experience. Billowing clouds of baby’s breath rise from the train’s smokestack and fill the air among red and white crystal snowflakes while decorative trees and vibrant poinsettias grace the bed beneath

South Bed 

Guests are greeted by an impressive nutcracker standing proudly at the center of the South Bed, his hat crowned with a golden Bellagio “B.” Surrounding him, four rotating toy soldiers march to the drumbeats of the season, bringing the bed to life with a delightful sense of movement. On the right, Billy the Elf rides a charming white rocking horse that sways gently back and forth. Beneath the twinkle of magnificent bells, shimmering ornaments and beautifully wrapped presents complete the gleeful scene.

The Garden Table

For the first time, guests can experience The Garden Table within the Conservatory’s holiday display. Set inside a charming gingerbread house, the table immerses visitors in the heart of the Conservatory’s festive wonderland, with brunch service from Sadelle’s at $145 per person and dinner from MICHAEL MINA Bellagio at $195 per person.

Reservations are required. To book and find more information, call 702.693.7075 or go online.

Peppermint Express 
The Peppermint Express is back, offering holiday-inspired treats crafted by the Bellagio Pastry Team. Assorted sweets and beverages are available for purchase in the Conservatory alcove behind the South Bed, across from the OMEGA Boutique, from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily. Menu items include holiday cookies, peppermint meringue, chocolate candies, holiday nougat, popcorn, drip coffee and hot chocolate.

Sustainability at the Conservatory 
Water used in Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens comes from on-site underground wells that use rain and recycled water from the resort, avoiding the use of municipal potable water. The water in the Conservatory is also recycled throughout the exhibit and reused at the resort. Bellagio’s water conservation efforts are part of MGM Resorts International’s overall sustainability commitment.

At the conclusion of each display, plants and botanical material without remaining viable life are separated for collection by a local composting facility. The organic waste is made into compost products to help improve the environment. This method of recycling keeps thousands of pounds of waste out of local landfills and turns it into something that improves the region’s soil, air and water quality.

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Visit Big Bear Lake Joins Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back Movement https://thehotelguide.com/visit-big-bear-lake-joins-kind-travelers-every-stay-gives-back-movement/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=visit-big-bear-lake-joins-kind-travelers-every-stay-gives-back-movement https://thehotelguide.com/visit-big-bear-lake-joins-kind-travelers-every-stay-gives-back-movement/#respond Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:42:21 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33329 With nearly 7 million annual visitors and only 6,000 residents, Big Bear Lake stands as a powerful symbol of how tourism can both challenge and strengthen small mountain communities. Now, in a pivotal moment for responsible tourism, Visit Big Bear has joined Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back™ program, a statewide responsible travel initiative supported by Visit…

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With nearly 7 million annual visitors and only 6,000 residents, Big Bear Lake stands as a powerful symbol of how tourism can both challenge and strengthen small mountain communities.

Now, in a pivotal moment for responsible tourism, Visit Big Bear has joined Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back™ program, a statewide responsible travel initiative supported by Visit California that empowers travelers to make a tangible, positive impact on the communities they visit – helping destinations thrive in balance with nature.

Why Now: Travelers Demand More Purposeful Trips

Recent research underscores a profound shift in traveler expectations:

  • According to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel & Sustainability Report, 73% of travelers say they want the money they spend to go back into the local community, while 84% say sustainability influences their travel decisions.
  • The MMGY 2025 Portrait of American Travelers® study similarly reports that Americans are traveling more in 2025 but are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and experiential value, even amid rising costs.

In a time when climate action and community resilience are being tested worldwide, this partnership reflects a growing movement of destinations stepping up to ensure tourism is not only sustainable – but regenerative.

A Statewide Model for Responsible Travel

The Visit Big Bear partnership builds upon Kind Traveler’s statewide collaboration with Visit California, whose leadership has activated a growing network of nine destination partners — from Los Angeles Tourism, Visit Oceanside, Visit Greater Palm Springs, Sonoma County Tourism, and Visit San Luis Obispo, to Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority, Visit Berkeley, and beyond.

Together, these destinations — alongside more than 100 lodging and nonprofit partners throughout the state — are transforming travel into a financial force for good, directly supporting environmental restoration, community well-being, disaster recovery, and animal welfare across California.

Since launching in September 2023, the Every Stay Gives Back program has raised over $1.5 million in donations for community and environmental causes, including marine mammal care, forest cleanups, youth education, and ocean conservation — all transparently tracked through Kind Traveler’s Impact Dashboards, which make giving visible and measurable.

How Every Stay Gives Back in Big Bear

Through this new collaboration, travelers staying with participating Big Bear Lake lodging partners will support local causes with every overnight stay. A portion of each booking will support either:

  • Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, which rehabilitates and releases injured or orphaned wildlife while providing lifelong sanctuary for those unable to survive in the wild; or
  • Care For Big Bear, a community-wide effort encouraging stewardship through trail and shoreline cleanups, dark-sky preservation, and educational programs that protect the area’s natural beauty.

Even small actions make a big difference: a $10 donation can feed a hawk for three days or fund supplies for a community trail cleanup along Big Bear Lake.

“Travelers today want their presence to matter,” said Jessica Blotter, CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler. “Data from Booking.com and MMGY shows that travelers are not only more aware of their footprint—they’re actively seeking ways to make their trips meaningful. But awareness alone isn’t enough. Impact has to be easy, transparent, and built into the travel experience itself.”

That’s exactly what the Every Stay Gives Back™ partnership in Big Bear delivers: a simple, measurable way for travelers to turn overnight stays into tangible good for wildlife, nature, and community.

Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear, agrees. “With nearly seven million visitors arriving in a community of just six thousand, every act of stewardship matters,” he said. “This partnership gives our guests a way to directly protect the mountain landscapes and wildlife they come here to enjoy. It’s about turning appreciation into action.”

Big Bear Lodging Partners Giving Back

Participating lodging partners include:

  • A Chalet – Rustic to luxury cabins supporting Care for Big Bear and local hospitality internships.
  • Big Bear Lakefront Cabins – Lakeside retreats supporting Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
  • Sessions Retreat & Hotel – A wellness-inspired lodge giving back to Care for Big Bear.
  • Awesome Vacation Homes – Boutique rentals donating to Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
  • Big Bear Vacations – The destination’s longest-running rental company supporting Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
  • Kind Cabineer – A woman-and-veteran-owned cabin collection supporting Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.

This collaboration marks a milestone in California’s leadership in sustainable tourism, demonstrating how local communities, state agencies, and private partners can work together to create measurable, positive change.

To start planning your Big Bear Lake getaway and #TravelKindly, visit:

https://www.kindtraveler.com/content/visit-big-bear

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Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa Completes Renovation https://thehotelguide.com/hyatt-regency-coconut-point-resort-spa-completes-renovation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=hyatt-regency-coconut-point-resort-spa-completes-renovation https://thehotelguide.com/hyatt-regency-coconut-point-resort-spa-completes-renovation/#respond Fri, 24 Oct 2025 15:15:04 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33317 Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, an award-winning resort in Bonita Springs, near the city of Naples, announces the completion of a multimillion-dollar renovation to its meeting and event spaces. The enhancements further elevate the resort’s one-stop destination event capabilities, blending sophisticated design with the serene beauty of its coastal surroundings. This renovation complements…

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Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, an award-winning resort in Bonita Springs, near the city of Naples, announces the completion of a multimillion-dollar renovation to its meeting and event spaces. The enhancements further elevate the resort’s one-stop destination event capabilities, blending sophisticated design with the serene beauty of its coastal surroundings. This renovation complements recent resort enhancements including updated rooms, lobby, water park, and restaurants, marking a full refresh of the property over the past three years.

“We are thrilled to announce the completion of an extensive meeting space renovation and welcoming our group guests for an unforgettable experience here in Southwest Florida,” said Rhett Wilson, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa. “When guests visit, they can expect a fully updated experience complete with modern spaces, elegant dining experiences, and enhanced amenities.”

The newly completed meeting and event spaces feature natural, coastal-inspired tones with ocean blues, lush greens, and sandy beige accents. Updates include new carpeting, wall coverings, and artwork reflective of the resort’s setting. Event areas also showcase striking new lighting, such as an extravagant mesh chandelier reminiscent of a conch shell in Estero Ballroom and opalescent glass installations with silver accents throughout additional spaces.

The enhancements extend outdoors with a redesigned Calusa Ballroom Terrace, now outfitted with new pavers, lighting upgrades, and new integrated turf with redesigned landscaping providing an idyllic outdoor setting reminiscent of a tropical garden.

The project also updated the events registration desk area with a new digital signage display bordered by custom wood millwork. The meeting space restrooms have also been refreshed with a new color palette of stone tones, greens, and blues with updated wooden vanities and modern fixtures.

This project complements recent resort updates including a full guestroom renovation in 2022, the newly-designed Tarpon Bay restaurant and enhanced water park experience in 2023, and the debut of the renovated Tanglewood – A Southern Kitchen featuring an enhanced coastal design and new restaurant concept showcasing Southern-inspired cuisine in 2024.

Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa features 82,000 square-feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space. Outdoor spaces include the Belvedere Terrace backdropped by fountains and a waterfall; the Banyan Courtyard, a beautiful tropical garden featuring shady live oak trees and a charming circular fountain; and the Royal Palm and Cypress Courtyards which both feature sprawling lawns accented by towering palms.

Indoor spaces include the 14,000 square-foot Calusa Ballroom and Terrace, and the 7,000 square-foot Estero Ballroom and Terrace. The resort also offers several small and mid-sized spaces including the Blue Heron and Great Egret rooms, both featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with tropical views as well as The Cove private dining room at the resort’s signature fine dining restaurant, Tarpon Bay.

While on-site, groups can enjoy the resort’s private island, Big Hickory Island, which is part of the Estero Bay Ecological Preserve. Additionally, the resort partners with Global Works Events for off-site adventures including deep sea fishing, kayak excursions through the mangrove forests, catamaran and yacht tours, and historic trolley and bicycle tours of Downtown Naples.

For more information or to book a meeting at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, please visit hyattregencycoconutpoint.com or call (239) 444-1234.

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Every Stay Gives Back: LA Hotels Unite to Rebuild After Wildfires https://thehotelguide.com/every-stay-gives-back-la-hotels-unite-to-rebuild-after-wildfires/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=every-stay-gives-back-la-hotels-unite-to-rebuild-after-wildfires https://thehotelguide.com/every-stay-gives-back-la-hotels-unite-to-rebuild-after-wildfires/#respond Tue, 21 Oct 2025 23:24:59 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33307 Kind Traveler and Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (Los Angeles Tourism) have joined forces to empower travelers to raise funds for wildfire relief through Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back (ESGB) program. In just a few short months, and with the support of nine leading Los Angeles hotel partners, the program has already generated…

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Kind Traveler and Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (Los Angeles Tourism) have joined forces to empower travelers to raise funds for wildfire relief through Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back (ESGB) program. In just a few short months, and with the support of nine leading Los Angeles hotel partners, the program has already generated more than $173,000 in direct relief for wildfire survivors through The Change Reaction’s Wildfire Direct Giving Fund. With momentum building, the initiative is on track to raise half a million dollars by the end of January 2026, offering a lifeline to families still grappling with the devastating financial impacts of the January 2025 wildfires – including displacement, job loss, and the ongoing struggle to rebuild their lives.

“With more than $1.5 million in donations raised in 24 months since the launch of Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back model, it’s proven that tourism can be a powerful force for disaster recovery, community healing, and ecosystem restoration,” said Jessica Blotter, CEO & Co-Founder of Kind Traveler. “By channeling the economic strength of every hotel stay directly into local communities, we’re able to deliver immediate relief while also helping destinations rebuild stronger and more resilient.”

Echoing that sentiment, Adam Burke, President & CEO of Los Angeles Tourism, emphasized the program’s importance for the city: “The tourism industry is one of the most powerful economic drivers in Los Angeles, and with that strength comes a responsibility to support our communities in times of crisis. This program embodies what our industry stands for, harnessing the impact of travel to deliver immediate relief and lasting resilience to Angelenos. Supporting initiatives like Every Stay Gives Back isn’t an add-on for us; it’s part of the DNA of Los Angeles Tourism and reflects our commitment to ensuring tourism benefits both visitors and residents alike.”

Every Stay Supports The Change Reaction’s Wildfire Direct Giving Fund

The participating leading Los Angeles hotels, including many of the city’s most celebrated luxury properties, are supporting The Change Reaction with every hotel stay. Through this initiative, $1 from every hotel night is donated to The Change Reaction’s Wildfire Relief Program, regardless of the booking method, to help fund microgrants for wildfire survivors in L.A. County. 100% of funds go directly into the hands of those who need it most. From replacing lost essential items to supporting temporary housing and emergency expenses, travel dollars help restore dignity and stability for wildfire survivors in L.A. County.

Recent research underscores travelers’ growing desire to make a difference: According to Booking.com’s 2025 Travel & Sustainability Report, 73% of travelers want the money they spend to go back into the local community, while 84% say sustainability influences their travel decisions. Through Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back program, these values translate into measurable action and transparent community impact.

Impact You Can See: Travelers Can Track Their Positive Footprint

Every dollar is measured, and guests can track the impact of every stay through traveler-friendly impact dashboards. These dashboards ensure transparency and foster connection and education around regenerative tourism, encouraging travelers to travel kindly with every trip they book. Hotel lobbies feature wood plaques with QR codes that link to Impact Dashboards, providing guests with a transparent and educational view of the positive impact of their stays.

Featured Participating Lodging Partners

Supporting The Change Reaction’s Wildfire Direct Giving Fund with Every Stay:

  • AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
  • Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live
  • Hotel Angeleno
  • JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live
  • Moxy Downtown Los Angeles
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles
  • Sheraton Grand Los Angeles
  • SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills 
  • The Westin Los Angeles Airport

This partnership is part of a larger statewide initiative with Visit California, in which nine California tourism boards and more than 100 hotels participate in Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back program. Together, these efforts are redefining how tourism can serve as a rapid-response recovery tool while also creating long-term benefits for communities across the state.

Los Angeles Continues to be a Leader in Sustainable Travel

Los Angeles offers 75 miles of coastline and more than 550 miles of public hiking and biking trails, including Griffith Park, the nation’s largest municipal park. The city also leads the nation in solar power and electric vehicle infrastructure and operates the country’s largest fleet of green buses, with extensive bike paths and expanding Metro lines connecting its neighborhoods. From Koreatown’s food scene to Malibu’s coastal trails, and from world-class museums Downtown to epic plant-based dining options throughout the city, travelers experience a city where culture, community, and sustainability come together.

See The Impact & Travel Kindly

By simply choosing to stay at one of these properties, every guest directly contributes to wildfire recovery and community resilience, helping Angelenos rebuild their lives while leaving a positive footprint with each trip. To explore the participating hotels, see the impact generated so far, and discover how to travel kindly in Los Angeles, visit the Positive Impact Dashboard: https://www.kindtraveler.com/content/los-angeles-tourism

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Thanksgiving Means Family, Fun and Feasting at Jekyll Island Club https://thehotelguide.com/thanksgiving-means-family-fun-and-feasting-at-jekyll-island-club/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thanksgiving-means-family-fun-and-feasting-at-jekyll-island-club https://thehotelguide.com/thanksgiving-means-family-fun-and-feasting-at-jekyll-island-club/#respond Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:58:31 +0000 https://thehotelguide.com/?p=33287  The Jekyll Island Club, coastal Georgia’s home for family holiday traditions, announces a week-long celebration designed to bring families together to relax, reconnect and explore before the Thanksgiving feasting begins. “Celebrating Thanksgiving at the Jekyll Island Club is a family tradition that goes back generations,” said Kevin Baker, director of sales and marketing.  “But Thanksgiving…

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 The Jekyll Island Club, coastal Georgia’s home for family holiday traditions, announces a week-long celebration designed to bring families together to relax, reconnect and explore before the Thanksgiving feasting begins.

“Celebrating Thanksgiving at the Jekyll Island Club is a family tradition that goes back generations,” said Kevin Baker, director of sales and marketing.  “But Thanksgiving is more than just a family feast, so we’ve created a full week of interactive games and activities that appeal to all ages, so families can play, explore AND feast together.  We hope families will take advantage of the long weekend to relax, connect and make lasting memories before the start of the holiday rush.”

Mystery on the Marsh November 24 – 30

Fans of Scooby, Bluey and Dora will love the free scavenger hunts, hidden treasure chests, and daily explorations.  The fun starts at check-in when junior detectives receive a complimentary Spy Kit with the first clue to the Pirate’s Scavenger Hunt.  Agents will use their spy skills and pirate instincts to solve puzzles, crack codes and uncover 10 hidden clues around the resort.  A family treat awaits guests who find all 10 clues and use their spy skills and pirate instincts to solve the puzzles and crack the codes.

Legend has it that those millionaires who founded the Jekyll Island Club left behind lots of loot and today’s guests are on the hunt to find it.  Treasure chests are hidden all over the resort and anyone who finds one can claim their reward at the Concierge Desk and go look for more.

Advanced mystery lovers can summon their inner Jessica Fletchers to solve riddles, decode resort history, and follow a trail of layered clues in the Jekyll Island Club Clue Hunt and win exclusive prizes, including wine, dining perks, or retail credits

All that hunting and solving is sure to work up an appetite, so it’s a good thing that hotel guests receive exclusive access to Thanksgiving dinner reservations in the Grand Dining Room, or Eighty Ocean at the Jekyll Ocean Club.

The annual Grand Dining Room feast is a Golden Isles tradition and priced at $95 per person for adults and $55 for children ages four – 12.

The Coastal Thanksgiving dinner at Eighty Ocean is $75 for adults, $45 for children.

Room Reservations starting at $322 per night are available at by following this link.   For groups of 8 or more, please email holidays@jekyllclub.com or call 912-635-5238.

Guests looking to get the most from a long holiday weekend are sure to enjoy a new Jekyll Island Club tradition, the Black Friday Oyster Roast; a perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of shopping, or football watching.

For more information visit www.jekyllislandclub.com.

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