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NASHVILLE RECORDED A 38 percent year-over-year increase in meetings and events in April, according to Knowland. Meanwhile, Las Vegas maintained a steady ascent with a 22.8 percent year-over-year growth. Overall, the industry saw a marginal 1.3 percent year-over-year increase in meeting volume. Among the top 25 markets, meetings averaged 3,768 square feet, compared to 3,684 square feet in secondary markets, the report said. Average attendance in the top 25 rose slightly to 133, while secondary markets saw an average of 127 attendees. Top five markets with highest YOY event volume growth Nashville stood out as a meeting destination in April, leading in growth among the top 25 U.S. markets, the report added. It recorded an average space use of 3,885 square feet with 131 average attendees, largely driven by national associations such as the Association of Physical Plant Administrators.

LAS VEGAS SAW 18.5 percent year-over-year growth in group business this May, while Oahu Island, Hawaii, ranked second with a 17.9 percent year over year increase, according to Knowland. The average meeting space in the top 25 markets was 3,615 square feet, compared to 3,625 square feet in secondary markets. The top 25 markets averaged 128 attendees, while secondary markets had 127 attendees, Knowland said. Las Vegas led the top 25 U.S. markets in meeting growth in May, with an average space of 7,803 square feet and 287 attendees, the report said. Key drivers included technology events like the Electronic Distributor Show and national associations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers.

DD PARTNERS, PEACHTREE Group, and Woodbine Development are collaborating on Embassy Suites Gulf Shores, a resort with a Gulf of Mexico view located in tourism spot in Alabama. DD Partners and Woodbine lead the development and asset management of the 8-story joint venture project, with Peachtree overseeing resort operations. The project is currently in progress and is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025, the companies said in a joint statement. The 8-story property will feature 257 all-suite beachfront guestrooms, along with 13,620 square feet of enclosed meeting and pre-function space, including a 7,800-square-foot ballroom, the statement said. The resort will also feature a 3-story parking garage and 7,618 square feet of leasable retail space.

NOBLE INVESTMENT GROUP has acquired the dual-brand Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Denver and Homewood Suites by Hilton Downtown Denver in Denver. Atlanta-based Noble is led by founder and CEO Mit Shah. The dual-brand hotel has a combined 302 guestrooms and suites, an indoor pool and whirlpool, a bar and more than 7,000 square feet of meeting and boardroom space. It is near the Colorado Convention Center and the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall, as well as the Union Station multimodal transportation hub. Downtown Denver also includes more than 25 million square feet of office space, three major sports stadiums, the Pepsi Center, the Denver Performing Arts Center, restaurants and museums and other attractions.

AAHOA'S NEXT ANNUAL conference and tradeshow, set for April 11 to 14 in Los Angeles, already has set a record for the number of booths sold. It will be the largest conference in 34 years, AAHOA said. The association has sold 81,900 square feet of exhibit space for the upcoming AAHOA Convention & Trade Show, exceeding the 77,500 square feet sold for the 2019 conference, which was previously the record holder. In addition, as of Feb. 8, AAHOA has nearly doubled the registration total of lifetime members compared to AAHOACON22, and the organization is still on pace to exceed 2019 registration totals of more than 8,000 attendees "I've been in the exhibition business for a long time, and I'm so impressed to see the enthusiasm, excitement, and response from vendors who are looking to do business with AAHOA Members," said Dennis Smith, AAHOA vice president of business development. "Our team is thrilled to reach this historical milestone, with the ultimate goal of connecting as many AAHOA Members as possible with the product and service providers who can help them make money, save money, protect their investments, and better serve their guests." AAHOA's 20,000 members spend $50 billion with suppliers attending the event each year. "I always look forward to the industry's Super Bowl event, and this year, as I conclude my term as AAHOA Chairman, I'm proud of the work our association has done to prepare for the event and connect even more vendors directly with decision makers," said Nishant "Neal" Patel, AAHOA chairman. "AAHOA Members spend billions of dollars each year with suppliers, and AAHOA plays an important role in connecting hoteliers directly with those who can help them run a better, more profitable, and more efficient business - AAHOACON is where deals are made."

As winter arrives with its frosty embrace, one of the most crucial elements of your wardrobe becomes the reliable pair of winter boots. Far beyond just keeping your feet warm, winter boots are a style statement and a key component of facing the elements with confidence. Whether you're on the hunt for women's boots or men's boots, this guide will help you navigate the diverse world of winter footwear, ensuring you find the perfect balance between style, comfort, and functionality. CHOOSING THE RIGHT WOMEN'S BOOTS: Classic Knee-High Boots: Knee-high boots are a timeless addition to any woman's winter wardrobe. Not only do they provide ample coverage and warmth, but they also add a touch of sophistication to various outfits. Pair them with skirts, dresses, or skinny jeans for a chic and polished look. Stylish Ankle Boots: Ankle boots are versatile and perfect for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Whether flat, heeled, or with a wedge, ankle boots complement a range of outfits. Choose a waterproof option for added functionality, ensuring your feet stay dry during winter rain or snow. Faux Fur-Lined Boots: For ultimate warmth and a cozy feel, consider boots with faux fur lining. These boots are not only fashionable but also provide insulation against the cold. Opt for styles with faux fur peeking out at the top for a trendy winter look. Hiking-Inspired Boots: Hiking-inspired boots have become a popular trend in women's winter footwear. With sturdy soles and a rugged appearance, these boots are both practical and stylish. They are perfect for outdoor activities while adding an adventurous edge to your winter fashion.

TAMPA-ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA led in meetings and events growth for the top 25 markets in February with a 20 percent year-over-year increase, according to Knowland. Denver and Boston came in second and third, respectively, while National Associations and Technology groups led in four of the top five markets. Overall, year-over-year event volume growth for the industry reached 5.3 percent, the report said. Meetings in the top 25 markets used an average space of 3,507 square feet, compared to 2,890 square feet in secondary markets. The top 25 markets had an average of 124 attendees, while secondary markets averaged 118 attendees. Additional insights into the key industry drivers for the top 25 markets with the highest meeting volumes include: Tampa-St. Petersburg (up 20 percent): national association, healthcare, charity/non-profit/social services, technology and wedding. Denver (up 7 percent): technology, national association, education, healthcare and construction. Boston (up 15 percent): education, healthcare, technology, training/education and travel.

NOBLE INVESTMENT GROUP has acquired the Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City | Downtown in Salt Lake City, Utah. The company, led by Mit Shah as CEO,said the city represents a fast-growing market. The 137-room hotel is in Salt Lake City's central business and entertainment district, according to Noble. The area contains more than 15 million square feet of office space and several corporate headquarters, including Zions Bancorporation, Questar Corporation, and Goldman Sachs. Also nearby are the Salt Palace Convention Center, Vivint Arena, Gallivan Center, Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol. More than 26 million passengers annually pass through the Salt Lake City International Airport, which is 4 miles west of downtown. "Salt Lake City has seen some of the highest in-migration trends leading up to and continuing through the global health crisis," Noble said in its statement. "The city boasts more than ten ski resorts within an hour's drive, as well as more than a dozen national parks and monuments. With its world-class outdoor lifestyle, Salt Lake City is one of the most dynamic leisure and corporate travel markets in the U.S."

The Hyatt House Denver/Aurora is now open in Aurora, Colorado. It is owned by with Chattanooga based Vision Hospitality Group, led by Mitch Patel president and CEO, and BMC Investments Co., LLC. The 140-room extended-stay hotel is nearthe Anschutz Medical Campus, Children's Hospital Colorado, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, minutes from Buckley Air Force Base, Aurora Sports Park, Aurora Reservoir and it is 17 miles from Denver International Airport. Amenities include The Commons and the Outdoor Commons social gathering areas, a fitness center and more than 1,800 square feet of meeting space. Additional services including guest laundry and complimentary grocery shopping for extended-stay guests. The property will be managed by Humanist Hospitality, the hotel management division of Vision Hospitality. "We know our property compliments the businesses in the market along with travelers looking for a hotel in the Aurora area, whether they are staying for a few days or an extended time," said General Manager Deacon Cottrell.

The Radisson Hotel West Sacramento is open in Sacramento, California. It was developed by 365 Hospitality and West Sacramento Hospitality, led by Ankit Panchal as CEO and managing member respectively. The 140-room hotel near Sacramento International Airport underwent an extensive renovation converting to a Radisson, including the lobby, atrium, fitness center and restaurant. Nearby attractions include River Walk Park along the Sacramento River, the Crocker Art Museum, the California Highway Patrol Academy, the California Department of General Services and several other company headquarters. Amenities include a fitness center, indoor spa and hot tub and an outdoor pool. The hotel has 4,000 square feet of event space across four rooms for up to 250 guests.

The Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Perimeter-Dunwoody opened March 24 with a ribbon cutting in Chamblee, Georgia. It is owned by Atlanta Hospitality Investment LLC, led by Mohammad Hossain as managing member, and operated by YM Hospitality led by Jay Patel as chairman and Nick Patel as CEO in Stockbridge, Georgia. A key feature of the 143-room hotel is its rooftop bar and restaurant, Spice & Sky, with a globally inspired menu from Atlanta chef, Archna Becker. The space is designed for year-round dining both inside and out, however. About 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta, nearby attractions include Murphey Candler Park, Perimeter Mall, Stone Mountain Park and LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Amenities include a heated indoor pool, a fitness center and 4,500 square feet of event space.

HILTON'S EXTENDED-STAY Homewood Suites brand is getting a new look. The brand's new Prototype 10.0 includes a smaller footprint but with more rooms, as well as changes to guest suites and common spaces. The new prototype draws from design ideas implemented during a 2019 update implemented in open Homewood Suites hotels as part of the brand's 30-year anniversary. Prototype 10.0 features a site size reduction from 2.49 acres to 2.36 acres and building area reduction by more than 3,350 square feet while increasing the number of rooms from 121 to 131 suites. Another developer-oriented change is new F&B options aimed at increasing revenue. The suites have been modified so they can be booked individually or as connected groups. The fitness center has been reimagined and guest laundry rooms have been expanded. More common areas have been added inside and outside in the prototype. "We modernized the brand to appeal to the evolving needs of our guests, who are going to love the functionality and flexibility of the innovations, which are intended to make them feel both empowered and cared for, whether they're with us for an overnight trip or an extended stay," said Rick Colling, global head of Homewood Suites.

The Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Huntsville Downtown is now open in Huntsville, Alabama. It is owned by Chattanooga, Tennessee-based Vision Hospitality Group led by Mitch Patel as president and CEO. The 150-room hotel will be operated by Vision's subsidiary Humanist Hospitality. It is near the Von Braun Center multi-purpose indoor arena as well as various boutiques, restaurants breweries and craft coffee shops. Huntsville is home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal, along with the second largest technology and research-park in the nation. Hotel amenities include 1,800 square feet of meeting space and a lobby bar.

NOBLE INVESTMENT GROUP has acquired two hotels in National Landing, a mixed-use development in Arlington, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. The acquisitions come days after the Atlanta-based company, led by Mit Shah as CEO bought two hotels in Savannah, Georgia. The hotels are the 162-room Hampton Inn & Suites National Landing and the 248-room Hilton Garden Inn National Landing. The neighborhoods of Crystal City, Pentagon City and Potomac Yard comprise the National Landing development, which includes of offices, residential, dining, retail, parks, bike paths, and walking trails. "National Landing is home to more than seventeen million square feet of office, a highly skilled workforce of more than 50,000 people, and an affluent residential population. Virginia's largest walkable downtown, National Landing, further benefits from billions of dollars in private and public investments," Noble said in a press release. "Most notably are the $2.5 billion Amazon HQ2 under development, which will create 25,000 new jobs in National Landing, and Virginia Tech's Innovation Campus, which is expected to drive a new era of technology for the greater Washington D.C. area."

NAVIKA GROUP OF Companies and Blue Sky Hospitality Solutions have acquired the Andaz Wall Street hotel, now known as the Hyatt Centric Wall Street New York. The 253-room hotel's guestrooms and lobby were recently redesigned, but Navika plans to invest approximately $5 million in the property over the next several years. Real estate company Navika Group and Blue Sky management company both are led by Naveen Shah as president and CEO. Also, Haridas Kotahwala is chairman at Navika Group. The Hyatt Centric Wall Street is expected to reopen Jan. 26, according to Blue Sky. "The competitive advantages provided by Hyatt Centric Wall Street New York, our first hotel in New York City, make it an ideal addition to our current portfolio of 53 owned and operated hotels throughout the U.S.," said Ernie Catanzaro, executive vice president with oversight of the management team, BSHS. "The hotel has some of the larger rooms in New York City, ranging in size from 345 to 1,500 square feet, as well as an unmatchable location and address. Our planned multimillion-dollar renovation will reinforce the hotel among the most desirable locations in New York City."

The AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown is open in Greenville, South Carolina. It is owned by Auro Hotels led by Dharmendra D.J. Rama as president and CEO. The 8-story, 196-room upscale hotel is in Camperdown Plaza near Falls Park, the Reedy River, the Peace Center Performing Arts center, Kroc Center Greenville, the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Sirrine Stadium. It includes seven restaurants and bars, including the tapas bar Paloma, the rooftop Juniper and The Press Room speakeasy. "The opening of the AC Hotel Greenville Downtown and Paloma marks an exciting milestone for Auro Hotels," Rama said. "This project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity due to its location, scale, level of detail and amenities, as well as a unique opportunity to celebrate our hometown of Greenville. The hotel, along with the thoughtfully-curated food and beverage concepts, will be treasured by visitors and the local community for generations." Also, the hotel features more than 100 works by 35 local artists and 29,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

THE RECENTLY RENOVATED Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland Airport in Cleveland, Ohio, is the latest acquisition by NexGen Hotels. It is the 11th property in the portfolio for NexGen, led by Chris Patel as principal. The 147-room Four Points is two miles from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. It also is near Quicken Loans Arena, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Clinic Medical Center. Amenities at the 6-story hotel include 7,500 square feet of meeting space and a heated indoor swimming pool. It also hosts the brand's Best Brews program at its onsite restaurant, The Hub Bar & Grill. "As the company's newest property, the hotel plays a significant part of our continued growth strategy," Patel said.

The AC Hotel by Marriott At Arizona Center is open in Phoenix, Arizona. It is a joint venture between Dallas-based NewcrestImage, led by Mehul Patel as chairman and CEO, and Las Vegas-based LaPour Partners. The 199-room, 13-floor boutique hotel is the first joint venture between NewcrestImage and LaPour Partners. It is in Arizona Center, a million square-foot mixed use development. Nearby attractions include the Phoenix Convention Center, the state capital complex, Phoenix Suns Arena and Chase Field, Arizona State University Downtown and the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy. Amenities include a penthouse fitness center, an outdoor patio with fireplaces and water features and almost 5,000 square feet of meeting space, including a ballroom, two media salons, and a board room.

AS THE FIRST investment for its recently announced $100 million real estate fund, NewcrestImage has purchased the Magnolia Hotel in downtown Dallas. The company, which is based in Dallas, purchased the historic building from Denver-based Stout Street Hospitality. Opened in 1922 as the headquarters offices for Magnolia Petroleum, the 325-room, 29-floor Magnolia Hotel was the city's first skyscraper and the first high-rise in the United States to have air conditioning. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and opened as a luxury boutique hotel in 1999. The hotel is across from the 37-floor world headquarters of AT&T and the $100 million AT&T Discovery District, a shopping, dining and entertainment development. The Discovery District features a 30-foot diameter interactive "walk-in" sculpture and a 104-foot high media wall for watching sports, movies and music events. The hotel features a library, a restaurant, two lounges and 11 meeting rooms, that range from 230 to 3,500 square feet. "Rooted in history and ready to be reinvented for the future - that describes this hotel, and also our entire hospitality industry right now," said Mehul Patel, chairman and CEO of NewcrestImage. "The Magnolia Hotel is an especially relevant and significant opportunity for us because it continues two important corporate commitments - re-energizing downtown Dallas and revitalizing historic buildings."