Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, is pleased to announce the addition of 19 new member properties to its global portfolio between January 1 and March 31, 2025. To celebrate, I Prefer Hotel Rewards members can earn 2,500 bonus points on eligible stays at any of these participating locations for a limited time. Ranging from a family-oriented coastal retreat on the shores of Taiwan to a Blueridge mountainside adventurer’s escape, each of these distinct properties will greet travelers with thoughtful personalized service and unique unforgettable experiences that define independent luxury hospitality. Highlights include:

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest hotel groups, has signed a management agreement with API Hotels & Resorts to launch the first Kimpton hotel in the UAE. Set to open its doors in Q1 2026, Kimpton Dubai marks the brand’s debut in the emirate and continues the regional expansion for IHG, which now has more than 122 hotels and close to 44,000 rooms across nine Middle East countries.

Biltmore Winery, located in the heart of Biltmore Estate in the Blue Ridge Mountains, proudly celebrates 40 years of winemaking. Established to reflect George Vanderbilt's vision for Biltmore Estate and his love of collecting wine, the winery's conception by his grandson William A.V. Cecil complemented the estate's agricultural roots and tradition of hospitality. To commemorate the anniversary, the winery released the 40th Anniversary Release Sonoma County Red Blend, with the Biltmore Estate Château Reserve North Carolina Brut Red Sparkling 2022 debuting May 20th both on-site and online.

KFC is teaming up with Benchmark Resorts & Hotels to add the brand's fan favorite, recently returning menu item, Chicken & Waffles*, to in-room dining menus for Mother's Day weekend – answering the call of moms across social media for a time and place to rest up and recharge. Moms looking for a solo getaway can book a stay at select properties within the independent hotel collection's portfolio and treat themselves to brunch-in-bed.

The St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, announces the opening of The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, marking the brand's highly anticipated debut in the Dominican Republic. Nestled within the exclusive enclave of Cap Cana, the resort is set along the island’s most coveted stretch of white-sand coastline, an area renowned not only for its world-class golf and pristine beaches, but also for its deep cultural heritage and warm, storied spirit. Inspired by the region’s rich history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty, The St. Regis Cap Cana seamlessly blends timeless luxury with the soul of the Dominican Republic. Set against the backdrop of lush tropical splendor, guests will experience the warmth of Dominican hospitality, the rhythms of its lively music, and the flavors of its celebrated cuisine, all within a setting that redefines elegance and bespoke service in the heart of the Caribbean.

World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards has today opened entries for its 2025 programme. Individuals and organisations across the globe accelerating change and making an impactful contribution to sustainable travel and tourism are invited to enter free of charge. 30 categories covering all sectors of sustainable travel and tourism have been selected by the Awards Advisory Board of experts to reflect the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and net positive framework of People, Planet, Place, Prosperity and Partnerships.