Changes in supply and demand patterns are the two factors that cause shifts in the hotel industry cycle. Currently, most hotel owners, operators, and analysts are bullish with regards to the short- and intermediate-term outlooks for the lodging industry. On the demand side, occupied room nights continue to climb despite rising gas prices and multiple hurricanes. Barring an unforeseen catastrophic event, our PKF Consulting/Torto Wheaton Research Fall 2005 Hotel Outlook forecast calls for growth in demand each year from 2005 through 2008 at a 2.5 percent compound annual growth rate. READ MORE

Welcome to a new world, where the debate over the science of global warming is over, but the hard work of combating it-with only a very limited window of opportunity-is only just beginning. We have to act quickly. According to new studies published last March in the respected journal Science, warming temperatures are likely to cause a catastrophic, long-term meltdown on the roof of the world in Greenland and in Antarctica. Scientists say we have a decade at most to reduce our emissions and avoid a nightmare scenario that would flood not only below-sea-level New Orleans, but also much of south Florida and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, as well as the California coast. READ MORE

The difference between day spas and hotel spas lies in the service. Generally, guests tend to feel more comfortable in smaller venues where they consider they are receiving personalized service. They want to feel known and have their needs understood. They return to the favorite therapists who know their likes and dislikes. As spas become an increasing part of a hotel's revenue base, service needs to match expectations; and that improvement comes from both within the spa as well as the hotel side. Currently, this kind of personalized service is less common in larger hotels where patrons tend to feel like one of many. The Spa Butler can help bridge this gap. READ MORE

In recent months, purchases of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) have been on an upswing as hoteliers launch the construction of new properties and the renovation of existing hotels - activities which had slowed down or been put on "hold" since September 11, 2001. FF&E consists of several distinct steps or stages. It starts with design, proceeds to purchasing, then culminates with transportation and installation. Each step requires its own specialized attention to detail, yet too often the most forgotten or overlooked aspect of FF&E purchases is transportation - namely, the costs and logistics of delivery. READ MORE

Here's How Works of Art Can Make Your Rooms and Public Space Stand Out. The word "artwork" typically brings to mind paintings, wall hangings, and sculptures. However, there are several other types of decorative elements that you can use to make a positive visual impact on guests. Exactly how you combine these various "artwork" elements will depend on four factors - brand standards, interior design, owner preferences, and budget. More and more hoteliers are using art to add a "picture perfect" final touch to their public and guest room space. If you want artwork to enhance the visitor experience at your property, consider these simple guidelines... READ MORE