There are two relationships critical in managing your hotel property. The first is your relationship with your associates, and it is cultural. The second is your relationship with guests, which is emotional. The two are related because how well you do with associates relationships will determine your success with guests relationships.

Last week, Google held its annual I/O summit at its headquarters in Mountain View, Calif. Many developers, executives and experience designers gathered to see what's next in Google's sprawling and often experimental product roadmap.

Summer vacation spending in America was projected to reach $89.9 billion in 2016, with 65% of Americans reporting that taking a vacation is important to them. In fact, the average American will plan at least three weekend getaways between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

A recent press release from the Acme Hotel Co. in River North, Chicago, included these phrases: Snapchat Spectacles, Amazon Echo, ESP Guitar, DIY cocktail.

As we reach the midpoint of 2017, the U.S. dollar is strong, domestic traveler optimism is up, and the market is experiencing positive consumer sentiment. This after a new administration took the reins in January amidst an increasingly divisive political climate - and introducing a travel policy that temporarily restricted inbound travel for certain international travelers. This shot heard 'round the world reasoned protection, anticipation, and readiness; however, it also echoed sentiments of unwelcomeness and created an immediate (and costly) decline in U.S. tourism. But we have seen this before.

Tourism Cares works to develop, enhance and unite the industry's pro bono volunteering efforts.