WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) announced that Knauf Insulation, Inc. has expanded its portfolio of products that have earned the Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certification. The newly Certified Knauf Performance+ insulation products include the Performance+ Earthwool 1000˚ Pipe Insulation, Pipe & Tank Insulation, and KwikFlex Pipe & Tank Insulation with Ecose. These additions build on Knauf’s previously Certified HVAC and residential insulation products, making the Performance+ portfolio an ideal solution for a wide range of building environments. “Expanding our portfolio of Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certified products to include pipe and tank insulation reinforces our belief that every part...

NATIONAL REPORT—Hospitality employees, particularly those in luxury hotels and spas, have always been expected to deliver excellent, personalized, and remarkable service to guests. This service often involves emotional labor, defined as managing personal emotions to meet workplace expectations. However, a study published in Tourism Management suggests this emotional labor might have hidden costs, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion among employees. The study monitored 534 hotel interns, observing their mental health changes over eight months. It was uncovered that within the first three months of employment, occurrences of anxiety and depression increased. “Surface acting,” or the act of suppressing or...

COSTA DEL SOL, SPAIN—Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol has opened its doors, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Andalusia. This highly anticipated, exceptional new resort is Fairmont’s flagship resort in Spain, bringing the brand’s legendary blend of elegance, bespoke service, and authentic local experiences to one of the country’s most sought-after destinations. True to Fairmont’s philosophy of fostering an authentic connection with the local environment and culture, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol blends contemporary aesthetics with traditional Andalusian design in a setting where every detail has been meticulously curated to offer an immersive and unparalleled experience inspired by the essence of the...

Since I first entered the lodging industry in 1989, I have come across thousands of new products and technologies. It must have been around 2002 that I first encountered Excel Hand Dryer’s XLERATOR Hand Dryer. I will never forget the first time I placed my hands below it. It was unlike any other hand dryer experience I had up until that time. The air power seemed jet engine strong and unforgettable. I walked away impressed, knowing that company owner Denis Gagnon and his son William had a winner on their hands. I suspect you have experienced one of the XLERATOR Hand...

MIAMI—The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the $6.3 trillion global wellness economy, announced that its 19th annual conference will take place in Abu Dhabi November 18 to 21, 2025, at the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This milestone event is being held through a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Gate (ADIG) and Shura Global Consultancy (SGC) and with support from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. Bringing together government leaders and industry visionaries, the 2025 Global Wellness Summit will solidify Abu Dhabi’s position as a prominent global wellness hub, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to...

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Oceana released a new report, “Plastic Foam Needs ‘To Go,’” revealing the dangers behind single-use plastic foam products like clamshell takeout food containers, cups, packing peanuts, and disposable coolers. According to the report, plastic foam, which is also called expanded polystyrene, compromises our health and our oceans. Plastic foam is made with hazardous chemicals, like its main building block styrene, which is toxic to the human nervous system. Styrene is linked to cancer and considered a probable human carcinogen by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Styrene and other chemicals can easily leach into food and beverages at all temperatures,...

PAGOSA SPRINGS, COLO.—The Springs Resort, a renowned wellness destination in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, is undergoing a transformative expansion. The expansion includes 78 new guestrooms, a thermal spa, a Panoramic Sauna with halotherapy, new wellness amenities, a fresh culinary concept, and modern event spaces. The Springs Resort in Colorado is home to the world’s deepest geothermal spring, fondly called “The Mother Spring.” The expansion aims to broaden the resort’s commitment to its unique approach to relaxation and wellness, “Soakology”. In addition to relocating its spa, the extensive renovation is doubling the resort’s terraced geothermal mineral soaking pools along the San Juan River at...

CHICAGO—JLL has been honored by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the global authority for advancing healthy buildings, organizations and communities, with three prestigious awards in 2024. The accolades underscore JLL’s expertise in delivering WELL at scale and certification for real estate occupiers and investors worldwide. JLL received the 2024 WELL AP Impact Award for having the most WELL Accredited Professionals and WELL Faculty of any organization globally. This recognition highlights the firm’s commitment to developing industry-leading expertise in creating healthier, more sustainable spaces. In addition to the organizational recognition, JLL announced that two of its employees received individual awards: Annalise...

PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, COSTA RICA—Nestled within one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations, Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve has officially opened its doors, offering discerning travelers a secluded, ultra-luxury retreat amidst the unspoiled natural beauty of Costa Rica’s Peninsula Papagayo. Named after the Chorotega word for “lush garden,” Nekajui marks a monumental milestone as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Central and South America and the eighth addition to the brand’s exclusive portfolio. Located on Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre canvas of dry tropical forest atop coastal cliffs, Nekajui’s collection of 107 thoughtfully designed ocean-facing rooms, suites, and three luxury treetop tents seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living while celebrating Costa...

INTERNATIONAL REPORT—The global wellness tourism sector has emerged as a pivotal force in reshaping the hospitality industry. By merging traditional tourism with health-centered activities, this sector addresses the growing demand for experiences that enhance well-being. Industry professionals must understand current market trends and adopt forward-looking strategies to integrate wellness across the travel ecosystem. What is Wellness Tourism? This market refers to the notion of traveling with the goal of improving or maintaining personal well-being, according to the Global Wellness Institute. In a world where travel often comes with stress and unhealthy habits, wellness centered vacations offer a way to counter those downsides, transforming trips into opportunities...