Some 86% of senior executives of large luxury hotel chains expect revenue to increase this year when compared to 2022. This is according to new global research* commissioned by world-leading communication technology company Communications Specialist Ltd.

Nearly one in 12 (8%) of the senior luxury hotel executives interviewed anticipate revenue growth of up to 10% on last year for the organisations they work for, and half predict growth of between 10% and 30%. A further 12% anticipate growth of between 30% and 50%, and some 16% expect revenue to be at least 50% higher.

When comparing expected revenue streams for this year to 2019, 92% anticipate some form of revenue growth.

A key reason for the level of optimism amongst senior luxury hotel executives is that 90% expect occupancy rates at the hotels they work for to be higher this year than in 2022 – 18% predict they will be ‘significantly higher’. For the high-end, luxury hotel market as a whole, the corresponding figures are 78% and 20% respectively.

When asked for other reasons for optimism around revenue growth, 70% of senior hotel executives interviewed cited the growing population of mass-affluent and high net worth individuals, and 57% said it was because people are generally looking to spend more on their holidays following the Covid-19 lockdowns. Some 39% said it is because the luxury hotel market experience has improved and become even more sophisticated, and 33% said it was due to the guest experience becoming more personalised.

However, although revenues are expected to rise, all of the respondents interviewed say overall costs for the high-end, luxury hotel market will be higher in 2023 than last year. One in four (24%) expect them to be at least 30% more.

Kevin Buchler, Chief Marketing Officer at Communications Specialist Ltd, said: “Our research shows that the luxury hotel market is very optimistic about market growth this year. They expect occupancy rates to be higher than in 2022, and there are several factors such as a growing population of mass affluent and high net worth individuals supporting long-term growth in the sector.

“Our findings also suggest that there is still a ‘bounce-back’ from the pandemic with many people wanting to spend more on their holidays this year to make up for the lack of vacation time during the recent Coronavirus lockdowns.

“It is also clear from our study that standards continue to improve in the high-end hotel market, and key to this is investing in technology to ensure even higher levels of efficiency and customer service.”

Communications Specialist Ltd provides sales support on radio communication systems as well as training, fitting and commissioning of equipment, systems amalgamation, on-site instruction, maintenance and the provision of spare parts internationally to many luxury hotels around the world.

Its team of radio system experts have more than 35 years’ experience and will support and help resolve complex network issues on-site or remotely.

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada Unveils a Roster of Vibrant Pow Wow Celebrations to Kickstart the Season

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (TsleilWaututh), (Vancouver, BC) – May 30, 2023 – Open to everyone, Indigenous pow wows are known to be powerful gatherings that unite people from multiple generations in a celebration of food, cultural traditions, community building, and spiritual healing. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada is kicking off Pow Wow season with a list of celebrations of Indigenous life and culture from coast to coast to coast.

To see what Indigenous events and experiences are happening across Canada, visit CanadianPowWows.ca.

British Columbia

The vibrant Kamloopa Pow Wow will be held on British Columbia Day long weekend, taking place from August 4-6, 2023, at Tk’emlups te Secwepemc in Kamloops. The annual event will offer authentic and immersive cultural experiences. Additionally, attend the second annual stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow from September 15-17 at the Langley Events Centre.

Alberta

Delve into a vibrant celebration of culture and community at Stampede 2023. The event is produced in collaboration with Pow Wow Times and is one of Canada’s biggest competitive pow wows. From July 12-13 at the Saddledome, the Calgary Stampede Pow Wow will share experiences showcasing competitive dancing, mesmerizing drumming, soulful singing, and a captivating array of Indigenous performances.

Beaver Lake Pow Wow shares authentic talent and competition bringing some of the best Pow Wow dancers and drummers from across Canada. There are five dance categories: Traditional, Fancy, Grass, Jungle and Chicken – the performances hold deep significance all representing storytelling, honouring individuals, and providing healing for the dancer and their loved ones. This event will take place from August 4-6, 2023.

Maskêkosak Enoch Cree Nation Annual Competition Pow Wow, taking place July 7-9, 2023, celebrates Indigenous culture through dances, rhythmic beats, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Enoch Cree Nation is a proud member of Treaty 6, and actively seeks to preserve and promote their culture, language, history, and spirituality while advancing their economic, education, health, and social well-being for Indigenous Peoples.

Kainai Pow Wow, from July 21-23, 2023, offers an unforgettable experience filled with cultural displays, dance and drum contests and traditional performances all while highlighting Kainai Nation’s rich traditions.

The Peace River Pow Wow will take place June 3-4, 2023, inviting everyone to join the celebration of authentic Indigenous culture through mesmerizing dances, traditional music, and the warm spirit of the community.

Poundmaker’s Lodge Treatment Centres’ annual Pow Wow will take place from August 18-20, 2023, creating a welcoming space for healing and cultural revitalization. Participants can experience the transformative power of Indigenous traditions and witness the resilience of the community.

Saskatchewan

Kawacatoose First Nation Pow Wow, will take place from July 28-30, 2023, as a vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture, dances, drumming, and traditional ceremonies.

The Onion Lake Annual Pow Wow, held from July 14-16, 2023, offers a captivating journey into Indigenous traditions, dances, music, and the spirit of the community.

Peepeekisis Cree Nation Traditional Pow Wow, taking place from July 21-23, 2023, invites visitors to experience the authentic expressions of the Cree Nation through their captivating performances and cultural exhibitions.

Pheasant Rump Nakoda First Nation Competition Pow Wow, held from August 4-6, 2023, showcases the competitive spirit and rich culture of the Nakoda First Nation. The event will offer immersive awe-inspiring dances that make this gathering one to remember.

Ontario

One can experience the grandeur of Indigenous traditions at the Grand River "Champion of Champions" Pow Wow, taking place from July 21-23, 2023. Located in Ontario, this event brings together dancers, singers, and drummers from across the nation to compete and showcase their talent.

Celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Quebec at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, held from June 21-25, 2023. This five-day celebration offers a diverse range of activities, including traditional pow wows, music performances, art exhibitions, and interactive workshops. Embrace the warmth of the summer solstice while experiencing the beauty and depth of Indigenous culture.

Quebec

Pow Wow Odanak, taking place from July 21-23, 2023, welcomes all to the heart of Abenaki territory in Quebec. This is a unique opportunity to witness and participate in traditional dances, drumming, storytelling, and cultural demonstrations. Feel the spirit of the Abenaki people as they share their ancestral traditions and celebrate their vibrant culture.

Pow Wow Manawan, held from July 28-30, 2023, will offer a captivating journey into the Atikamekw Nation's traditions and customs. Located in the heart of Quebec, this pow wow showcases an array of vibrant dances, ceremonial rituals, cultural displays, and experiences that highlight the warmth of the Manawan community.

Wendake International Pow Wow will take place from June 30-July 2, 2023, on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat Nation. This internationally acclaimed pow wow showcases the diversity and beauty of Indigenous cultures from around the world. Prepare to be enthralled by the mesmerizing performances, intricate regalia, and the collective spirit of unity that surpasses borders.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Join the Bay St. George Traditional Pow Wow, held from July 14-16, 2023, in Newfoundland and Labrador. This gathering celebrates the Indigenous culture of the Mi'kmaq in the region sharing enchanting dances, rhythmic drumming, and rich storytelling that brings their history to life.

Embrace the spirit of unity and friendship at this dynamic gathering in Nova Scotia at the Mawita’jik Competition Pow Wow, held from June 23-25, 2023. Join the Mi'kmaq community as they showcase their traditional dances, music, and arts, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural pride.

Prince Edward Island

Engage in the vibrant traditions of the Mi'kmaq people at the Lennox Island Pow Wow, held from August 26-27, 2023, on Prince Edward Island. This cultural celebration showcases the beauty and richness of Mi'kmaq heritage. The Lennox Island Pow Wow offers a unique opportunity to witness sacred ceremonies, traditional storytelling, and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge, all while basking in the breathtaking landscapes of Prince Edward Island.

TORONTO, ON (May 25, 2023) – Choice Hotels Canada is growing its exclusive Ascend Hotel Collection® with its latest member, the luxurious Château Cartier Hotel & Resort in Gatineau, Quebec. This is the 28th Canadian property to join the Ascend Hotel Collection, a network of upscale, historic and boutique properties and resorts that offer guests a uniquely local experience.

Worldwide, all 330 hotels within the Ascend Hotel Collection participate in the award-winning loyalty program Choice Privileges which enables members to earn and redeem points across 22 distinct hotel brands with more than 7,400 hotels located in 45 countries & territories.

“This stunning resort with a wide range of amenities is a wonderful representation of the Ascend brand and one we know will be embraced by guests near and far,” says Brian Leon, CEO of Choice Hotels Canada. “It is a destination in and of itself, and we are thrilled to have it join the Choice Hotels Canada family.”

Château Cartier Hotel & Resort has a range of amenities for both leisure and business travellers. Onsite, there are two dining options - KaTO and ONŌ lounge. KaTO offers an authentic Japanese dining experience featuring traditional cuisine and sushi. ONŌ lounge offers original Canadian cuisine, inspired by seasonal flavours for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is also an expansive 20,000 square feet of business and event space, which can be configured for anything from intimate meetings to luxurious weddings or conferences. For those looking to relax and unwind, adjacent to the property is Kōena Spa, a nature-inspired thermal spa experience with hot baths, dry saunas, steam bath, massage and treatment rooms, and a unique Himalayan salt room.

The 124 modern guest rooms are all designed with comfort in mind. Beds are outfitted with luxurious bedding, flat screen TVs, coffee makers and mini fridges. Select suites also include kitchens and fireplaces.

The owners of the resort, Le Groupe Heafey, own a large portfolio of properties in Gatineau, including Les Suites Victoria which is also an Ascend Hotel Collection property. “It was a natural fit to have Château Cartier Hotel & Resort join Choice Hotels and the Ascend network,” said Shawn Vandette of Le Groupe Heafey. “We appreciate the flexibility of the brand, its distribution opportunities and all the extras that come with partnering with Choice Hotels Canada.”

Located at 1170 Chemin Aylmer in Gatineau, the property is conveniently located to many of the attractions in the area such as the Canadian Museum of History, Casino du Lac-Leamy, and Gatineau Park - the largest green space in the region.

For more information and reservations, please visit www.choicehotels.com.

25 May 2023 HENDERSONVILLE, Tennessee—Canada’s hotel revenue per available room (RevPAR) came in above CAD100 for the third consecutive month, according to STR’s April 2023 data.

April 2023 (year-over-year percentage change)

Occupancy: 62.7% (+9.3%)

Average daily rate (ADR): CAD178.80 (+14.8%)

Revenue per available room (RevPAR): CAD112.16 (+25.5%)

“Canada’s hotel room rates continued to be the main driver of top-line recovery,” said Laura Baxter, CoStar Group’s director of hospitality analytics for Canada. CoStar Group is the parent company of STR.

“In April, inflation was stronger than the Bank of Canada expected, at 4.4%. But even when comparing the April results to 2019 dollars, real rates increased 2.3%. Growth has been ongoing since July 2022, apart from a slight 1% contraction in January 2023. Although transient rates continue to show the strongest lift over 2019, efforts to drive rates in other segments have become increasingly noticeable in the data, for example, group rates were 14% above April 2019 levels while weekday rates, a proxy for corporate rates, were up 15%.

“Demand has been bolstered by limited-service hotels, which have achieved levels ahead of the 2019 benchmark, while full-service demand has been below that threshold. Strength in limited-service hotels has been ongoing since midway through last year, but the cost of living and belt-tightening will likely add an element of trading down that is amplifying the trend.”

Among the provinces and territories, Manitoba recorded the highest April occupancy level (74.5%), which was up 28.5% year over year.

Among the major markets, Vancouver reported the highest occupancy level (79.8%), which was 5.4% above 2022.

Prince Edward Island (40.2%) saw the lowest occupancy among provinces, down 5.7% year over year. At the market level, the lowest occupancy was reported in Calgary (58.5%), which was 1.7% above the 2022 comparable.

Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Toronto also enjoyed added demand from hosting the first-round of the NHL hockey playoff games in the latter half of the month.