By Emile Breure: It has been already 10 years since TripAdvisor launched the ability for hoteliers to give a management response to reviews. In 2012 the number of management responses on the world’s largest review site still doubled compared to the year before. No less than 1 out of 4 reviews on TripAdvisor can expect a personal response from a manager. According to the majority of the portal’s visitors seeing these responses improve their impression of a hotel and make them believe a hotel cares about its guests.

Everybody is talking about the huge opportunities presented by the Chinese online travel market, but some players are faring better than others. Pamela Whitby takes a look.

By Louis Thompson: Imagine a luxury eco-resort that provides the highest levels of international comfort, extraordinary views, great sports facilities and excellent local cuisine, but emits virtually no carbon dioxide emissions. Imagine if that resort could pack up in a matter of days and move from one extraordinary location to another providing guests with a completely different experience, but leaving no permanent footprint on the site.

By Theodore Koumelis: Nearly 90% of UK travel managers believe spend on meetings will increase or stay the same in 2013, according to a global survey of travel managers by AirPlus. This is significantly higher than the European average of 79%.

By James Houran, Ph.D.: April time is prankster season for many cultures throughout the world, and Wikipedia gives a fun, historical background on the popular tradition of "April Fools' Day" or "All Fools' Day." This makes it an appropriate time to explore three critical aspects to sense of humor – something that researchers and HR practitioners alike pinpoint as a core competency for hospitality professionals similar to problem-solving and critical thinking ability.

By Barry Moltz: Conflicts are an inevitable part of running a small business. In fact, effectively resolving conflicts within your company can actually build a strong and diverse team that will keep fresh ideas and creativity flowing. If everyone agrees with the boss's point of view, your company's direction and efforts will get stale fast. That being said, too much conflict isn't desirable either. To achieve the delicate balance, you need to have the skills to intervene when a healthy debate goes awry.

By Rajul: Despite the continuing chill in the air, spring is definitely on its way to London and we can't wait to see the daffodils put out their blooms. It's a time for new beginnings and this season will see refurbishments, special offers and brand new premises joining the boutique hotel scene.

By Samantha Shankman: With millions of these places competing for "Likes," shares, and comments, the organizations that are actually talking to followers are reaping the benefits online.

By Vicky Karantzavelou: New data highlights the increasing significance of mobile devices in the luxury hotel sector. In January 2013, SLH website hits in China were up by 406% year on year; Brazil saw an increase of 104%, followed by Russia with a more moderate 22% increase.