By Esther Hertzfeld: "Since its introduction by Choice Hotels in 2003, choiceADVANTAGE has set the industry standard for ease-of-use, functionality and affordability," said Stephen P. Joyce, president and chief executive officer of Choice Hotels International.

By Vicky Karantzavelou: TripIt examines what causes the most stress for frequent travelers and provides tips on how to stay healthy while logging miles.

Since video is one the most media-rich formats for engaging people, one of the activities of the Destination Europe 2020 programme, a joint initiative between the European Travel Commission [ETC] and the European Commission to strengthen Europe as a tourist destination, is focusing on using the power of video as a major influencer for creating travel inspiration. The European Travel Commission is, therefore, launching a film competition with the aim to create a new inspirational short film to promote Europe as a tourism destination.

Take full advantage of the long weekend and make this Easter one to remember with a break somewhere special. Here are the top Easter escapes — from relaxing resort stays to chic city breaks.

By BusinessesForSale.com: There's clearly still room for you to sell stays at your hotel on the basis of the quality experience that you offer. You need to be sure, however, that you aren't being seen as offering expensive stays, with little to differentiate your hotel from cheaper alternatives.

By Alan Campbell: Hoteliers, you have got to learn how to give an effective speech, how to communicate your thoughts cogently to your peers in the hospitality business, how to sell to outsiders and your community what you have to offer and why they should choose your proposal over all others. In my 40 plus years in this business, I have not come across too many hoteliers that can do that—talk effectively in front of an audience of strangers.

By Margaret Mastrogiacomo: With 87% of online users reporting that Social Media recommendations impact hotel choice, it is no secret that social media influences the travel planning process. With the launch of Facebook Graph Search, a feature that helps users discover common interests with friends and discover places to visit, social media’s impact on travel research and discovery will become even more significant.

By the JMBM Global Hospitality Group®: Under a New York Appellate Division court decision issued March 26, 2013, virtually all hotel management agreements are now terminable at will by owners. And this result will prevail even against the Marriott-style management agreements that seek to avoid an "agency" characterization of the owner-operator relationship.

By Theodore Koumelis: Choice Hotels and Marriott International lead the industry, while Best Western trails in terms of customer satisfaction with the mobile experience.

By Nancy Trejos: New York's Kitano Hotel is hoping to flush away its competition by equipping its rooms with indulgent Japanese-style toilets.