Opening next year, the one-of-a-kind hotels in Zurich and Barcelona will represent the debut of the exclusive portfolio of independent hotels in each city.

The 210-key hotel represents the entry of IHG into Ethiopia and adds to the company’s growing presence in Africa.

The new dusitD2 constance pasadena includes 136 guest rooms and suites and features contemporary design and tech-savvy amenities.

The units are featured at the resort’s reserved-seating VIP area for its concierge level guests.

At Sabre, Gonzalez will lead a global team responsible for legal strategy, regulatory affairs, corporate compliance and government affairs.

In his new role with Benchmark Hospitality, Paul Bashaw will oversee and lead the company’s global group sales initiatives, supporting properties across the country and offshore.

Matt Balcik will lead the new brand. Its first property will be on Bluewaters Island in Dubai, with others to be announced later in the Middle East, Asia and Europe.

Video: Warren Baverstock, Aquarium Operations Manager at Burj Al Arab, details the hotel’s commitment to marine research and its support of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project.

By Bärbel Pfeiffer: OTAs have been crucial and valuable marketing channels over the past decade, but developing technologies and online user habits have cleared the path for hotels to take back the reins.

By Tim Millett: We gain industry insight from the long career of Raymond Bickson, MD and CEO of the Indian Hotels Company, which includes the iconic Taj brand.