Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Hawaii has implemented a climate impact fee via a hotel room tax increase, which is expected to generate funds for environmental protection and climate change initiatives. While the hotel industry initially had some concerns, they acknowledge the crucial importance of protecting Hawaii's natural assets.
Solera, G. LION HAWAII's newest restaurant, recently opened in The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, offering a sophisticated dining experience. This new opening aligns with increased investment and development in Waikiki's hospitality sector, creating opportunities for local businesses.
A Hawaii tour boat operator is facing federal charges for allegedly using stolen personal information to falsify credentials, which highlights the critical need for stricter compliance and safety measures within the tourism industry.
Hawaii has passed a new climate impact fee that will add to lodging costs for tourists, with revenue earmarked for climate change mitigation and wildfire prevention, impacting the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Diamond Head will close ten times during the peak summer travel season for maintenance, which will impact Hawaii's tourism and hospitality sectors.
Diamond Head State Monument will close during the summer travel season for infrastructure improvements, potentially affecting tourism and related businesses; visitors should stay informed and consider alternative activities.
The $100 million repair project at the Hawaii Convention Center faces potential delays due to allegations against the HTA's finance VP, Isaac Choy, potentially impacting the tourism industry. This situation could lead to event cancellations and economic losses for local businesses.
Kīlauea volcano's recent Episode 23 eruption, featuring impressive lava fountains, presents both opportunities and challenges for Hawaii's tourism and hospitality sectors, requiring businesses to balance visitor engagement with safety and logistical considerations.
Concerns are rising in the Hawaii tourism sector as visitors express dissatisfaction over public amenities which impacts the overall experience. This commentary poses financial and operational challenges and opens up opportunities for businesses and stakeholders in the industry.
The Akamai Arrival pilot project, digitizing agricultural declaration forms for incoming travelers, has been declared a success, leading to plans for expansion and boosting the efficiency of Hawaii's tourism sector.
The ongoing examination of Kilauea's activity by volcanologists reveals critical subtleties between eruption periods, holding significant implications for Hawaii's tourism sector. This analysis is especially important for tourism operators and businesses that focus their operations on Kilauea's unique landscape and activity.
The Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia's departure from Hilo for the Moananuiākea Voyage created a boost for local tourism and hospitality, highlighting cultural exchange and offering economic opportunities for Hawaii's businesses.
Personnel issues threatening the $100 million repair project at the Hawai‘i Convention Center could lead to prolonged closures and millions in lost tourism revenue, impacting Hawaii's hospitality sector.
Hawaii's plan to revamp its tourism model is facing significant hurdles, as the Hawaii Tourism Authority struggles to adapt and lawmakers propose significant changes. This impacts businesses in Hawaii, and highlights the need for a more sustainable approach.
A recent letter to the editor advocates for reallocating the Hawaii Tourism Authority's (HTA) advertising budget to support airline promotions, sparking debate about the most effective ways to promote tourism in Hawaii and manage the industry's resources. This proposal comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the HTA and the effects of overtourism, highlighting a critical moment for Hawaii's hospitality sector.
Straits Hawaii in Ward Village was closed due to health violations, as the Hawaii Department of Health issued a red placard for the establishment. The closure highlights the importance of adherence to safety protocols within the hospitality industry.
A Kona restaurant has been shut down due to a cockroach infestation and other health code violations, raising concerns about food safety and the impact on Hawaii's tourism and hospitality sectors. This incident emphasizes the importance of strict hygiene standards and the risks involved in food-related business ventures.
A state audit criticized the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority's (HTA) destination management efforts, particularly its community-driven Destination Management Action Plan (DMAP) initiative. The audit highlights underlying deficiencies in performance measurement and the effectiveness of the agency in handling tourism.
Industry changes might bring about new seating models. While the prospect of more affordable ticket prices is mentioned, the trade-off between cost and comfort remains a key consideration for both travelers and industry stakeholders.
Hawaii's 2025 summer travel season is facing early challenges, including declines in key markets and economic uncertainties. This comes as the state aims to position itself as a top travel destination.