Top Hotel and Resort News in November: Storms, Openings, Marriott
Each month, TravelPulse rounds up the most important hotel and resort industry developments shaping the travel landscape. November’s top stories include the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica’s resort sector, a high-profile split between Marriott and Sonder, major new hotel openings, and notable changes to loyalty and customer service programs.
Hotels and resorts across Jamaica faced significant disruption following Hurricane Melissa. Eight Hyatt-affiliated properties temporarily suspended normal operations in early November and stopped accepting new reservations through January 31, 2026. Affected resorts include multiple Secrets, Dreams, Hyatt Zilara and Hyatt Ziva properties in Montego Bay, along with Jewel Grande and Zoëtry Montego Bay. Sandals Resorts reported that most of its Jamaica portfolio sustained minimal damage and is expected to reopen by December 6, 2026, allowing time for employees to recover personally. However, Sandals South Coast, Sandals Montego Bay, and Sandals Royal Caribbean will remain closed for repairs until May 30, 2026. Guests with existing bookings are being contacted and offered rebooking options at alternative Caribbean properties.
November also brought a wave of hotel openings and development announcements. Iberostar opened the new five-star Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancun near Puerto Morelos, while Minor Hotels revealed plans for the Anantara Ushuaia Patagonia Resort, set to open in 2028 as one of the world’s southernmost luxury hotels. Hyatt expanded its footprint in Mexico with the opening of Hyatt Place Cancun Airport, and MGM Grand Las Vegas unveiled a USD300 million renovation of thousands of rooms and suites. Secrets Resorts & Spas added the new Secrets Mirabel Cancun Resort & Spa in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.
In corporate news, Marriott International terminated its long-term licensing agreement with Sonder after the company defaulted on financial obligations, prompting the immediate removal of Sonder properties from the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. The move left many guests scrambling and marked one of the most disruptive contract terminations in recent hotel industry history. Despite the setback, Marriott reported strong third-quarter results, driven by record development activity, rising fee revenues, and robust demand for luxury hotels.
The month also saw shifts in customer service and loyalty strategies. Vrbo launched VrboCare, an expanded protection program designed to help travelers rebook accommodations up to 90 days before arrival while highlighting trusted hosts. Hilton Honors announced the introduction of a new Diamond Reserve tier starting in January, offering enhanced benefits such as complimentary room upgrades, late checkout, and priority service, while positioning Gold as the leading mid-tier status within the program.
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