April Sees Resort Closures, Acquisitions and Debuts
April brought a wave of transitions in the hospitality world, from a beloved Jamaican resort closing its doors to major hotel acquisitions, new property debuts and early signs of economic challenges biting U.S. hotel performance. One of the month’s most surprising announcements came from Sandals Resorts International, revealing that Beaches Ocho Rios will shutter on May 31. As the only Beaches property owned by third-party Guardian Resorts Jamaica Ltd., the family-friendly resort will undergo an extensive renovation—and will likely emerge under a new name once its upgrades are complete.
Meanwhile, Marriott International took another stride in its global expansion by agreeing to acquire the citizenM hotel brand for approximately $355 million. The deal brings 36 citizenM properties—known for their tech-forward design and urban locations—into Marriott’s portfolio, along with two hotels still under development. With this purchase, Marriott strengthens its presence in key city markets and adds a modern, lifestyle-first brand to its lineup.
On the performance front, a report examining more than 35,000 U.S. hotels revealed that policy shifts, recession worries and escalating trade tensions under the current administration have started to take their toll. Fifty-three percent of properties saw year-to-date declines in performance, with total room-nights falling one percentage point and future bookings through early May down by 4 percent compared with last year. These figures mark the first clear evidence that economic headwinds are tempering demand for domestic hotel stays.
As the industry grapples with these challenges, accessibility took center stage for Margaritaville Hotels & Resorts, which celebrated several properties earning Autism Double-Checked™ certification. This designation ensures that those resorts provide thorough information, safety measures, planning resources and staff training tailored to guests on the autism spectrum—a growing priority as travelers seek truly inclusive experiences.
April also saw an incentive aimed squarely at travel advisors: Rental Escapes announced that, in honor of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month, agents can earn up to $5,000 in bonus commissions plus double REwards points on every new booking made in May. The promotion underscores the ongoing importance of advisors in driving bookings and offering personalized expertise amid evolving travel trends.
On the opening front, April welcomed several notable debuts. Hard Rock Hotel London Ontario and Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique both opened their doors, introducing guests to bold design, music-inspired amenities and panoramic Pacific views. Later this year, Mapito Safari Camp in the Serengeti will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection, while the Dominican Republic will gain two new all-inclusive properties—Secrets Playa Esmeralda and Dreams Playa Esmeralda. Hilton rounded out the month’s announcements by unveiling plans for Waldorf Astoria Turks and Caicos Dellis Cay, set to open in 2028 on a nearly private island with over three miles of beachfront and villa-style accommodations.
Renovations were also in the spotlight in April. Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta completed a $20 million transformation, adding fresh accommodations, new dining venues and an expansive event terrace ideal for weddings and other celebrations. In the Bahamas, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar introduced family-focused suites in its West Tower, featuring bunk beds for children, a separate king-bed parents’ suite and a shared living area. Across the globe, Club Med Phuket launched its first Family Oasis waterpark in the Asia Pacific region, delivering a new level of fun for multigenerational travelers.
As hotels and resorts navigate closures, acquisitions, openings and economic pressures, April’s announcements offer a snapshot of an industry in constant flux—always reinventing itself to meet the changing needs of guests and travel partners alike.
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