Croc 'n' roll in the Everglades

We're counting down the hours until Thanksgiving dinner, but until then, we've got workplace safety, college-town hotels and a one-of-a-kind destination in the Everglades on the brain — sleep next to the crocodiles, if you dare! Read on, and if you're flying or hitting the road this holiday, safe travels.

Design destination: Housed in a 100-year old colonial building restored to its original splendor by a Grammy-winning producer and his fashion entrepreneur business partner, this 11-room hotel is the talk of Havana.

Sticker shock: New York City hotel room prices, which averaged $417 a night in September, are higher than ever. Here's why.

Ch-ch-ch-changes: In this episode of Hotel News Now, senior reporter Brian Wroten chats with attorney Andria Ryan about the major areas in which hoteliers can expect to witness changes to labor laws under the incoming Trump admin, from immigration to the overtime exemption threshold.

Trailblazer talk: The editors of Condé Nast Traveler take a look at who, and what, is propelling the travel industry into the future in the third iteration of their Bright Ideas in Travel list.

Destination of the Week: Flamingo Lodge

Location: Everglades National Park, Homestead, Fla.

Opened in: Rebuilt in 2023, the original lodge debuted in 1959.

Owned by: National Park Service, run by Guest Services

Number of rooms: 24 guest rooms, 20 safari-style glamping tents, 100 RV spaces, 55 camping spots, 4 houseboats

What to expect: Located at the southernmost point of the U.S. mainland, Flamingo Lodge sits along the edge of Florida Bay in Everglades National Park. Rebuilt in 2023 after hurricanes devastated the original 1959 structure, the new lodge was designed with resilience in mind, using elevated shipping containers raised 16 feet to withstand storm surge. Although located in a National Park, this isn’t your typical camping trip. Guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, comfortable beds and full bathrooms, as well as a mini-kitchens with a two-burner stovetop, microwave, fridge, sink and dishwasher. What’s missing? You won’t find TVs in these rooms. “When people come to these places, they come to explore the park, not to sit in their rooms and watch TV,” says lodge manager Bradley Rowland.

Dining options: The Flamingo Restaurant offers made-to-order food and a full bar. A small grocery store at the Marina offers cold beer and drinks, as well as convenience food. And soon, a food truck will be available for quick bites.

What stands out: For more adventurous travelers, safari-style “glamping tents” elevated on wooden platforms evoke the charm of tropical overwater suites — though here, your neighbors might include hawks, lizards or even crocodiles. Four houseboats are available for rent, which can be taken out on the water or remain docked. Additionally, the property provides rustic tent and RV camping posts for guests who want to fully embrace the Everglades' natural surroundings.

Starting rate: $159 for lodges (June – Oct.); $259 (Nov. – May).

Above: A studio room at Flamingo Lodge. (Courtesy of Flamingo Everglades Adventures)

Hotels tap into university life

College-town hotels are redefining guest experiences by emphasizing local connections and unique amenities. Charlestowne Hotels’ properties like Lockwood Hotel in Waterville, Maine and The Abernathy in Clemson, S.C. integrate regional art, history and community ties, offering curated packages and immersive stays tailored to visiting families and alumni. With sustainability-focused offerings, such as Charlestowne’s Hotel Marcel in New Haven, these properties cater to evolving traveler demands, positioning themselves as integral extensions of their campus communities. (Hotel Dive)

Casetta invests in a trio of transformations

Casetta, a brand known for its architecturally distinctive boutique hotels, is planning to open three new properties in California and the Southwest in 2025. The properties include Hotel Lucile in Los Angeles, set in a restored 1931 church with 25 rooms, a rooftop lounge and a chapel restaurant; Hotel Marina Riviera in Big Bear, a revamped 1968 lodge offering 42 rooms, lake views and family cabins; and Hotel Willa in Taos, New Mexico, a former motel with 51 rooms, a pool and an upcoming restaurant and bar. Casetta is also expanding to the East Coast with a 2026 opening in Hudson, New York, where a historic mansion will be converted into a 41-room hotel featuring event spaces and wellness amenities. (Boutique Hotelier)

Boosting the collaborative impact of safety teams 

Workplace safety committees are vital for enhancing safety and health in hospitality, providing a platform for employees across all levels to address concerns and suggest improvements. Sompo North America’s Senior Risk Control Casualty team Andrea Ball and Andrew Luttrell emphasize the importance of balanced representation, monthly meetings and fostering open discussions to ensure effectiveness. They attest that success relies on clear goals, thorough documentation and collaboration, with potential support available from insurance carriers to boost safety initiatives. (Hotel Management)

Henson brings historic charm to Catskills

The Henson, a newly opened luxury boutique hotel nestled in the Catskills' Hensonville, combines contemporary luxury with a storied past dating back to 1918. Drawing inspiration from the property's historic architecture and natural surroundings, the hotel offers 16 individually styled rooms filled with natural light, warm hues and upscale touches like custom robes and rainfall showers. With vintage decor and peaceful outdoor spaces, The Henson offers a retreat for both relaxation and private events. (Hudson Valley)

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