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November 27, 2025The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) held its prestigious 59th Annual Convention in Bangkok, Thailand, from November 20-22, 2025, bringing together key industry leaders from around the globe. This year’s gathering, under the theme “Leading with Purpose: Embracing a New Era,” attracted General Managers, hotel owners, and executives from over 425 independent luxury hotels in LHW’s portfolio. The event focused on the evolving landscape of luxury hospitality and the opportunities for independent hotels to thrive in a fast-changing industry.As one of the most influential gatherings in the global hospitality sector, the convention provided a platform for in-depth discussions, dynamic workshops, and case studies led by top experts. Set in Bangkok, a vibrant and culturally rich city, the event showcased the exceptional luxury offerings in the region, emphasizing the growing importance of Asia in the global hospitality market.Advertisement Innovation and Leadership at the Heart of the ConventionThe convention opened with an inspiring address from Shannon Knapp, President and CEO of LHW, who highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry. As luxury hotels adapt to a rapidly changing world marked by AI advancements, generational shifts in guest expectations, and geopolitical dynamics, the convention underscored the need for leaders to embrace innovation while staying true to the core values of personalized service and exceptional guest experiences.A key focus of the convention was on how luxury hospitality is evolving in response to these changes. The discussions explored emerging trends such as the digitization of services, sustainability in hotel operations, and the growing importance of experience-driven travel. With Asia-Pacific (APAC) travelers demanding more personalized, authentic, and digitally connected experiences, the convention provided valuable insights into how independent luxury hotels can meet these evol …
