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Exciting Developments at INSPIRE 2026: Culture, Wellness, and AI

The International Luxury Hotel Association (ILHA) recently announced groundbreaking updates to the agenda for INSPIRE 2026, its flagship luxury hospitality conference, which is set to take place from December 15 to 17 at the JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa in Orlando, Florida. This year's event promises to delve deep into critical themes reshaping the luxury hospitality sector, such as culture, wellness, and the impact of artificial intelligence.

Among the standout sessions will be a discussion led by Elizabeth Mullins, President of Evermore Hospitality, and Phil Keb, Senior Advisor at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Their dialogue will center on the increasingly vital topics of culture, purpose, and relational wellness within luxury hospitality. Mullins emphasizes that in an era marked by social disconnection, the industry has a unique opportunity to redefine luxury by fostering genuine human connections. As she puts it, "The greatest luxury may simply be time together. In a world that has never been more connected, people are craving real connection." Keb echoes this sentiment, stating, "Guests today aren't just booking a room; they're searching for a sense of belonging. The brands that understand this are the ones that will shape the next chapter of luxury hospitality."

AI's Role Unpacked
In addition to culture and wellness, INSPIRE 2026 will tackle the significant challenges and questions surrounding AI in hospitality. A session titled "AI at Scale: Building the Business Case for Hospitality" aims to provide insights on where AI is delivering real value to businesses. Key industry figures, including Rodney Linville from Nobu Hospitality and Shane O'Flaherty from Microsoft, will explore the practical implications of AI adoption in hospitality operations. Moderated by Barak Hirschowitz, President of ILHA, this candid discussion will examine where AI implementation has been successful and what it takes to scale these technologies effectively.

Additional Sessions
The conference will also showcase a myriad of other sessions addressing various facets of luxury hospitality:

• - The Science of Prevention, Performance, and Longevity in Luxury Wellness - Led by industry experts from Hyatt and Starwood Hotels, with insights from research scientists.
• - Measure What Matters: Why Human Connection Is Your Greatest Amenity - A session focused on the emotional and relational elements of guest experience.
• - Travelling for the Experience: How Luxury Hotels Are Making Guest Experience Central to Their Strategy - Featuring speakers from Marriott and Nikki Beach Hotels.

Encore, the audiovisual partner for INSPIRE 2026, will also present during the event. Alex Wedesky, their Vice President of Internet Services, will discuss enhancing connectivity for high-stakes luxury events through AI innovations.

Fireside Chat with Industry Leaders
An opening fireside chat will feature insights from Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International, and Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and Caribbean. Their conversation promises to set the stage for impactful discussions throughout the conference.

Attracting a Global Audience
The INSPIRE conference aims to attract senior leaders and professionals across the luxury hospitality field, offering high-level networking opportunities and insights into the industry's future.

Registration for INSPIRE 2026 is currently open. Interested participants can learn more and secure their place by visiting ilha.org/inspire and checking out ilha.org/inspire/register for registration.

About the International Luxury Hotel Association (ILHA)
The ILHA serves as the leading trade organization for luxury hospitality, uniting over one million professionals and over 300 industry leaders to facilitate conversations and alliances that shape the industry’s future. Known for its influential events and content, the ILHA provides a year-round platform for insights, engagement, and collaboration in the luxury hospitality sector.