Today brought some good news and bad news for meeting planners. First  I read a rather alarming article on MeetingsNet about the distressed hotel market. The article warns meeting planners that hundreds of hotels around the country are struggling to survive, with many going into foreclosure. The implications for meetings?  Cost-cutting measures may include reduced staff, lower service levels, reduced room-service and restaurant hours. Management/brand changes can also affect your contract if the property goes into bankruptcy. You can read the entire article at Meeting.net

Contrast this with the more optimistic cruise industry news I also received today: Carnival Cruise Lines has just announced an order placed for a third 130,000 ton (3,690-passenger) ship to be delivered in 2012. According to Carnival president and CEO Gerry Cahill “Barely in service for two months, Carnival Dream is already earning rave reviews for guests…and ordering a third Dream-class ship speaks volumes about the confidence we have in the continued success of this series.”

The new ship will have all the innovations and purpose-built meeting facilities featured on the Carnival Dream plus some new surprises yet to be announced. Carnival Corp. also expressed a desire to place an order for a new class of ship for Princess which would be delivered in 2013.

With 30 new ships on order through 2012, the cruise industry anticipates continued growth and demand. The new ships are more innovative and environmentally-friendly, with amazing design concepts, state-of-the-art technology, purpose build conference facilities, more dining options, jaw-dropping onboard facilities, and entertainment that rivals Las Vegas.

All this and cost-savings too, given the all-inclusive nature of cruises vs hotel programs. I just love ending on a positive note!

Filed under: Cruise News, Meeting & Incentive News