The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) hosted its 2024 Annual Convention from 21-23 November in the coastal town of Marbella, Spain. Under the theme ‘The Pursuit of Excellence,’ the event brought together General Managers, hotel owners, and industry leaders from LHW’s collection of over 400 independent luxury hotels.
This marquee summit served as a platform for forging new strategies, exploring emerging trends, and sharing insights that will shape the future of luxury hospitality.
Shannon Knapp, CEO of LHW opened the convention with a powerful address, setting the stage for a series of dynamic sessions and discussions focused on the year ahead. Delegates gained invaluable knowledge from industry visionaries, exploring key topics such as generative AI in hospitality, evolving luxury consumer behaviours, the geopolitical impacts on travel, and strategies for talent retention. Conversations also centred around the challenges of leading in times of uncertainty and the future of hotel design.
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Throughout the three-day gathering, LHW’s management team, alongside renowned speakers from CBS News, Google, SmartFlyer, McKinsey & Company, Gorgeous Group, Deyrolle, and others, delivered thought-provoking presentations and actionable strategies. These sessions were complemented by a wealth of networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded leaders and share best practices for success.
The event also offered immersive cultural experiences, with attendees selecting from five unique activities that showcased Marbella’s rich culinary traditions, natural beauty, wellness offerings, local sports, and cultural rhythms. Hosted at Marbella’s iconic LHW properties — Marbella Club, Golf Resort & Spa and Puente Romano Beach Resort and Anantara Villa Padierna— these experiences perfectly captured the essence of the region.The grand finale of the convention was an exclusive Gala Dinner and Membership Award Ceremony held at the Marbella Arena, where the exceptional contributions of LHW members were recognised in a celebration of excellence and innovation within the luxury hospitality industry.
The 2024 Leading Hotels Membership Awards Honorees
This year, The Leading Hotels of the World celebrated the individuals and properties whose extraordinary contributions have set new standards of excellence, innovation, and sustainability within the luxury hospitality landscape. The winners of the 2024 Leading Hotels Membership Awards embody the spirit of leadership, dedication, and exceptional service that define the collection.
Leading Legend
Wilhelm Luxem – Former General Manager, Baur au Lac, Lake Zurich
A hospitality icon with over 40 years of visionary leadership, Mr. Luxem’s dedication to service excellence, mentorship, and innovation has left an enduring legacy within the Leading Hotels community.
Uncommon Vision
Mr. Pascal Billard – General Manager, Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona 5*
A champion of Spanish hospitality, Mr. Billard has redefined luxury at the Majestic Hotel & Spa by preserving Barcelona’s cultural heritage while introducing bold, innovative experiences for guests.
Remarkable Experiences
Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon
Known for its creativity and charm, Bairro Alto Hotel offers guests unforgettable experiences with a unique blend of modern luxury, art, and Lisbon’s rich history.
Unrivaled Luxury Leader
Royal Mansour Marrakech
With two stunning new openings in Casablanca and Tamouda Bay, Royal Mansour continues to redefine luxury in Morocco with unmatched opulence, cultural depth, and attention to detail.
Change-Makers
Adare Manor, Ireland
Adare Manor stands at the forefront of responsible luxury, driving positive change by investing in community initiatives and sustainable practices that benefit both guests and locals.
Member of the Year
Portrait Milano
A true partner to Leading Hotels, Portrait Milano exemplifies excellence through its dedication to service, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to our values.
New Member of the Year
Aleenta Hotels
Aleenta Hotels, with properties in Chiang Mai and Phuket, has quickly earned its place among the best for its commitment to sustainability, quality, and guest satisfaction.
Sustainability Leader
The Datai Langkawi
A pioneer in sustainable luxury, The Datai Langkawi leads with initiatives that protect the environment, empower the local community, and preserve the region’s heritage.
The 2025 Annual Convention will take place next November in Bangkok at host Leading Hotels, Capella Bangkok and The Okura Prestige Bangkok.
