The Leading Hotels of the World gathered in Bangkok for the 2025 Convention, exploring luxury hospitality’s future through innovation, purpose, and global leadership
The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) brought together its global community for the 2025 Annual Convention in Bangkok, Thailand, held from November 20–22. Gathering General Managers, owners, and senior leaders from more than 425 independent luxury hotels worldwide, the event explored how the industry can navigate — and shape — a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Under the theme “Leading with Purpose: Embracing a New Era,” the convention delivered high-impact discussions, strategic insights, and cultural immersion in one of Asia’s most dynamic luxury markets.
A Call to Lead with Clarity, Imagination, and Purpose
Shannon Knapp, President & CEO of LHW, opened the convention with an energising keynote that addressed the forces redefining luxury travel today: generational shifts, AI acceleration, global uncertainty, and intensifying competition.
She emphasised that while the industry is entering a period of heightened complexity, it is also rich with opportunity for leaders who bring vision, courage, and purpose to their decision-making.
Insights From Asia’s Fast-Evolving Luxury Landscape
Bangkok — a cultural capital and rising force in global luxury travel — set the stage for conversations shaped by regional perspectives with global implications.
Speakers unpacked themes including:
- The rapid digitalisation of travel in APAC
- Changing expectations of next-generation luxury travellers
- Geopolitical shifts influencing global mobility
- The rise of purpose-driven leadership and community engagement
The program blended macro analysis with practical strategy, offering independent hoteliers actionable tools to future-proof their businesses.
Global Experts Share Strategies for the Future
LHW welcomed a distinguished lineup of thought leaders and strategists, including voices from McKinsey & Company, Eurasia Group, Amazon Web Services, GOCO Hospitality, CoStar Group, Dragon Trail International, LQA, and more.
Across workshops, panels, and case studies, the experts delivered insights on:
- Tech-driven efficiency and AI transformation
- Evolving marketing and guest experience design
- Sustainability and regenerative hospitality
- Workforce challenges and culture-led leadership
- Market trends that will shape 2025 and beyond
Author Pico Iyer added a reflective dimension, underscoring the enduring power of travel to create meaning and connection.
Bangkok’s Luxury Spirit on Full Display
The convention was hosted by LHW’s two member hotels in Bangkok — Capella Bangkok and The Okura Prestige Bangkok — each showcasing Thailand’s signature blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and genuine warmth.
Delegates also enjoyed curated cultural experiences highlighting the city’s heritage, creativity, and culinary richness.
Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Leading Hotels Membership Awards
The three-day gathering culminated in a Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the historic Royal Thai Navy Hall. Eight exceptional hotels and hoteliers were honoured for their achievements, innovation, and service to the art of independent luxury hospitality.
2025 Honorees
Leading Legend
Guido Fiorentino, Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Italy
Recognised for visionary stewardship that preserves heritage while ensuring enduring relevance.
Uncommon Vision
José António Uva, São Lourenço do Barrocal, Portugal
Honoured for transforming a historic family estate into a vibrant destination of cultural and agricultural revival.
Remarkable Experiences
The Phoenicia Malta, Floriana, Malta
Celebrated for immersive, culturally rich guest experiences that elevate a national landmark.
Change-Makers
Hotel AWA, Puerto Varas, Chile
Awarded for deep community engagement, regenerative tourism, and support for local artisans.
Unrivalled Luxury Leader
Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel, Venice, Italy
Achieved a rare 100% Quality Score, reflecting impeccable execution and service excellence.
Member of the Year
Palace Hotel Tokyo, Japan
Recognised for exceptional engagement, revenue growth, and a market-leading guest satisfaction record.
New Member of the Year
The Imperial, New Delhi, India
Honoured for outstanding performance across quality, guest advocacy, and brand engagement since joining LHW.
Sustainability Leader
Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa
Celebrated for pioneering environmental design and sustainability leadership since 1873.
Looking Ahead to Rome in 2026
As the event closed, LHW announced that the 2026 Annual Convention will take place next November in Rome, Italy — a fitting location to continue the conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of independent luxury hospitality.
At a Glance: Key Highlights
- Event: LHW 2025 Annual Convention
- Theme: Leading with Purpose: Embracing a New Era
- Dates: November 20–22, 2025
- Location: Bangkok, Thailand
- Attendees: Leaders from 425+ independent luxury hotels
- Programming: Keynotes, workshops, case studies, cultural experiences
- Awards: Eight honorees recognised for excellence and innovation
- Next Convention: November 2026, Rome, Italy
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