The Lodging LowdownA series from Hotel Dive focusing on major news that hotel industry professionals may have missed.

This week's hotel news includes: Marriott completes its acquisition of Italian luxury wellness brand Lefay through a joint venture; CitizenM expands its footprint in Washington, D.C.; Hotel Dive speaks with Hapi CEO Jeff Bzdawka about what hotels should focus on before deploying AI. Additionally, the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off this week in Mexico City, with Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 to secure the tournament's first official victory. Now, hotels across the United States, especially in host cities, will finally see whether the event delivers the anticipated benefits.

Here are other headlines from the past week that hoteliers should watch:

Delano Miami Beach reopens after six-year renovation

Delano Miami Beach, one of Hotel Dive's most anticipated hotel openings in the U.S. for 2026, began welcoming guests this week following its renovation. According to a press release issued Tuesday, the iconic 171-room hotel, located in the heart of South Beach, had been closed since March 2020.

The redesigned hotel features two new restaurants—Gigi Rigolatto and Mimi Kakushi—as well as a brand-new holistic social wellness experience, the press release said. Delano Miami Beach also launched the Delano Members Club, a community of "globally minded, culturally engaged members from Miami and beyond."

Historic Austin, Texas hotel completes full renovation

The iconic Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas, has completed a full-property, multi-phase renovation, according to a press release issued Tuesday. The nearly 140-year-old luxury hotel, part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection, features 189 redesigned guest rooms and suites; a new 2,800-square-foot ballroom; upgraded lobby and public areas; and an adjusted food and beverage program, including the redesigned Driskill Grill and Bar.

According to the press release, Dallas-based Swoon, the Studio handled guest room interiors, while Austin's Lambert McGuire Design oversaw the redesign of the lobby and restaurant spaces.

Under Canvas opens first camp in New Hampshire

Outdoor-focused hospitality provider Under Canvas has opened Under Canvas White Mountains, its first location in New York State and its 17th in the U.S., according to a press release. The 86-acre camp features 45 safari-inspired tents with private decks, en-suite bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves. The camp offers views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range, "capturing the adventurous spirit that makes the White Mountains so special," Under Canvas CEO Noah Brodsky said in a statement. Brodsky added that Under Canvas plans further expansion in the Northeast.

AI Hospitality Alliance announces advisory board

The newly formed AI Hospitality Alliance has announced a 22-member advisory board to help "guide responsible AI adoption and standards" in the hospitality industry, according to a press release. Board members include leaders from hotel brands, technology companies, and other hospitality organizations, including Mews founder Richard Valtr; Choice Hotels International Chief Information Officer Brian Kirkland; Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Senior Vice President of Commercial, Technology, Loyalty, and Digital Michael Mahar; and Aimbridge Hospitality Chief Information Officer Keryn McNamara.

Hotel technology expert Ira Vouk recently told Hotel Dive that she founded the organization to bring hotel leaders together to unify the industry's efforts around AI.

Hale Hōkūala Kaua‘i, Curio Collection by Hilton, begins accepting reservations

Hale Hōkūala Kaua‘i, Curio Collection by Hilton, is now accepting reservations for stays beginning October 1, Hilton announced Tuesday. The 210-room resort is the first Curio Collection property in Hawaii and aims to "offer a distinctive, locally inspired experience rooted in thoughtful design and Hawaiian hospitality," hotel General Manager Jon Itoga said in a statement.

Brooke Thomas, brand leader for Curio Collection by Hilton, previously said in a statement that the property "is a testament to the brand's continued expansion into the world's most sought-after destinations."