Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Wins Forbes Five-Star Awar

Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Earns Forbes Five-Star Honors for Kai and Aji Spa

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 24, 2025

Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass continues to shine in the luxury hospitality scene, with both Kai Restaurant and Aji Spa receiving Forbes Travel Guide’s prestigious Five-Star rating in the 2025 Star Awards. The resort itself maintains its Recommended status, reaffirming its excellence in service and cultural authenticity.

This marks the 17th consecutive Five-Star win for Kai, solidifying its place as the only restaurant in Arizona with this distinction. Additionally, Aji Spa earns its sixth Five-Star rating, recognizing its commitment to providing a unique Native American-inspired wellness experience.

A Legacy of Excellence

Located on the Gila River Indian Community in Phoenix, Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is renowned for its deep connection to indigenous heritage. The resort’s recent multi-million-dollar renovation has further elevated its luxurious offerings, while maintaining its commitment to cultural authenticity.

Expressing his pride, Bunty Ahamed, General Manager, Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, shared:
"Receiving Five-Star recognition from Forbes Travel Guide once again for Aji Spa, and for the seventeenth consecutive year for Kai, is an incredible honor. Our commitment to providing every guest with a personalized and exceptional experience is unwavering, and these accolades are a testament to our team’s outstanding efforts."

Kai: Arizona’s Culinary Crown Jewel

With only 79 restaurants worldwide receiving a Five-Star rating this year, Kai’s achievement is particularly remarkable. A James Beard 2025 semifinalist in the Outstanding Hospitality category, Kai merges contemporary flavors with time-honored Native American culinary traditions, featuring locally farmed ingredients from the Gila River Indian Community.

Aji Spa: An Authentic Native Sanctuary

Aji Spa, meaning "sanctuary" in the Pima language, provides a holistic wellness experience deeply rooted in the traditions of the Pima and Maricopa tribes. Offering signature Indigenous treatments curated by Cultural Caretakers, the spa reflects the area’s rich history through art, architecture, and storytelling.

A Resort Steeped in Heritage

Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is more than a luxury resort—it is a living representation of Native American culture, offering:

36 holes of championship golf at Whirlwind Golf Club
Guided equestrian experiences through the 1,000-acre Koli Equestrian Center
Four swimming pools and a waterslide inspired by ancient ruins
Water activities along the scenic Gila River

Maintaining its Recommended status in 2025, the resort meets Forbes’ rigorous 900-point evaluation, ensuring world-class service and hospitality.

As Forbes Travel Guide’s esteemed Five-Star list continues to set the global benchmark for luxury, Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass proudly represents Arizona with its unparalleled culinary, wellness, and cultural experiences.

From Thrilling Matches to Full Hotels: FIFA 2026 Fuels US Hospitality Growth, Expected to Add $17.2 Billion to the Economy

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 15, 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 continued to deliver excitement both on the pitch and across the travel and hospitality sectors, as major Group C fixtures unfolded in the United States on June 13.

One of the most anticipated matches of the group stage saw Brazil and Morocco play out a 1-1 draw in New Jersey. Morocco once again demonstrated why they are regarded among football's elite nations, producing a disciplined and organised performance against one of the tournament favourites.

Ismael Saibari gave Morocco the lead with an impressive finish before Vinicius Jr produced a moment of quality to bring Brazil level. While the points were shared, Morocco's ability to limit Brazil's attacking influence emerged as one of the biggest talking points from the encounter.

Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, struggled to find rhythm and cohesion for large parts of the match, while Morocco looked increasingly confident and dangerous as the game progressed.

In the other Group C fixture, Scotland ended a 36-year wait for a FIFA World Cup victory after securing a 1-0 win over Haiti at Philadelphia Stadium. John McGinn's first-half goal proved decisive as Scotland opened their campaign with three valuable points.

Meanwhile, another Group B encounter between Qatar and Switzerland concluded in a draw, adding further intrigue to the race for qualification.

Beyond the football action, FIFA World Cup 2026 is also expected to deliver a major boost to the United States hospitality, tourism, and travel industries. FIFA has projected that the tournament could contribute up to $17.2 billion to the US economy through increased spending across airlines, accommodation, transportation, dining, and related sectors.

Industry players are already reporting positive trends. Airbnb stated that the FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to become its biggest event to date, surpassing even the demand experienced during the 2024 Paris Olympics. The company expects strong bookings from families and groups seeking larger accommodation options and cost-effective stays.

The hotel sector is also preparing for increased demand. Marriott International expects the tournament to contribute approximately 40 basis points to its US revenue per available room, reflecting stronger occupancy and room rates during the event period.

Flight booking trends further highlight the growing impact of the tournament. According to Sojern's booking data, Miami has recorded nearly an 8% increase in flight reservations, while New York has seen a similar rise. Dallas-Fort Worth is experiencing an increase of around 10%, and Houston has recorded nearly 13% growth in bookings.

These early indicators suggest that FIFA World Cup 2026 is not only shaping up to be a major sporting spectacle but also a significant economic driver for the hospitality and tourism sectors across the United States.

With fan travel continuing to gain momentum and key matches drawing global attention, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about the positive impact the tournament will have on hotels, airlines, restaurants, and destination businesses throughout the host cities.

Cunard Launches Sweepstakes for Queen Mary 2’s Historic 450th Transatlantic Crossing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 14, 2026

Cunard has announced a special sweepstakes that will give travellers the opportunity to be part of Queen Mary 2's historic 450th Transatlantic Crossing, marking another milestone in the cruise line's long-standing connection between the United Kingdom and the United States.

The initiative comes as Cunard prepares to participate in Sail4th 250, the celebration of America's 250th anniversary, taking place in New York Harbor this July. As part of the celebrations, the luxury cruise brand is inviting guests to enter for a chance to sail aboard Queen Mary 2 on its landmark voyage from Southampton to New York, scheduled from November 10–17, 2026.

The winner and a guest will receive a complete travel package that includes the crossing aboard Queen Mary 2, flights, hotel accommodation in Southampton, and transportation to and from the port.

Queen Mary 2 remains the world's only active ocean liner offering regularly scheduled Transatlantic Crossings between Southampton and New York. The vessel continues a tradition that has been at the heart of Cunard's heritage for nearly two centuries.

The announcement also coincides with the anniversary of Cunard's first transatlantic voyage. On July 4, 1840, RMS Britannia departed Liverpool for Boston, launching the world's first regularly scheduled transatlantic steamship service and changing the future of international travel, trade, and communication.

Commenting on the milestone, Liz Fettes, Senior Vice President, Commercial, North America and Australasia at Cunard, said, "Transatlantic travel is the foundation of Cunard's rich heritage and remains one of the most iconic experiences in luxury travel today. As we prepare to participate in America's 250th anniversary celebration, it feels especially meaningful to also celebrate Queen Mary 2's upcoming 450th crossing. This milestone is a testament to the 186 years of history, connection and unforgettable voyages across the Atlantic."

On July 4, 2026, Queen Mary 2 will also take part in Sail4th 250, which is expected to bring together the largest international gathering of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled in New York Harbor. The event will commemorate America's 250th anniversary and offer guests aboard the ship a prime viewing position for the celebrations.

Cunard's connection with the United States dates back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, when an estimated one in five immigrants travelling to America crossed the Atlantic aboard Cunard steamships between 1840 and 1923.

Today, the cruise line operates a fleet of four ships, including Queen Mary 2, Queen Anne, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria, continuing its legacy of luxury ocean travel around the world.

The sweepstakes is open until July 31, 2026. Participants can enter by registering through Cunard's dedicated giveaway platform. Additional bonus entries can be earned by sharing a favourite Cunard travel photograph or participating in a survey about future Cunard travel experiences.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Action Reaches Canada as Hospitality and Fan Engagement Gain Momentum

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 14, 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 continued its historic journey across North America as Canada hosted its first-ever FIFA World Cup match on Friday. A star-studded opening ceremony at BMO Field in Toronto set the stage for the Group B encounter between co-hosts Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams securing a point in their opening fixture. Canada's debut as a FIFA World Cup host marks a significant moment for the country, while Bosnia and Herzegovina entered the tournament after securing qualification with a notable victory over Italy during the qualification stage.

Earlier, the tournament's first opening event took place in Los Angeles ahead of the Group D match between the United States and Paraguay. The hosts made a strong start to their campaign, registering a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture.

Beyond the action on the pitch, FIFA continues to see significant growth in its hospitality business. As ticket prices for regular spectators continue to rise, premium hospitality offerings have become one of the organisation's strongest revenue generators.

From private suites priced at more than $100,000 per match to exclusive luxury lounges designed for corporate guests, hospitality experiences are increasingly playing a major role in the World Cup ecosystem. Stadium spaces are being transformed into premium business and entertainment venues, attracting brands, corporate clients, and high-value travellers.

The impact of the tournament is also being felt across India. Several urban centres are witnessing increased footfall at pubs, lounges, and star hotels that are organising live screenings of World Cup matches. Football enthusiasts are gathering to watch games in a social setting, creating additional opportunities for hospitality businesses to engage guests through themed food, beverage, and viewing experiences.

With matches now underway across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, FIFA World Cup 2026 is not only delivering exciting football action but also driving new opportunities across tourism, hospitality, and fan engagement sectors worldwide.

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Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Earns Forbes Five-Star Honors for Kai and Aji Spa

A Legacy of Excellence

Kai: Arizona’s Culinary Crown Jewel

Aji Spa: An Authentic Native Sanctuary

A Resort Steeped in Heritage

Most Read In News

From Thrilling Matches to Full Hotels: FIFA 2026 Fuels US Hospitality Growth, Expected to Add $17.2 Billion to the Economy

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Cunard Launches Sweepstakes for Queen Mary 2’s Historic 450th Transatlantic Crossing

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FIFA World Cup 2026 Action Reaches Canada as Hospitality and Fan Engagement Gain Momentum

Most Read In News