Although February is the shortest month, it certainly made headlines with a flurry of hotel news.
On a more routine note, Hyatt announced its annual hotel category changes. Thankfully, the hotel chain continues to use an award chart for point-based bookings, although each year, numerous hotels either ascend or descend in category. This year, 118 hotels moved up, while only 33 dropped down.
Similarly, a recent analysis from Flying Frugal indicated that Marriott Bonvoy points have lost some value. Nevertheless, the program still boasts an array of fantastic destinations for redeeming points; flexibility and creative strategies will be vital for getting the most value.
February also marked the debut of Flying Frugal’s list highlighting the most anticipated hotels opening in 2025. Compiled by our team of seasoned travelers, this collection features family-friendly options offering free breakfast, the inaugural W-branded all-inclusive resort, and hotels located from Australia to Indianapolis.
In case you missed it, here are some additional hotel updates from the past 28 days.
Four Seasons Invites You to Experience Hotels Featured in ‘The White Lotus’ via Private Jet
As a consistent feature in “The White Lotus,” Four Seasons has captivated travelers with its private jet experiences, effortlessly connecting guests to luxurious accommodations across the globe. Imagine embarking on a 20-day journey that includes flights between some of the show’s iconic hotels: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in Thailand, San Domenico Palace in Sicily, and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Hawaii. Dubbed the World of Wellness 2026, this adventure starts in Singapore and encompasses stays in the Maldives, Marrakech, Nevis, and Mexico City, along with a range of wellness activities and cocktails, all served with far less drama than the HBO series.
If you’re curious about what it’s like to stay in “The White Lotus” hotels, Flying Frugal has already visited these locations and created a fun video showcasing their features.
Related: Next stop, Thailand: These Four Seasons hotels are the real main characters of ‘The White Lotus’
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A ‘Wicked’ Experience in Japan
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts is preparing for the release of the final installment of “Wicked.” Starting March 1, several Seibu Prince properties will host enchanting food and drink experiences inspired by the show, including “Wicked”-themed afternoon tea, Glinda- and Elphaba-inspired cocktails, and even a room at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho that is completely adorned in the colors and themes of the musical, available for booking with Marriott Bonvoy points.
Houston Hotels Prepare for Rodeo Season
If you’re into bull riding, delectable treats like bacon bourbon caramel cheesecake on a stick, or concerts featuring artists like Reba and Post Malone, the Houston Rodeo, running from March 4 to 23, is a must-see event. It’s a quintessential Texas experience that has to be seen to be believed.
The relatively new Thompson Houston, my chosen base for my February visit, is rolling out a variety of rodeo-themed events, including a Thursday night Country Concert Series ($70; includes a cocktail, light appetizers, and pool access). Guests can also enjoy a specialty Wrangler’s Whiskey cocktail at Sol 7 and shop at a pop-up by Miron Crosby from March 6 to 8 between noon and 6 p.m. Additionally, the Thompson Spa will offer a new Pietro Simone facial, alongside weekly group wellness classes, such as yoga, to counterbalance all the indulgent fare.
Another hotel getting in on the rodeo fun is Hotel Granduca, which offers the Sole of Texas Rodeo Package starting at $2,500, including a three-bedroom suite, breakfast, rodeo-inspired treats, and premium seats for the rodeo and concert of your choice.
Lodge Kohler Prepares for April’s NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin
While most people know Kohler for its plumbing products, its Lodge Kohler, situated right next to the legendary Lambeau Field in Green Bay, is enticing football fans to join the excitement of the NFL draft from April 24 to 26.
Enjoy traditional Wisconsin fare like brats and macaroni and cheese in the south parking lot while indulging in beers and watching the live draft festivities. For a more exclusive experience, the hotel is offering a VIP package with access to a private suite at Taverne in the Sky for live broadcasts and customizable dining options.
Check out Lodge Kohler’s website for details on all its NFL draft-related events and offerings.
Finish Off the Winter Music Series at The St. Regis Aspen Resort
Bringing the vibrancy of New York and Los Angeles to Aspen, the Desert 5 Spot and The Snow Lodge at The St. Regis Aspen Resort have kicked off a winter music series with a few Sunday-night performances remaining. Attendees can enjoy live music from Joy Oladokun on March 2, Lily Meola on March 9, and Drake Milligan on March 16. Live dinner music and outdoor après-ski sessions are also on the agenda.
Kimpton Opens a New Location in Marbella, Spain
Once a hallmark of Spanish hospitality, the Los Monteros hotel has been revitalized and transformed into the Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella, a 195-room IHG property situated right by the Mediterranean Sea. The hotel boasts a Mediterranean-style pool bar, a rooftop bar with a range of activities, a Mediterranean restaurant, Maison Codage spa, and even a Dolce & Gabbana beach club.
Rates start at approximately $355 or 62,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Final Chance for ‘Back 2 the Video Store!’ Experience at Virgin Hotels New York City
Virgin Hotels New York, nestled in the NoMad district, is reviving a nostalgic ‘Y2K vibe’ with a restaurant-and-bar experience that recalls the days of physically visiting video stores for VHS rentals. The “Back 2 the Video Store!” experience starts at $19.72 and includes a 90-minute reservation alongside a throwback cocktail inspired by iconic films like “Men in Black” and “Titanic.” A weekend brunch option features menu items like Blockbuster Buttermilk Pancakes and the Hakuna Matata Frittata.
Be sure to grab your tickets quickly, as this experience is available only until March 8.
Oberoi Launches Its First New Property in Seven Years
For those traveling to India, luxury hotel brand Oberoi is set to unveil its first new property in seven years—the Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh—opening in March. Located near Bandhavgarh National Park and Tiger Reserve, the resort features 19 luxury tents with private gardens and floating decks. Guests can embark on day or night jungle safaris led by expert naturalists, and dine at The Bush Kitchen, which offers stunning views of a shimmering lake and surrounding jungle.
Rates at The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort start around $465 per night.
