INTERNATIONAL HOTELLERY CHAINS
board member MR. AHMAD AL MUHAMMAD
PETROBANK COMPANY TOURISM HOTELLERY ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGMENTS
MR. AHMAD AL MUHAMMAD
is a partner and board member in PETROBANK hotellery administration and management.
Actually living in GERMANY , married and have children .
General Manager for GERMANY & SYRIA OFFICES
BUSINESSMAN AND INVESTOR
TURKEY
PETROBANK COMPANY TOURISM HOTELLERY ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGMENTS
MR. MEHMET ALI NASRI
is a partner and board member in PETROBANK hotellery administration and management.
Actually living in TURKEY , married and have 1 Daughter living in GERMANY.
General Manager for TURKEY OFFICE
SPECIALIZED IN HOTELS EQUIPMENTS & ADMINISTRATION AND FURNITURES
BUSINESSMAN AND INVESTOR .
QATAR
DR. SHEIKH
PARTNER AND BOARD MEMBER
is a partner and board member in PETROBANK hotellery administration and management.
Actually living in QATAR , married living in SWITZERLAND.
SHARE HOLDER QATAR
SPECIALIZED IN HOTELS EQUIPMENTS & ADMINISTRATION AND FURNITURES
BUSINESSMAN AND INVESTOR .
SAUDI ARABIA
DR. SHEIKH
PARTNER AND BOARD MEMBER
is a partner and board member in PETROBANK hotellery administration and management.
Actually living in K.S.A, married living in SAUDI ARABIA.
SHARE HOLDER K.S.A
SPECIALIZED IN HOTELS EQUIPMENTS & ADMINISTRATION AND FURNITURES
BUSINESSMAN AND INVESTOR .
What exactly is a hotel group ?
These groups don't just own one type of hotel they're managing dozens of different hotel brands under one name.
These groups own different types of hotels catering to various needs, from luxury getaways to budget-friendly stays.
This is what we call a hotel business model at its largest scale.
Now, what exactly is a chain hotel ?
Hotels that share the same name and follow the same rules.
This consistency is vital for best hotel chains for business travel, where reliability matters.
Let's talk about different types of chains:
Full-service hotel properties (like Marriott's flagship hotels)
offer everything from restaurants to spas.
They're perfect for those who want it all under one roof.
A select service hotel (such as Courtyard by Marriott)
is more like your practical cousin they focus on the essentials done well, without the extra frills.
Boutique chains bring personality to the table they're the creative family members who do things differently at each location while maintaining high standards.
What about hotel brands ?
They're the unique personalities each chain develops their special way of doing things makes them stand out in the hotel hierarchy.
For instance, when comparing Hyatt vs Marriott, each brings its own flavor to hospitality.
The beauty of today's hotel landscape is choice.
However, to make an informed decision, it’s also important to understand the types of hotel ownership.
Four main types of hotel ownershipEach model has its sweet spot in the market, but also its nuances.
A solo-owned establishment is your privately owned hotel. You build your dream from scratch but shoulder all the risks.
While you enjoy complete freedom in the hospitality venture, you need to work extra hard to build your reputation from the ground up.
Conversely, we have the franchise model joining an established hospitality brand.
As a franchise owner, you're adopting everything from big names in the business.
You'll get instant recognition and proven systems, but you must play by their rules.
The managed model is perfect for passive hotel investors who want to own property without running the day-to-day operations.
They hire hotel operators to handle everything from hiring staff to managing guest experiences.
In leased properties, hotel landlords rent out their buildings to operators for a period, which is all about steady income with minimal involvement.
Chains hotel management / How it works
Chain hotels are the McDonald's of the hospitality world but with more luxury and strict standards.
Hotel chains operate through several business models :
Traditional chain model.
Properties owned and operated directly by the hotel group, ensuring complete control over standards and operations.
Franchise model.
One of the most popular hotel business models, where independent hotel owners operate properties under major hotel brands like Hilton or IHG.
This arrangement dominates among hotel chains in the US and hotel chains in Europe.
Soft brand model.
It’s a newer approach where unique properties maintain their personality while accessing chain resources.
This model bridges the gap between chain hotels and independent hotels.
Management contract.
Companies like Marriott or Hyatt manage properties owned by others, providing their expertise and standards.
Understanding these business models is just the beginning, as chain hotel operations require a well-structured management system.
What is a chain hotel management structure ?
Chain hotel management is the science of operating multiple properties under a single brand umbrella.
Levels of hotel chains management include :
Corporate-level leaders handle brand standards, global partnerships, loyalty programs, worldwide marketing, and revenue management. They make all top-level decisions affecting the entire chain.
Regional management serves as local brand ambassadors.
They oversee properties in their geographic area, adapt global strategies locally, manage regional partnerships, and solve area-specific issues.
The general manager runs individual properties.
They lead overall operations, manage profits and losses, plan strategy, and maintain relationships with franchise owners.
Department heads manage specific areas :
Front Office handles check-ins and guest services, Housekeeping maintains cleanliness standards,
Food & Beverage runs restaurants and room service, Sales and Marketing drives revenue, Human Resources manages staffing, and Engineering maintains the building.
Line staff includes front desk agents who welcome guests, housekeepers who maintain rooms, food service workers who prepare and serve meals, and maintenance staff who handle repairs and upkeep.
At the heart of operations sits a Property Management System (PMS), which handles everything from check-ins to billing.
Modern solutions connect with channel managers that distribute rooms across booking platforms, ensuring your property is visible to customers.
They track how their property performs against other hotel chains in Europe or the US and adjust pricing based on demand.
Revenue management becomes smarter with software that automatically adjusts rates based on market conditions.
For franchise hotels, these systems ensure they meet brand standards while maintaining efficient operations.
They track performance, manage loyalty programs, and ensure they deliver consistent guest experiences.
We understand that each property type needs tailored solutions.
Focusing on scalable, secure solutions, we help properties of all sizes compete effectively in today's digital-first hospitality landscape.
Take a look at the comprehensive booking solution we developed for Crystal Lake Resort. Starting with essential booking and payment features, the system evolved into a powerful platform that automates operations while preserving the personal touch guests expect.
With seamless management and secure data handling, the solution enhances efficiency and ensures long-term success.
PETROBANK LTD
History and market share.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings has built an impressive legacy since its beginnings in 1919.
Today, with a market capitalization of $59.31 billion and quarterly revenue of $2.951 billion in Q2 2024,
Hilton stands as a testament to successful hospitality management, with franchise and licensing fees contributing a substantial $689 million to their revenue stream.
Brands.
The company's brand portfolio reflects its understanding of diverse market needs, encompassing 24 brands that span from luxury to midscale.
This diversity has helped Hilton establish itself among the best hotel chains globally, with iconic names like Waldorf Astoria and DoubleTree.
For those curious about which hotel chain is best, Hilton's rapid growth in loyalty program membership – now at 173 million members – speaks volumes about guest satisfaction.
Properties.
Hilton's global footprint is impressive, managing 8,300 properties with over 1.2 million rooms across 126 countries.
The United States remains their primary market with 5,600 properties, while their Asian presence, particularly in China with 520 hotels, demonstrates their expansion into emerging markets.
Their operating model relies on franchising, with 6,600 franchised properties, complemented by 800 managed locations and 51 leased properties.
Accessibility.
In the ongoing debate of Hilton vs IHG or Hyatt vs Hilton, Hilton has an innovative approach to accessibility and guest services.
"We believe that every guest deserves a reliable and friendly travel experience," says Mike Gathright, Senior Vice President of Customer Excellence and Innovation.
Their initiatives include :
Groundbreaking partnership with Be My Eyes for visually impaired guests.
First major hotel company to implement comprehensive accessibility guides.
Specially trained customer service teams for accessibility support.
Enhanced room designs for various mobility needs.
Advanced communication systems for hearing-impaired guests.
Integrated technology solutions for independent navigation.
Accor
History and market share. Starting in France back in 1967,
Accor has grown into one of the biggest names in European hotel chains.
The numbers speak for themselves — with revenue hitting $2.677 billion in early 2024, showing an impressive 11% jump from last year.
Brands. What makes Accor special is their incredible variety — they've got 55 brands. From fancy places like Fairmont and Sofitel to budget-friendly spots like Ibis,
they've got something for everyone.
This smart approach has helped them become one of the top hotel chains in Europe.
Properties.
You can find Accor hotels pretty much everywhere — they run 5,700 hotels with 840,000 rooms across more than 110 countries.
Accor's approach to loyalty shines through their "ALL: Accor Live Limitless" program with exhibition and cruise offers.
Accessibility. Accor really stands out when it comes to making everyone feel welcome.
For the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, they've gone all out :
380 hotels working to get special "Tourisme & Handicap" certification.
Smart Rooms with adjustable furniture and fixtures.
Special features for guests with hearing, vision, mobility, and cognitive needs.
Easy-to-use room controls and technology.
Extra staff training for helping guests with disabilities.
Emergency response systems in all accessible rooms.
Clear signs and navigation throughout hotels.
As Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor, emphasizes: "Over the past few months,
the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been a catalyst to improve the way in which we cater for travelers with disabilities...
This achievement will be one of the legacies for Accor."
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
History and market share. Talk about starting small — Wyndham began in Dallas, Texas, and has grown into one of America's favorite budget hotel chains in the world. Their recent numbers tell a success story, with revenue reaching $366 million in the second quarter of 2024.
Brands.
This is a chain hotel that successfully balances global reach with local sensitivity.
With 25 different brands spread across six categories, Wyndham knows how to cater to different travelers and their wallets, from the fancy Wyndham Grand to the reliable Super 8.
Properties.
Wyndham's got plenty of it — over 9,000 properties with 885,000 rooms spread across 95 countries.
It's interesting to note that they mostly work through franchising, which has helped them grow quickly while keeping their quality consistent.
Wyndham's approach to loyalty through their Wyndham Rewards program, with 101 million members.
Accessibility.
Wyndham takes special care to make sure everyone can enjoy their stays :
Special rooms near elevators for easy access.
Visual and sound alarms for safety.
Wheelchair-friendly spaces throughout their properties.
Extra features like knock lights and special phones.
Trained staff ready to help guests with disabilities.
Support animal-friendly policies.
Easy-to-use room controls and amenities.
Beyond just following rules, they're actively working to make their hotels more welcoming for everyone, especially in places like their Disney Springs® Resort Area.
Hyatt
History and market share. From Jay Pritzker's first hotel in 1957, Hyatt has grown into something special.
While they might not be the biggest, they're one of the most impressive hotel chains, bringing in $307 million in adjusted earnings for Q2 2024.
Brands.
Though they've got fewer brands than some others — 29 in total — each one stands out.
From the super fancy Park Hyatt to the practical Hyatt Place, they've earned their spot among the best hotel brands by focusing on quality over quantity.
Properties.
Running more than 1,350 hotels with over 300,000 rooms in 70+ countries might seem modest compared to some giants, but Hyatt makes every property count.
Most of their hotels are either franchised or managed by Hyatt, letting them keep their high standards.
Accessibility.
Where Hyatt shines is in making their hotels work for everyone:
Rooms with motion sensor night lights.
Special alerts for door, phone, and emergency alarms.
Pool lifts and automatic doors.
Beds at the right height for easy transfer.
USB ports placed where they're easy to reach.
Well-designed bathrooms with smart grab bar placement.
Staff specially trained in helping all guests.
Their World of Hyatt loyalty program even lets members save their accessibility preferences, showing they're thinking ahead about making travel easier for everyone.
InterContinental Hotels Group
History and market share. IHG started as Bass Brewery in 1777 and has grown into one of the top British hotel chains. Today, they're bringing in big revenue — $2.322 billion in early 2024, up 4% from 2023. Their biggest success is in the Americas, but they're strong everywhere they go.
Brands.
With 19 brands under their roof, IHG covers all the bases.
Their full-service hotel example InterContinental Hotels & Resorts shows what luxury looks like, while Holiday Inn keeps things comfortable and affordable.
Properties.
Running 6,430 hotels with 954,000 rooms across 117 countries is no small feat. Over 70% of these run as franchises, showing how well their business model works.
The IHG One Rewards program has grown impressively, with over 130 million members who now make up more than 60% of their room stays.
Accessibility.
IHG takes accessibility seriously across all locations.
Their website states the motto: “We extend our values to all and we invite our colleagues and guests to be yourself”. As to the guest accessibility, their approach includes:
Blue Badge parking in UK properties.
Ceiling track hoists in select locations.
Emergency support systems.
Adapted bathrooms with specialized equipment.
Trained staff for accessibility assistance.
Clear navigation throughout properties.
Connecting room options for caregivers.
Best Western
History and market share. From a simple hotel referral system in 1946,
Best Western has grown into one of the most reliable UK hotel chains, proving that steady growth and consistent service win the race — now,
Best Western International's annual revenue is $6.6B per year.
Brands.
Their 19 brands hit different parts of the market — from the classic Best Western to modern spots like Vib and GLō.
For the best hotel chain for business travelers, their mix of practical comfort and reliable service makes them a popular choice.
Properties.
With about 4,300 hotels and 311,000 rooms in over 100 countries,
Best Western has built a solid global network.
The Best Western Rewards program adds extra value with points that never expire and special rates across all properties.
Accessibility.
"Our goal is to make every guest feel at home," says Best Western’s properties motto.
Their commitment shows in features like:
Website accessibility technology by Recite Me.
Rooms strategically placed near elevators.
Automatic door systems.
Adapted bathrooms in all accessible rooms.
Staff trained in accessibility support.
Clear booking systems for accessible rooms.
Detailed property descriptions for accessibility features.
Choice Hotels International
History and market share.
Starting in 1939 as a group of seven motel owners working together, Choice Hotels has become a major player in hospitality.
Their Q2 2024 revenue hit $435.2 million, showing a solid 2% growth from 2023.
Brands.
With 22 brands ranging from luxury Radisson to comfortable Quality Inn, they've got something for everyone.
Their approach to brand variety makes them a great study in successful hotel branding examples.
Properties.
Managing 7,000 hotels with nearly 570,000 rooms across 40 countries shows their impressive reach.
Their mix of locations helps them serve both business and leisure travelers effectively.
The Choice Privileges loyalty program adds value with rewards like parking perks, competitive rates, and gift cards that can be used across their various brands.
Accessibility.
Their accessibility features include :
Special alarms for hearing and visually impaired guests.
Easy navigation throughout properties.
Trained staff for accessibility support.
Clear booking process for accessible rooms.
Support animal-friendly policies.
Enhanced communication systems.
Evaluating the best hotel companies for traveling alone
With the criteria defined, let’s consider the top hotel groups that give solo travelers a safe, good, adjustable experience.
Marriott:
best for luxurious escapes.
Picture yourself at a Marriott property, where solo travel meets comfort and convenience.
The Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina is a hidden gem for independent explorers taking a refreshing dip in their pools.
The best part ?
You're next to a vibrant mall with plenty of dining options, so you'll never feel isolated.
The Westin Lagunamar in Cancun's Hotel Zone is another fantastic choice, especially if you love to wander.
Located right across from La Isla shopping center, you can easily stroll to nearby restaurants and shops.
The downside is the higher price segment: while it’s great for luxury traveling, backpacking in Mariott isn’t very possible.
Hilton:
great for gastronomy and spa tours.
Hilton hotels get what sophisticated solo travelers need.
Take the Biltmore Mayfair in London — it's like having a luxury apartment in one of the city's most charming neighborhoods.
They offer amazing perks like private guided walking tours and VIP shopping experiences.
The Hotel 1000 in Seattle shows another side of Hilton's solo-friendly approach. Just steps from Pike Place Market, it's ideal for foodie adventures. Plus, their spa services are exactly what you need after a day of exploring.
The price is also on the higher side here, though.
Accor:
diverse and more affordable.
Accor brings something special to the solo travel scene.
Mama Shelter Lisbon is like staying at your friend's place, blending French style with Portuguese energy.
The vibe is social but not overwhelming, making it perfect for solo travelers who want to mingle on their terms.For budget-conscious explorers, their Ibis Styles hotels are scattered throughout prime locations like Lisbon's Centro Liberdade. You get that perfect mix of affordability and prime location — because who wants to spend precious travel time commuting ?
Wyndham:
comfort and convenience.
Wyndham's got your back when you're flying solo!
Their Wyndham Garden properties, like the one in Mazatlan, are perfect for independent travelers who want a bit of everything — outdoor pools, fitness centers, and locations that put you right where the action is.
And here's a pro tip: they've got some great road trip-friendly properties across their network, perfect if you're planning a solo adventure on wheels.
Hyatt: experience-rich stays.
If you're a solo traveler who lives for unique experiences, Hyatt's going to be your jam. At Thompson Playa del Carmen, you can join complimentary tequila tastings. Love wellness ?
Check out Andaz Scottsdale's three-day wellness retreats — perfect for some me-time. Just keep in mind that some properties have specific policies about visitors, so it's worth checking those details if you're planning to meet up with local friends.
H World Group:
the smart choice for budget travelers.
Here's a gem for the budget-conscious solo traveler: H World Group hotels are all about smart, efficient stays. Their H Rewards program is pretty sweet — with lightning-fast 30-second check-ins and an app that helps with everything from room selection to getting a taxi. Perfect for business travelers or anyone who wants a fuss-free, wallet-friendly stay.
IHG:
good, but with nuances.
While they make promises about service through their IHG Clean Promise, recent traveler experiences paint a nuanced picture worth considering.
A stay at InterContinental Barcelona in 2023 highlighted concerns when a staff member entered a guest's room without knocking.
This, combined with some cleanliness issues reported at various properties and recent security incidents and fraud, reminds us that even prestigious brands have flaws.
That said, IHG remains a solid choice for solo travelers.
The key is to be proactive about your security — request rooms away from ground level, use all available door locks, and don't hesitate to speak up.
Choice Hotels: a budget-friendly reality check.
Choice Hotels is often a wallet-friendly option and an Instagram review from a solo traveler shared that nine out of ten properties she's visited have been clean, comfortable, and safe.
However, recent guest experiences reveal some challenges worth noting.
A traveling nurse practitioner shared their frustration with the rewards program after unsuccessfully trying to claim promised gas points for months of loyal stays.
Other travelers have reported maintenance issues, from malfunctioning door locks at Comfort Inns to late-night fire alarm problems.When choosing between these chains, remember to take time to research recent reviews, understand the location, and have a backup plan just in case.
