🇫🇷 FRANCE
📈 Performance | French hotel RevPAR rises by 8% in September
According to the In Extenso Tourisme, Culture et Hôtellerie barometer, French hotel RevPAR increased by 8% in September 2026, driven primarily by higher average room rates (+6%). Paris recorded growth of 13%, reaching 27% in the Luxury and Palace segment. The French Riviera posted a 10% increase, while regions outside the Riviera recorded growth of 5%, supported by the return of business travellers.
🏰 Development | Six Senses plans a resort and branded residences in the Loire Valley
At the Domaine des Bordes, approximately 90 minutes south of Paris, Six Senses is preparing a development combining a restored château, luxury accommodation, a spa and private residences. The project will feature 88 hotel suites and villas alongside 70 residential villas, marketed from approximately €2.99 million. A phased opening is envisaged between 2027 and 2028, illustrating the growth of branded residences in upscale rural destinations.
⚖️ Industrial relations | Strike at Café di Roma on the Champs-Élysées
Since 20 October, approximately 30 employees at Café di Roma in Paris have been taking part in strike action. According to actu Paris, the striking employees allege management practices they consider abusive, against a backdrop of the suspension of a long-serving employee. The dispute is disrupting restaurant operations at this well-known Champs-Élysées establishment.
✈️ Airport security | Access authorisations withdrawn following October demonstrations
The Paris Police Prefecture has announced the withdrawal of airport security authorisations from individuals allegedly involved, according to its services, in theft, assaults or preparations for acts of violence during demonstrations on 17 and 24 October. The decisions concern badges granting access to restricted security areas at airports. The authorities emphasise that the obligations attached to these authorisations also extend to holders’ conduct outside their professional duties.
🌍 INTERNATIONAL
🇩🇪 Appointment | Andrew Kennedy joins Accor to accelerate franchise growth
Andrew Kennedy has been appointed Vice President Global Franchise Growth, Premium, Midscale & Economy at Accor, based in Munich. He joins the group after more than seven years at Marriott International, where he most recently served as Senior Director, Owner & Partner Relations EMEA. His career also includes positions at Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Langham Hospitality Group.
🇬🇧 Appointment | Daniel Pasquali takes charge of global sales at Starwood Hotels
Starwood Hotels has announced the appointment of Daniel Pasquali as Vice President of Global Sales. Based at the group’s London headquarters, he brings twenty years of experience in luxury hospitality. His appointment forms part of the company’s efforts to strengthen its international commercial organisation.
🇩🇴 Appointment | Charles Keusters promoted to Vice President of Operations at Casa de Campo
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic has promoted Charles Keusters to Vice President of Operations. A former Meliá Hotels International executive who joined the resort in 2014, he had overseen operations since 2018. His expanded responsibilities now cover operational performance, teams, investment and the development of this integrated destination.
🇬🇩 Appointment | Kevin Carty takes charge of Silversands Collection Grenada
ORA Hospitality has appointed Kevin Carty as General Manager of Silversands Collection Grenada, with responsibility for Silversands Grand Anse and Silversands Beach House. He previously served as General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Canouan. His career also includes Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club and Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel.
🇸🇦 Luxury tourism | Dream of the Desert opens bookings for October 2027
Developed by Italian group Arsenale, Dream of the Desert officially opens for bookings on 4 November 2026 during World Travel Market in London. The ultra-luxury train will connect Riyadh with several destinations in northern Saudi Arabia, including Al Jouf and the Aja Mountains. The first commercial journeys are scheduled for October 2027, with two-night experiences starting at approximately €19,700 per couple.
At a Glance
France: Hotel RevPAR increased by 8% in September 2026, driven primarily by higher average room rates.
Development: Six Senses is preparing a luxury hospitality and branded residential destination in the Loire Valley.
Industrial relations: A strike involving around 30 employees is affecting Café di Roma on the Champs-Élysées.
Leadership: Accor appoints Andrew Kennedy to a global franchise growth role, while Starwood Hotels welcomes Daniel Pasquali.
Caribbean: Charles Keusters and Kevin Carty take on senior operational leadership positions.
Luxury travel: Saudi Arabia’s Dream of the Desert opens bookings ahead of its planned October 2027 launch.
