While hotel management positions have historically been held by men, new research by the Castell Project (a nonprofit that focuses on women in the hospitality industry) suggests women are making progress in climbing the corporate ladder at hotels. In fact, 1 in 10 leadership positions in the hospitality sector are now held by women, an improvement from 2019 data, according to the Castell Project.
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While there’s still a long way to go to achieve equality in the workplace, including in the hospitality sector, progress is being made. Gone are the days when finding a hotel with a woman in charge was next to impossible. All of the major brands now feature incredible properties helmed by women.
In honor of International Women’s Day, we’ve rounded up 14 stunning points properties with general managers who are women. See which hotels are paving the way toward creating a more equitable hospitality industry, and what features you won’t want to miss when you visit.
In This Post
Hilton
Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort — Scottsdale, Arizona
A literal desert oasis, the 707-room Arizona Biltmore has a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design.
“Originally built in 1929, the Arizona Biltmore is a ‘Jewel of the Desert’ and timeless beauty,” says Abby Murtagh, general manager at the property. “They just don’t design resorts like this anymore. The layering of thought and detail in every aspect of the hotel design and grounds … they all tie back to the brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright, his influence and his students.”
Offering a brand-new spa, seven pristine pool areas, a beautiful new lobby bar and a signature restaurant serving modern Latin cuisine, the recently renovated hotel has never looked better. Accommodation options are plentiful, too, so whether you desire a chic room with a patio overlooking the pools or a cottage with a fire pit, you’ll find an incredible space to hang your hat.
Best of all, the property’s affiliation with Hilton means you can cash in Hilton Honors points for a stay here. Rates start at 80,000 points per night for a standard room.
Related: 4 family-friendly road trips you can take through Arizona
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Jose and Juniper Hotel Cupertino, Curio Collection by Hilton — San Jose and Cupertino, California
For the tech crowd, Hilton offers several options in Silicon Valley helmed by women.
Featuring 505 rooms and 224 rooms, respectively, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Jose and Juniper Hotel Cupertino offer proximity to corporate headquarters for companies like Apple and Google. Not to mention, both feature modern designs befitting the tech-savvy area, plus top-notch fitness centers. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool at the DoubleTree and a rooftop beehive at the Juniper Hotel Cupertino. You’ll find the latter’s honey incorporated into the menu at the adjacent Parkview Kitchen & Spirits restaurant.
Misoon Kong, the general manager for both properties, raves about one Juniper Hotel Cupertino perk in particular, though: the weekly reception for select elite guests.
“I love having the opportunity to meet and reconnect with guests during our wine reception with our Diamond and Gold members on Friday evenings,” Kong says. “Don’t miss that!”
Both properties participate in Hilton Honors, so you can use points to cover your stay. Expect to cash in at least 35,000 points per night for a stay at the San Jose DoubleTree outpost, while nightly rates at Juniper Hotel Cupertino start at 35,000 points.
Conrad Washington, DC
Opened in 2019, this Washington, D.C., property is the flagship location for Hilton’s luxury Conrad brand.
Situated in the heart of the city, the hotel offers proximity to dozens of shopping and dining options in addition to famous sights like the White House.
Each of the 360 guest rooms features a neutral, modern design with city views from floor-to-ceiling windows. As for dining, you’ll have your pick of several food and beverage venues, including Estuary, the signature restaurant helmed by James Beard Award recipients and “Top Chef” finalists Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, and Summit, the seasonal rooftop bar and lounge.
For Conrad Washington, DC‘s general manager, Laura Schofield, there’s one spot you won’t want to miss during your stay: the Sakura Club.
“Somewhat of a hidden gem … the space is pure serenity with a gorgeous view of the U.S. Capitol building through the floor-to-ceiling windows,” Schofield says. “One of my favorite amenities in the Club is ‘the magic refrigerator’ … full of ice cream, candy bars, yogurt, fruit, juice and iced tea. It is a big hit with every generation of the family!”
Redemption rates at this Hilton Honors-participating property start at 80,000 points per night.
Related: Peak bloom date announced: Best time to see DC’s cherry blossoms in 2022
Hyatt
Hyatt Regency Boston / Cambridge — Cambridge, Massachusetts
Overlooking the scenic Charles River and the Boston skyline, the 479-room Hyatt Regency Boston / Cambridge is a convenient option for everyone from tourists to families visiting college students at Boston University, Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
After exploring nearby Kendall and Harvard squares in Cambridge, guests can return to the triangular property to “recenter, take a call or just sit and enjoy the view” from the third-floor terrace, says Melissa Green, the property’s general manager.
Once the hotel wraps up a renovation of its lobby and meeting, event and social spaces this month, guests will also have access to several new dining outlets, including full-service Paperback Tavern and market-style, grab-and-go Paperback Provisions.
Award stays at this Category 4 Hyatt hotel start at 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
Set to start welcoming guests this fall, the 700-room Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City wows with its sleek, modern design.
This member of the Hyatt family, which is attached to the Salt Palace Convention Center, promises to offer breathtaking views of the surrounding snowcapped mountains from its rooftop terrace, a space general manager Pina Purpero highly recommends checking out when the property opens.
“Sometimes, in our fast-paced moments, slowing down, exhaling and taking in the natural beauty around us can be overlooked,” Purpero says.
When you get your fill of the mountains, claim a spot by the lobby’s oversize stone fireplace to warm up and unwind. Or, grab a bite to eat in the Spanish-inspired Mar | Muntanya restaurant.
While starting rates for award stays are not available yet, know that the property will be eligible for World of Hyatt redemptions when it opens.
IHG
InterContinental Muscat — Muscat, Oman
This InterContinental outpost within view of Oman‘s Hajjar Mountains is a crowd-pleaser thanks, in part, to its array of on-site amenities.
At the hotel’s Palm Beach Club, you’ll find two tennis courts, two pools, a fitness center, a sauna and more. There are also six dining venues, including a French Polynesian restaurant known for its fusion dishes, mai tais and live music.
But the property’s highlight, according to general manager Anna Marie Dowling, is its incredible location by the Gulf of Oman.
“Going through the small gate, which is situated at the back of the hotel gardens, leads directly onto one of Muscat’s most amazing beaches, Qurum Beach,” Dowling says. “You can usually find me walking on this beach for an hour very early in the morning with my feet in the warm waves and watching a spectacular Omani sunrise. I recommend it for guests, too.”
To book a stay with points, you’ll need at least 35,000 IHG Rewards points.
Kimpton Hotel Fontenot — New Orleans
A newcomer to the New Orleans hospitality scene, the 202-room Kimpton Hotel Fontenot has been welcoming visitors since May 2021.
Located in the heart of New Orleans’ central business district, this Kimpton hotel sits within walking distance of can’t-miss sights like the French Quarter, Lafayette Square and the National WWII Museum. It’s also packed with cool, comfortable spaces that draw inspiration from the city’s past as the capital of French Louisiana.
Guest rooms feature a soothing mix of black, white, soft pink and blue hues, plus natural elements like cane headboards and luxurious velvet accents. Meanwhile, the on-site coffee shop, Gospel Coffee and Boozy Treats, serves a selection of caffeinated and alcoholic drinks from a light-filled space outfitted with marble-topped bistro tables and a long cane-lined banquette.
Don’t forget to visit the property’s Peacock Room, “the elegant jewel box” of the hotel, according to general manager Jesseca Malecki.
“Not only is the space stunning and reminiscent of the ornate facades of the French Quarter,” Malecki says, “but the food and drinks are stellar.”
Redemption rates at the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot start at 36,000 points per night.
Related: 10 TPG-approved hotels for your next New Orleans stay
Six Senses Laamu — Laamu Atoll, Maldives
The only resort on remote Laamu Atoll in the southern part of the Maldives, Six Senses Laamu stuns with its tranquil tropical setting.
Visitors have their pick of 97 villas that are either beachfront or sit suspended above the surrounding lagoon or ocean. The paradisiacal location is ideal for spending time outdoors.
“Guests always go snorkeling on the house reef, which is beautiful and rich in marine life,” says Marteyne van Well, the property’s general manager. “My favorite thing to do, however, is to snorkel in our amazing seagrass meadows; our secret gardens under the sea never disappoint!”
While you could easily spend the majority of your stay in the water, also save time for a treatment at the spa (an expansive space with treatment areas directly on the beach) and a drink at the aptly named Chill Bar.
This high-end IHG outpost is a popular place to redeem points, so award nights are hard to come by. However, when there’s availability, rates typically start at 100,000 points per night.
Related: Cleared for Takeoff: A honeymoon trip to the Maldives on points and miles
InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu — Lyon, France
After undergoing an extensive renovation that included repurposing a historic landmark building, the 144-room InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu opened in 2019.
While the 18th- and 19th-century property offers plenty of historical charm, the decor is contemporary, featuring sleek light fixtures and furnishings with simple, clean lines. Guest rooms offer stunning views of either the Rhone or picturesque courtyards, and the on-site eatery serves a crowd-pleasing selection of French fare.
The showstopper, though, is the hotel’s Dome bar.
“Some of our guests do not always take the time to have a drink under the Dome,” says Madelijn Vervoord, a regional general manager for InterContinental who oversees the property. “For me, this is an experience not to be missed! Our 18th-century Dome … is a historical masterpiece. It can best be observed by sipping a world-class cocktail while lounging in our comfy armchairs specifically designed by well-known designer Jean-Philippe Nuel.”
Cashing in points for a free night here requires a minimum of 42,000 IHG Rewards points.
Marriott
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort — Marco Island, Florida
Situated along 3 miles of pristine private beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is the quintessential holiday getaway destination.
Boasting an impressive 11 restaurants, two championship golf courses, a spa and more, this luxurious Marco Island hotel is made for relaxation seekers. All rooms and suites have private balconies, with many providing picturesque views of the water.
To kick-start your beach vacation, Sharon Lockwood, the area general manager for Marriott, suggests taking advantage of the property’s daily morning yoga sessions at the beach.
“It is the most transformative way to start the day!” Lockwood says. “Toes in the sand, soaking in the sights and sounds alongside the Gulf of Mexico. I encourage all guests to set the tone for their day with beach yoga during at least one day of their stay. Even if you aren’t an early riser, it’s worth the alarm clock!”
Award stays at this Category 7 Marriott property currently require at least 50,000-70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, depending on the dates of your stay, though Marriott will soon switch to dynamic award pricing, meaning rates may fluctuate from night to night.
Related: Our 15 favorite Florida hotels for every type of traveler
JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas, Autograph Collection — Vancouver, British Columbia
Marriott offers two upscale options in Vancouver‘s centrally located Parq Vancouver entertainment complex: the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the Douglas, Autograph Collection.
Featuring sleek, modern exteriors with walls of windows, the properties offer easy access to all of the shops, restaurants and attractions of the adjacent Yaletown and Gastown neighborhoods.
While the 329-room JW Marriott offers light, airy accommodations with butterfly artwork above the beds and alcoves with floor-to-ceiling windows, the Douglas features a more masculine feel (think: concrete ceilings, dark wood headboards and leather furnishings) in its 188 guest rooms and suites.
There are a few easy-to-miss amenities, too. For example, the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver’s wellness area on the 17th floor boasts some of the property’s best views.
“There you will find … our Spa by JW with a couples treatment room and manicures/pedicure station with spectacular harbor views and our Aqua Lounge, which is a fantastic outdoor space with a hydrotherapy tub and outdoor seating,” says Marion Harper Treskin, the general manager at both this property and the Douglas. “It is a peaceful escape.”
Until dynamic award pricing kicks in, you’ll find starting redemption rates for both properties ranging between 40,000 and 60,000 Bonvoy points per night.
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Designed by acclaimed Atlanta architect John C. Portman Jr., the iconic Atlanta Marriott Marquis is renowned for its soaring 50-story atrium (once the world’s tallest).
“My favorite thing to do is greet guests in the lobby and watch as they enter and take in our amazing atrium,” says Erica Qualls-Battey, the area general manager who oversees this property. “It is truly breathtaking … [and] has been the backdrop of multiple movies (remember “The Hunger Games”?) and is one of the most photographed hotels in Atlanta.”
The massive four-star property has 1,663 accommodations and more than 70 meeting rooms, as well as an indoor/outdoor pool, a spa and a range of bars and restaurants.
Additionally, the location is ideal for exploring downtown Atlanta. In fact, you’ll find some of the city’s most popular attractions, including World of Coca-Cola and SkyView Atlanta, within walking distance.
You’ll currently need 30,000-40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to book a standard room at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, though that range may change once dynamic award pricing takes effect.
Related: City guide: What to eat, drink and do in Atlanta
Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Half Moon — Montego Bay, Jamaica
Tropical greenery, miles of sandy shores and crystal-clear water frame Half Moon, a serene 400-acre paradise in the busy town of Montego Bay.
Shernette Crichton, Half Moon’s general manager, recommends maximizing your time by the ocean, as the Preferred-affiliated property is known for its incredible beaches.
“An early morning stroll along Sunrise Beach may give you the opportunity to catch sight of a hawksbill sea turtle quietly buried in the sand, laying her eggs,” she says. “Our beaches are home to some of the most beautiful sea creatures, and being able to witness a turtle hatching is truly remarkable. Since December 2020, we have safely released just over 5,000 hatchlings from 42 nests.”
When you’re not searching for sea turtles, borrow complimentary nonmotorized water sports equipment like kayaks and paddleboards, or work up a sweat on the golf course or tennis courts. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the on-site Anancy Children’s Village, a fee-based kids club with half-day, full-day and multiday packages for children 3 to 12.
A Preferred Legend property that participates in the I Prefer Hotel Rewards program, Half Moon offers award stays starting at 100,000 points per night.
Related: What it’s like traveling to Jamaica right now
Hotel Metropole Geneve — Geneva
A historic property built in 1854, the 111-room Hotel Metropole Geneve was recently renovated to offer a contemporary interior behind the hotel’s stunning facade.
Conveniently perched on Geneva’s left bank, the five-star Preferred Lifestyle hotel sits in the heart of the area’s shopping district and a short walk from the famous Jet d’Eau fountain. As such, it offers phenomenal land and water vistas.
“We have a new covered heated pergola on the roof that invites guests to get cozy and enjoy the unique ambiance with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake, the Jet d’Eau fountain and the English Garden,” says Hélène Lang-Lauper, the hotel’s general manager.
In addition to the Met Rooftop Lounge, pop into the moody Mirror Bar, which features bold red walls and furnishings, plus several eye-catching mirrors.
Reserving a standard room with points here requires at least 100,000 I Prefer points per night.
Featured photo by MesquitaFMS/Getty Images.