The Ascend Hotel Collection, a part of Choice Hotels International, had a stellar start to 2023 by further reinforcing its position as the largest upscale soft brand collection in the industry. With over 330 hotels open or in progress worldwide, it was no surprise that they were able to sign seven new agreements and add four more properties to their global portfolio in the first quarter of 2023.

This growth demonstrates Ascend Hotel Collection’s commitment to providing guests around the world with unique and unforgettable experiences. 

The company has recently acquired properties across the United States from the East to the West coast...

• Henry Zheng and Mark Arend have developed a second hotel collection called Ascend Hotel Collection in New York City, named Mayfair Hotel. It will be joining the previously opened Blue Angel Hotel NYC.
• CityFlats Hotel has properties located in two cities in Michigan: Grand Rapids and Port Huron.
• William Paladino from 1378 Group LLC has developed an 84-room property in Ellicottville, New York. This property is the second addition to Mr. Paladino's Collection, as he currently owns and operates The Giacomo in the nearby Niagara Falls area.
• Multiple locations in California, including San Francisco and Livermore.

"Choice Hotels pioneered the soft brand concept in the upscale segment with the launch of Ascend Hotel Collection 15 years ago and continues to redefine how hotel companies operate and drive value for owners through our legacy of operational excellence," said Mark Shalala, senior vice president, franchise development, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. "It's the value we deliver for our franchisees and the operational flexibility that helps drive profitability and continued interest in the brand. In the first quarter of 2023 we had the most deal signings in that quarter in the brand's history. As we continue to grow the portfolio, Jamey Cua joins Pete Metzger and the rest of our development team as we build on this momentum throughout the year and beyond."

Recent openings to the Ascend Hotel Collection include unique locations, from apple orchards to wineries including:

The Inn at Apple Valley, Ascend Hotel Collection (Sevierville, TN)

Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Smoky Mountains, The Inn at Apple Valley offers an unforgettable getaway for visitors to Sevierville. Boasting 111 luxurious rooms, this boutique hotel provides guests with easy access to some of the area's premier attractions, such as Dollywood and NASCAR. 

Abitta Boutique Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection (San Juan, Puerto Rico)

The Abitta Boutique Hotel offers guests the perfect opportunity to experience the best of what Condado has to offer. Located just a short stroll away from urban attractions such as Plaza Ventana del Mar, Casino del Mar, and a variety of bars and restaurants, this art-deco style hotel showcases artwork from talented local artists. 

Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection (Albuquerque, NM)

The Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn is a 24-room adobe-style compound located near the University of New Mexico and other prominent attractions in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Constructed in 1937, this historic property is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the State Register of Cultural Properties, thanks to its unique casitas, hidden courtyards, beautiful gardens, and traditional design.

The 5,000-square-foot banquet hall is a testament to the commitment of Genesis Worldwide Resorts LLC and its President Mark Cumbrow to providing guests with an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of Albuquerque's culture and way of life. 

"The Ascend Hotel Collection provides travelers with the opportunity to experience some of the world's most in-demand destinations while delivering the upscale experience our guests expect," said Janis Cannon, senior vice president, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. "We look forward to continuing to build on the Ascend Hotel Collection's success this year as we welcome more one-of-a-kind properties to our collection and provide guests with even more options coast to coast."

The Ascend Hotel Collection is an exclusive collection of hotels that are powered by the award-winning loyalty program Choice Privileges. As a member, you can earn points for eligible charges during your stay and redeem them for reward nights at nearly 7,400 hotels in over 45 countries and territories around the world. Additionally, when you get the Choice Privileges Mastercard, you can earn points faster on your everyday purchases. With so many benefits, the Ascend Hotel Collection is a great choice for your next stay.

[Image: Ascend Hotels - Choice Hotels International]