AccorHotels enables mood-based searching

AccorHotels has started enabling guests to search for stays based on what kind of mood they are in. Whether they are feeling romantic, chilled out or in a party mood, guests can visit AccorHotels.com and use the new MoodMatch search engine to find their ideal break. The technology was developed by start-up Travelsify and analyses guest comments and feedback posted about hotels.

Airlines test remote baggage drops at Orlando Airport

Six airlines have started testing remote baggage drop technology at Orlando International Airport in Florida. Remote bag check-in stations have been installed in the airport’s car parks and can be used by the passengers of Alaska Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, American Airlines and JetBlue. The trial has been launched ahead of a planned permanent implementation later this year.

“NASA-inspired” bedding guarantee good night’s sleep

Hotels wanting to ensure their guests get a good night’s sleep may be interested in new “NASA-inspired” bedding. Created by UK-based firm Rested, the new bedding range includes “floating” beds with touchscreen remotes and under-bed lighting, thermo-regulating duvets made using NASA technology, aloe vera and silk protein cotton sheets, and 50 natural essential oil fragrances.

Free PMS offered to small hotels

A new Property Management System (PMS) is being offered free-of-charge to hotels with fewer than 300 reservations a month. CosmoPMS was developed by FCS specifically to meet the needs of smaller hotels and inns. Properties with larger volumes are charged a rate of US$50 a month, and if reservations fall below the 300 threshold, hotels will receive the next month free.