After a year of frequent travel—both personal and professional—I’ve noticed a troubling trend across hotel stays: the steady erosion of true hospitality. From Memphis to small-town Georgia, the warmth and attentiveness that once defined the hotel experience have been replaced by cost-cutting and mediocrity. Here's what that looks like on the ground—and why it matters for travelers.

Hospitality isn’t dead — but it’s definitely hiding. After too many underwhelming hotel stays, I’ve started keeping a mental list of places that still get it right. From boutique motels in Utah to thoughtful Airbnbs in Georgia, here are a few gems that reminded me what it means to feel truly welcome.