SOUTH PORTLAND — Hotels sheltering homeless individuals and families will be back before the City Council on Tuesday to address continuing concerns about increased calls for police and other emergency services.

In the spotlight are several hundred homeless individuals and people seeking asylum who remain in local hotels under contracts with the Maine State Housing Authority, said City Manager Scott Morelli. The city is responding to complaints from residents and business owners at a time when affordable housing is scarce, staffing is short and costs are rising.

The council will review operating licenses that were renewed in April for Comfort Inn, Days Inn and Howard Johnson, which are owned by New Gen Hospitality Management of South Portland. Although the hotels are scheduled for public hearings to consider revoking their licenses, municipal staff members instead will recommend that the council impose certain conditions to help curb calls for service, Morelli said

For many of us, the long-awaited summer break has officially arrived, and in preparation, scores of hotels have been opening in time for those lucky enough to get away for a while. These days, hoteliers are quick to employ the best designers in the game to ensure each detail is top-notch. Here, we pick out some of our favorites – from minimalist retreats in the Ibizan caves, to maximalist getaways in downtown Los Angeles.

The Standard
Bangkok, Thailand

The arrival of The Standard in Bangkok has been long-awaited. Working alongside the in-house design team, artist and designer Jaime Hayon has crafted spaces that are typical of his colorful, eclectic style. Filled with custom details, fine art, and design classics, the entire space feels like a fantasy world amidst a concrete jungle. Throughout, Hayon and the team have drawn on local cultural and historical references, and public spaces provide a space