Lifestyle hospitality brand AC Hotels by Marriott has launched a global panel series called AC Unpacked: A Conversation. The series brings visionary thinkers and creative leaders to AC Hotels worldwide to discuss travel, design, experience and the ideas that shape modern hospitality. The program debuted last month at AC New York Times Square.
“The AC guest approaches life with curiosity, seeing travel as a way to create and curate genuine connections to people, experiences, and ideas that galvanize them,” said Benoit Racle, senior global brand director, AC Hotels by Marriott. “AC Unpacked: A Conversation is a thoughtfully curated program that introduces fresh perspectives from creative visionaries across the globe — offering inspiration for guests and locals alike in both professional and personal spheres.”
AC New York Times Square will host two additional events. On Sept. 6 the conversation will center on design and feature Stephanie Mark, founder and editor in chief of Coveteur, as a panelist. An Oct. 11 event will emphasize travel and experience; speakers for that session will be announced at a later date. Similar gatherings are scheduled for venues in Europe and Latin America. Each panel concludes with a cocktail hour, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect and continue the conversation in an informal setting.
The series aims to create intimate, idea-driven encounters that align with AC Hotels’ focus on modern, thoughtfully designed spaces and meaningful travel experiences. By inviting leaders from media, design, and hospitality to share their insights on stage, AC Unpacked seeks to foster dialogue that reflects contemporary travel trends and the ways people engage with place, culture, and community while on the move.
AC Unpacked events are intended for hotel guests and local audiences, blending expert panels with social moments to encourage networking and discovery. As the series expands to more AC Hotels internationally, it will continue to highlight subjects such as design, storytelling, sustainable travel, and the evolving priorities of today’s curious traveler.
Attendees can expect concise panel discussions followed by a relaxed cocktail hour, creating a balance between thoughtful programming and casual social time. AC Unpacked positions AC Hotels as a platform for ideas, connecting guests with creative voices who inspire new ways of seeing and experiencing the world through travel and design.