Founding of International Hotels Corporation

The International Hotels Corporation was established to address the need for upscale accommodations in locations where such facilities were lacking, particularly to serve Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) crews and passengers. The corporation was fully owned by Pan Am, which recognized the potential for growth in the hospitality sector, especially in Latin America. In the initial phase, company executives undertook extensive fact-finding missions across various cities in Latin America to identify suitable locations for new hotels. This strategic approach allowed the corporation to lay the groundwork for its future expansion and development in the hospitality industry. The focus was on creating a network of hotels that would cater to international travelers, thereby enhancing the travel experience and supporting the growing demand for quality lodging in emerging markets.