Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta), the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S., today announced the establishment of a Luxury & Lifestyle Lodging Development Team. The team will lead Sonesta s growth of its Upper Upscale brands, which include The James and The Royal Sonesta franchises in the Americas. Today s announcement underscores Sonesta s commitment to and growing leadership position within the burgeoning lifestyle and luxury sectors.