Miraj S. Patel

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT MIRAJ S. PATEL

Miraj S. Patel, MBA, CHIA, CHO is a second-generation hotelier who began his hospitality career at a young age, growing up in his family’s first 30-room independent property. Today, he serves as President of Wayside Investment Group, a Texas-based firm specializing in opportunistic investments in lodging and hospitality real estate.From 2024 to 2025, Miraj served as Chairman of AAHOA, becoming the youngest person to hold the position in the association’s 35-year history. AAHOA is the world’s largest hotel owners association, representing members who collectively own 60% of U.S. hotels and contribute 1.7% to the nation’s GDP. Miraj has spoken at numerous prestigious business, academic, social, and legislative conferences and has been featured in leading trade publications.A proven industry leader, Miraj currently serves as Director at Large of the Texas Hotel & Lodging Association, the nation’s largest state hotel association with over members spanning the lodging and tourism industry. He has also served on the Red Roof Brand Council and the Best Western Texas Co-op. Deeply committed to service, Miraj is actively involved in various industry associations and charitable organizations, continually seeking opportunities to give back and create positive impact.He holds a Master\'s in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Lodging Management from Johnson & Wales University in Miami, Florida.