Future of Lodging

Instead of a sudden stampede of Chinese tourists, expect a fast walk of travelers in a set of phases. Plus, more highlights from this week's news in hotel deals and development worldwide.

Oyo's new focus on customer support could help, but its relaxation of brand standards in the budget sector could have big reputational risks.

The lack of workforce in hospitality is both the cause and effect for rising costs. But as long as housekeeping and maintenance remain vital to guest experience, the shortage of labor will continue to fester and pester property management companies and owners. Robots won't be folding fitted sheets anytime soon.

Rental platform Zumper is entering the vacation rental market. 

Vacasa is trying to achieve profitability in 2023 while homeowners are leaving its platform, and it's forecasting that gross booking values will decline. Tough stuff.

Owners and managers in News York City are rushing to sign up their buildings as no-book zones for short-term rentals, but the number of host registrations is paltry so far.

The Swiss city of Lucerne is the latest to place restrictions on short-term rentals. Lucerne citizens voted (64 percent) to limit short-term rental stays to a maximum of 90 days…

The travel sector has been grappling with the subscription model for a few years. But Accor is the first major hotel group to roll out global paid subscription cards, giving guests access to discounts and perks at hotels worldwide.

Atit Jariwala is willing to risk creating hotels that some people hate as long as enough guests love them. After doubling the value of his Montauk hotel in five years, Jariwala is going bolder with his next project, Dawn Ranch.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts lacks youth appeal. But recently installed CEO Larry Cuculic is bringing a military-like approach to strategizing. He appears to be boosting the group's metabolism.