Articles tagged “lobbying”

As states look for new sources of tax revenue in the service-driven economy, businesses like travel agencies are viewed as likely targets. Part of the problem is ignorance among legislators of how agencies operate and why added taxes would be devastating for many.

These travel advisors have a certain swagger about them these days. Their U.S. trade association, the newly named American Society of Travel Advisors, is now back among the living, and has the challenge of keeping things moving in the right direction.

The power of a great lobby is a huge differentiator in hospitality. Hotels shouldn't forget its power. In fact, they should double down.

Lobbying firm Dickstein Shapiro tells prospective clients: "State AGs are the new sheriffs in town. Do you know them? We do. Sophisticated lawyering. Unparalleled relationships." It all seems to have paid off in Florida.

You can really like Airbnb and the effect it has had on how we travel while not supporting the rule breaking that happens in cities like New York. But it's very hard to appreciate a deep-pocketed astroturfing campaign that tries to pretend it is grassroots-driven.

Hotels may have found a way to capitalize on this free and sought after space, but enterprising guests that have held lobby meetings for years will be surprised to find an extra fee.

Spending is up again as rates and occupancy levels are the highest they’ve been in years, but the focus on lobby design means hotels are most concerned with their first impressions and brand identity.

Vote Travel, yes, but don't do it blindly. It's great the U.S. Travel Association is out there trying to influence the influencers, but the industry needs to be candid when federal agencies act as if they don't have any spending caps on their meetings.

Westin's Vertical Gardens aren't a substitute for a balcony with an ocean view and they won't solve the presentation or meeting that didn't go well, but the hotel chain is on the right track with its new lobby design.