We dive into two major forces reshaping the travel industry: the rise of AI in search and the growing uncertainty in global business travel due to shifting U.S. policies.
For over 20 years, travel brands have fine-tuned their digital presence to rank well on Google—optimizing metadata, backlinks, and using structured schema to boost visibility. But with the rapid rise of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini, the rules are changing. These AI-driven systems interact with content in entirely new ways. They’re less interested in your schema markup and more focused on raw, unstructured HTML. Domain authority? It matters less than ever.
Experts like Brennan Bliss from Propellic are urging travel brands to rethink their approach. That means simplifying page structures, reducing reliance on JavaScript, and prioritizing content that mirrors the way people interact with AI—think FAQ-style pages, conversational language, and contextual brand mentions. As traditional SEO strategies lose effectiveness, the new priority is being readable and relevant to the machines powering tomorrow’s search.
On the corporate travel front, the outlook is less than optimistic. A recent Global Business Travel Association poll reveals a significant dip in industry confidence, with only 31% of professionals feeling positive about 2025—a stark decline from 67% in late 2024. The cause? A combination of visa complications, rising travel costs, and political instability tied to the Trump administration’s policy shifts.
Airlines such as Delta and United have already reported stagnant corporate travel volumes. Despite positive projections earlier this year, the reality is now defined by caution and tightened budgets. The ripple effect is being felt across the travel ecosystem—from suppliers to travel managers—and it’s creating an environment where strategic adaptability is no longer optional.
For short-term rental hosts and managers, these changes highlight the importance of both digital readiness and market awareness. Investing in AI-friendly website design and content can offer a competitive edge in an evolving search landscape. At the same time, understanding the macroeconomic and political climate will help inform smarter pricing, marketing, and guest targeting strategies.
Ready to elevate your direct booking game? Visit the Boostly website for the tools, strategies, and support you need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. And remember: Book Direct.
