Google’s AI Overhaul & Qatar’s New Tourism Playbook
Google’s Gemini AI is transforming travel planning into a seamless, conversational experience—no more blue links. Meanwhile, Qatar is shifting from mass tourism to high-value, longer stays. Episode 248 explores how AI and quality-first tourism are reshaping the STR landscape. https://youtu.be/qoUwniOE3pc Listen on Spotify We unpack two major developments shaping the future of hospitality: Google’s bold […]
From Split Conferences to Smart Agents: Travel’s Political and AI Future
As geopolitical tensions reshape global events, hybrid conferences like NASSS 2025 are becoming the norm. Meanwhile, agentic AI is rewriting how travel is booked—shifting power from OTAs to AI-driven assistants. https://youtu.be/oxyJ7R4EGTU Listen on Spotify We examine how geopolitics is reshaping event planning, and why agentic AI is quickly becoming the most disruptive force in travel […]
TMC Shake-Up & Travel Stocks in Congress: Who’s Really in Control?
Nearly 1 in 3 corporate travel managers are ready to ditch outdated TMCs in favour of tech-first platforms. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers are quietly investing in travel stocks like Airbnb and Marriott, raising ethical concerns. Episode 246 unpacks both shifts and what they mean for STR pros. https://youtu.be/K9ebhCI0E9k Listen on Spotify We explore two headline stories: […]
Spain Cracks Down on Airbnb as Hotels Cash In on Experiences
Spain orders Airbnb to remove 65,000 non-compliant listings amid a nationwide STR crackdown. Meanwhile, a new study shows experience-focused hotels boost revenue by up to 55%. Episode 245 explores how STR hosts can stay compliant—and use curated experiences to drive growth. https://youtu.be/ACD-9G9zdWs Listen on Spotify We’re covering two major stories: Spain’s escalating crackdown on short-term […]
Airbnb’s Climate Gap & the AI Revolution in Hotel Pricing
Airbnb’s new Services launch adds luxury experiences—but skips over sustainability concerns, despite its net-zero pledge. Meanwhile, AI booking is going real-time with live rates and availability. Hosts must prepare now to stay competitive in this fast-evolving travel landscape. https://youtu.be/9-E88ucSOqI Listen on Spotify We explore Airbnb’s Summer 2025 release, which blends luxury services with a notable […]
Nomads, Networks, and Next-Gen Booking: What’s Driving Travel in 2025
The Philippines is launching a digital nomad visa to attract long-stay, high-value travellers, while AI booking is entering a new era with real-time pricing and inventory through Model Context Protocol. Episode 243 explores how STR hosts can prepare for this shift in travel and tech. https://youtu.be/voU-O4cz9w0 Listen on Spotify We explore how the Philippines is […]
Airbnb’s Human Touch vs. Expedia’s AI Power: The Future of Travel Tech
Expedia is evolving into travel infrastructure, offering APIs and AI tools to power third-party booking platforms. Meanwhile, Airbnb is redesigning itself around emotional connection, launching services like massage, catering, and more. https://youtu.be/Z01AUKVqZXU Listen on Spotify We explore how two travel giants—Expedia and Airbnb—are taking very different but equally transformative approaches to the future of hospitality: […]
Asia’s Travel Shake-Up & the STR Tech Surge: What Hosts Need to Know
Airbnb expands beyond accommodation with new service bookings and a redesigned app, signalling a shift toward a full travel ecosystem. Meanwhile, India’s booming music tourism is reshaping demand patterns. Discover how STR hosts can tap into these trends and elevate the guest experience. https://youtu.be/iTZJQqHMgM4 Listen on Spotify We break down Airbnb’s bold pivot into services […]
Asia’s Travel Shake-Up & the STR Tech Surge: What Hosts Need to Know
Asia-Pacific tourism shows a mixed recovery, with Sri Lanka surging and the Philippines lagging. Meanwhile, STR hosts are embracing tech and direct bookings more than ever, using AI and automation to personalize at scale. Episode 240 explores where travel is headed—and how hosts can lead. https://youtu.be/yMglTcy4RWA Listen on Spotify We’re exploring the rapidly changing tourism […]
STR Growth Slows, NYC Sends Warning: What’s Next for Short-Term Rentals?
The STR industry hit $201.6B in 2024 but enters a slower growth phase in 2025, with Asia and Latin America gaining ground. Meanwhile, NYC cuts its tourism forecast by 3M, reflecting softening U.S. demand. Learn how hosts can adapt to shifting demand, regulation, and guest expectations https://youtu.be/f5HPXJ2nO50 Listen on Spotify We’re breaking down two major […]