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Automatic

2823 posts

Hotels shouldn’t depend solely on AI for direct bookings

📌 On Nov 26, 2024, at Phocuswright in Arizona, Mirai's Pablo Delgado advised hoteliers planning for 2025 to diversify beyond AI-based placements for marketing. Emphasizing a balanced strategy, Delgado suggested incorporating brand protection campaigns, and utilizing platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The panel with TripAdvisor's Kristen Dalton and Sojern's Noreen Henry also discussed AI's role in travel distribution. Read more at Travolution.
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Amex GBT projects ‘modest’ 2025 airfare increases

✈ Global airfare prices are expected to stabilize in 2025, except for Australia. American Express Global Business Travel's Air Monitor 2025 report, dated Nov 26, 2024, predicts a 2.7% increase in North America business class fares, 1.2% in Europe, and a 2.8% hike in economy class for both regions. Influences include NDC adoption affecting prices, tougher airline negotiations for corporate travel, and factors such as leisure travel decline, expanded capacity, geopolitical issues, rising labor costs, and additional fees.
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Travel industry must target Gen Xers as Baby Boomer boom fades

🏖 By 2024, Gen Xers (40-60) are set to become the primary market for luxury travel, overtaking Baby Boomers (60-80) who will likely retire from traveling in the next 10-14 years. Gen X leads in spending and prefers luxury, balance, sustainability, and learning. They value straightforward communication, through channels like newsletters, Facebook, and YouTube, with a focus on value and visual appeal.
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U.S. October hotel rates, occupancy rise

🏨 U.S. hotels in October 2024 reported increases in average daily rates (ADR) by 1.8% to $164.86, occupancy by 2.3% to 67.3%, and revenue per available room (RevPAR) by 4.1% to $110.94, as per STR data. New York led STR's top 25 markets with the highest occupancy at 91%, while St. Louis recorded the lowest at 61.7%, followed by Minneapolis at 63.1%.
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The future of hospitality revenue management

📊 Hospitality revenue managers in the U.S. face challenges such as consumer preference shifts and competition from short-term rentals, with RevPAR growth projected at 1.2% through 2024. AI integration in revenue management enables dynamic pricing, improves demand forecasting, and personalizes customer interactions for loyalty and growth. AI-powered tools enhance real-time decision-making and data analysis, integrating with ERP and CRM systems for seamless data flow.
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2025 hotel demand growth ‘muted,’ says PwC

💰 U.S. hotels are set for a modest growth through 2025 with a 1.5% annual increase in RevPAR. Business travel demand is predicted to rise year-over-year in 2025, while leisure travel is expected to soften. GDP growth is estimated at 2.7% in 2024 and 2.1% in 2025. The lodging industry faces uncertainties from political and economic factors, including the recent election, immigration policies, evolving travel patterns, and tariff changes.
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Virtuoso on technology, longevity and diversity in luxury travel

🚀 Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso, emphasized on Nov 22, 2024, that technology, particularly AI, enhances rather than replaces travel agents. With six generations traveling simultaneously, a historical first, luxury travel requires personalized experiences. AI streamlines logistics, enabling agents to focus on creating tailored journeys. Innovations like three-way video calls with local experts, such as those in Rwanda, add value to travel planning.
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The new face of hospitality

🏨 On Nov 22, 2024, at WiT Singapore, the "Three Shades of Hospitality" panel addressed the evolution of the industry towards innovative models like hybrid hotels blending work and leisure, and wellness-focused retreats for health-conscious, affluent travelers. Key changes include: adoption of management contract models by independent brands, an increased demand for holistic health experiences, and a necessity for personalization and unique experiences in hospitality, especially for luxury travelers seeking tailored services.
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OTAs must remain agile amid rapid change

🏡 Adrienne Enggist, at WiT Singapore on Nov 22, 2024, highlighted AI's impact on OTAs, noting the technology's ability to interpret customer intent through data analysis. AI provides personalized travel options, enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction. Advancements like ChatGPT offer tailor-made multi-city itineraries, addressing complex travel planning needs. The evolution of AI continues to solve previously "unsolvable" challenges within the travel industry.
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Booking.com launches biggest Black Friday deals ever

🛫 Booking.com offers up to 35% off global accommodations on Nov 22, 2024. Research indicates 73% prioritize travel, with 56% seeking budget options. Over 41,000 properties participate in Black Friday deals, with additional discounts of up to 25% on car rentals and 20% on attractions. 45% of travelers consider last-minute bookings for better deals, while flexible options and free cancellation add peace of mind.
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