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The unstoppable growth of alternative accommodation

Airbnb lets you see Wi-Fi speeds before booking, something many hotels still charge for. A 71-year-old % on LinkedIn believes this will change how we offer connectivity in accommodations. Meanwhile, studies show that alternative accommodations bring more wealth than high rents. With Airbnb growing faster than Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt combined, agility makes the difference. Are hotels ready to adapt, or will they continue to lose market share to new models like coliving?

A few days ago, Airbnb founder Brian Chesky announced that guests will now be able to see in advance the Wi-Fi speed offered at accommodations listed on his website.

Since we increasingly need a good Wi-Fi connection (especially abroad when we can't use mobile data), this measure seems very useful.

And a new way to demonstrate the agility of certain companies in staying up to date with customer needs or demands.

Following the news, I posted a survey on LinkedIn asking if hotels should take note of this measure, or if it was just an anecdotal measure. 711 respondents believe this will have an impact on the way hotels offer their connectivity.

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And we mustn't forget that many hotels—including large international luxury chains—continue to charge their guests for Wi-Fi that often leaves a lot to be desired.

On the other hand, this week Harvard Business Review stated that the restriction on Airbnb rentals is reducing development, in an article echoed by Smart Travel News.

A study conducted in Los Angeles (USA) found that the increase in wealth generated by these types of establishments outweighs the negative impact on the local community due to rising rents.

These two headlines are just a glimpse into the unstoppable growth of so-called alternative accommodation.

Airbnb is just the most representative brand, but in its wake, countless operators have emerged that are professionalizing a segment that was previously completely fragmented, growing exponentially in recent years.

In fact, Airbnb is currently worth more on the stock market than Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt combined.

The fact that companies like Airbnb neither own nor operate properties makes them much more agile in adapting to the current times. And if hotels don't want to lose further share of this type of accommodation (around 10-12% in top global destinations), they must react quickly.

It's just as absurd that hotels charge you for Wi-Fi as it is that you have to provide all your information when you enter a hotel, while paying is enough to do so in an apartment. Legislation should be the same for everyone and be made more flexible whenever possible.

On the other hand, more and more cities are putting obstacles in the way of, or even prohibiting, the licensing of this type of accommodation. However, it's important to keep in mind that many hotels are already offering their services on these types of portals, as "alternative accommodations."

But the market always moves faster. If there's no specific land or licenses are prohibited, new models emerge, such as coliving or hybrid student residences, where the average stay varies significantly, and offers are offered for both short-term and long-term stays.

You can't put a stop to things, and if companies like Airbnb are growing, it's because the public is fed up with the rigidities of hotels and demands this type of product.

From the family apartment that is cheaper than a suite for 4 in a hotel, to the most exclusive apartments (Yes, LVMH also operates apartments).

The detail of being able to know the type of Wi-Fi offered in an apartment is just another aspect of agility in response to changing demand. Airbnb has this figured out. And hoteliers?

El imparable crecimiento del alojamiento alternativo
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