Hoteliers’ Voice

This episode of Travel Market Life is recorded live at the International Hotel Technology Forum in Vila Mora, Portugal. While the weather might be rather grey, I’m joined by some of hospitality’s sharpest minds—Diogo Vaz Ferreira from Clink Hostels, Tiago Alves from Belmond, Rohit Mishra from Park Plaza, and Luis Martins from SHR. Together, we’re diving into how technology is shaking up the indust...

Are you ready for the major shake-up in employment law? In this episode of Travel Market Life, we explore what these changes mean for travel and hospitality with expert Ami Naru, a 25-year veteran in travel employment law. We unpack the Employment Rights Bill, new flexible working rules, and a duty to tackle sexual harassment—with a 25% penalty hike if you don’t. From practical tips to real-world...

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a secondary city into a hospitality goldmine? I’m diving deep with Neetu Mistry, Chief Commercial Officer at Cycas Hospitality, who’s cracked the code on making hotels hum in places others might overlook. Neetu’s a powerhouse—think commercial strategies for giants like Marriott, Hilton, and IHG under her belt—and she’s steering Cycas’ sprawling portfoli...

Ready to unlock the secrets of affordable travel and get the most out of your next trip? In this episode, we’re sharing the ultimate travel hacks and strategies that’ll save you both money and headaches. Host Ryan Haynes is joined by regulars James Clark, Claire Steiner, and Will Plummer, along with expert Katie McClure from Jack’s Flight Club. Together, they’ll reveal how to snag unbeatable deals...

In this episode of Travel Market Life, we’re previewing the 22nd International Hotel Technology Forum, landing in Algarve, Portugal, March 18th-20th, 2025. It’s your taster of what’s ahead—hotel pros and tech pioneers exploring digital tools to shake up operations and guest experiences. I’ll be hosting Stream B, from that first click to slick in-room tech. We’ve got Tiago Alves from Belmond teasin...

How is technology shaping the future of hospitality, and what does it mean for hotel businesses in a rapidly evolving digital world? In this Hoteliers’ Voice episode, Alessandra Leoni, an industry expert with over 25 years of experience, shares insights on how hotels are adopting new technologies and staying competitive. Alessandra discusses her career journey from reception ma...

In this episode, we discuss how travel businesses can tackle financial challenges from new regulations, rising costs, and global economic shifts. I’m joined by experts Martin Alcock, Claire Steiner, James Clark, and Will Plummer to explore key issues shaping the future of the travel industry, including changes to national insurance and the upcoming budget. We cover pressures on business owners, su...

How can AI transform the way short-term rental businesses manage operations and engage with guests? In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionising the short-term rental industry with insights from Vered Raviv-Schwarz, President and COO at Gesty, and Ben Duncan, Commercial Director at Host & Stay. We dive into how AI-powered tools are making a huge impact o...

How can AI transform guest communication and streamline hotel operations? In this episode, we explore how AI is revolutionising the hospitality industry with Michiel de Vor, co-founder of Runnr.ai, and Maurits Bots, IT manager at WestCord Hotels. We discuss how AI-powered tools are improving guest interactions, reducing staff workload, and enhancing guest satisfaction...

How is the hospitality industry adapting to the changing world of social media and digital marketing? Andy Whiteside, Director of Digital Communications at 80 Days, shares insights on TikTok’s growing influence among luxury hotels and the importance of YouTube Shorts. TikTok is no longer just for younger audiences - it’s now a key search engine for travellers looking for specific hotel experiences...

How is the hospitality industry evolving with new technologies and shifting consumer expectations? In this episode, we’re at HOSPACE 2024, where industry leaders gather to discuss the latest trends in hospitality, technology, and sustainability. I’m joined by key figures like Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA, and other industry professionals including Ales...

In this episode, we explore about how social media trends are changing the game for the travel and hospitality industry, and how businesses can keep up. With our regular review panel James Clark, Claire Steiner, and Will Plummer in this episode we are joined by social media expert Anneka Roberts from Finn Partners. We dive into the role platforms like TikTok...

How can hotels stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace and effectively navigate the complexities of modern marketing? In this episode of  Travel Market Life , we explore the key trends and challenges currently shaping the hospitality industry, with insights from experts at the Independent Hotel Show 2024. We discuss the vital role of data, personalisation, and branding in hotel marketing...

We look back on our crystal ball gazing from January and reflect on how the year has evolved for our predictions before then look at the trends that will shape 2025. With Ryan Haynes, James Clarke, Claire Steiner and Will Plummer. We explore AI’s lasting impact on staffing, pricing, and hospitality management, plus shifting consumer behaviours particularly a look at Will’s pred...

In this episode of Travel Market Life, I bring together top hospitality experts to explore the crucial role of technology in modern hotel operations. We explore how guest expectations are shifting, with 40% of travellers now expecting seamless, contactless experiences. Yet, as a recent ResDiary report reveals, many hospitality venues are still behind the curve. Nick Pilbeam shares how Queensway Ho...

Is the focus on average daily rate (ADR) helping or hurting hotel profitability? In this episode of Travel Market Life, we unpack the financial realities of today’s hotel industry, recorded live at the Independent Hotel Show 2024. How much financial leakage are hotels experiencing? Is a focus on ADR detrimental to overall profitability?  In this episode of Travel Market Life, we unpack the fi...

In this episode, we explore the upcoming  HOSPACE 2024 , HOSPA’s flagship conference, happening on 14th November at the Royal Lancaster, London. This annual event promises to be a powerhouse of insights, networking, and cutting-edge discussions, bringing together leaders and experts to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges. Expect fascinating panels and workshops covering ho...

In the words of Mustafa Gokcen from Cheval Collection “tech is not a cost saving exercise, tech is a tool that allows us to focus on other priorities.” As software and systems drive automation for greater operational and commercial efficiency, where do you draw the line at being effective?  Maggie Bazemore provides insight into the relationship between an OTA and technology companies and the...

With so many changes in digital marketing, but the importance of a direct booking strategy - hotels are having to develop a marketing programme that constitutes multiple guest touch points working with an increasing number of third parties. David Ohanjanian details the changes on Google and the impact this is having on marketing spend and activity with the development of Performance Max and EU reg...

In this episode we tackle the major challenges that are reshaping the industry with expert insights from Camilla Woods, Head of Services at Hospitality Action, and Esmat Faiz, Associate Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell. We look at the impending changes in employment regulation that will impact the hospitality industry and the policies that matter for recruitment and retention. Esmat cove...

In this episode, we look at where there is potential to drive more revenue in hospitality and accommodation businesses when the ADR has been maximised, other than occupancy - how can hotels increase spend per guest? Speaking to Scot Turner, Director at Auden Hospitality,we look at F&B, exploring where profit margins have seeped to an all-time low - and how bu...

What's really in store for the hospitality sector in 2025? In this live episode of Travel Market Life, recorded at the Rembrandt Hotel, we tackle the industry's biggest challenges and forecast what's next. Joined by industry experts Jane Pendlebury from HOSPA, Catt McLeod from the Elegant Hotel Collection, and JonnySiberry from Sarova Hotels, we dig into the forces sh...

What’s driving the surge in luxury travel post-pandemic? In this episode of Travel Market Life, we sit down with Robin Lawther, Vice President of Expedia TAAP, to uncover the fascinating shifts shaping the future of luxury travel. With nearly 2,900 high-end agencies under his belt, Robin gives us an insider’s perspective on how affluent travellers are redefining luxury in a pos...

What makes the Independent Hotel Show 2024 a must-attend event for hoteliers and industry leaders? In this special episode, I dive into the key themes, trends, and sessions set to shape this year’s show, happening on October 15th and 16th at the Olympia in London. I’m joined by industry leaders Jane Pendlebury, CEO of HOSPA; James Clarke, the newly appointed Chai...

I sit down with Ivana Tagliamonte, the visionary owner of the enchanting Bellport Inn, as we explore how Ivana transformed this historic Long Island property into a modern, tech-savvy retreat that seamlessly combines old-world charm with cutting-edge guest experience technology.  Ivana, driven by a passion for hospitality, shares how, together with her husband, she designed an exceptional gue...