Social media, not search, is now the springboard to travel discovery By A.D. Thompson Hotel research used to be highly active, said Cassady Quintana, but in 2026, as cross-generational guests scroll their social media feeds, the process has evolved considerably. “They’re saving things – destinations, hotels, restaurants – months before they book a trip,” she said. … [Read more...] about Flipping the Script
Marketing
The AI Advantage
Turning guest insights into smart marketing By Amy King Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping marketing in the hotel industry. While much of the attention has focused on AI’s ability to generate emails, social posts, and promotional copy in seconds, the technology’s greatest value comes before the first word is written. Effective hotel marketers are using AI to … [Read more...] about The AI Advantage
From Keywords to Conversations
How GEO is driving hotel discoverability By Romal (RJ) Jayswal For decades, the hospitality industry has operated under a predictable digital playbook: Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Location, brand, and price were the key ingredients of guest discovery. Hotels fought for the top spot on Google, obsessing over keywords like “Best Hotel in Austin” and competing for … [Read more...] about From Keywords to Conversations
Missing Out on Metasearch
7 mistakes independent hotels should avoid in 2026 By Lindley Cotton Hotel metasearch advertising is no longer optional. It’s one of the most direct ways for hotels to compete with OTAs, reclaim demand, and protect margins – when it’s done right. But in 2026, metasearch is more competitive, more automated, and less forgiving of sloppy setups than ever. Some hotels … [Read more...] about Missing Out on Metasearch
10 Marketing Mistakes to Avoid
In a crowded landscape, independent hoteliers must often rely on creativity, authenticity, and strong storytelling to set their hotels apart. But even the most strategic and inventive hoteliers fall into marketing traps that waste time, money, and opportunity. Avoiding these pitfalls can strengthen an independent hotel’s brand, increase guest loyalty, and make marketing dollars … [Read more...] about 10 Marketing Mistakes to Avoid