Austin’s Convention Centre is closing for a huge four-year overhaul. I check out how the city’s tackling it—ripping it down and rebuilding right on the spot, no temporary setup, a move no other U.S. city has tried. In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Genovesi from Visit Austin, keeping tourism steady, and Josh Delgado from the AT&T Hotel and Confe…

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 d…

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 hik…

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…

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. Tog…

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-ro…

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 ca…

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…

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-powe…

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 enhancin…

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…

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…

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 l…

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, perso…

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 part…

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 behi…

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 epi…

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 pane…

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 betw…

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 …

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 re…

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 -…

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 di…

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 …

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…

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 …

Can affiliate marketing revolutionise your business strategy? Patrick Redder, Senior Key Account Partnership Manager at Awin, joins me in exploring affiliate marketing and its remarkable impact on cost reduction and bookings for H-Hotels. Patrick provides an in-depth look at how businesses can partner with various publishers to effectively promote …

How do we genuinely support the mental health and well-being of hospitality employees in a challenging, post-pandemic world? Sean Wheeler, People and Culture Consultant at Sean Wheeler Consulting Limited believes a holistic approach, flexible working patterns, and the importance of understanding employees' personal lives all create a more enjoyable…

As group travel evolves and solo female travel surges, Judikaela Auffredou, VP of strategy at Cossette, and I explore some of the latest research that reveals how consumer attitudes, preferences, and behaviours regarding travel and tourism are changing and what this means to the industry. We explore the empowerment and self-discovery driving solo f…

Mary Sue helped pioneer Santa Monica's local and sustainable food scene, popularising the city's farmer's markets. Starting her career peeling garlic and winning a James Beard and Julia Child award, Mary Sue is widely celebrated for her achievements in California and beyond. Mary Sue created The Women Chefs & Restaurateurs in 1993, a resource for f…

Speaking with Sam Weston, Marketing Director – 80 Days – full service creative and digital marketing agency for hotels and travel, we look into how hotels and travel can tap into the latest consumer trends driving creative marketing. We explore: 1. Consumer behaviour informing marketing and creative strategies 2. Three trends influencing travel and…

In this episode, we speak with Pelumi Nubi, travel content creator and solo traveller about the world of solo travel. We look at; Why is solo travel so appealing Pelumi's travel from London to Lagos - the first black woman to drive this journey The challenges as a solo traveller How the industry can better cater for solo (women) travellers Connect …

In this episode of Hoteliers’ Voice Season 4, we speak with Henrique Tiago de Castro, former General Manager, EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril Hotel in Cascais/Lisbon about the importance of cultural awareness as a hospitality professional, and developing leadership skills in the industry Following his presentation at IHTF 2024, we discuss 1. Why it's imp…

In this episode we’re looking at Solo travel. First we’ll tackle the news then dive into solo travel with a look at the trends and numbers followed by interviews with Kerry Gallagher, MD, Silver Travel Pelumi Nubi, content creator And - we cannot end the show without our Quick Quiz. Booking.com faces new probe into claims it misled customers The co…

We are joined by Sofia Muntaner, Senior Brand Manager Melia Hotel International for Zel and Innside brands with approx 45 properties, as we delve into the world of hotel marketing and the complexities involved today. With 10 years at Melia, Sofia reflects on the changes and evolution in marketing and some of the key drivers to success as we discuss…

Hospitality Monthly Review Show - June 2024 edition - with our panel Jonny Siberry, Group Revenue Manager, Sarova Hotel Group and Thibault Catala, CEO, Catala Consulting, In this episode we look at European Commissions decision on hotel rate parity and booking.com Airbnb ditching experiences Interview - Richard Collie, Managing Associate for TLT LL…

We explore the trends and insights of the cruise sector from 2023 with Andy Harmer, Managing Director CLIA UK & Ireland following release of the latest research. Upshot – there’s a lot of ships with cabins to fill! And cruising numbers for 2023 are up In the latest research from The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), travelers from the …

Welcome to the post-IHTF podcast with a succession of quick fire interviews where we will hear from Host - Ted Horner Steve Johnson - Ruckus Networks Asam Nawaz - BeCause Sal Capizzi - Book4Time Jory Garcia - Flexkeeping and Chris Bowling from Best Western Hotels dives into multichannel marketing Listen to more episodes of the hospitality industry …

Simone Pourto, consultant, writer, and hotel tech futurist joins us to give his insights for the market. In the episode we discuss His love for Joy Division and Ian Curtis - and how Travel Market Life gave him an unexpected life opportunity New s - Rebyu using the power of AI Top 3 technologies on the horizon for the hospitality sector His frustrat…

In this episode we deep-diving into the Cruise sector Latest insights and trends from Andy Harmer, Managing Director, CLIA UK & Ireland Opportunities and challenges in the sector Travel Agent’s perspective with Ellie Fowler, Director, The Travel Business With our expert panel - Claire Steiner, UK Director, Global Travel and Tourism Partnership Will…

In this episode of Hoteliers' Voice we are joined by the Director of Technology & Digital at CitizenM, Bojan Pavicic who has worked across different industry sectors for 20 years and explains his approach to the tech stack and what they are trying to achieve for the portfolio. With 34 properties worldwide, we discuss: • AI and automation deployment…

In this episode we look into hotel technology and an IHTF review following the event in April, we look at F&B profitability Premier Inn Ad ban AI in hospitality RPA technology Approaching the tech stack Future of hospitality technology We’re joined by our regular panellist Jon Sibery, Group Revenue Manager, Sarova as he shares the challenges of F&B…

Travel Market Life hosted live discussions featuring insights from hoteliers and technology experts on innovative approaches to hotel management, revenue optimisation, and the significance of digitalisation and direct bookings: Henrique Tiago de Castro, GM at Evolution Hospitality's Cascais-Estoril Hotel, shares pre-opening challenges for Lisbon's …

In this episode, we deep dive into drip-pricing the practice when a headline price is initially shown to travellers when they are browsing online, where additional elements of the price being added or ‘dripped’ as they move through the checkout process. Richard Collie, Managing Associate for TLT LLP a consumer law expert at award-winning law firm w…

For the Travel Monthly Review Show - April 2024 edition - with our expert panel featuring Will Plummer (CEO, Trust My Group), Claire Steiner (UK Director, Global Travel and Tourism Partnership), and James Clarke (General Manager, Travelzoo UK), In this episode we’ll tackle: Latest industry developments: Spain’s traveller numbers, Dynamic pricing an…

In this episode of Hoteliers' Voice season 4, we speak with Mustafa Gokcen, Head of Information Technology, Cheval Collection - an award-winning hospitality group with 13 luxury all-apartment locations in London, Edinburgh and Dubai. Mustafa has worked in the hospitality industry since 2012 following a move from the IT industry where he had spent t…

In this episode of Hoteliers' Voice, we are honoured to be joined by Marriott International's Director of Employer Branding - Central Europe to discuss the initiatives that are engaging and attracting staff. Florian Hepp started his career at Marriott before developing his career at Westin Hotels, and Sofitel Luxury Hotels & Resorts, back at Marrio…

In our April edition of the Hospitality Monthly Review Show with our expert panel: Jonny Siberry, Group Revenue Manager, Sarova Hotel Group Daniel Simmons, CCO, HotelREZ Hotels & Resorts Thibault Catala, CEO, Catala Consulting, We look at pressing issues in the industry, as well as the landscape in front of us - getting insider knowledge from our e…

In this episode of Hoteliers' Voice Season 4 we explore the hostel market with Diogo Vaz Ferreira, head of commercial at Clink Hostels. Diogo has worked with Clink since 2021, he previously worked for Accor and Hilton having worked in guest experiences, revenue, and general manager positions. He is also part of the management board chairing the acc…

Welcome to the Travel Monthly Review Show - March 2024 edition. In this episode we tackle: Some industry news including Late’s pricing, Agent debt and industry associations Spring Budget UK - The UK Government announced a range of measures to keep Britain financially fluid…we’ll analyse what they mean to the industry In our monthly feature - we’re …