Episode 216 (STR Daily) — Host Bob reports that Airbnb has quietly relaunched HotelTonight and added a loyalty-style incentive: users in the US and UK linking HotelTonight and Airbnb accounts earn 10% Airbnb credit on hotel bookings that can be used toward future Airbnb stays. The episode also reports a drop in international visits to the US (over 10% in March), highlighting steep declines from Western Europe — a 28% fall from Germany — and links the downturn to recent US policy shifts under the Trump administration (tariffs, immigration uncertainty, geopolitical tensions).
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Welcome to episode 216 of the STR Daily podcast, powered by Boostly, the industry's first aid driven show for short term rental professionals. I'm Bob, your host, bringing you the latest news, trends and insights in travel, AI and hospitality. Whether you're a host, property manager or industry expert, this podcast is your go to source for staying ahead in the fast moving world of short term rentals. Our mission? To equip you with actionable strategies and updates so you can navigate the industry with confidence. Hit that subscribe button and never miss an upload in today's episode. First up, Airbnb has quietly revived HotelTonight with a strategic twist, now offering travelers 10% Airbnb credit on hotel bookings made through the app. This move marks Airbnb's first real foray into loyalty without building a traditional points based program. By linking HotelTonight and Airbnb accounts, users in the US and UK can book a hotel stay and use the earned credit toward a future Airbnb booking. It's a subtle but smart ecosystem loop targeting hybrid travelers who mix business trips and weekend getaways without the baggage of formal tier systems. Meanwhile, travel to the US Is feeling the chill from recent policy shifts under the Trump administration. International visits dropped over 10% in March, with Western Europe seeing steep declines, including a 28% plunge from Germany. Analysts point to rising tariffs, immigration uncertainty and geopolitical tensions as major deterrents. While demand from emerging markets remains strong, data shows that shifting US Policies are already casting a shadow on global travel intent, reminding the industry that traveler sentiment is as important as infrastructure when it comes to keeping borders open and bookings strong. That's all for today's episode of STR Daily, powered by Boostly. If you need help boosting your direct bookings, check out the Boostly website and if you'd like a shout out on the podcast, leave a review. We love hearing from our listeners and your feedback helps us improve. Also, don't forget to share this podcast with your industry peers. Tag Boostly UK on social media when you do and we'll be sure to share it too. Thanks for tuning in. And remember, Book Direct.
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