Traveling Blog: Blockchain: Follow the Money + What's Next for Luxury Rentals + Hotel Scramble in Africa

November 28, 2017

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Note From the Editor

Onefinestay's new CEO, Javier Cedillo-Espin, looks to hyper personalization as key to the next growth phase in the sharing economy luxury arena. We don't have much of an argument there. But one thing that Onefinestay has also been known for is the hyper slowness of its expansion from city to city. Beyond stringing a few brands together to bulk up its listings roster, we'll be looking to see if Onefinestay under new leadership can really grow the business, and achieve that hoped-for profitability in 2019.

Another development where economics will hold sway will be in the development of blockchain as a distribution alternative. A new Skift Research Report parses some of the issues for blockchain in hotel distribution. As always, follow the money.

— Dennis Schaal, Executive Editor

Learning from Asia: Tech Insights from Travel's Fastest-Growing Region [SPONSORED]

In other words, don't expect AccorHotels to be vying for Wyndham's European vacation rental business anytime soon.

Blockchain For Hotel Distribution Will Come Down to the Economics

Decentralized applications for hotel distribution will soon live side-by-side with existing channels.

Hotel Chains Are Scrambling to Keep Up With Demand in Africa

Despite its infrastructure challenges and a reputation for red tape, the world's biggest hotel brands can't seem to get enough of Africa. With thousands of rooms in the development pipeline, African cities will soon be festooned with a slew of international brands. It's good news for global travelers and local economies alike.

Lyft Finally Goes Corporate With Carlson Wagonlit Travel Deal

Lyft is playing catch up in the corporate travel sector, and partnerships with the major global travel management companies are a good way to increase adoption. Uber's lead, however, remains enormous.

Super Early Bird Tickets for Skift Tech Forum Are on Sale

Last week, we announced that Super Early Bird tickets for our inaugural Skift Tech Forum are now on sale! Don't miss your chance to reserve your spot to Silicon Valley's must-attend event at $250 OFF!

Delta Brings Back Complimentary Upgrades for Frequent Flyers — Business of Loyalty

Delta is slowly restoring benefits once-lost to SkyMiles members, but it's more of a competitive move against other carriers than an olive branch for passengers.

Here's to some of the most innovative and thoughtful brands in travel today. These companies are doing the heavy lifting to make travel and hospitality more inspiring.

8 Financial Themes Shaping the Hotel Industry in 2018 and Beyond

After pouring over third quarter earnings results and investor calls, it's clear the big hotel chains have embarked on a new, but potentially arduous road.

Video: Marriott CEO Hopes Starwood Tie-In Will Be Done on Deal's Second Anniversary

Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson isn't afraid to speak up about a variety of issues that he sees impacting the wider travel industry, and that's something not every travel CEO is willing to do.

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