Sarah · May 12, 2026 · 1 min read
Airbnb's anti-party technology is reactivated for Memorial Day weekend, automatically screening out short last-minute bookings flagged as higher risk for disruptive gatherings — for the fourth consecutive year.
Expedia spent $279 million acquiring Tiqets to strengthen its experiences market position, while Airbnb gained $70 million from the deal.
Agoda and the Macao Government Tourism Office are expanding their partnership for 2026, promoting boutique hotels in Macao's Outer Harbour District to new markets including Brazil, Vietnam, and Central Asia, with Middle East searches up 247%.
Airbnb's summer 2026 trends report highlights playcations (activity-centred trips), rural retreats, and value-seeking behaviour. A third of travellers are staying closer to home, while Gen Z is heading to Thailand and off-the-beaten-path Greek islands.
Expedia Group posted its best-ever Q1 profit margin, with 13% gross bookings growth and an 83% jump in adjusted EBITDA, as the B2B segment outpaced consumer brands by a wide margin.
BC Premier David Eby publicly rejected Airbnb's FIFA World Cup exemption request, while Mexico City reviews its STR law and a Valencia court voided the city's tourist housing moratorium. What each means for operators.
Authorities seized Booking.com's records after 15,000 hotels claimed inflated commission payments due to restrictive pricing rules.
Expedia is under increased regulatory scrutiny as authorities focus on fair competition and transparency in hotel operations.
Hotel leaders in 2026 are leveraging AI for guest personalization and operational efficiency while maintaining a human touch to stay competitive.
Expedia reports rising hotel prices due to strong travel demand, highlighting opportunities and challenges for operators managing pricing strategies.
Airbnb reported Q1 2026 revenue of $2.7 billion (+18% YoY), with Adjusted EBITDA up 24% to $519 million. App bookings accelerated to 63% of total nights, and first-time booker growth hit its highest level since early 2022.
Uber has expanded into hotel bookings, challenging OTAs by offering integrated travel services, potentially disrupting the market.