The hotel industry has always been highly competitive, especially in recent years, but new research shows how establishments are refurbishing their premises in order to up their game and secure profitable custom.   Funding Options, the online business finance firm, found that the British hotel industry had increased its refurbishment spend to £1.6 billion in the past year (a rise of 57%) in order to compete with the new wave of home-letting offers such as Airbnb. These new online competitors are proving to be a tough new form of competition for traditional hotels - who are fighting back Continue reading →

The Brexit vote in June was not just a major political event; it sent shockwaves through every sector of the economy. But what does the decision to leave the EU and the slow process of withdrawing mean for the hotel trade? One trend is already becoming obvious. A report carried out by auditing giants Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) after the Brexit vote revealed that, while London hoteliers are facing short-falls in the business customer sector, regional hotels are experiencing a corresponding rise. In fact, PwC forecasted that occupancy rates in regional UK hotels would be the highest ever recorded. Continue reading →

It’s no surprise that, in an world increasingly aware of the environment, people want their holiday accommodation to be as respectful of the world as they are, if not more so. The findings, confirmed by a poll from energy supplier E.ON, show that of 2,000 people surveyed, a hotel showing good ecological credentials would be more attractive to someone looking to book a holiday. Features which were particularly appealing were renewable energy sources like solar panels, or low energy lighting, with almost 20% of respondents saying that they would actively look for these when choosing their accommodation. Continue reading →

During the cold winter days, or even in early spring when warm days contrast sharply with cooler nights, maintaining a comfortable temperature while sleeping can be difficult. At home, if you prefer to keep central heating costs to a minimum, the air temperature in your bedroom can drop suddenly, while in hotels achieving a consistent climate can be downright difficult. Both hot and cold temperatures have the effect of stimulating your body’s natural alarm clock, meaning that without the optimum temperature, you’re more likely to suffer a restless night. Fortunately some simple remedies can help to give you a warmer, more comfortable night’s sleep: Continue reading →

Some people just aren't themselves when they're not at home, and when they're on the road and travelling, they can be downright bizarre and have all sorts of crazy expectations. Possibly nowhere else is strange human behaviour consistently exhibited than in hotels, places of rest for the weary where people demand the oddest of things. One of Britain's largest hotel chains, the budget-conscious and big-roomed Travelodge is certainly no stranger to receiving decidedly offbeat requests from guests, odd questions that often leave front-desk staff entirely perplexed. Continue reading →

In a nutshell, Airbnb is a new kind of accommodation available to travellers, and a great way to make money if you have spare space in your home. The website itself is home to an online community that connects hosts with users seeking short-term accommodation; whether it’s an apartment, room, or even just a spare bed. Airbnb manages the transactions and takes a small cut on both sides. Continue reading →

You can’t underestimate the value of your bed, especially in helping you replenish your energy after a long day. However, whilst any bed can really serve this purpose, there are some truly exceptional beds out there, optimally designed to take your sleep experience to the next level. Combining a dazzling array of technology, fashion, art, design and luxury, here is our list of the top ten most expensive beds in the world. Continue reading →

Whether you have a small space available for your main bathroom or you are squeezing in an en suite, configuring the toilet, sink and shower can be tricky, not to mention a towel rail or toilet roll holder. However, despite the challenges, you can create a lovely bathroom in a small space by following a few little design tips. 1. Get clever with the vanity unit Choose a smart sink unit, possibly even a pedestal style with a shelf to hold towels or a basket for toilet paper, making the most of any extra storage space you can create. Continue reading →

There are so many health benefits to getting a good night’s sleep, but a lot of people don’t get enough shut-eye each night. There are lots of tips and tricks out there to help you get to sleep, but did you know you can eat your way to a better night’s sleep with a few tweaks and changes to your diet? Food relates directly to serotonin, a key hormone that — along with Vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid — helps promote healthy sleep. Here are a few sleep superfoods to help you get that much needed shut-eye: Continue reading →

Food trucks have been taking the catering industry by storm and often they can be a stepping stone to opening a restaurant. However, increasingly the opposite is happening and many restaurants are opening successful food truck businesses alongside their restaurant business. But what benefits could this have for an already established restaurant? Continue reading →