In this episode of The Modern Hotelier: Hospitality Hot Topics with Steve Carran and David Millili are joined by hospitality strategist Mandy Murry to break down the biggest trends and stories shaping the industry in August 2025. From evolving travel trends and the rise of AI trip planning to Soho House going private, Booking.com launching a credit card, and Airbnb’s fee hikes, the team explores how these shifts are impacting hoteliers, guests, and the future of travel.

They also discuss the growing demand for local, immersive experiences, the resurgence of hotel lobby bars and speakeasies, and what multi-generational travel and micro-cations mean for operators. Mandy shares updates on her work at Hospitality Concierge and offers insights on where the industry is headed next.

Here’s what we cover:

• AI trip planning, OTAs gaining influence, micro-cations, and multi-generational travel
• Vacation rentals outperforming hotels + major service fee hikes for property managers
• What it means for loyalty, perks, and competition with airlines
• Why “secret bars” are having a big moment in 2025

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e51kECyLHkU
 

Join the conversation on today's episode on The Modern Hotelier LinkedIn page
The Modern Hotelier is produced, edited, and published by Make More Media

Links:
Mandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allmandy/
Mandy's website: https://mandymurry.com/

Related Links:
U.S. Traveler Trends in 2025

SOHO House to Go Private in $2.7 Billion Deal Led by MCR Hotels

Booking.com Launches Credit Card

Vacation Rentals outperform hotels

Airbnb raises service fee for Property Managers from 15.5% to 3%

Forbes: Inside the Worlds Best Secret Hotel Bars

What is New With Hospitality Concierge?

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/205

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Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.