By Yermys Peña
Special for El Inmobiliario
For years, we've heard that Airbnb would forever change the way we travel . And yes, it has. But now comes the interesting part: are hotels really losing the battle, or are they adapting better than we thought?
Tourism is undergoing a silent revolution. What was once a simple choice between a hotel or a vacation rental has now become a much more complex dilemma: what truly defines a great travel experience?
On the one hand, Airbnb has democratized hospitality. Now anyone can turn their home into a business, offer a more personalized stay, and let you live like a local. It's a game-changer.
But… what about hotels?
Because, although many thought Airbnb would displace them, the truth is that the big chains have taken note. And they've done very well.
Hotels that feel like Airbnb : Have you noticed that more and more hotels are offering more intimate experiences, apartments with kitchens, and spaces that feel more like home? That's no coincidence.
The return of premium service : No matter how spectacular an Airbnb is, there's one thing it can never match: professional hospitality. Room service, 24/7 support, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is designed to make your experience flawless.
And what about reliability? We've all heard (or experienced) Airbnb horror stories: last-minute cancellations, misleading photos, or hosts who are nowhere to be found when you need them most. With hotels, you know exactly what to expect.
This is where things get interesting…
If hotels are adopting the best of Airbnb and Airbnb is increasingly professionalizing its service with premium experiences and professionally managed properties , where is the tourism industry headed?
My position is clear: it's not about choosing between one or the other, but about the convergence of both worlds.
The future of accommodation is neither the disappearance of hotels nor the supremacy of Airbnb. It's the merging of both models into something new, more flexible, more personalized, and with the best possible service.
So the next time you book a trip, ask yourself: do you want to feel like a local or do you want the security of impeccable service? And what if you could have both?
The author is an architect and construction entrepreneur. Member of the Forbes Business Council.
