Tourist Tax Talk
The proposed “holiday tax”, otherwise known as the tourist tax, continues to generate considerable debate this year. Many operators are questioning whether an additional tax burden could further strain a sector that has already faced significant pressures in recent years, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
UKHospitality CEO Allen Simpson recently shared his thoughts on the negative impact such a levy could have on hospitality businesses. His comments highlight industry concerns and encourage operators to make their views known as discussions continue.
Alongside the debate around implementation, important questions remain about how the tax would be reinvested to support and strengthen local visitor economies. VisitEngland and VisitBritain CEO Patricia Yates has also spoken about the importance of ensuring that tourism-related revenues are used effectively to drive sustainable growth across destinations.
Does Bad Weather Restrict Your Guest's Plans?
January proved challenging for many in the hospitality sector. Persistent wet weather, intense storms and widespread weather warnings contributed to a noticeable reluctance among diners to venture out. Have you observed similar patterns within your accommodation bookings? And for those guests who did stay, did you notice any behavioural shifts such as opting to remain on-site rather than heading out for dinner or drinks? Understanding how weather and seasonality influence guest decisions can help you adapt your offering, whether that’s enhancing in-room comfort, promoting on-site dining options, or creating inviting communal spaces that encourage guests to stay and relax.
Keeping Noise Under Control
A great night’s sleep remains one of the defining features of exceptional guest accommodation. However, managing noise, particularly in vibrant town and city locations, can present ongoing challenges. Recently, The Hoxton Dublin removed 31 of its 129 rooms from use following guest complaints relating to noise from a neighbouring bar. The situation highlights the delicate balance between preserving the culture and nightlife of a destination and ensuring high-quality guest accommodation.
Whether noise stems from nearby venues, traffic, or internal systems, proactive measures can make a significant difference. Ensuring windows are suitably insulated, investing in quiet and efficient heating and air conditioning systems, and installing effective soundproofing solutions, including high-quality curtains, can all help safeguard the guest experience.
Our Upcoming Plans
In March, the Out of Eden sales team are delighted to be attending the Yorkshire Hospitality Expo and the Northumberland Tourism Fair. These events offer an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded businesses, explore new ideas, and discover trusted suppliers who can help you operate efficiently while delivering exceptional guest experiences. If you’re attending, we’d be delighted to see you there. See all our upcoming events here.
And Finally...
You may also have seen that Alan Carr, comedian and winner of The Celebrity Traitors, has recently bought Ayton Castle with plans to turn the property into a luxury hotel and spa. All to be documented in a new series on Disney+, it will certainly be fascinating to follow the transformation of a historic stately home into a contemporary hospitality destination. We suspect there will be no shortage of inspiration (and humour) along the way and look forward to watching the development unfold.
And if you happen to be reading Alan, our friendly sales team is always on hand should you need advice or supplies to help get your castle guest-ready!
