Source: The Washington Post
By Taylor Telford
April 30, 2019
Marriott International, the biggest hotel operator in the world, is launching a home-rental program in the battle to stay ahead of shifts in the hospitality industry, largely brought on by Airbnb.
Starting next week, guests will be able to book homes in 100 markets throughout the United States, Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott announced late Monday. The program, Homes & Villas by Marriott International, was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. The new offerings are wide ranging, and include an 18th-century Irish castle and a six-bedroom London townhouse with an indoor climbing wall.
“The launch of Homes & Villas by Marriott International reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation as consumer travel needs evolve,” Stephanie Linnartz, Marriott’s global chief commercial officer said in a statement. “What started out as a pilot a year ago is now a global offering, providing our guests with the space and amenities of a home backed by a trusted travel company, and the very best in loyalty benefits.”
