The 2026 STR Guest: What They Want, What They Don’t, and What Makes Them Book
The short-term rental market is moving fast, and by 2026, traveler expectations are sharper than ever. Guests don’t just want a stay — they want seamless tech, personalized touches, and unique spaces that align with their values. If your STR feels a step behind, bookings will slip to properties that keep pace. Here’s what the […]
The Rise of Wellness Stays: How to Position Your Hotel for Health-Minded Travelers
Wellness Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Booking Strategy Wellness travel is no longer just for yoga retreats and luxury spas. Today’s guests—whether they’re booking a weekend escape or a five-night stay—are looking for experiences that restore, relax, and reset. From aromatherapy to outdoor cold plunges, travelers are actively seeking properties that help them feel better, not […]
Why Every STR Host Needs a Booking Website (And How to Build One Fast)
Airbnb isn’t your business—it’s just a platform. At Lumos Host, we work with STR hosts across the U.S. and Latin America who want to build real brands—not just listings. The first step? A direct booking website. Here’s why every short-term rental owner should have one, and how to build it without spending months or thousands […]
10 Ways to Increase Direct Bookings and Reduce OTA Commissions
If you’re a hotel owner tired of paying out 15%–25% in commissions to online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com or Expedia, you’re not alone. Most independent hotels start out relying on third-party platforms to fill their calendar—but it doesn’t take long before that “convenience” starts cutting deep into profit. The good news? Direct bookings are […]
How to Write an Irresistible Airbnb Title That Gets Clicks
Your Airbnb title is the first thing potential guests see when scrolling through search results. It’s your golden opportunity to make a powerful first impression. A well-crafted title can be the difference between someone clicking on your listing or scrolling right past it. That’s why it’s crucial to get it right! In my experience, creating […]
5 Airbnb Profile Mistakes That Are Costing You Bookings (And How to Fix Them!)
Airbnb hosts, we need to talk. If your calendar isn’t as full as you’d like, your profile might be scaring away potential guests without you even realizing it. We see these same five mistakes over and over again, and fixing them can instantly boost your bookings. Let’s dive in! 1. Not Maximizing Your Title Line […]
5 Best Amazon Stores for Short-Term Rental Hosts
Creating an unforgettable Airbnb or short-term rental means balancing style, durability, and affordability. Guests love unique touches, but as a host, you need items that withstand frequent use and are easy on your budget. These five Amazon storefronts cater to Airbnb owners with a mix of practicality and eye-catching design. 1. Amazon Basics Why it’s […]
STR Marketing Tips to Increase Bookings
If you’re a short-term rental (STR) host looking to increase your bookings, there’s no time like the present to start improving your strategies. The hospitality market is competitive, but with a few targeted changes and the right approach, you can fill up your calendar faster and for higher rates. Here are some actionable steps you […]
5 Mistakes New Hosts Make When Getting Started
Starting a new hosting business or even launching your first website can be an exhilarating adventure. However, it’s not uncommon for new hosts to stumble upon some common pitfalls as they begin their journeys. Sarah Jense, CEO of Lumos Host, brings her years of expertise and experience to guide you through these challenges. Below are […]
5 Things to Consider When Buying a Vacation Rental in the Mountains
Hello, fellow aspiring vacation rental owners and property investors! I’m Sarah Jensen, CEO of Lumos Host. Today, I want to share some insights that might help you make a savvy investment in a vacation rental property nestled in the mountains. This is an attractive venture with the potential for significant returns, but it requires careful […]
