The 5-Star Quest: Are OTA reviews failing hosts?
OTA review systems were built to build trust. So why does a 4.7 feel like a failing grade, and why has "give me a refund or I'll leave a 1-star" become a recognisable host experience? We get into the uncomfortable truth about badge culture, review extortion and what fairer platforms could actually look like.
Fresh from the press
Artificial Intelligence
The AI vs. OTA Battleground in 2026
As AI reshapes travel discovery in 2026, mid-sized property managers face a critical turning point. While OTAs still dominate, AI assistants are driving a new wave of direct traffic. Discover actionable strategies, revenue models, and technical steps to optimise your direct booking channels for the AI-first travel era.
Short-term rentals news
Wire Weekly: Global short-term rental & hospitality news
Italy's new law forces property owners to become registered businesses or hand over management—creating one of Europe's largest opportunities for professional operators. Plus: Barcelona doubles tourism taxes, Airbnb tests airport pickups, and Awaze invests £45M in AI search. This week's regulatory shifts and platform moves reshaping the STR landscape.
Artificial Intelligence
Most Property Managers Are Using AI to Move Faster - Not Smarter
AI is helping property managers move faster, but is it actually making them smarter? CEO of BOOM, Shahar Goldboim explores why most STR operators are accelerating the same old operating model and what really changes when systems take responsibility for outcomes instead of just assisting tasks.
SCALE Shorts
Must see videos
Upcoming SCALE conferences
Must hear podcasts
Podcasts
The episode where SCALE co-founder, Damian Sheridan interviewed Robin Bass, founder of Premier Properties USVI.
Off The SCALE Podcast Episode 12: Robin Bass, Premier Properties USVI
The episode where SCALE co-founder, Damian Sheridan interviewed Robin Bass, founder of Premier Properties USVI.
Brand management
The episode where SCALE co-founder, Damian Sheridan interviewed Sab Mulligan, Head of Team and Brand Builder at Zzzing.
Off The SCALE Podcast Episode 5: Sab Mulligan, Zzzing
The episode where SCALE co-founder, Damian Sheridan interviewed Sab Mulligan, Head of Team and Brand Builder at Zzzing.