For months (no years) I’ve been urging travel companies to start their own blogs, such as Randy’s Journal by Boeing’s marketing exec Randy Baseler. Now Starwood has launched The Lobby which I think is among the best travel company blogs to date.
That isn’t saying much, though.
The new site is obviously trying to reach out to consumers, which is a worthy undertaking.
But what do consumers want? More information on iPods and travel attire? Or are they worried sick that their favorite hotel will be overbooked this summer?
The Lobby is slick, it’s entertaining, and eminently book-markable. It’s also at times over-the-top promotional. What I wish Starwood (which owns brands like W and St. Regis) would do is offer more lodging industry insights. You know, things that it knows, and nobody else does, because it’s Starwood.
In other words, more Randy. Less candy.
Christopher Elliott is the author of Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles, and Shady Deals. Critics have called it “eye-opening” and “inspiring” — it’ll “grab your attention and won’t let go.” Order your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or iTunes.
Elliott is consumer advocate 
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