Instant Booking vs. Online Requests

HostelTraveler.com (Instant World Booking) is one of the few online booking services that offers both an instant booking method and a request-only method. Recognizing that a number of smaller properties don't want to manage online calendars but still want to take advantage of 3rd party booking services, we developed a fully automated online request system.

Nevertheless, the future of internet marketing rests fully in the hands of "instant booking". We see some regions and markets ahead of others in mindset with regard instant booking.

We're adding this thread to introduce the debate of instant booking vs. online requests, and solicit your opinions. One of our affiliate writers at BedBreakfastTraveler.com recently wrote a blog post, suggesting that instant booking is better in almost every situation. While the post addresses B&Bs, the concept is very relevant to today's worldwide hostels:

Why Instant Booking using an Online Calendar is Best for Bed & Breakfasts