UK hosts, how are you fairing with new bookings this winter?

[Robbie54]

December has always been a good month for me, with over 90% of that month booked in previous years (not including lockdown restrictions). However this month has seen a decline, with roughly 65/75% booked. Its still a good month, I hear you say. However, I've only had 1 booking (for the February half term) in the past 2 1/2 weeks. And January is very bare. I have a feeling Omicron is playing a big part in this, there are some worried people out there just trying to get through winter. Any other UK hosts experiencing a slowdown in booking these past couple of weeks? 

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Robbie54 Indeed December poor and January but thankfully, after a very good Summer we are not overly worried.

[Helen3]

I'm fairly full for Jan- February and parts of March to May. Obviously Covid is having a major impact for many UK hosts particularly those that attract overseas visitors @Robbie54 

And of course winter is normally a slower period (except for festive holidays).

I'd also say the fact you have chosen not to upload a photo will put some guests off from booking with you.

[Robbie54]

Thanks for the heads up @Helen3 , my profile pic has disappeared for some reason, it has been there for years! I'll add one again now. 

[Amanda660]

December is so so, weekends are all booked  but very patchy weekdays.  Decent Christmas and New Year bookings. 

January and February are dead as per the norm.  We’re mostly tourists, staycationers and folks attending nearby destination wedding venues (local castles).  

I’m burnt out and a few quieter months will probably do me (but not my bank balance) good. 

[Huma0]

@Robbie54 

I host long term stays, so things are a bit different for me. I don't expect to be fully booked over the Xmas/New Year period as long term guests tend to check out before Christmas and new ones arrive in January. When I was still doing short-term, it was the busiest time of year for me.

I do have some gaps and the calendar is looking a bit empty for a few weeks. However, I don't feel like things have slowed down, it's more that I seem to have to turn everyone away (also had a cancellation due to COVID related issues). All my enquiries/booking requests/IBs have been problematic. The guests have either been weird or have expected to quarantine at my shared house. If I'd been willing to accept them, the rooms could have been booked several times over.

I have seen an effect due to Omicron, but not that it's stopping people from wanting to come, it's more the self-isolation/quarantine regulations that are preventing people from booking with me. They don't seem to care about breaking the law, but I do.

[Vanessa16]

@Robbie54

Hi Robbie, 
Im near New Forest & Bournmouth and I have not had any enquiries for months now. The 2 bookings I have were made a year or so ago. I’m finding it strange as I’ve checked my prices and I’m less than others in my area. 
Hope things pick up for you soon. 
Vanessa