By Orit Naomi, HTN staff writer – 1.23.2025
In a move that underscores the evolving landscape of financial transactions in the hospitality industry, LuxUrban Hotels, which currently manages nine New York City hotels with a total of 1,056 rooms, announced that it is set to incorporate digital currency payments across its nine-property portfolio. This initiative acknowledges the growing interest in digital assets and aims to enhance the payment experience for tech-savvy travelers.
As digital currencies gain traction globally, LuxUrban’s decision to adopt blockchain-based payment solutions reflects a strategic alignment with current technological advancements. This integration is designed to offer guests a modern, secure, and efficient alternative to conventional payment methods.
Branson Elster, Chief Development Officer at LuxUrban Hotels, with properties that include the Blakely, Tuscany, Washington Hotel, The Herald, Hotel 27, BeHome, and Hotel 57, discussed the rationale behind this shift. “Integrating digital currencies is part of our ongoing commitment to enhance guest experiences by providing flexible and innovative payment options,” he stated. “We recognize the importance of adapting to technological changes and meeting the demands of today’s travelers.”
To ensure a seamless transition, LuxUrban has partnered with leading blockchain and fintech firms, focusing on maintaining security and efficiency across all transactions. Guests will soon have the option to pay with a variety of digital currencies, offering an alternative that is both contemporary and aligned with their evolving preferences.
Extending beyond room payments, LuxUrban is collaborating with third-party vendors to create a holistic digital payment ecosystem within its properties. Guests will be able to utilize digital currencies for dining, wellness, and exclusive services, crafting a comprehensive cashless environment that is both convenient and cutting-edge.
The hospitality industry is seeing a gradual trend towards embracing cryptocurrency payments. This shift addresses several challenges faced by international travelers, including high transaction fees and cumbersome currency exchanges. By reducing these barriers, hotels can offer competitive pricing and improved guest satisfaction.
Several global hotel groups have already begun accepting digital currencies, highlighting their potential as a standard payment method in the industry. Establishments such as Sri Panwa Phuket and The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts offer cryptocurrency options, demonstrating an industry-wide movement towards embracing digital payments.
In North America, initiatives like The Kessler Collection’s collaboration with BitPay show a similar trend, with luxury hotels leading the charge in offering diverse cryptocurrency options. Similarly, Capella Singapore and Patina Maldives have partnered with dtcpay, further showcasing a commitment to digital innovation in hospitality.
LuxUrban’s approach to digital currency acceptance is a proactive strategy aimed at maintaining a competitive edge and anticipating future consumer behaviors. By providing these advanced payment solutions, LuxUrban positions itself at the forefront of hospitality technology, catering to the needs of modern travelers while exploring new opportunities for guest engagement.
As the industry continues to evolve, LuxUrban’s initiative exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to embracing technological changes. This development highlights the company’s dedication to enhancing guest experiences and setting new standards in urban hospitality, ultimately contributing to the broader adoption of digital currency payments in the sector.