But marginal cost differences aren't what's driving demand for vacation rentals. The difference in cost is huge, and there's no way around that in a lot of tou

But marginal cost differences aren't what's driving demand for vacation rentals. The difference in cost is huge, and there's no way around that in a lot of tourist destinations. A nice vacation rental in my town that can sleep a dozen people can be had for under $300 in the high season. Three hotel rooms, with less space, smaller beds, and no kitchen, will cost you two to three times that. Don't take my word for it; look at rates right now in and around Dillon/Silverthorn. Connected suites and a kitchenette might be the exclusive realm of luxury resort hotels, maybe a casino hotel if you're willing to drive another hour or so, and the price will be higher yet. We're pretty far in weeds here with talk of ingredients and prep and whatnot. Like I said, for family accommodation, with the flexibility of a kitchen and laundry, there is no competition of any kind from hotels in my neck of the woods, and there probably never will be. It's not even close. My only competition is from other vacation rentals, and all us little guys currently contribute a big chunk of our town's tourism revenue.