OYO, one of the largest travel booking platforms, has made a significant policy change that has stirred up a lot of conversation. Starting in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, the company has announced that unmarried couples will no longer be allowed to check in at its partner hotels. This marks a shift for OYO, which has traditionally been known as a couple-friendly brand. Here’s why this change is happening and what it means for travelers.

New Check-In Guidelines: Proof of Relationship Required

As part of the new policy, OYO will require all couples to present valid proof of their relationship when checking in at affiliated hotels. This means that guests will need to show documents such as a marriage certificate or other relationship proof. If this condition is not met, the hotel has the right to deny the check-in, regardless of whether the booking was made online or in person.

Local Sensibilities and Hotel Discretion

The policy shift comes as a result of local demands and sensitivities in certain regions, particularly in Meerut. OYO has stated that it is allowing its partner hotels the discretion to decline bookings by couples if it conflicts with the local social norms. According to the company, this move is in alignment with their commitment to respecting the laws and expectations of the communities they operate in.

Pawas Sharma, OYO’s Region Head for North India, emphasized that while the company respects individual freedoms, it also values its responsibility to collaborate with local law enforcement and civil society groups. This decision comes after several requests from these groups, urging the company to review its stance on unmarried couples staying at hotels.

What This Means for Travelers

For couples planning to stay at OYO-affiliated hotels, it’s essential to keep in mind the new check-in procedures. If you’re unmarried and planning to book a room with your partner, you may need to provide proof of your relationship to ensure a smooth check-in process. In some locations, particularly where OYO has implemented this change, the hotel may refuse to allow unmarried couples to stay.

However, this policy doesn’t mean the end of couple-friendly accommodations altogether. OYO has stated that these changes will also allow hotels to offer longer stays, fostering customer trust and loyalty. While the shift is specific to certain regions, travelers should be aware that similar policies could be implemented in other areas depending on local social norms and community feedback.

Why Did OYO Make This Change?

The decision to enforce stricter check-in policies for unmarried couples comes after feedback from civil society groups, particularly in areas like Meerut, where there were concerns regarding the social impact of allowing unmarried couples to check into hotels. OYO’s new policy aims to balance the rights of individuals with the expectations of the local population.

Furthermore, OYO emphasized its commitment to ensuring a safe and responsible hospitality experience for all guests. This includes working in partnership with law enforcement to ensure a safe and secure environment at their properties.

The Bigger Picture: Hotel Industry Trends

OYO is not alone in this shift. Other hotel chains and travel platforms have also started implementing similar policies, especially in conservative or region-specific markets. As the hospitality industry evolves, the tension between modern freedoms and traditional values will continue to shape the policies of global companies like OYO.

While OYO’s move may spark debate, the company maintains that it is simply adapting to the unique requirements of the regions in which it operates. The company aims to strike a balance between respecting local culture and providing a high level of service to its diverse customer base.

Conclusion

OYO’s new policy on unmarried couple check-ins is a significant change in the way the company operates in certain regions, especially in cities like Meerut. As travelers, it’s important to stay informed about these updates, as they may impact your hotel booking process. The company’s decision highlights the ongoing balancing act between individual freedoms and local social norms, a challenge that many global businesses face today.

For now, OYO continues to work on building trust with its guests and adapting its practices to meet local expectations while maintaining its reputation as a reliable and secure option for travelers.

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