Hotels and airlines cashing in on Taylor’s Eras surge
Taylor Swift fans have accused hotels and airlines of price gouging during her Australian tour next month, with some concertgoers forced to splash out thousands after some businesses charged more than four times their regular rates.
An economy flight with Jetstar one way from Brisbane to Sydney will set you back $399 to $460 on February 23, Swift’s first Sydney tour date, compared to the $92 to $123 for the same flight one week prior.
Virgin and Qantas made similar hikes, from $119-$325 to $386-$768 and $139-$709 to $394-$709, respectively.
And one night’s accommodation in Sydney has soared. The Marriott Sydney Harbour jumped from $589 for February 16-17 to $1039 on 23-24.
Novotel Parramatta has ballooned from $350 to $899.
Maitland resident Emma Louise is the mother of devout Swifty, Georgia, 13, who views Swift as a role model.
“She really looks up to her,” Ms Louise said. “But the whole Taylor Swift ticket thing, not just accommodation, has been all about price gouging and how much money people can make.”
After paying $1800 for two tickets at the Accor Stadium concert, Ms Louise inquired about accommodation in September. “The Airbnb room was $1000 for one of the apartments directly across the road from the stadium,” she said.
“When I told them (about) the Taylor Swift concert, they cancelled the booking and then told me I could reapply, but the new price was $1800.”
She eventually paid $1000 for a night at another hotel at Olympic Park where she has previously stayed for $400.
Tourism & Transport Forum CEO Margy Osmond said special events like the Eras Tour will always be governed by supply and demand.
“If you’re a dedicated Swifty, you will be travelling,” she said.
“Scarcity will always drive demand … it is what it is.”
Qantas said cheap fares are sold quickly, so fans had to get in early. “Our advice for any concertgoers is to book as soon as possible,” a spokesman said.