Learn the different types of channel connections in Hostaway, how each connection works, and what data can be synced for listings, rates, availability, and reservations.

Connect through API, XML, or iCal

2-way sync

When you connect with a new channel, you will always need a 2-way sync connection.

1. The first way is to upload your available room to the channel to block the days that are already booked or not available
2. The second way is to import the reservations from the channel, which can be used to inform other channels to block the days that are already booked

For all channels, the availability data always needs to be synced in 2 ways to make the channel management software work. Besides the available dates, some channels can sync more information like your day rates, your length of stay, reservation fees, guest messages, or new listing content for example.

For all these additional functions, it fully depends on the channel and type of integration on what it allows to sync. Find out more about the channels Hostaway connects to.

Depending on the type of connection, the sync can actively inform the channel about new updates, or the channel will import the new information based on its automated import. This often depends on the use of API, XML, or iCal connection per channel.

What are the meanings of API, XML, and iCal?

API connected channels

When you are connected by API, this means that the software can tell the other channel a new update or a setting that needs to be changed. This is often the fastest connection, allowing you, in addition to availability, to update rates and different types of content. (Note: This would depend on whether it is supported by the channel and on your channel contract.)

 

XML connected channels

When you are connected by XML, this means that the Hostaway software will prepare documents every day with new information about your availability rates and content. The channel will then, depending on its time setting, import this information one or more times per day to update the internal systems. In this way, you can share more details between the channel management software and the channel, but it will not update the channel instantly. The type of content to update will depend on the channel and/or its integration.

 

iCal connected channels

When you are connected to iCal, it will allow you to import the reservations and export the blocked dates to the channels. The information provided by iCal is usually limited to guest names, and the dates the reservation starts and ends (Not calendar rates). The Hostaway software will import the reservations every 10-45 minutes. Your channel needs to import the reservations based on their importing times. We recommend reviewing the channels' documentation for more information about these timings.

Standard API, XML vs Content API, XML

With the standard API or XML connections, you are often able to sync additional information like room rates, LOS, guest messages, and other parts of information. Typically, these standard connections will not allow you to update what we call listing content. Listing content can be images, descriptions, or payment settings. To gain access to these functions, most channels like Booking.com, Vrbo, and others require you to sign dedicated content export contracts with them.

For all channels, note that when you wish to create new listings using the Hostaway software, you need to have these dedicated content contracts with the channel. Your channel can inform you if those contracts are available in your country or can be offered to you, and what changes it cause in your channel's account.

When you work with API connections, it is needed you do the research to learn and understand what settings and updates your channels support for your accounts. 

You can read more about syncing time.