Instant Hotel

Set in the exotic and picturesque backdrop of Australia, Instant Hotel is a highly addictive reality television competition series that was first introduced to audiences in 2017 on Seven Network Australia before being picked up by Netflix for international distribution.

The series, hosted by the charismatic television presenter Luke Jacobz, is a captivating competition which pairs off entrepreneurial participants who have converted their homes into holiday rentals or ‘instant hotels’. Each pair is granted the opportunity to host their competitors for a night, showcasing their property and the accompanying attractions of their local area, with the ultimate goal of achieving the highest rating possible. A neat twist to the usual fare, the emphasis isn’t simply on the property themselves but also the amenities, proximity to local attractions, the quality of a good night’s sleep, additionally, the value for money which it provides.

The contestants are as colorful and diverse as one would imagine, drawn from every corner of Australia’s expansive landscapes. From mother and daughter duos to married couples, siblings and best friends, every episode captivates you the moment you hit play. There’s a unique camaraderie and rivalry that exists concurrently among the competitors, a laid-back competitive spirit that adds an unusual charm to the show. Interactions between the participants are often peppered with subtle shades of drama and humor, which captivates audiences and keeps them glued to their screens.

The instant hotels featured in the series are incredibly diverse, a reflection of the eclectic nature of Australia itself. From ultra-modern urban penthouses to quirky rural retreats, vintage-inspired cottages to stunning coastal residences, each hotel offers a unique, often unexpected charm. As the series traverses across Australia, you're taken on an unforgettable journey, feeling both a guest in these extraordinary instant hotels and the surrounding communities.

This isn't just plain voyeuristic entertainment – there is a certain educational value to it. It provides the viewer with a greater understanding of hospitality within the realm of home sharing networks, revealing what it takes to run a successful rental and what guests value when they are away from home. The show often ventures into discussions about customer service, interior design, cultural sensitivity, and marketing, which are shared for both the purpose of competition and for inspiring viewers who might be thinking of turning their own residences into rentable accommodations.

The judges dole out their fair share of compliments and constructive criticism, which helps to maintain the competitive edge and tension throughout the competition. Additionally, a neat combination of professional opinions and thoughts, combined with the feedback from contestants, ensures that the judgement process is balanced and fair.

Instant Hotel breaks away from the stereotypical mold of reality TV by injecting a refreshing sense of authenticity and uniqueness. The focus is not as much on conflict and drama, but more on the creativity, hospitality, and hard work required to transform an ordinary residence into a sought-after holiday destination. It is a celebration of Australia, its vastness, and diversity, both in terms of its people and its places.

Instant Hotel is a show that is as fun as it is informative. Light-hearted and easy-going yet surprisingly intense, it makes for a wonderful, relaxing, yet interesting watch. Whether you love to travel, have an interest in interior design or real estate, or simply love competition-based reality TV, this show is a great addition to your Netflix playlist. As a viewer, not only will you appreciate the stunning visuals but also, you are going to love the competition, the critics, and the characters - because they will make you laugh, inspire you, or infuriate you.

In summary, Instant Hotel draws you in with its share of charm, diversity and slight competitive tension, taking you on a journey across Australia’s incredible landscapes and its people’s innovativeness. It's like travelling without leaving your own home. It's a lesson in hospitality and a window into the unique world of holiday rentals. It's an instant hit!