Boston Sonder Guests Stranded as Rental Company Halts Operations
BOSTON, MA – Travelers with reservations at sonder properties in Boston are scrambling to find alternative accommodations after the short-term rental company abruptly ceased operations nationwide on Wednesday, leaving numerous guests without lodging. Reports indicate guests arriving at boston-area locations found doors locked and no staff present, with many learning of the shutdown through social media or direct communication from Sonder.
The sudden closure impacts a notable number of travelers, particularly those relying on Sonder for business trips or vacations. Sonder,which operated over 8,500 units across 20 cities,including multiple locations in Boston,positioned itself as a tech-enabled hospitality company managing stylish apartments and homes. The company’s collapse underscores the volatility of the short-term rental market and raises concerns about consumer protections for those booking through alternative lodging platforms. Sonder filed for bankruptcy protection in Delaware on Wednesday,listing assets and liabilities both in the range of $100 million to $500 million.
Guests affected in Boston include those with reservations at properties in neighborhoods like Fenway, Back Bay, and Downtown. Many reported difficulties reaching Sonder’s customer service for assistance and are now facing unexpected expenses to secure new accommodations. “We arrived to find a note taped to the door saying operations had ceased,” said one traveler, who wished to remain anonymous, after arriving at a sonder location in fenway. “We’re now trying to find a hotel room with no help from Sonder.”
The company cited persistent financial challenges and an inability to secure additional funding as reasons for the shutdown. Sonder previously underwent a restructuring in December 2023,laying off approximately 20% of its workforce. The bankruptcy filing indicates the company intends to explore a sale of its assets, but the future of its properties and outstanding reservations remains uncertain. Travelers with impacted bookings are advised to contact thier credit card companies to explore options for reimbursement.
