Sullivan County’s legacy as a resort destination is well known in our history records, as outlined in Tuesday’s article about the Borscht Belt Historical Marker project and today’s column by Sullivan County Historian John Conway (see page 10A).

At one point, the county was home to 538 hotels, 50,000 bungalows and 1,000 rooming houses. As visitors flocked to the area for fresh air and fine fishing, there was no shortage of places to stay and relax 

Today, as the world looks markedly different, and the hotel model has been replaced by Airbnb, Sullivan County has much fewer hotels and resorts, which is not to say there aren’t still first-rate options. 

But consumer trends have changed with many people seeking out an Airbnb when they go on vacation, looking for a place where everyone can be under one roof and have ease and privacy in their stay.

However, trends are also turning back to hotels, as the additional costs like cleaning fees for Airbnb stays rack up and people want the service provided by a hotel or other lodging accommodations. 

While we may never return to the “Golden Age” of resorts in the region, it doesn’t stop many locals from being hopeful about the future. 

With projects like the Eldred Preserve, which recently announced a new spa, we are thankful for the contributions—financially and otherwise—to Sullivan County. 

New building is on the horizon: developers recently presented their plans for a four-season luxury destination at the former Grossinger’s property in Liberty (see page 1A). 

Plans include a hotel, condos, equestrian and polo center, indoor and outdoor pools, two 18-hole golf courses, a spa, tennis and racquet facilities, and a wide range of outdoor recreational amenities. 

It sounds like there will be something for everybody. 

Past projects have fallen through at the Grossinger’s site, much to the disappointment of residents and officials. 

We hope to see this new proposal come to fruition, and provide revenue to Liberty and the county, employment for locals, and a spot on the map for our determined place as a tourist destination.