FUTURE TRENDS IN TRAVEL: THE BEST HOSPITALITY SPEAKERS AND TRAVEL FUTURISTS WEIGH IN

Quiz the best hospitality speakers and hotel or travel futurists on what’s coming next for the business and responses are guaranteed to vary. We’d argue that this is because the industry is so far-reaching and encompasses so many new technology trends and operating elements. Whatever the case may be, here’s the good news: You don’t have to consult with the best hospitality speakers or hotel futurists to get a sense of what’s coming next – at least at a surface level. Let’s review several top future trends that are expected to shape and transform the hospitality and travel industries in the coming years ahead…

• Increased personalization – More customized and tailored experiences using data and AI to better predict and meet traveler preferences.
• Eco-consciousness – Greater focus on sustainability practices, such as renewable energy, waste reduction, local sourcing, and greener buildings the way the industry’s best hospitality speakers tell it.
• Smart technology integration – Allowing guests to control room features via apps and voice assistants, use smartphones as room keys, etc.
• Hyper-local immersion – Travelers seeking more authentic local cultural experiences and connections within destinations.
• Multigenerational travel – More family trips spanning three generations, requiring broader amenities.
• Blurred lines in lodging – Alternative accommodations like home rentals, apartments, and mixed-use properties are expanding if you ask the best hospitality speakers.
• Health and wellness – More wellness-oriented getaways focused on rest, relaxation, fitness and healthy eating options.
• Rise of nomadic workers – People working remotely fueling demand for extended stays with flexible workspaces.
• Contactless services – Increased use of digital payments, self check-in, automation to reduce person-to-person contact.
• Experiential activities – Growth in high-end excursions, immersive events and active adventures besides typical sightseeing.
• Personal fulfillment – Travel being used more for self-improvement, learning new skills, VOLUNtourism, and – at least, according to the best hospitality speakers and hotel futurists – giving back more often.