TRAVEL 3.0: EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF HOTELS AND HOSPITALITY

Travel is changing, and – even at a glance – looking at the future of hotels and hospitality reveals many industry shifts that are still yet to occur. Looking ahead, the field is poised to be reshaped by advancements in technology, changing consumer preferences, and new safety and sustainability regulations, among other advancements.

For instance: The future of hotels will invariably involve the increased use of technology. Many properties are already using technology to streamline their operations and enhance the guest experience. We can expect to see more hotels adopting technologies like mobile check-in and keyless room entry, virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri, and personalized recommendations based on guest preferences in the years ahead.

Beyond this, there’s definitely a growing industry focus being placed on sustainability. Travelers are becoming more environmentally conscious, and hotels are taking note. Many destinations are already implementing green initiatives like reducing water and energy usage, using eco-friendly products, and reducing waste. In the future, we can expect to see more establishments adopting sustainable practices and promoting them as a selling point to attract eco-conscious guests.

Given the recent shift towards remote work, hotels are likely to become increasingly popular as workspaces to boot. We can expect to see more hotels offering coworking spaces and meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology to facilitate remote work. Some hotels may also offer extended-stay packages targeted towards remote workers, with amenities like high-speed internet, ergonomic workstations, and access to on-site fitness facilities.

Otherwise, the future of hotels may well be impacted by the rise of experiential travel to boot. Consumers are increasingly looking for unique and immersive travel experiences, and hotels are responding by offering activities and experiences that go beyond the traditional hotel amenities. In the future, we can expect to see hotels partnering with local businesses and tour operators to offer guests curated experiences like food tours, cultural activities, and adventure sports.

Naturally, safety and hygiene are likely to remain a top priority for hotels in the future as well. The pandemic has made consumers more aware of the need for cleanliness and safety in hotels. That means that, going forward, hotel management teams will continue to prioritize hygiene and sanitation, with measures like increased cleaning protocols, contactless check-in and payment options, and the use of air filtration systems to improve air quality.