When planning your next vacation, you’ll likely consider the type of accommodation you want to stay in. From opulent and iconic grand hotels, to quirky and cool-minded boutiques, to picturesque inns straight out of a storybook, to all-inclusive beachside resorts, the options are seemingly endless. But how do you decide which one is right for you? To help, Travel + Leisure has put together a list of tips for travelers when choosing the perfect hotel for their trip.
Before deciding what type of hotel to book, first determine how much you’re willing to spend. This will help you narrow down your options and choose the type of hotel that best suits your needs, whether it’s an inexpensive hostel or a luxury resort. Also, remember that the price tag of a hotel does not always reflect the quality. Some hotels charge hidden fees, such as airport shuttle or telephone charges, that aren’t included in the quoted rate. Be sure to read the fine print and ask about these additional charges before booking your room.
If you’re travelling for business, a business-friendly hotel is a must. Look for amenities that will make your experience more productive, such as conference rooms and great Wi-Fi. On the other hand, if you’re traveling for pleasure, look for hotel amenities that will add to your enjoyment, such as entertainment and pool or beach access.
Another important factor to consider when selecting a hotel is its location. Ideally, your hotel should be close to the attractions you plan on visiting during your trip. While many hotels claim to be close to certain tourist destinations, it’s best to check the exact location on a map to see how convenient it really is.
With a growing interest in experiential travel, hotels should focus on ways to give their guests unique and memorable experiences. This could include anything from a cooking class to an exclusive tour of a local landmark. For example, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts now allows its loyalty program members to exchange points for Minor League Baseball tickets. And Marriott Bonvoy has partnered with the U.S. Soccer Federation to offer exclusive fan experiences.
The travel and tourism industries are different from other sectors in that their product is a service. As such, they’re highly interconnected, with organizations within the transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, and entertainment industries all working for the good of travelers.
After being hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, the industry is slowly recovering. However, the industry is facing other challenges that may inhibit growth in the future. Among these include the increasing use of mobile devices, changing consumer interests in experiential travel, and the emergence of new competitors. To overcome these obstacles, the travel and tourism industries will need to continue to innovate in order to meet consumers’ evolving needs. This will require a concerted effort by all parties involved, including government agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders.