The hotelier’s guide to successful experiential travel

Have you ever had guests ask you for authentic local dishes or looking for hidden gems in your town? This trend is growing every day.

I remember visiting the stunning Andaman Islands last year, where I met a couple, one of whom was an experienced travel blogger. Although the chauffeur-driven cars provided by the resort are luxurious, they opted for something simpler: renting bikes for the day. reason? They want the freedom to explore every corner of the island at their own pace, meet the locals, and immerse themselves in the true essence of the destination. For them, the joy of exploring their own paths and making real connections is far more valuable than any typical travel experience.

In essence, this is the magic of experiential travel – the journey is as important as the destination itself. It’s about discovery, immersion and authentic connection. The movement is rapidly gaining traction.

So, as a hotelier, how can you embrace this shift and provide guests with the meaningful experiences they seek? Let’s discover the power of experiential travel to set your hotel apart.

Changing traveler preferences and expectations

As a hotelier, you may have noticed that the travel industry is constantly evolving. It’s no secret that guest preferences are constantly changing, and travelers’ needs may be different today than they were just a few years ago.

Keeping up with these changes may seem daunting, but keeping up with trends is key to staying competitive.

A few years ago, travelers often looked for comfortable rooms and hearty breakfasts. Today, things have changed. More and more guests are looking for experiences that go beyond their typical stay. Who knows what the future holds?

For example, according to a Skyscanner survey, 54% of travelers now consider cultural experiences to be the main factor when choosing a destination, while 49% prioritize attractions. This shift highlights the importance of incorporating cultural and immersive elements into your products. In short, understanding these trends is an integral part of the modern hospitality industry.

So, what exactly is driving the rise of experiential travel? It’s all about providing guests with a unique and memorable experience that goes beyond a typical hotel stay. For example, imagine a guest eager to learn about the history of your town. Not only can you recommend local landmarks, but you can also work with local historians to provide guided tours.

This personal touch not only enriches their stay but enhances their overall experience.

Check out: Consumer Behavior and Hotel Strategies: Adapting for the Future 

Driving trends in experiential travel

Experiential travel is booming, and several key trends are driving its rise. As a hotelier, understanding these trends can help you tailor your offerings to the needs of today’s guests. Here are the factors driving this shift:

1. Millennials and Gen Z: The experience-driven generation

Millennials and Gen Z travelers are redefining what travel means to them. Known for their pursuit of unique experiences and willingness to spend, these generations are driving demand for experiential travel.

They are seeking authentic, immersive experiences to connect with a destination and its culture. By delivering a tailored experience, you can attract these eager explorers and meet their expectations.

Pro Tip: Gen Z in Hospitality: Adapting to the Next Generation of Travellers

2. social media influence

Social media is a major driver of experiential travel. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have revolutionized the way travelers share their journeys. The need for standout events is driven by the desire to capture and showcase unique, compelling experiences.

Travelers are looking for those “instagram-worthy” moments and unforgettable adventures to make their social media content popular.

By creating and promoting unique experiences at your hotel, you can capitalize on this trend and encourage guests to share their stories.

3. The rise of remote work

With the rise of remote work, more and more people are embracing the “digital nomad” lifestyle of traveling while working in different destinations.

These travelers are not just looking for a place to stay; They want an inspiring environment where work and leisure blend. Providing work-friendly spaces combined with unique local experiences can appeal to this growing group.

Whether it’s offering a comfortable landscaped workspace or offering local adventure packages, catering to the needs of digital nomads can set your hotel apart.

4. technology enhancement

Technology is revolutionizing the way travelers seek out and book experiences. From mobile apps that suggest nearby attractions to virtual reality previews of local tours, technology tools make it easier for guests to discover and plan their adventures.

A recent trend is the rise of tech-savvy travelers who use apps to enhance their stay, such as finding hidden local activities or booking last-minute activities.

Incorporating technology into your products can help you stay relevant and attract these modern explorers.

How hoteliers can capitalize on this trend

Hoteliers are embracing the experiential travel trend as travelers seek more immersive experiences. To capitalize on this shift, you can enhance your offerings and attract guests beyond traditional accommodations by:

1. Personalized guest experience

Providing personalized service can significantly increase guest satisfaction. Use guest data to personalize your service and provide tailored recommendations, such as customized city tours or curated dining experiences that match personal preferences.

A recent Deloitte survey found 56% of travelers Value personalized experiences when choosing accommodation (Deloitte, 2023).

2. Partner with local businesses

Partnerships with local businesses can enhance the guest experience and create new revenue streams. Partner with local restaurants, travel agencies and cultural organizations to offer exclusive packages or special offers.

These collaborations can help you create unique packages that highlight the best of your region and provide guests with a richer, more authentic experience.

3. Offer flexible options

In today’s market, flexibility is key. Allowing guests to customize their stay can significantly enhance their experience. For example, you could offer flexible packages that include options for local tours, dining experiences, or wellness activities.

By offering these options, you give your guests the freedom to customize their stay to their unique preferences, making your hotel more attractive.

4. Promote your products

Let’s face it: If you don’t speak up about your unique experiences, how will anyone know they exist? Use every tool at your disposal to show what makes your property special. Social media is your stage to post compelling stories, eye-catching photos, and behind-the-scenes footage of the extraordinary experiences you deliver.

Engage with your audience by sharing guest testimonials and encouraging them to show off their adventures online. And don’t underestimate the power of online reviews; they’re like the modern version of word of mouth.

Make sure your product is at the forefront so that when travelers scroll through information or read reviews, your hotel stands out as the go-to place for an unforgettable local experience.

Checkout: 9 Excellent Hotel Social Media Marketing Strategies for 2024 

5. Create a unique experience package

Create packages that combine your stay with local activities to offer guests something they can’t find anywhere else. For example, you can design a package that includes guided tours, local cooking classes, or thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking. These carefully curated experiences help your guests immerse themselves in the local culture while adding value to their stay.

According to a report from Expedia, 67% of travelers are willing to pay more Stay at a hotel that matches their preferred vibe and offers a unique experience.

Offering these carefully curated experiences can attract guests looking for something extraordinary.

future outlook

As the market continues to evolve, so will traveler expectations. The hospitality industry will continue to change, and staying ahead of the curve means being ready to adapt and innovate.

New technologies and changing trends will continue to impact people’s travel experience. We can expect more advanced technology tools, such as virtual reality or personalized AI recommendations, to become part of the guest experience.

Additionally, as sustainability becomes increasingly important, travelers are likely to seek environmentally friendly and responsible travel options.

Here is a question for you: How do you see your property adapting to these future trends? Are there any specific changes or innovations that you’re excited about?

(Let us know in the comments below⬇️)

By paying close attention to these emerging trends and being open to change, you can ensure that your hotel remains a top choice for guests looking for unforgettable experiences.

The key is to remain flexible and ready to embrace new opportunities.