6 Hotel Trends for 2017
It’s important for any industry to stay on top of current trends. Here are six hotel trends for 2017 that we have seen gain more popularity over the past few months.
In-Room Technology
High-speed internet and hi-definition televisions are considered a standard and are expected by most guests. 98% of hotel rooms in the U.S offer high-speed wireless internet. Many hotels are beginning to experiment with integrating devices like Apple’s Siri or Amazon’s Alexa into rooms.
Mobile Convenience
More guests desired mobile check-ins and mobile apps. Each year the use of mobile apps for hotel service continues to grow. About 65% of upper-midscale to luxury hotels offer mobile check-in.
Dining Options
Hotel guests want more dining options on-site. While at least 62% of hotels offer complimentary breakfast, guests are also looking for varied selections to be offered during the day. Luxury and resort hotels average an offering of three food options per property.
Communal Areas
While it’s unlikely there will be a surge in pod hotels, co-living, or poshtels in 2017, we can expect to see an increase in the demand for communal areas. Travelers aren’t just looking for a place to sleep, they are looking for experiences. Many hotels are beginning to offer hotel lobbies or rooms where travelers can meet with each other or with locals.
Tours and Activities
It’s important for hotels to pay attention to guests’ experiences inside and outside the hotel. Many luxury hotels have made the move to offer more tours and activities directly through the hotel, but we may see other hotel categories begin to offer the same types of experiences.
Luxury Means Personalized Service
1,000 count-thread sheets and the finest foods are no longer the definition of luxury service. Hotels need to have a story behind their brands and their services need to blend perfectly with the local environment and preferences of the community.
Arnaud Champenios, SVP brand & marketing at Belmond said, “Luxury consumers are looking for authenticity, true quality, genuine people, real stories, and immersive local experiences. They make their decision based on personal value and interests for experiences rather than material goods.”
It’s clear that 2017 will continue to break the mold within the hotel industry. People are valuing experience over material goods. Which hotels do you think will shine in 2017?