Hotel Trends for 2009
Tuesday, April 7th, 2009
Hotels are taking a different approach to the travel industry in 2009 as a way to cut expenses and increase profitability. Consumer dollars have never been so in demand. The competition for tourism dollars during the economic down turn is steep but most hotels seem up for the challenge.Hot Hotel Trends
Going green. Consumers are looking for ways to travel but stay environmentally friendly. Hotels are working hard to accommodate the "green"needs. Many hotels are also discovering that going green can actually save the company green as well.
Upping the rewards. Travelers (particularly in the United States) tend to be loyal brand and hotels are rewarding that loyalty. Rewards programs offer special amenities, upgrades and even free nights for regular visitors.
Family friendly incentives. The travel industry is recognizing that more families are traveling together. More hotels are offering incentives aimed at families (like kids eating, staying and even playing for free - with tickets provided to local attractions).
Online presence for hotel chains. The internet has changed the face of everything including advertising for hotels. Many more hotel chains are seeking to increase their presence online and to make their hotels and websites user friendly.
Downscale of amenities. Hotels are turning from lavish menus to comfort food. The restaurants in the hotels are shifting to smaller "bistro" styled establishments. And the niceties that were once free are now costing guests a little extra.
Hotels are working harder to make a profit during these tough times. Some of the effort is going towards drawing in more guests. Just as much effort is going towards cutting back and downscaling without hindering the customer service aspect of the hotels.
In the long run, hotels are not expecting as much down turn as other sections of the travel industry. Even travelers that stay close to home will still have to have a place to stay.