More expansive outdoor spaces, technology upgrades to minimize exposure are new trends that many hotels adopt.
Here are some of the trends in hotels that travelers might see in 2021, according to data and analysis from GlobalData.
Hygiene is always a top priority
The hotel industry has been rapidly implementing intensive sanitation and safety procedures during the pandemic. By 2021, accommodation facilities around the world can continue to develop and improve sanitation programs, to minimize the spread of disease, and attract bookers.
Guests rent a room longer
Many hotels and resorts have introduced extended accommodation programs and packages in 2020 and that trend will continue this year. The reason is that the pandemic remains complicated, and tourists tend to stay in one place for longer periods of time.
Travel and travel analyst Ralph Hollister of GlobalData says travelers may travel less often, but they will stay longer. The complexity of the epidemic will make many people devote their energies to investing a large trip, rather than risking a single trip, which could be canceled.
Hotel rooms facilitate remote workers
When traveling longer, visitors also do not want their jobs to be affected. That is why they will both relax and work remotely. Therefore, a room customers need is a place where they can work comfortably and enjoy private relaxing moments. The instant in-room Wi-Fi is also a plus, and can sometimes be the deciding factor for many travelers looking to travel on business in 2021.
Increase technology adoption
Hotels like airports, restaurants ... are places where many people pass by. Therefore, improving and thoroughly applying technology and limiting exposure is the main goal of this year's tourism industry. Instead of direct payment, visitors can pay for rooms through mobile applications, QR codes ... to reduce the risk of virus infection.
"In 2021, hotels will increase adoption of technology to reduce exposure. Things that will gradually become more common include customers who can check-in and check-out online, and open doors with the key. Lock on phones, control room devices with IoT technology ... Using IoT also allows hotels to collect more data about customers, thereby personalizing customer experiences when they return. ", Hollister said.
Non-contact cuisine is served
Reducing exposure by technology means limiting person-to-person contact throughout food and beverage services. Solutions offered by the hotel are options for guests to purchase food to take to the lobby, staff to order meals at the living room door or order by phone using QR codes.
Flexible refund and cancellation policy
Hotels with a 100% refund policy when guests cancel at the last minute, along with other risk reduction policies will be selected by the majority.
Customers love private places
Tourists will be looking for more privacy this year. Therefore, short-term rental services through applications such as Airbnb, Vrbo ... as well as stays in a separate villa will be targeted by many visitors. The reason is that these places offer more private space than hotels and motels. This is also the year when accommodation establishments and restaurants in remote areas have the opportunity to welcome more customers, because they are less likely to worry about travel restrictions.
Outdoor space is preferred
Guests will feel safer when spending time outdoors compared to enclosed spaces in public. Therefore, hotels will seek to incorporate more outdoor spaces into experiences such as yoga, coffee, dining, and spa ...
Sustainable tourism development
The resorts have become more environmentally friendly after a long absence. That trend is likely to continue this year as more tourists seek to limit their impact on the environment and local culture. Saving water, minimizing waste, as well as sourcing local food in bars, restaurants ... is still a strategy of many hotels that want to make a difference in the future.
Tourists spend more
Many people will face a limited travel budget, so accommodations need to attract middle-class customers. They are the ones who will be looking for the low price of the room, but are also willing to spend more if the quality of service is worth the money they spend.
Anh Minh (According to Fox News)