April is traditionally slow for travel and hotels are no exception. Travel internationally will be slow in April until 2020, and domestic tourism will be a priority. Unfortunately, we’re not as concerned about the state of our country as we are about what’s happening overseas. Because of this, hotels are suffering more than most other businesses. Their employees rely on them for their livelihood, so it’s important for them to remain flexible and cash-flowing.
Business travellers
A recent study by Aparthotels Adagio(r) and the Easy Panel Institute shows the demographic breakdown of business travelers. The target group is mostly over 45, male (64%), and urban (23%). The most common traits shared by business travelers are comfort and convenience. They also seek connectivity and personal amenities. Business travellers are more demanding than leisure travellers and therefore demand more than just comfort, convenience, and connectivity. The following are key factors to consider when catering to the needs of business travellers.
Fast Internet Access: While most business travellers do not need constant access to the web while on the road, they need quick and reliable connections to stay connected. Internet access can make a world of difference. Business travellers may need to access a company intranet, upload files, and use online communication tools while away from home. If a hotel does not provide fast internet access, they are losing out on business. Business travellers should pick hotels that provide free Wi-Fi for all their guests.
Chain hotels
Online travel agencies like Expedia and Hilton are increasingly eroding the relationship between chain hotels and travelers. Hilton’s recent marketing campaign, developed by London-based Fold7, premiered during the Grammy Awards. The campaign also appears on billboards and major television broadcasts. Travelers have long questioned the relationship between chain hotels and online travel agencies because of the lack of brand loyalty that often develops with frequent visits. That’s why the hotel chain’s marketing strategy is aimed at attracting a loyal following.
While independent hotels tend to have a certain authenticity, chain hotels usually don’t have an individual character. Most independent hotels are the result of the personal wishes of the owners and reflect the character of their surroundings and region. A family history or love of a place often motivates the owners. Chain hotels, on the other hand, are generally a mix of brands. Some are owned by the “mother” company while others are independently managed by various owners.
Guesthouses
Choosing Guesthouses when traveling and booking hotels allows you to experience the culture of a particular destination. Unlike chain hotels, guesthouses often offer local cuisine. The host may even offer a local restaurant or bicycle rental at a reasonable daily rate. Guest houses offer more personal service than hotels do, and many are run by families. Guests are encouraged to share a meal or drink with other guests. Some guesthouses have only one shared kitchen.
While guesthouses are popular in some areas, they are not common in other regions. In some countries, they are run by local families or small businesses. Some are even owned by the government. In most places, guest houses fall under the same classification as hotels, and are subject to local regulation. The rules and regulations for guesthouses differ from country to country. Read about the differences between these two types of accommodations before choosing one or the other.