Top Ten Hospitality Trends for 2006
Benchmark Hospitality International has announced its annual 'Top Ten Hospitality Trends for the Year' as observed by its properties. Some of its top ten are particularly relevant to vacation rentals.
The first is “Hit the Spa�, which it describes as the hottest trend going in hotels. “It doesn't matter if you're a guest at a meeting, staying the night, or just getting away for the weekend, customers want to hit the spa, even if only for an hour or two at the end of the day.� This is important for vacation rental owners to recognize. As we have indicated previously it is important for vacation rental owners to work with local spa owners to develop a spa package wherever possible.
Another of the top ten trends is "Luxury is Back". According to Benchmark, “Travel budgets are healthier and guests are demanding luxury, first-class amenities and added value in return for their dollar. Flat screen televisions, luxurious bath soaps, superior bed and bath linens are benchmarks of quality.� This is a trend that we at VacationRentals.org have been aware of. We have consistently urged our members to add amenities and little luxuries wherever possible to stand out from the competition.
A third top ten trend is that Wi-fi is a necessity. Benchmark says, “It's about convenience. Laptops open everywhere these days and it's expected that a guest can log on and access email or the office at a moment's notice - wherever he or she is. This is no longer a luxury, it is now perceived as a necessity, is expected, and more and more properties are providing it free of charge.� This is another trend that we at VRO have long been aware of. Vacation rentals must have high –speed internet access if they expect to be competitive in today’s market.
The entire list of Benchmark’s too ten trends is available at Hospitality Trends.
