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With more travellers prioritising sustainability as part of their plans than ever before, it’s vital that travel distributors can cater to the changing demands for eco-conscious travel. Up to 50% of travellers feel there aren’t enough sustainable options being actively promoted or available, carving a significant opportunity for distributors to offer eco-friendly travel products.


Demand for sustainable travel is on the rise


The demand for sustainable travel options is undoubtable, and is only expected to grow. According to the World Economic Forum, sustainable travel is now a priority for four out of five travellers globally, with 71% committed to travelling more sustainably. Travel distributors are perfectly placed to get ahead of the competition and offer sustainable travel options for conscious travellers, and would be wise to do so, since the sustainable travel market predicted to grow by $335.93 billion by 2027 (Global Sustainable Tourism Market 2023-2027).&nbsp;

As leaders in the global TravelTech space, Hotelbeds are experts in sustainable travel and have already helped thousands of travel providers to better offer sustainable travel options to their clients. If you’re ready to maximise the potential of this growing market, keep reading.

How to maximise the potential of the growing sustainable travel market




1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Expand your sustainable property portfolio

Hotels worldwide are investing and developing their sustainability practices in line with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles to appeal to customers and stakeholders alike. This poses significant opportunities for travel distributors to advertise eco-friendly hotels and green incentives. Prospective travellers are proven to be doing more research and due diligence on sustainability before booking, so it’s absolutely vital to be promoting these credentials, particularly since, according to Avantio:
-&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;40% of travellers want booking sites to clearly show sustainable properties&nbsp;
-&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;37% of travellers want a filter option to show sustainable accommodation more easily

Ready to expand your sustainable property portfolio? You can access over 38,000 sustainable hotels with ease via Hotelbed’s ‘Green Hotel’ filter on our Booking Engine. In the past year, the programme has seen a 30% growth in travellers choosing eco-friendly hotels. Join the B2B travel partners already taking advantage of the Green Hotels Programme by clicking&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

Beat plastic pollution

This year’s theme for World Environment Day is Beat Plastic Pollution, drawing attention to one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. Thankfully, the travel industry can play a part in the solution by catering to the increasing demand for plastic-free. In fact, Hotelbeds has seen an 84% increase in our plastic-free hotel portfolio, with 30% more customers seeking both an eco-friendly and plastic-free hotel in the past year. This is a fantastic opportunity for travel distributors to clearly advertise products which meet this criteria. Learn more here.&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Maximise high-margin products through sustainable ancillaries&nbsp;



Are you maximising the potential of high-margin ancillary products? For example, nature-based packages are predicted to account for 57% of travel packages globally, according to Euromonitor. This demonstrates the increasing demand and opportunity for sustainable ancillaries, from off-grid retreats to immersive experiences, which you can easily add to your offerings for sustainable travellers to choose from.

Hotelbeds can help travel distribution partners to offer sustainable ancillaries: in fact, our mobility and experiences portfolio countains 16,000 activities overall, giving plenty of choice to your clients.

EMERGING TREND: REGENERATIVE TRAVEL

Sustainability is about protecting both people and the planet. Offering tours which are experience-rich and help improve communities and/or natural spaces, known as regenerative philosophy, will become essential to appeal to the traveller of tomorrow. With competition higher than ever before, plus more choice and greater traveller independence, it’s vital to offer unique, values-based experiences which sustainable travellers can’t refuse.&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Broaden your customer base with options for all budgets



It is widely accepted that sustainable travel comes with a price premium, although those willing to pay varies across customer segments. Although some segments (like luxury travel and high-impact conservation) are seeing a boom, the global economic landscape is certainly impacting some travel behaviours. With inflation considered a primary issue impacting travel plans in the next 12 months, it’s vital to vary your offerings to suit budgets across traveller types. For example, whether a beach holiday or city break, emerging destinations are a fantastic opportunity to capture cost-conscious travellers who want to spend less, support local economies, and have authentic experiences. &nbsp; &nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Access our Star Brochure to get ahead of the competition with key emerging destinations for 2023 for a range of traveller types.&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Increase your credibility to increase customer loyalty&nbsp;


Travellers are more discerning than ever about greenwashing in tourism, the marketing of products or companies which claim to be sustainable without any evidence to support these claims. In fact, the World Economic Forum reported one of the main barriers for sustainable travellers is concern around the claims which travel companies make about the sustainability of their products.

By working with credible partners and offering packages and services which are proven or certified to be sustainable (like the Hotelbeds Green Hotels Programme), with transparency and good reporting, you will gain valuable customer loyalty and see travellers return to you for years to come, all the more important in an increasingly competitive market with travellers exercising more independence than ever before.


The important role travel distributors play in sustainable travel

Travel distributors play a crucial role in protecting the planet through sustainable offerings. As the demand increases for sustainable travel, with more people understanding that eco-friendly doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing luxury or comfort; travel distributors can certainly benefit from, and even lead the way in, these changing ideas around sustainable travel. After all, environmentalism is definitely not going anywhere, so make sure your travel business is primed and ready to help sustainable travellers protect and enjoy the planet for years to come.&nbsp;

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Ready to start selling sustainable experiences? Log in now.

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World Environment Day: Your Guide to Selling Sustainable Travel

The recent economic and global challenges of the past few years have caused a shift in how businesses approach technology for the long term.According to a recent study by McKinsey &amp; Company, companies of all industries have increased the digitization of their customer and supply chain interactions, some by as much as three or four years, while the adoption of digitally enabled products has also accelerated, by up to seven years - and as much as ten years in Asia.This rapid acceleration of technology adoption is transforming the business landscape and presents new opportunities for growth and innovation.&nbsp;Across many industries, a narrative shift is taking place wherein technology is no longer solely recognized for its cost-saving capabilities, but as a crucial aspect of any business. The rise of technological solutions is not a new concept, but the increasing reliance on technology to meet customer demand and replace outdated communication methods is noteworthy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Of the changes to the adoption of digital processes, the largest are the most likely to be here for the long term, including:&nbsp;Changing customer demands or expectations - such as, for example, increased hygiene awareness and online communication/purchasing&nbsp;Increasing migration of cloud-based assets&nbsp;Increasing use of advanced technologies within business operations - such as artificial intelligence, automation and analytics.&nbsp;In fact, 32% of attendees at our MarketHub Americas event suggested they were planning to embrace tech and AI above anything else this year, and 28% planned to innovate more.&nbsp;Within the context of the travel and hospitality industry, it is imperative for hotel owners to consider how they can effectively integrate advanced technology to enhance customer interactions. This raises the important question of how hotel owners can adapt to an ever-evolving digital landscape, and what innovative tools and strategies are already being utilised to optimise customer experiences in the hospitality sector.&nbsp;Smart Hotel Technology&nbsp;In response to the growing expectations of digital-savvy travellers, hotels are expanding their horizons by offering innovative facilities such as mobile check-in, smart room technology and partnering with new tech companies to cater to their everyday needs.&nbsp;To be considered a top-tier hotel, it is essential to provide guests with cutting-edge technology that enhances their experience. Smart hotels achieve this feat by enabling customers to control devices and services using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), or digital connectivity. Examples of such travel technology include voice control, energy efficiency controls, facial recognition, and automation.&nbsp;The implementation of smart hotel technology is a vital aspect of customer experience. By utilising AI machine learning to collect and process customer data during a stay, hotels can gain valuable insights into customer preferences and provide a more customised experience.&nbsp;What are some other real-life examples of travel technology partnerships or innovations within the hotel industry?Marriott International recently partnered with Groups360 to streamline the process of booking rooms, meeting spaces and events for its corporate guests.&nbsp;The Maho Group, offering hotels and resorts in the Caribbean, partnered with Cendyn to power its CRM, revenue management and business intelligence, offering personalised experiences to encourage customer loyalty by tracking individual guests’ preferences.&nbsp;IHG Hotel and Resorts recently partnered with PPDS to offer Chromecast in select locations, providing guests with the ability to stream content from their smart devices.&nbsp;DistrictHive offers its guests a ‘human recharding pod’, an ‘off-grid’ space where AI systems manage energy consumption and can change external stimuli like sounds or smells based on external conditions.&nbsp;Ascott’s Lyf One-North Singapore provides a co-living property for guests, where they can trade digital art and engage in virtual activities.&nbsp;Hilton has been working with Meta and SweetRush to create VR scenarios to train members of the team to deal with complex guest situations and provide a better experience for future guests.&nbsp;How Do We Encourage Tech Development at Hotelbeds?In order to enhance the traveller's experience and ensure a seamless process, we have forged a partnership with Wayra, an open innovation centre operating within the telecommunications firm Telefonica to create the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds.Designed to allow us to support upcoming tech startups, this collaboration means we can work&nbsp;together with startup partners to create customer-centric products, platforms, and services that have a significant impact in the travel industry. Our goal is to continuously innovate and improve the travel experience for our customers.&nbsp;A diverse and data-driven distribution strategy is crucial to enhancing exposure and relevance within the travel industry, particularly in the valuable B2B marketplace. At Hotelbeds, with our extensive network of over 54,000+ travel distributors worldwide, we are well-positioned to amplify the success of your hotel(s).&nbsp;Not only this, but our exclusive extranet is a hotel marketing solution that combines the benefits of our distribution channel with valuable digital tools to effectively manage availability, rates, content and more to maximise room occupancy.&nbsp;Sign up today to become one of our valuable hotel partners today!Log in to your Hotelbeds account today to begin maximising your distribution.Green TechnologyThe tourism sector, research has shown, is responsible for as much as 8% of global CO2 emissions, with around 2% of this directly produced by the hospitality industry. This, and recent insight from CBRE demonstrates the urgency around the need for hospitality and leisure infrastructures, businesses and establishments to reduce their carbon footprints in comparison to other real estate classifications. Hotel carbon emissions alone are shown to be 96kgCO2e/m².&nbsp;And although there has been tangible progress to reduce carbon footprints in order to meet the terms of the globally recognised Paris Agreement, there is still much work that can be done not only to ensure the development of their business, but to keep in line with the fact that sustainability is now, by necessity, a guiding principle of the travel industry.&nbsp;Here are just a few examples of sustainable technology which hotels around the world are adopting:&nbsp;Operational systems:&nbsp;such as Energy Management Systems (EMS), Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS), Property Management Systems (PMS), and Building Management Systems (BMS).&nbsp;&nbsp;Online check-in and automated ticket management for guest requests&nbsp;Digitised communications and collaboration technology:&nbsp;for shareholders, corporate communications and even for guests, to reduce the carbon footprint that comes with printed or physical resources.&nbsp;Renewable sources of energy:&nbsp;solar or photovoltaic - to lower the impact of high-consumption services like air conditioning.&nbsp;Why Is Sustainable Technology Important?&nbsp;As previously highlighted in our traveller of tomorrow discussion, the Gen Z traveller profile is one of the most influential in the travel industry. This demographic is particularly vocal in their support of sustainable travel, with Millennials also ranking the ecological impact of transportation, accommodations, and activities as a significant factor in their booking decisions. Google Insights also reports that more than half of surveyed travellers consider environmental impact when making travel plans.&nbsp;And after all, the guests of the future will be Gen Z and Gen Alpha (the children of Millennial families); and as the 'voice of sustainability', these generations prioritise eco-friendly practices, making it critical for hotels to adapt in order to remain relevant and successful in the industry.&nbsp;As part of our recognition that providing sustainable travel opportunities to end travellers is so vital, at Hotelbeds we’ve worked to ensure that hotels that can be categorised as ‘sustainable’ can easily be found in our portfolio. This is true when travel providers are locating their clients' perfect hotel using our Booking Engine thanks to our ‘Sustainable Hotel’ filter, or browsing top-recommended hotels in our Star Brochures digital brochure.&nbsp;This is because we know that it’s critical that your properties are receiving not only maximum exposure, but that the defining qualities of these properties are highlighted to the right traveller at the right time in order to increase occupancy rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sign up today to become one of our valuable hotel partners, and benefit from responsible, expert distribution as part of our global network.Recognition TechnologyRecent data indicates that incorporating self-service technology in hotels can increase guest satisfaction, with around 73% of travellers preferring to stay in hotels that offer such technology. From facial recognition to voice control and voice search, recognition technology offers valuable opportunities to implement self-service travel technology, and is one of the more accessible ways to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;Facial recognition technology however can also be used throughout the entire customer experiences to provide:&nbsp;Faster check-in and check-out.&nbsp;A more reliable payment system.&nbsp;Higher security - particularly helpful for travellers embarking on long-haul journeys or who want to ensure their details are protected in far-away countries.&nbsp;A dematerialised experience - reducing not only the need for wasteful resources like printed paperwork, but also a less stressful experience for travellers.&nbsp;The modernisation of previously manual or analog processes in order to streamline a customers’ experience also brings us to our next point.&nbsp;Customer-Centric Artificial Intelligence&nbsp;As the demand for travel continues to expand, and customers of all demographics are more expectant of digital processes in their daily lives, travel providers must dramatically rethink how they’re ensuring customer satisfaction.&nbsp;The integration of artificial intelligence into businesses has become more prevalent in recent years, though it has been in existence for quite some time. And while the use of machine learning and AI does present some logistical challenges, the potential of this type of tech cannot be ignored. It is essential, however, for the hospitality industry to strike a careful balance between the benefits of automation and the necessity of delivering personalised experiences.&nbsp;The most significant example of customer-focused AI when thinking about travel technology for the hospitality industry, is Chatbots. Using natural language processing (NLP) this technology accurately responds to and engages with users to streamline and enhance the customer experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;The benefits of integrating chatbots into customer service strategies are supported by research from Meta, indicating that approximately seven out of ten customers feel a greater connection to businesses that offer messaging options. In addition, 65% of consumers prefer contacting businesses via chat. These statistics emphasise the importance of utilising chatbots as a professional and effective means of enhancing customer satisfaction.&nbsp;From pre-booking enquiries to post-booking assistance, Chatbots offer:A direct channel of communication from customer to business, simplifying the way that customers used to contact travel providers in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;Seamless customer service - when implemented correctly.&nbsp;The ability to gather crucial data - allowing businesses to learn about their customer needs to better meet them.&nbsp;Our CEO Nicolas Huss, suggests that technology like chatbots allows travel distributors to ‘provide an elevated personalised experience by remembering preferences and automatically implementing them each time an individual books their next trip.’&nbsp;Tech-Owned Hotels and Resorts&nbsp;Another noticeable way that the ownership of hotels and how this may impact the hospitality industry is the increasing instances of technology companies branching out into hotel ownership.&nbsp;For example, tech-company Heli, who have specialised in providing a booking platform and software to heli-skiing experience providers, purchased their own property in a move to expand into the industry in an all-new way.&nbsp;This expansion into the hospitality industry directly challenges existing hotel owners and hospitality providers, as established travel technology companies such as Heli are approaching the travel market with a high level of understanding about both sides of the market - what it takes to run a successful business, and also how to keep customers happy.&nbsp;&nbsp;What does this mean for hoteliers?Travel tech companies moving into the hotel ownership sphere will result in an increasing level of competition for existing hotel owners to ensure that they know what their guests want, and have the appropriate resources, facilities and internal tech solutions to provide this.&nbsp;Technology and Remote Working/Bleisure TravelAs we previously discussed in our article covering the best destinations for remote workers, the impact and influence of the remote worker on the travel landscape is significant, and does not seem to be dissipating. In fact, by 2022, the number of remote workers had grown to 35 million, with around 16% of companies around the world operating on a fully remote basis, and 76% respondents to a TravelPerk survey suggesting their company was hybrid.&nbsp;'Bleisure’ travellers are also an increasingly prominent segment, and the combination of business and leisure travel not only changes&nbsp;the needs that guests have during their stay, but also their search criteria during the booking process and businesses that lack the facilities or technology solutions to cater for this segment may find themselves at a disadvantage.&nbsp;&nbsp;This continual blurring of the line between business and leisure travel can cause several challenges for hotels, such as determining the travel motive for their guests, and changing travel behaviours which are leading to fewer ‘shoulder’ seasons throughout the year amongst other changes across the industry. This will have long-term impact on the considerations that hotel owners should be keeping top of mind when it comes to attracting, and retaining this segment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are a few crucial technologies that hotel owners should consider implementing for remote and bleisure travellers:Secure, superfast WiFi - while this may seem obvious, the importance of reliable WiFi that will allow remote workers to conduct their business as usual is vital to attracting this type of traveller, and ensure positive word of mouth marketing as a result of their experiences.&nbsp;Access to tools like printers, desktop computers, and smart TVs - this supports a productive environment and ensures spaces are convenient for a wide range of needs.&nbsp;Cloud-based technologies - offering coworking or meeting spaces which offer online or cloud-based solutions ensures you’re meeting the variable needs of the remote worker.&nbsp;Nomad Stays is also looking to take their accommodation of remote workers even further, by offering a booking platform that focuses on the sense of community that this type of traveller is often looking for. This marketplace will provide travellers with ideas of where to buy relevant software to create meetups, coaching and training sessions, consultation services and more - and it’s a key example of how travel providers everywhere are beginning to change their business models to incorporate this high-value segment.&nbsp;Why is it important that hoteliers are accommodating remote workers?The notion of ‘hybrid hospitality’ encompasses the opportunity for hotels today, and how businesses utilising the spaces available in their hotels throughout the day and at different times can significantly uplift revenue generation. For example, by ‘stacking’ a co-working model onto the hotel real estate, a 24 hour window of revenue generation opens up, and several hotels found that by doing this it grew their revenue by 20%; just by offering remote workers space to conduct their business in.&nbsp;By offering a combination of spaces where their business travel and leisure travel needs meet, you’re offering the level of flexibility that today’s travellers are looking for.&nbsp;&nbsp;VR As A Hotel Marketing ToolVirtual Reality (VR) offers travel providers and travel sellers all over the world to build a sensory experience of a destination, attraction, or activity, which can then be used to complement or even replace traditional promotional tools much like printed travel brochures.&nbsp;However for hotels, VR offers a multitude of opportunities to increase occupancy rate, by emphasising the physical environment which is being sold to travellers. By engaging with VR experiences or materials, potential travellers can make a more informed judgement of a new destination, hotel or tourism experience. VR, when used as a hotel marketing tool, provides travellers the chance to more intrinsically understand what will be offered to them and therefore better influence the decision-making process.&nbsp;When guests can see themselves using the hotel facilities, or even relaxing in their room, the likelihood of them booking this hotel increases.&nbsp;Some real life examples of successful VR marketing include:&nbsp;Unveiled at Fitur 2023, Amadeus announced plans to offer virtual experiences and previews of trips for travellers to travel agencies with its ‘Triportation’ program. This innovative development will provide a mix of ‘VR, AI and metaverse’ to enhance the travel experience at critical moments in the booking journey.&nbsp;The use of a VR web portal (Bihor360) was used to successfully promote sustainable tourism in Romania, with positive effects on the awareness, protection and conservation of historical and cultural monuments.&nbsp;We predict that the use of virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) will continue to expand as travellers become increasingly familiar and reliant on this type of technology during the travel booking process. This includes utilising it to inspire them at the initial “dreaming” stage all the way through to their departure.&nbsp;So there you have it! These are just a few of the ways that travel technology is being integrated into the hospitality industry, whether that’s with a customer-centric approach, or with initiatives designed to improve the sustainability of hotel facilities, or even to train members of the hotel team to better serve their guests.&nbsp;&nbsp;At every level of the travel and hospitality industry technology is being recognised far and above its efficiency-increasing capabilities, and is becoming a crucial component of any business. At Hotelbeds, this integration of technology is something we hold as one of our central pillars, from the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds to the wealth of data we collect and use to offer our partners informed, market-relevant insights to improve their business.&nbsp;Sign up today to join the ranks of hotels around the world benefitting from our global network of travel distributors, responsible distribution and data-driven growth strategies.&nbsp;Log in today to begin maximising your exposure with our global network of travel distributors, and grow your revenue!

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How Hoteliers can Cater for Travel Trends: Travel Tech/AI 

Responses to the economic and global challenges of the last few years have changed how businesses interact with and adopt technology, for the long haul. A recent study by McKinsey &amp; Company suggests that companies across all sectors and industries have dramatically accelerated the digitisation of their customer and supply chain interactions - some by as much as three or four years. The adoption of digitally enabled products has accelerated by seven years - and in the case of Asia, as much as ten years.&nbsp;There is a narrative shift occurring within many industries, where technology is not only recognised for its ability to offer cost efficient ways of working; but is recognised as a critical component of a business itself. Of course, the increase of technological solutions or advantages is not news - but what is illuminating is the weight being placed on technology to cater for demand, to replace outdated modes of communication with customers and curate more efficient, personalised experiences for consumers.&nbsp;Many of the changes we’re seeing in usage of digital products are likely here for the long term, including:&nbsp;Changing customer demands or expectations - such as, for example, increasing online communication/purchasingIncreasing migration of cloud-based assetsIncreasing use of advanced technologies within business operations - such as artificial intelligence, automation and analytics.&nbsp;So, in relation to the travel industry, this becomes an increasingly interesting and important question of how can travel providers ensure they’re meeting the needs of customers in a digital landscape? And also, what are some of the ways that advanced technology is already shaping interactions between travellevers and travel distributors?&nbsp;Data Usage To Create Personalised ExperiencesPersonalisation is one of the key consumer trends that all industries are seeing, not just travel, and it’s something that will continue to shape the considerations of travel providers globally. Especially given that, according to Google, 57% of US travellers think that brands and service providers should tailor the information provided based on personal preferences and past behaviours - and that was several years ago. Now, personalisation and using customer data and analytics to do so is critical.&nbsp;&nbsp;Customer data means there is more opportunity to personalise travel experiences, plus, and provide a more rounded, connected experience for the customer. In fact, 13% of all attendees at our 2023 MarketHub Americas event suggested that they were planning on offering more personalised services, with 11% planning to create and use more data to do so.&nbsp;By collecting customer data and combining this with powerful tools like predictive analytics, travel distributors and travel tech companies can better predict customer behaviour, trends in the market, and keep ahead in this fast-paced industry.&nbsp;McKinsey &amp; Company also suggest that brands will increasingly use ‘ecosystems’ to personalise journeys from beginning to end - meaning that personalisation for customers won’t stop when they arrive in their destination or at their hotel, but continue in partnering ecosystems which include the restaurants they eat in, the bars and clubs and shops they visit during their stay. Doing so requires customer data, to build out these ecosystems using past behaviours and customer preferences, to build an infrastructure of travel providers which is connected enough to offer wide-reaching customer service, which even includes their in-destination experiences!&nbsp;This focus on analytics within tourism is something that we at Hotelbeds are dedicating our energy to. The customer data available through the distribution of activities within our global network, for example, allows our partners to obtain additional information about customers and as our CEO Nicolas Huss explained at our MarketHub Europe event, ‘by knowing who they [customers] are, it is easier to meet their needs.’&nbsp;&nbsp;Insights&nbsp;is an ideal example of how we at Hotelbeds utilise customer data, but delivered in an anonymised, market-centric way, to provide key insights and allowing our partners to:Identify growth opportunities and market-specific booking patternsmarket.&nbsp;Save, anchor or discard recommendations to better influence our intelligent system.Create personalised marketing materials to capture client interest and increase the likelihood of booking.&nbsp;Using market-based data in this way, and combined with technology that enables our partners to meet customer preferences and learn from those, is one of the ways that we at Hotelbeds are working to maximise on the opportunities that using customer data offers without compromising on client experience or personal data security.Sign up today to join our global network of travel distributors dedicated to taking the industry further! Get access to key insights, a vast portfolio of properties, and intuitive travel platforms offering you those chances for all-important personalisation.Green Technology&nbsp;As much as 8% of global CO2 emissions are produced nowadays by activities in the Tourism sector (transportation, construction, catering, services, land promotion activities, etc.); while UNWTO suggests that around 2% of this is directly produced by the hospitality industry. Recent insight from CBRE indicated the urgency for hospitality and leisure establishments to reduce carbon footprints compared to other real estate classifications, with hotel carbon emissions at 96kgCO2e/m².&nbsp;And although there has been tangible progress to reduce carbon footprints in order to meet the terms of the globally recognised Paris Agreement, there is still much work that can be done not only to ensure the development of their business, but to keep in line with the fact that sustainability is now, by necessity, a guiding principle of the travel industry.&nbsp;Here are just a few examples of sustainable technology which hotels around the world are adopting:&nbsp;Operational systems:&nbsp;such as Energy Management Systems (EMS), Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS), Property Management Systems (PMS), and Building Management Systems (BMS).&nbsp;Online check-in and automated ticket management for guest requests.Digitised communications and collaboration technology:&nbsp;for shareholders, corporate communications and even for guests, to reduce the carbon footprint that comes with printed or physical resources.Renewable sources of energy:&nbsp;solar or photovoltaic,&nbsp;to lower the impact of high-consumption services like air conditioning.Artificial Intelligence and software solutions: to reduce food wastage, by tracking food production and inventory, as demonstrated by the innovative partnership between The Iberostar Group and Winnows AI to become carbon neutral.Why Is Sustainable Technology Important?&nbsp;As we explored in our discussion about the traveller of tomorrow, one of the most valuable and influential traveller profiles for the travel industry as a whole is Gen Z. The move towards sustainable travel is loudly supported by Gen Z most notably; though Millennial travellers also suggest that the ecological impact of transport, accommodation and activities is influential on their travel booking decisions. According to Google Insights, over half of surveyed travellers suggested that environmental and sustainable considerations were essential to them when planning travel.&nbsp;&nbsp;And after all, the guests of the future will be Gen Z and Gen Alpha (the children of Millennial families) and considering their status as the ‘voice of sustainability’, so catering for the values and preferences of this vast travel segment is critical for a hotel to remain relevant and successful, and for the industry as a whole.VR As A Marketing ToolVirtual Reality (VR) offers travel providers and travel sellers all over the world to build a sensory experience of a destination, attraction, or activity, which can then be used to ‘complement, or supplant traditional promotional tools’, much like printed travel brochures for example.&nbsp;&nbsp;Similarly to the ways that VR saw such significant success during COVID-19 as a result of its immersive nature, which allowed users to experience new destinations or take virtual tours of attractions around the world from the comfort of their home, VR allows potential travellers to make a more connected judgement of a new destination, hotel or tourism experience. It offers them a chance to more intrinsically understand what will be offered to them, and therefore influence the decision making process and make interested travellers more likely to book.&nbsp;Some real life examples of successful VR marketing include:&nbsp;Unveiled at Fitur 2023, Amadeus announced plans to offer virtual experiences and previews of trips for travellers to travel agencies with its ‘Triportation’ program. This innovative development will provide a mix of ‘VR, AI and metaverse’ to enhance the travel experience at critical moments in the booking journey.The use of a VR web portal (Bihor360) was used to successfully promote sustainable tourism in Romania, with positive effects on the awareness, protection and conservation of historical and cultural monuments.&nbsp;We anticipate that the use of virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) will only grow as travellers become more acquainted and expectant of this sort of technology throughout the travel booking process, from inspiring them at the ‘dreaming’ stage through to when they jet off.Customer-Centric Artificial Intelligence&nbsp;As the demand for travel continues to expand, and customers of all demographics are more expectant of digital processes in their daily lives, travel providers must dramatically rethink how they’re ensuring customer satisfaction.&nbsp;Of course, artificial intelligence itself has existed for many years, but it is only recently being integrated into businesses at a higher rate. And while the use of machine learning and AI does present some logistical challenges, the potential of this type of tech cannot be ignored. However the hospitality industry in particular needs to ensure that there is a careful balance between the ease and efficiency of automation, and the need to deliver unique, personalised experiences for today’s traveller.&nbsp;The most promise in this realm lies with features like intelligent Chatbots - which use natural language processing (NLP) to accurately respond and engage with users.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chatbots allow businesses to cater to a wide range of customer requests from pre-booking enquiries to post-booking assistance. And considering that, as suggested by research from Meta, around seven out of ten customers feel ‘closer’ to businesses that offer messaging options, and 65% consumers prefer contacting businesses via chat.&nbsp;&nbsp;From pre-booking enquiries to post-booking assistance, Chatbots offer:A direct channel of communication from customer to business, simplifying the way that customers used to contact travel providers in the past.&nbsp;Seamless customer service - when implemented correctly.The ability to gather crucial data - allowing businesses to learn about their customer needs to better meet them.&nbsp;Our CEO Nicolas Huss, suggests that technology like chatbots allows travel distributors to ‘provide an elevated personalised experience by remembering preferences and automatically implementing them each time an individual books their next trip.’Sign up today to join our vast global network of travel distributors!&nbsp;VR and AR Experiences For TravellersFrom immersive galleries, museums and exhibitions from the likes of techLab, with locations all over the world, the to mixed reality playgrounds of technology-driven installations from companies like Meow Wolf in the USA, and VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) games from Gamebox in London, the way that travellers engage with technology in-destination is changing. AR is fast becoming easily accessible in major destinations globally, and even theme parks like Super Nintendo World are bringing guests a wide range of immersive activities, rides and exploration spaces.&nbsp;But what is emerging is a whole new way for travellers to discover their destinations of choice, with app-based VR and AR experiences paving the way for a whole new realm of tourism where travellers’ experiences are enriched with interactive technology.&nbsp;For example, in Japan Kumamon Land is the result of a collaboration between Japan’s Kumamoto prefecture and a leading tech-organisation and marketing agency, to offer an app-based metaverse space where users can explore a virtual landscape inspired by the real-life destination of Kumamoto. Meanwhile Singapore’s National Heritage Board released BALIKSG, an augmented reality trail app that offers immersive trail routes where travellers can discover the country’s history through the use of augmented reality. Qatar Airways also recently launched Qverse, which is an immersive experience offering travellers the chance to navigate the Hamad International Airport, check in, and even interact with ‘Sama’ - a MetaHuman cabin crew!&nbsp;These explorations into all-new travel tech challenge the previously separate worlds of virtual and augmented reality and travel, breaking down boundaries within the travel experience.&nbsp;Smart Hotel TechnologyFrom mobile check-in and smart room technology to new tech partnerships that cater to the everyday needs of travellers, many hotels are broadening their horizons in terms of the facilities on offer for increasingly digital-product expectant travellers.&nbsp;&nbsp;A smart hotel can be defined by its ability to offer customers the ability to operate devices and services through either Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR) or digital connectivity. This could include smart room technology such as voice control, energy efficiency, facial recognition and automation. In-room technology could also be controlled by apps and mobile devices, such as guests adjusting air temperature, lighting and air conditioning through app-based platforms or smart metres.&nbsp;Smart hotel technology is also a crucial development for the advancement of customer experience, as the appropriate collection of customer data during a stay, processed via AI machine learning, could help hotels learn more about customer preferences and curate an even more bespoke experience. Even investing in cloud-based technologies could simplify operations, reduce staffing needs, and provide a better guest experience.&nbsp;To further help create a frictionless experience for the traveller we have also recently partnered with Wayra, an open innovation centre within telecom company Telefonica, to create the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds, an initiative which supports tech startups and actively change the way that tomorrow's travellers move, connect and explore. This collaboration allows us to innovate with start-up partners to deliver customer-centric experiences through the creation of products, platforms and services that have a high impact in the world of travel.&nbsp;&nbsp;What are some other real-life examples of tech partnerships within the hotel industry?Marriott International recently partnered with Groups360 to streamline the process of booking rooms, meeting spaces and events for its corporate guests.The Maho Group, offering hotels and resorts in the Caribbean, is working with Cendyn to power its CRM, revenue management and business intelligence, offering personalised experiences to encourage customer loyalty by tracking individual guests’ preferences.IHG Hotel and Resorts partnered with PPDS to offer Chromecast in select locations, providing guests with the ability to stream content from their smart devices.Hilton also recently partnered with Amadeus’s distribution system, to better share valuable information to scale operations more effectively.&nbsp;The benefit of a diverse distribution strategy also cannot be overstated when it comes to increasing exposure and relevance within the travel space - especially the high-value B2B marketplace. And with a global portfolio of 250,000 properties in 170+ countries worldwide, at Hotelbeds we’re in a prime position to take your travel distribution even further.&nbsp;Sign up today to take your travel distribution even further with our leading insights, technology solutions and global portfolio.Log in today to take advantage of our leading insights, technology solutions and global portfolio.&nbsp;

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How to Cater for Travel Trends: Travel Tech/AI

Within any sphere of travel it’s important to understand where audiences are looking to go, what they want from their experience, and how their needs are changing.&nbsp;&nbsp;To keep ahead of the curve, as hotel owners it’s important to re-evaluate what was once considered ‘luxury’ travel, as many of todays’ travellers are moving away from purely exclusive resorts and disconnected retreats. And despite the fact that many countries are experiencing financial crises, the demand for luxury travel is anticipated to be ‘higher than ever’ in the next five years.&nbsp;What Luxury Travellers Want In 2023Here are just a couple of key insights into what luxury travellers are looking for from their trips include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Clients want to ‘get under the skin’ of a destination&nbsp;&nbsp;An increasing focus on exploring hidden gems, activities, and neighbourhoods - what GlobeTrender calls ‘Gamma Destinations’&nbsp;With this in mind, we take a closer look at some of the most notable current and upcoming trends within the luxury travel sphere, what opportunities these present for hotel owners, and how Hotelbeds are ideally positioned to offer hotels access to travellers within this segment.&nbsp;More Conscious LuxuryGiven that one of the prerequisites of luxury travel is a closer, ‘exclusive’ look at a destination of choice, there are many overlapping similarities between luxury travel and conscious travel. This intersect can be more clearly seen when we look at a few aspects of the ‘hierarchy of needs of the luxury traveller’:&nbsp;Indulgent Experience (meets/exceeds)&nbsp;Authentic Experience (cultural, not mass travel)&nbsp;This narrative shift towards conscious travel, where authenticity is becoming more highly priced than ‘pan-global luxury’ is apparent across the travel industry as a whole, however with regards to luxury travel and what travellers are looking for from their experience, there are key considerations for the hospitality industry - particularly, the need for green initiatives.&nbsp;Mostly, the importance of offering sustainable accommodation for consciously minded luxury travellers is never more apparent, in order to remain relevant within a market whose definition is rapidly changing.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), at Hotelbeds we understand how critical it is not only for hotel owners to remain successful, but for the industry as a whole to shift towards conscious travel. Our Green Hotel Programme and Plastic-Free initiative are just two of the ways that we’re responding to the very real demand from environmentally conscious travellers, offering simple and effective tools for our travel trade clients to not only make green choices in how they’re selling experiences and hotels to end travellers, but to make positive change within the industry.&nbsp;Sign up to connect with our network of thousands of travel distributors to help attract the right guest at the right time today.&nbsp;The Re-Emergence of China&nbsp;Even though it will take time for China to be fully reinstated into the world travel market, the growing wealth across the region is a promising sign for outbound travel growth. According to Oxford Economics, there is potential for outbound travel to reach 48% of 2019 levels in 2023, which means roughly 17 million additional Chinese travellers will be exploring both international and domestic travel markets.&nbsp;The reopening of China's tourism industry presents a wonderful opportunity for the growth of luxury travel. With the affluent demographics of Asia showing a strong demand for this style of travel, we can expect a massive outbound source market to emerge in the next few years.&nbsp;As a global travel partner with a vast network of travel distributors, as well as valuable ancillaries for end travellers to enrich their trips, we’re ideally positioned to not only increase the visibility of our partners’ hotel(s) through a non-competing distribution channel, but also to a group of guests who:&nbsp;&nbsp;Have longer lead-times than other distribution channels.&nbsp;Cancel less often - for example, the cancellation rate for European hotels during FY22 was 31% when booked through our distribution channel, compared to the 65.5% seen in OTA bookings.&nbsp;Largely belong to long-haul markets&nbsp;We offer all our clients access to fast-growing travel segments even in the most hard-to-reach spaces, while our cloud-based technology platforms provide fast, simple access to a network of global travel products to curate your clients’ bespoke travel plans. Put simply, working with us at Hotelbeds puts you in the right position to access some of the most valuable travel segments out there.&nbsp;Sign up today to become one of our dedicated hotelier partners.Log in to your account today and begin managing your hotel offerings.&nbsp;Pay Attention To Generation Alpha&nbsp;A recent study from Globetrender highlighted this trend, revealing that these families are not afraid to spend big and travel far. The study also predicted a substantial hike in family trips, estimating an increase of 185% between 2021 and 2022, which we anticipate will carry over far and beyond 2023. As we look ahead to the next few years, it is safe to assume that luxury travel will see a sharp and sustained increase, particularly among wealthy families.&nbsp;And as a passive but young demographic, Gen Alpha is reliant on their Millennial parents to spend for them, which means:&nbsp;&nbsp;Millennial travellers will be looking to accommodate their children - an increasingly influential and young demographic accustomed to regular travel and the digital era.&nbsp;Luxury travel and luxury familial experiences may change as a result - from the rise of parent-child bonding trips to the increase in long-haul adventure trips, the way that luxury families go on holiday is changing.&nbsp;It's essential to recognize the changing face of the modern family and adapt your offerings accordingly. For instance, in the UK, many families are led by single parents, around 90% of which are women. So, it's vital to question your preconceived notions about family travel and make sure your offerings meet the diverse needs of today's travellers. But what is clear is that there is no better time to cater for the elite and their younger generations.&nbsp;‘Premium’ Travel As One To Watch‘Premium’ travel has many names, but this segment can mostly be identified by where travellers sit on the plane - namely, those at the front. And while the premium segment may not be quite the same as luxury, the motivations, needs and travel styles are in a similar vein, so travel distributors would be remiss to discredit the growing opportunity that premium travellers present. Travel analytics companies like Forward Keys, in fact, have outlined premium travel as one to watch.&nbsp;Recent insights suggest that the premium travel segment is recovering much faster than the economy segment in relation to 2019 levels. Interestingly, premium travellers also:&nbsp;Travel more regularly than economy travellers&nbsp;Spend more than average once in their destination of choice&nbsp;Stay for longer durations in their chosen destinations each time&nbsp;&nbsp;In fact, at the end of 2022, premium segment travellers in America had stayed 14% longer compared to 2019 levels, with particular growth within small groups and families.&nbsp;&nbsp;What opportunities does this present for hoteliers?This is a rapidly growing segment of travellers who are willing to spend more in-destination, stay longer, and travel more frequently than those in the economy segment. So this means that recovery, in terms of revenue, is happening faster than visitor numbers, which is great news for host destinations and also great news for hotel owners looking to make the most of a high-spend, high-frequency traveller.&nbsp;The Rise of High-Impact ConservationAs suggested in our article detailing some of the top travel trends for 2023, high-impact conservation remains another exciting opportunity within the luxury travel segment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pelorus, a provider of luxury trips, noted that many high net-worth travellers are no longer impressed by the type of excess that ‘luxury travel’ used to once mean, and that luxury is becoming more about the privilege of contributing to preserving and protecting the world’s environments. From spending time with marine biologists to joining conservationist efforts in Africa, the ultra-wealthy are beginning to fund experiences that make a tangible difference to the climate crisis, and capitalising on this type of traveller could lead to a huge uplift in your success as a hotel owner.&nbsp;Partnering with in-destination organisations who offer a deeper experience than more ‘tokenistic’ give back schemes can be a key step for hotel owners looking to capture the interest of high-net worth clients looking to make a real difference. It’s critical to ensure that any partnerships offer tangible, real value to local communities and environments, in order to attract the calibre of luxury traveller looking to make an actual difference during their experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Luxury Wellness TourismCNTraveller suggests that ‘mindful movement is the new buzzword’ when it comes to luxury wellness as one of the top travel trends for 2023 and beyond, and we’re inclined to agree - though mindful movement is certainly not new as a concept! From hypnotherapy and nutritional assessments to astrology, forest bathing or sound baths, the concept of holistic wellness as a mainstream driver for travel has deserved a place on the radar since 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marketing wellness experiences is therefore becoming a key factor in many luxury hotels’ strategies, and our Star Collection Programme offers the perfect platform to maximise visibility to the right guest, as part of our dedicated marketing solutions for hotels - available exclusively to our hotel partners!&nbsp;&nbsp;In order to remain relevant and keep up with demand, many hotels and hotel chains around the world have had to increase their wellness offerings by incorporating innovative, attractive experiences and facilities into their properties. In fact, some hotels are taking this one step further, incorporating high-tech medicine into wellness regimes and pushing the boundaries of what ‘wellness’ means - from hotels offering traditional Chinese medicines featuring nutrigenomics (the relationship between between diet and genes); on-site assessments that curate bespoke stress-relieving activities; or even offering clients treatments believed to increase ‘health span’ including stem-cell therapy, DNA analysis and customised immune-boosting.&nbsp;In fact, at Hotelbeds we have seen a significant increase in luxury bookings with many destinations experiencing growth exceeding 50% in the last couple of years as more travellers than ever prioritise mind and body wellness, and preventative care. This prompted an incredible opportunity to expand our portfolio with The Leading Hotels of the World Alliance, offering even greater access to the luxury travel segment and building our existing ability to connect luxury travellers with the right hotels and experiences.&nbsp;Sign up to become a dedicated hotel partner today, and maximise your occupancy.Log in to manage your properties and maximise your occupancy.

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How To Cater To 2023 Travel Trends: Luxury Travel


Within any sphere of travel, it’s important to understand where audiences are looking to travel, what they want from their experience, and how their needs are changing! And despite the fact that many countries are experiencing financial crises, the demand for luxury travel is anticipated to be ‘higher than ever’ in the next five years.

However, while some luxury travellers will be seeking ways of exploring new territory, trailblazing into destinations and okay with a few bumps along the way; for some, a rediscovery of classics is what’s fresh. Luxury travel is quickly becoming all about meeting the specific needs of this segment, while remaining conscious of how the notion of 'luxury' is changing in line with today's travel trends.

So, what does this mean for travel distributors? The focus, as always in today’s travel industry, is on bespoke. There are a few overriding trends that we’re seeing within luxury travel however, which are:&nbsp;


	Clients want to ‘get under the skin’ of a destination&nbsp;
	An increasing focus on exploring hidden gems, activities, and neighbourhoods - what GlobeTrender calls ‘Gamma Destinations’


So, with this in mind, we explore some of the key overriding trends which are important for travel distributors to consider, from the re-emergence of China as a main outbound travel market to the rising influence of Generation Alpha!

Incorporate Slow Travel



Given that one of the prerequisites of luxury travel is a closer, ‘exclusive’ look at a destination of choice, there are many overlapping similarities between conscious luxury travel and slow travel. This intersect can be more clearly seen when we look at a few aspects of the ‘hierarchy of needs of the luxury traveller’:


	Indulgent Experience (meets/exceeds)
	Authentic Experience (cultural, not mass travel)


Slow travel can be determined by any instance where a traveller actively seeks out impactful, meaningful experiences in their destination of choice, and so the benefit of using this travel style to meet these luxury needs is clear.

Things to consider when you’re crafting slower experiences for your luxury travellers:


	What is driving them to their destination of choice?&nbsp;
	What are they seeking for this trip that may or may not be different to what they’ve experienced before?&nbsp;


A particular recommendation for long-haul segments would be to allow them to get to grips with a country by exploring the authentic cuisine of their destination, particularly in countries where food is so much a part of local culture. Getting local experts involved is also critical, as there is also a notable shift in the narrative surrounding luxury travel where authenticity is becoming more highly priced than ‘pan-global luxury’.

Some of the top performing luxury destinations for 2023 so far, according &nbsp;to a recent study by luxury travel provider Carrier, have been Barbados, the Maldives, the USA, Greece, UAE, Antigua, South Africa, Italy, Spain and Kenya - which form interesting starting points when you’re considering where to send your luxury travellers on their slow travels this year, and into 2024.

What does this mean for travel distributors?

Travellers of all capabilities and preferences are beginning to understand that when we travel, we impact local communities and environments. Luxury travellers are beginning to prioritise ‘local’ over surface-level experience.

This is where having a vast portfolio of activities and experiences is so essential, in order to offer your clients bespoke opportunities to get to the heart of their destination of choice. Doing so requires attention to detail - which is a hallmark of luxury travel, after all.

This vast network of local travel experts, activities and hotels is something that we offer at Hotelbeds! With thousands of properties and activities in 195+ countries worldwide, our portfolio is the only resource you need to boost your bookings and meet your clients’ demands.

Sign up today to access our exclusive portfolio!

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Pay Attention To Generation Alpha&nbsp;



A recent study from Globetrender also illuminates the fact that Millennial families (Gen Y) are looking more and more for adventurous, intrepid trips. These families are spending high and travelling far, and with family trips increasing by 185% between 2021 and 2022, we can anticipate a sharp and sustained increase in luxury travel particularly for wealthy families in the next few years.&nbsp;

What does this mean for travel distributors?

Considering that Millennials are one of the most travelled demographics of today’s traveller, it’s safe to anticipate that the influence of their children, Gen Alpha, will only increase over the next few years.&nbsp;

A passive but young demographic, Gen Alpha is reliant on their Millennial parents to spend for them, which means:&nbsp;


	Millennial travellers will be looking to accommodate their children - an increasingly influential and young demographic accustomed to regular travel and the digital era
	Luxury travel and luxury familial experiences may change as a result - from the rise of parent-child bonding trips to the increase in long-haul adventure trips, the way that luxury families go on holiday is changing.&nbsp;


The changing nature of what the modern family looks like will also be important to review, to ensure that you’re meeting the needs of today’s traveller. For example, take the UK as a segment; many families are headed up by a lone parent, 90% of which are women. So challenging the assumptions over what sort of family trips you’re offering, and how these may not always meet the demands of your market, is crucial.&nbsp;

However, what’s clear is that there is no better time to cater for the elite and their younger generations.

‘Premium’ Travel As One To Watch



‘Premium’ travel has many names, but this segment can mostly be identified by where travellers sit on the plane - namely, those at the front. And while the premium segment may not be quite the same as luxury, the motivations, needs and travel styles are in a similar vein, so travel distributors would be remiss to discredit the growing opportunity that premium travellers present. Travel analytics companies like Forward Keys, in fact, have outlined premium travel as one to watch.

Recent insights suggest that the premium travel segment is recovering much faster than the economy segment in relation to 2019 levels. Interestingly, premium travellers also:&nbsp;


	Travel more regularly than economy travellers
	Spend more than average once in their destination of choice
	Stay for longer durations in their chosen destinations each time&nbsp;


In fact, at the end of 2022, premium segment travellers in America had stayed 14% longer compared to 2019 levels, with particular growth within small groups and families.&nbsp;

What does this mean for travel distributors?

Think about how you’re accommodating premium travellers, not just luxury. There is a vast segment here that’s fast-growing, spending more in-destination, spending more time in-destination, and travelling more than the economy segment.&nbsp;

So this means that recovery, in terms of revenue, is happening faster than visitor numbers, which is great news for host destinations and also great news for travel distributors looking to make the most of a high-spend, high-frequency traveller.

The Re-Emergence of China&nbsp;



While the reinstatement of China into the world travel market will take time, the growing wealth across the region is still an important feature of the potential for outbound travel growth. Oxford Economics suggests that, at its best, this outbound travel may reach 48% of 2019 during 2023 - but this still equates to roughly 17m additional Chinese travellers this year populating international and domestic travel markets.

The reopening of China ties into the increasing demand for luxury travel, as the wealthy demographics of Asia in particular are expected to be a massive outbound source market for this style of travel in the next few years.&nbsp;

Travel analytics company Forward Keys suggested that in terms of recovery trends, compared to 2019 levels, China is following many of the same trends we’re seeing around the world. Given that one of the fastest growing visitor profiles around the world right now is the premium segment, this applies to China as well, meaning that many of the Chinese travellers heading out to international destinations during 2023 and into 2024 are more likely to belong to the affluent classes than in pre-2019. The Chinese traveller, therefore, is a key segment to capitalise on as travel distributors during the remainder of the year and well into 2024, even 2025 and beyond!

As a global travel partner with an expansive portfolio in China and the Asia Pacific region, we offer all our clients access to fast-growing travel segments even in the most hard-to-reach spaces, while our cloud-based technology platforms provide fast, simple access to a network of global travel products to curate your clients’ bespoke travel plans.

Put simply, working with us at Hotelbeds puts you in the right position to access some of the most valuable travel segments out there!

Sign up today to begin your journey with us.

Log in to your account to start maximising your bookings.

&nbsp;

High-Impact Conservation



Alongside other key travel trends for 2023, high-impact conservation remains another exciting opportunity within the luxury travel segment.&nbsp;

Pelorus, who specialise in luxury trips, noted that for high net-worth travellers no longer impressed by the type of excess that ‘luxury travel’ used to once mean, experiences are becoming more about the privilege of ensuring that their presence contributes to the ‘preservation, protecting and future flourishing’ of the world’s environments.&nbsp;

After all, what higher privilege is there to accessing remote destinations, or experiencing first-hand the very real consequences of humanity on natural environments and wildlife, and having the ability to make a positive impact?&nbsp;

What’s more, a recent report from global luxury travel agency Virtuoso suggests that around 56% of Gen Z and 46% of Millennial luxury travellers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly tourism packages, with around 52% of Millennials seeking travel that preserves natural and cultural heritage.&nbsp;

Add this to the fact that Millennials represent 23% of the adult population on the globe, and that elite Millennials and their Gen Alpha children are an increasingly active and key segment for the luxury travel market, and you have an unmissable opportunity to cater for high-spend, eco-conscious Millennial families from around the world.


There you have it! While there are many trends to watch out for regarding the luxury travel segment, these are just a few of those that we find the most interesting especially for travel distributors.

One of the best ways to keep connected with this valuable segment within the travel industry is by partnering with Hotelbeds! With an expansive global portfolio of accommodation and ancillaries, we make it easier than ever to access high-end clients even in the most hard-to-reach spaces.

Sign up&nbsp;today&nbsp;to begin maximizing your success as a travel distributor.

Log into your account&nbsp;and see how we can further boost your success as a travel distributor.

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How To Cater For 2023 Travel Trends: Luxury Travel 

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It’s not news that the 9-5 is no longer the norm, and that remote work is taking over as the new standard! In fact, ‘digital nomads’ – another term for remote workers – was coined in the 1990s, as improving technology was hypothesized to allow people to work from ‘anywhere’.&nbsp;

And as of 2022, there were approximately 35 million remote workers around the world, 16% of global companies are 100% remote, and 76% of respondents to a 2022 TravelPerk survey said their company had shifted to hybrid models. This means not only are the ways that business clients travel changing, but it also means that day-to-day travellers who may have been restricted by that rigid 9-5 office job are now more liberated to work, and therefore travel, wherever they want.

Of course, this means that in an already fast-changing industry you as travel suppliers must be prepared to cater for the remote worker and the impact that remote working is having on business and leisure travel - and especially how these travelling types are not as dissimilar as they once were.

One of the best ways for you to cater to the changing demands of travellers is by utilising a global portfolio of properties sourced from hard-to-reach markets, in some of the most popular destinations around the world! This is something that all our travel partners have access to with our exclusive and extensive&nbsp;portfolio of accommodation, which&nbsp;ensures that no matter your clients' needs, you are equipped with their ideal properties and ancillaries.

Not partnered with us? Register for free today to start scaling your success!

Log in to your acccount now to start scaling your success!

&nbsp;

But for now, let’s look at where today’s remote worker is looking to travel, and how you can capitalise on this!&nbsp;



‘Bleisure’ Travel’s Rise to Fame

2022 saw the rise of the term ‘bleisure’ travel - a unique reference to the merging of business and leisure travel as a result of increased remote working, but also due to the fact that business travellers are taking advantage of the opportunity to combine corporate trips with leisure travel much more often. This was, among other factors, largely down to the restricted opportunities available to business travellers at the height of COVID-19.

Not only this, but leaders of Marriott International suggested that the rise of blended travel during 2022 is expected to continue, and accelerate, well into 2023 and beyond. Travel behaviours have changed and it is becoming increasingly more difficult for those within the hotel industry in particular to estimate whether its guests are in ‘business’ or ‘leisure’ mode just using previous indicators like booking times.&nbsp;

The long-term impact on the travel industry as a result of more blended travel means that everyone from hoteliers to travel sellers will need to consider how to accommodate an audience for whom the lines between business and leisure travel are increasingly blurred.

And of course, this simultaneously will impact where travellers will go for work, how long they will travel for, and how often - which is critical to consider when conducting your consultations. Utlising our technology solutions, and our ancillary portfolios allows you to&nbsp;capitalise on current trends and keep abreast of changing traveller demands.

The Best Destinations for Remote Workers

Now we understand that remote working is changing how both business and leisure travellers go on trips, it’s time to explore where in the world is best for remote workers. As one of the top travel trends for 2023, it’s crucial to know which destinations to recommend for this all-important travel profile.

Nomadlist recently identified its top ten destinations for remote workers based on growth in popularity over the last five years; though the most significant increase in visitors to these countries occurred between 2021-2023.

Notably, Japan has secured three of the top ten spots which suggests that this is a key destination to promote for 2023, and it's a perfect time considering Japan’s doors are now open to international travellers for the first time in three years. Momondo also came up with an interesting list of global destinations for remote workers which included Portugal, Spain, Germany and Japan.

So, let’s take a look at some of these most popular destinations!&nbsp;



Japan

Visas available: Tourist visa&nbsp;

For a lot of traditional workplaces in Japan remote working isn’t the norm - around 10% of the country worked remotely before the pandemic and this only increased to 20% during COVID-19. However, for remote working clients looking to utilise that ‘work from anywhere’ status, Japan is one of the best countries to do so. More affordable than many travellers would first think, with modern infrastructure, great nightlife and a rich culture, Japan is a remote workers’ dream.

As Japan’s capital city Tokyo boasts thousands of shops, cafes offering free Wi-Fi, coworking opportunities, exquisite cuisine and a neon-lit nightlife that never sleeps - more than enough for remote workers to keep occupied during down-time hours. Plus it’s a traveller’s dream hub with quick, clean, and reliable public transport to just about anywhere in the country.

Frequently cited as one of the world’s most livable cities, Osaka has a slightly more relaxed and friendly atmosphere than that of Tokyo, which would suit remote working clients who love the city but want things a touch slower paced. But for your clients who prefer the quieter side of life, Kyoto is Osaka’s more peaceful sister city. While there are many tourist hotspots, such as the iconic Kyoto Temple, the overall atmosphere here is calm, much more like that of a countryside town - however coworking places are a little harder to come by.



South Korea&nbsp;

Visas available: New workcation visa set to launch in 2023

With two brand new visas announced for 2023 - the K-Culture and Workcation visas - South Korea is becoming a much more viable option for remote workers! While details of these visas are yet to be confirmed, their implementation would open the doors of South Korea to a whole host of new remote workers who may not have had the opportunity to visit for longer periods of time previously.&nbsp;

The new workcation visa is said to allow foreign nationals the chance to experience life in South Korea for two years while working. The Korean government has also announced plans to improve the current online travel authorization process (known as K-ETA) to make it easier for visitors to enter and leave the country.

And with a widespread growth in popularity of Korean culture and entertainment - termed 'Hallyu' - there has&nbsp;never been a better time for you to organise a long-term stay for your remote working clients in this beautiful, richly cultured country. Plus, South Korea is the perfect place for remote workers, with easily available internet, plenty of cafes, shops, and places for dedicated laptop time as well as a vibrant pop-culture atmosphere and nightlife, especially in the capital city, Seoul. Not to mention the ease of traveling to stunning destinations like Jeju Island and Busan from Seoul using its many public transport links!



Portugal

Visas available: Temporary Stay Visa (designed for remote workers specifically)

For remote workers who have easy access to Europe (and even those who don’t, for those serious about working anywhere) Portugal is a great place to get away and experience some new surroundings while working that ‘9-5’.&nbsp;

Lisbon in particular, has grown in popularity with workcation travellers in the last few years; which is not surprising considering the cost of living is slightly cheaper than other countries in Europe while simultaneously providing plenty of cafes with strong internet connections. And of course, Lisbon itself is a popular, vibrant European city, with a rich nightlife culture, great food and stunning cityscapes - and it’s also one of the only European capitals to be flanked by beaches, which is a bonus for any traveller.

Plus, on the more practical side, Portugal has a NHR (non-habitual resident) program, which gives remote workers favourable tax rates during their stay in the country. Lisbon was also voted as the most popular place to work remotely in 2022, which just cements its status as one of the best cities to live and work for your remote working clients!&nbsp;



Germany

Visa options: Freelancer visa (though this does have restrictions)

When it comes to ranking factors like cybersecurity, cost of living, and digital and physical infrastructure, there aren’t many countries that can out-do Germany - especially in the battle for the title of ‘best place for remote working’ in 2023.&nbsp;

Being part of central Europe, Germany is a great hub for travellers looking for a place with a great remote working scene already (specifically for international workers), coworking opportunities, and plenty of busy, attractive cities. Berlin in particular has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for international visitors. However, when it comes to visas specifically for remote workers, these can be a little tricky to obtain for non-Europeans, and is restricted to what the country deems ‘liberal’ professions - so your clients will need to do a little research before committing to this country!&nbsp;



Spain

Visa options: Digital nomad visa (in development), or using the Startup Act

Many destinations in Spain are becoming increasingly popular for remote workers, and from the island-living atmosphere of Mallorca surrounded by the Mediterranean to the urban buzz of Barcelona and Valencia, this is certainly no surprise. In fact, Barcelona made the top ten in the list of most visited locations in 2022 by remote workers, which speaks volumes to its appeal! Mallorca, Gran Canaria, and Tarifa are best for sun-seeking beach lovers, while Valencia, Barcelona, and Granada are perfect for culture aficionados.

As well as the bustling cities mentioned, Spain benefits remote workers who enjoy quieter locations with high-speed internet connections even in more rural towns; many of which offer programs designed to attract new residents in order to supplement dwindling populations.



USA

Visa options: ESTA for up to 90 days (multiple entry)

Considering the breadth and sheer scope of the USA, it’s impossible to create a list of the best destinations for remote workers in 2023 without including this behemoth of a continent, especially with each of its 50 states all offering unique cultures and opportunities.

In fact, a recent study by SmartAsset rated 100 cities and curated the top 10 best places for remote workers in the USA, to determine where in this vast country has the best opportunities for the WFH nation. Of these 100, the city that came out leader of the pack was Austin, Texas, with around 39% of its population already working from home. A vibrant and creative hub (with no state income tax), Austin is a perfect destination for remote workers looking for somewhere welcoming and affordable.&nbsp;

Other cities that made the list included Arizona’s Scottsdale and Mesa, Pittsburgh in Philadelphia (noted for its affordable housing and incredibly high coffee shop and bar density) - Nashville in Tennessee, and Durham and Charlotte in North Carolina. These were selected after analysing numerous practical factors like housing costs, income, unemployment as well as coffee shop and bar density (which for travellers is the fun part) to see where offers the best opportunities for the remote worker.


Of course, there are many destinations for remote workers that provide amazing backdrops during laptop time, these are just a few of the most popular!

Log in to start booking your clients their perfect remote working trip to maximize their out of office status!&nbsp;

Register now to start accessing our exclusive portfolio of accommodation, transfers and many more ancillaries, to curate your clients’ perfect remote working trip and maximize their out of office status!

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Working From 'Roam': The Best Destinations For Remote Workers in 2023

It's a well-known fact in the travel industry that the 9-5 system is no longer the norm, and that more people than ever have transitioned to the remote work model. In fact, this shift in the workplace was first predicted in the 1990s with emerging technology that would enable people to work from anywhere. By 2022, the number of remote workers had grown to 35 million, with 16% of global companies being 100% remote, and 76% of respondents to a 2022 TravelPerk survey saying their company had moved to hybrid models.&nbsp;It is clear that the ways in which business travellers traverse the globe are changing. This shift has also enabled day-to-day travellers, who were formerly restricted by the traditional 9-5 office job, to gain newfound freedom to work and travel to their desired destinations. Consequently, this transition is significantly impacting both business and leisure travel, and shows that the underlying dynamics of these dynamics are becoming increasingly intertwined.&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of this, it is essential that you as hotel owners are equipped to adequately provide for the evolving needs of remote workers. One of the best ways of doing so, is by working with a global hotel distribution provider like us, at Hotelbeds. With a widespread network within the travel industry, we facilitate effective and successful connections between travel suppliers, and travel buyers everywhere.&nbsp;As well as our key insights into changes in the industry itself, our expert teams are abreast of changing demands that may impact your hotel(s), which means you can keep ahead of the competition and secure those higher occupancy rates.&nbsp;Not partnered with us? Register your property today.&nbsp;For now, let’s explore where today’s remote worker wants to travel, so that you can consider how to keep up with this fast-growing audience.&nbsp;‘Bleisure’ Travel’s Rise to FameIn 2022, "bleisure" travel emerged in response to the increase of remote working, as well as an uptick in the frequency of business travellers combining their work trips with leisure travel. This phenomenon was largely the result of limited opportunities made available during the height of the pandemic.&nbsp;Additionally, executives at Marriott International suggested that the prevalence and growth of blended travel will endure through 2023 and beyond. It has become harder to determine if hotel guests are traveling for leisure or business purposes due to changing travel behaviours.&nbsp;The long-term impact on the travel industry as a result of more blended travel means that everyone from travel providers to hoteliers will need to consider how to accommodate an audience for whom the lines between business and leisure travel are increasingly blurred.&nbsp;The Best Destinations for Remote WorkersIn light of the increasing popularity of remote working, it is important to consider the top destinations for this type of traveller. Nomadlist has identified its top ten destinations based on growth in popularity over the last five years. Knowing where to recommend for this all-important travel profile is key to understanding the changing trends in travel for both business and leisure travellers.&nbsp;And as one of the top travel trends for 2023 for hotel owners, it’s important to know where to recommend for this all-important travel profile.&nbsp;Notably, Japan has secured three of the top ten spots, indicating that it is a key destination to promote for 2023. This is especially pertinent as Japan is now open to international travelers for the first time in three years. Momondo has also compiled an interesting list of global destinations for remote workers, which includes Portugal, Spain, Germany, and Japan.&nbsp;So, with this in mind, we can explore some of these destinations and why they’re popular for remote workers. Even if you are not located in these trending destinations, understanding how to appeal to the remote worker will stand you in good stead against your competition, and entice this valuable audience.&nbsp;JapanVisas available: Tourist visa&nbsp;Recent evidence indicates that remote working is not a widely accepted practice in Japan; 10% of the workforce was observed to be engaged in remote working prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, a figure that increased to 20% during the pandemic. Nonetheless, for remote working clients seeking to take advantage of their 'work from anywhere' status, Japan is an attractive option. It offers modern infrastructure, a lively nightlife, and a vibrant culture at a price that is more affordable than many travellers initially anticipate. As such, it is a desirable destination for remote workers.&nbsp;Tokyo, Japan's capital city, is a great destination for digital nomads, offering a wide range of amenities such as cafes with free Wi-Fi, coworking opportunities, exquisite cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife. Additionally, the public transportation system is quick, clean, and reliable, making it easy to explore the rest of the country.&nbsp;Osaka, often cited as one of the world's most liveable cities, offers a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere than its bustling counterpart Tokyo, making it an ideal destination for remote workers seeking an urban lifestyle at a slower pace. Similarly, Kyoto, Osaka's more peaceful sister city, is the ideal place for clients who prefer a more tranquil environment. While the city has many popular tourist attractions such as the renowned Kyoto Temple, the atmosphere in Kyoto is relatively calm, reminiscent of a countryside town - however coworking places are a little harder to come by.&nbsp;South Korea&nbsp;Visas available: New workcation visa set to launch in 2023&nbsp;South Korea recently announced the introduction of more expansive workcation visas for 2023 - the K-Culture and Workcation visas - which will provide foreign nationals with an opportunity to work and explore the country for an extended period. These visas may offer an attractive option for those considering remote work, as they will enable a more immersive experience of life in South Korea. While the specifics of the visas have yet to be confirmed, this promises to be a lucrative opportunity for those seeking to take their work abroad.&nbsp;The Korean government has also announced plans to improve the current online travel authorization process (known as K-ETA) to make it easier for visitors to enter and leave the country.&nbsp;The current movement of travellers and younger demographics wanting to appreciate and experience the culture of South Korea – termed ‘Hallyu’ – presents the perfect opportunity for you as hotel owners to accommodate long-term travellers in South Korea. Not only is this destination renowned for its vibrant culture and exciting nightlife, particularly in the capital city of Seoul, the country has plenty of cafes and shops that cater to remote workers, as well as convenient and reliable internet access. Not to mention the ease of traveling to stunning destinations like Jeju Island and Busan from Seoul using its many public transport links!&nbsp;&nbsp;The integration of comfortable workspaces with accessible Wi-Fi, central locations and bustling culture hubs is important to remote workers – and so as a hotel owner its important you consider where your hotel excels in these areas, and where you may need to improve your offerings to attract this type of traveller.&nbsp;PortugalVisas available: Temporary Stay Visa (designed for digital nomads specifically)&nbsp;For remote workers who have easy access to Europe (and even those who don’t, for those serious about working anywhere) Portugal is a great place to get away and experience some new surroundings while working that ‘9-5’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lisbon has become increasingly attractive to workcation travellers in recent years due to its relative affordability in comparison to other countries in Europe and its availability of internet-equipped cafes. In addition, its unique nightlife, delicious cuisine, and picturesque cityscapes speak to its reputation as a vibrant, capital European city - and it’s also one of the only European capitals to be flanked by beaches, which is a bonus for any traveller.&nbsp;Plus, on the more practical side, Portugal has a NHR (non-habitual resident) program, which gives remote workers favourable tax rates during their stay in the country. Lisbon was also voted as the most popular place to work remotely in 2022, which just cements its status as one of the best cities to live and work for remote working audiences!&nbsp;&nbsp;GermanyVisa options: Freelancer visa (though this does have restrictions)&nbsp;When it comes to ranking factors like cybersecurity, cost of living, and digital and physical infrastructure, there aren’t many countries that can out-do Germany - especially in the battle for the title of ‘best place for remote working’ in 2023.&nbsp;Germany, situated conveniently in Central Europe, is a haven for remote workers looking to work in an already established, thriving remote working environment. With bustling cities, coworking spaces, and a vibrant cultural and artistic capital in Berlin - Germany is a great destination for those looking for an international working experience. When it comes to visas for remote workers however, it is important to note that non-European citizens may find the process to be more challenging, as these visas are restricted to specific professions that the country deems 'liberal'.&nbsp;&nbsp;SpainVisa options: Digital nomad visa (in development), or using the Startup Act&nbsp;It is easy to understand why Spain is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for remote workers. From Mallorca’s island-like atmosphere surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to Barcelona's and Valencia's urban buzz, there are a variety of locations that are sure to appeal to everyone. Barcelona even made the list of the top 10 most visited locations in 2022 by remote workers, which provides ample evidence to its growing popularity. Those seeking beaches should definitely consider Mallorca, Gran Canaria, and Tarifa, while Valencia, Barcelona, and Granada offer the perfect urban experience.&nbsp;As well as the bustling cities mentioned, Spain benefits remote workers who enjoy quieter locations with high-speed internet connections even in more rural towns; many of which offer original programs to attract new residents to supplement dwindling populations. As hotel owners, how might you work with local councils or ruling bodies to ensure maximum exposure?&nbsp;Of course, working with experts in global distribution like Hotelbeds ensures that your hotel, no matter its location, is shown to the ideal audience at the perfect time, using our wealth of data to inform where we promote your properties. This also means that more rural properties which are still perfectly suited for remote workers still receive that all-important exposure to the right travel buyer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Register your property today!Log in to your Hotelbeds account today!&nbsp;&nbsp;USAVisa options: ESTA for up to 90 days (multiple entry)&nbsp;Of course, considering the breadth and sheer scope of the USA, it’s impossible to create a list of the best destinations for digital nomads in 2023 without including this behemoth of a continent with each of its 50 states all offering unique cultures and opportunities.&nbsp;Recently, SmartAsset conducted a study ranking the top 10 best places for remote workers in the United States. From the 100 cities surveyed, Austin, Texas was the clear frontrunner. With nearly 40% of its population already working from home, Austin offers an attractive and cost-effective opportunity for remote workers with its vibrant and creative atmosphere, as well as its lack of a state income tax.&nbsp;After analysing a variety of factors, including housing costs, income, unemployment and coffee shop/bar density, this survey also determined that Scottsdale and Mesa of Arizona, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia of Pennsylvania, Nashville of Tennessee, and Durham and Charlotte of North Carolina all provide excellent opportunities for digital nomads. These cities were chosen for their practical factors as well as their appeal and amenities to the travelling worker.Of course, there are many destinations for remote workers that provide amazing backdrops during laptop time, these are just a few of the most popular!&nbsp;To easily reach remote workers looking for their perfect home-from-home while they work, register your property today to maximise your exposure to this valuable audience. Our expert teams can also provide insightful feedback on current trends, opportunities and demands from travellers which would benefit your hotel(s).&nbsp;Log in to begin maximising your booking rates by positioning your hotel(s) as an unmissable home-from-home location for this valuable remote working traveller.

Within an industry as competitive and fast-paced as travel and hospitality, it can often be a challenge for many businesses to understand the complex nature of distribution channels, and the changing distribution landscape.&nbsp;As hotel owners this, of course, is a crucial aspect of the hospitality sector to understand and ensure is bringing the utmost benefits for your hotel. Especially considering that the global hospitality market is expected to grow to as much as $6.7 billion by 2026 according to a recent global&nbsp;report.&nbsp;So, it’s no longer enough to be competitive – as hotel owners you must remain competitive, capitalise on every available opportunity, and be as visible as possible to the right customer, at the right time, to maximise occupancy rates.&nbsp;To remain competitive and to develop a profitable strategy that works best for your hotel, it’s important to utilise technology and meet new and upcoming demands from potential guests. The best way to do this is by maximising your use of global distribution channels – such as Bedbanks, Direct Channel and Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).&nbsp;In this article, we'll have a closer look at the benefits of working with a Bedbank as a part of your wider distribution strategy, and how Bedbanks as a distribution channel offer many opportunities to boost your hotel’s success.For an even more in-depth look at the distribution landscape and its different channels, download our guide to understanding global distribution, a free resource available at the end of this article.&nbsp;What Is a Distribution Channel?In the travel industry, a distribution channel is a key chain of businesses and intermediaries, through which hotel rooms, travel services or products are passed through before they reach the final customer - the guest.These channels of distribution offer their own benefits to you as hotel owners and are commonly used alongside each other, with unique weightings depending on what works best for each hotel on an individual basis.&nbsp;The most common types of travel distribution channels include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Bedbanks&nbsp;Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) - such as Booking.com, Expedia&nbsp;Metasearch Platforms - such as Trivago, Kayak, TripAdvisor and Google&nbsp;Direct - often also referred to as dotcom or brand.com distribution, direct channel distribution is via the hotel’s own website, point-of-sale system, app or affiliate website&nbsp;Ensuring that you choose the right distribution strategy for your hotel(s) is vital, and can have a significant impact on your revenue. This is why today we’re having a closer look at how partnering with a bedbank as part of your distribution channel strategy can bring large-scale benefits which you may not have access to via other channels.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s also important to remember that your distribution channel strategy needs to be constantly reviewed and updated to align with the travel industry’s changing demands. What works today may not work tomorrow, so it’s a valuable practice to ensure that you’re allocating the right capacity to each of your hotel distribution channels.&nbsp;How Do Bedbanks Fit Into The Distribution Channel Landscape?Bedbanks form an exclusively business to business (B2B) link between travel buyers and you as hotel owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here is a simplified breakdown of how a bedbank fits operates as one of the most common travel distribution channels for hotels:&nbsp;A Bedbank acts as a wholesaler, providing easy access to opaque, B2B channels.This includes retail travel agencies, tour operators, airlines and loyalty programmes.The hotelier acts as a supplier, making rooms available on the Bedbanks’ wholesaler network.This network is distributed to B2B buyers, and the hotel owner increases their occupancy rates as a result of increased exposure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Register your property with us today to access hard-to-reach global source markets and scale your success as a hotel owner.Log in to your Hotelbeds account now to access hard-to-reach global source markets and scale your success as a hotel owner.What Are the Advantages of Partnering With a Bedbank As a Channel of Distribution?One of the most common challenges that many hotel owners will face is exposure to the right source markets. International travel is one of the highest earners in the travel industry, and is certainly a sector of the market that promises high revenue - for hotels that are visible.&nbsp;Here are a few insights as to how, as an impactful hotel distribution channel, Bedbanks provide many significant benefits:&nbsp;&nbsp;Generates a high percentage of non-domestic and long-haul bookings.&nbsp;Matches capacity with demand - dedicated account managers will assist with yield management strategies and advise on prime opportunities to sell the right room to the right guest, for the highest amount.&nbsp;Connects offline and online distribution channels.&nbsp;Offers easy global reach and high-value guests - often from hard-to-reach source markets that would be challenging or costly for hotels to reach directly.&nbsp;Complements your direct channel distribution - without competing for the end customer.&nbsp;Provides clear commission and stable conditions - which means there are no surprises for you as hotel owners.&nbsp;Offers dedicated account managers and marketing experts - to help scale the success of your business at every opportunity.&nbsp;Maintaining a healthy distribution mix is vital to the success of your hotel, and while there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for how to weight your distribution channels, working with a Bedbank allows you to fully realise the potential of your hotels by diversifying your channels. Apart from this, as a true ecosystem player, Hotelbeds possesses many of the Bedbank's advantages and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;Register your property with us today&nbsp;to begin diversifying your distribution channels, increasing your exposure, and maximising your occupancy rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Log in to your Hotelbeds account now to diversify your distribution channels, increase exposure, and maximise your occupancy rates.

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Understanding Global Distribution Channels for Hotels: Bedbanks

Spring is in the air, and with it comes one of the most beautiful natural phenomena of the year: the blooming of cherry blossoms. So captivating is the fleeting appearance of blossoms that people will travel in their millions each year to see the flowers in person, making this a fantastic opportunity for you to secure bookings to some of the world’s most popular cherry blossom hot spots.
There’s nowhere on the planet more synonymous with cherry blossoms than Japan – in fact, ‘hanami’ (‘flower viewing’) is such a significant pastime that festivals are held to mark the occasion. ‘Hana Matsuri’ (literally ‘flower festival’) is set to take place on April 8th this year, and with the country’s borders wide open for the first time since the pandemic, it’s easy to envision the sheer number of tourists and locals that will flock to key sakura sites. But where (and when) else could your clients catch a glimpse of cherry blossoms in person?


In this article, we’ll be covering the top locations in the world to see cherry blossoms. But first, let’s dive into the best places to see sakura in Japan.

Japan


As Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto transports its guests into the past: with its abundance of temples, shrines and palaces (many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites), the city’s rich cultural history is palpable, and is even kept alive by the presence of geisha and maiko, who can often be found tottering around the old streets of Gion. However, if cherry blossom viewing is your clients’ priority, they’re in luck: Kyoto is home to more than 1000 cherry blossom trees, which bloom each year between late March and early April. One of the most famous places to see sakura in Kyoto is the Philosopher’s Path, where a picturesque pathway sits shrouded by pink flowers; elsewhere, the Heian Shrine is a gorgeous and ancient spot from where to admire the blossoms in quiet contemplation.


Over in Himeji (located in the Hyogo prefecture), Koko-en Garden is a traditional Japanese garden that features a large pond surrounded by cherry blossom trees, whilst the UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle and its surrounding moat are lined with sakura. Himeji Central Park is another popular spot, offering a wide-open space for picnicking – suggest that your clients take a selection of cherry blossom-flavoured treats, found widely in convenience stores and at food stalls during hanami.


Finally, for the ultimate photo opportunity, send your clients to Fuji Five Lakes. Despite sitting at the foot of Japan’s greatest symbol, the magnificent and imposing Mt Fuji, the towns that make up the Five Lakes are beautiful and peaceful locations from which to enjoy cherry blossom season (forecast from early to mid-April this year). Lake Kawaguchiko, in particular, is a divine place for cherry blossom viewing: the Fuji Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival takes place along the promenade, dotted with around 300 cherry blossom trees and where local foods, drinks and crafts are sold. What’s more, the Five Lakes’ proximity to Tokyo makes it an excellent choice for clients who are looking to merge modernity with natural beauty on a dual-centre holiday, and can be reached by coach from the capital.


Overall, Japan is the destination to see cherry blossoms, with sakura blooming across the length of the country over the course of three months (see the forecast here). But if a visit to the Land of the Rising Sun is out of the question for your clients, fear not: there are plenty of places to see cherry blossom across Asia, in the Americas, and even in Europe.

South Korea


For clients hoping to chase cherry blossoms in another burgeoning tourism hotspot, send them to South Korea, where beot-kkot season gets underway come late March-mid April. The country’s capital and surrounding areas get a glorious pink makeover in the form of festivals: from the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival in Seoul to Busan’s Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival (the country’s largest), locals and tourists alike will engage in flower-viewing activities, parades, and trips to street food stalls, where flower-themed fare can be consumed. For clients seeking a more serene escape (and to whom cherry blossom viewing is a wanted part of their itinerary, not a need), a visit to Jeju Island could be on the cards. A variant of petal unique to Jeju blooms just three days out of the year, so visitors to the island should consider additional items as part of their itinerary – suggest a visit to Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls or Yeomiji Botanical Garden, or that they hire a car to enjoy the many sites and eateries found on Jeju.


Taiwan


Cherry blossom season falls a little earlier over in Taiwan, with the first flowers coming into bloom in February. Taipei, the capital, has plenty of options for tourists to enjoy, including at Yangmingshan National Park. Here, your clients can enjoy a range of hiking trails whilst taking in the sight of pretty blossoms at every turn. Elsewhere, Wuling Farm in Taichung is a particularly scenic spot, with more than 700 hectares of tea plantations, flower fields, and an astonishing 30,000 cherry trees found here. Botanists (or blossom enthusiasts in general) will be thrilled to learn that Wuling Farm is the exclusive home to a unique hybrid of Taiwanese and Japanese blossom known as the Pink Lady – be sure to tell your clients to take their camera with them!

Thailand


Are your clients visiting the ‘Land of Smiles’ between December and February? In Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Chang Mai, wild cherry blossoms (named ‘Tiger Queen’ by locals) can be found in abundance. Meanwhile, over in Doi Inthanon National Park, clients can take a stroll towards the Khun Wang Royal Agricultural Research Centre – the path along the way is blanketed in beautiful pink blossoms.

Brazil


Did you know that Brazil has the largest Japanese diaspora outside of Japan? The first group of Japanese immigrants arrived in Brazil in 1908, with many bringing a piece of home with them in the form of sakura seedlings. While cherry blossom trees did sprout up across the country, the city of Curitiba has become known as the Brazilian hotspot for sakura viewing – which is somewhat ironic, given that the flowers bloom in the winter time (around July). For clients seeking a slice of history on their visit to Brazil, suggest that they stop off at Curitiba’s Centennial Park, home to the Japanese Immigration Memorial.

Auckland


September sees New Zealand take on a delicate new look: in Auckland, several sites become flushed as cherry blossoms burst into bloom. From Cornwall Park to Pohutukawa Drive, there are several spots for your clients to engage in a spot of cherry blossom viewing, while Auckland Botanic Gardens is a great location not only for blossoms, but for a wide range of plant life. Your clients can explore 64 hectares of beautiful gardens in search of native forest life, African plants and of course the blossoms – and what’s more, entry is free.

New York


Your clients can experience the beauty of cherry blossoms in the bustling city of New York. From Central Park to the appropriately-named Sakura Park, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Flushing Meadows, the city offers a range of scenic parks to escape the urban energy. Sakura Park has thousands of cherry trees, gifted by Japan in 1912 – if your clients are in the city around April, they’ll marvel at the beauty.

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Washington D.C


Encourage your clients to book a trip to Washington D.C around March/April to witness the stunning cherry blossoms in bloom near the Tidal Basin: in March 1912, the city was gifted Japanese cherry trees by Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo, and now hosts an annual festival to commemorate this diplomatic gesture. The Tidal Basin is home to nearly 4,000 cherry trees and a must-visit spot for sakura sightings.&nbsp;

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Vancouver


Invite your clients to take in the stunning cherry blossom views in Vancouver (typically in bloom around April). Did you know that in the 1930s, the city was gifted its first 500 sakura trees from Yokohama and Kobe as a thank you to the Japanese Canadians who served in World War I? The trees can be found at VanDusen Botanical Garden, Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, and Burrard Skytrain Station. With over 40,000 cherry trees in the city, they’ll be sure to find the perfect pink-filled backdrop for those Insta-worthy snaps.

Paris&nbsp;


Finally, inspire your clients to book a dreamy trip to Paris for a cherry blossom viewing experience. Paris, the city of love, also shines with beautiful sakura displays. Suggest they check out Parc du Champ-de-Mars and Jardins du Trocadéro with breathtaking views of the iconic Eiffel Tower before wandering to the Latin Quarter's Jardin des Plantes, where they can see the biggest cherry tree in the city. Paris tends to come into bloom around March and through April, which is just as well – the weather is lovely at this time of year.

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Ready to inspire your clients this sakura season?&nbsp;&nbsp;Log in to your account&nbsp;and start booking an unforgettable experience!

Ready to inspire your clients this sakura season?&nbsp;Register with us now&nbsp;and start booking unforgettable experiences for your clients.


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Best Places To See Cherry Blossoms Around the World

2022 was a year full of contrasting opportunities and challenges for the travel sector: from a substantial rebound in the first half of the year to economic shifts in the latter, never has there been more importance placed on keeping abreast of the changes occurring in this fast-paced industry.Now as we explore the next twelve months and all the challenges and opportunities that it will bring, we must also consider: which travel trends will define 2023, and&nbsp;who are the travellers behind the bookings?In this article, we focus on the top four types of traveller who will continue to shape the industry for travel providers and hoteliers like yourselves this year.The Gen Z TravellerAs the youngest demographic able to book their own travels (the oldest being born in 1997), the title ‘Gen Z’ represents an audience that has been largely untapped – at least, until recently. That said, there is much that we already know about Gen Z; namely, the importance of understanding their psychographics to win them over as clients.What matters to the ordinary Gen Z-er? As a generation that is most defined by its desire for equality, diversity, and continually rising climate change, Gen Z-ers will undoubtedly be considered tourists. In conclusion, Gen Z-ers will be extremely demanding tourists, but with a list of expectations to rival the most discerning travellers.Although some might unfairly view the Gen Z crowd as high maintenance, savvy advisors understand that conscientiousness is a boon. According to a study by YouGov, Gen Z-ers are likely to spend more on travel versus other demographics (followed by Millennials), while a different study suggests that they have the greatest intention of travelling internationally – even in the face of economic instability. And with long-haul destinations such as Japan and South Korea open for exploration, now is the perfect time to capitalize on a demand for far-flung escapes beloved by these fresh-faced explorers.Where you as hoteliers will succeed is by showcasing how your property caters to their ideals: flexibility, personalization (where possible), and offering appealing rates for short-term vacations over long-term deals, as it’s suggested that Gen-Z prefer multiple quick-stop visits over fewer, longer trips.This, plus being showcased in a global portfolio of ancillary products, in the hands of skilled travel providers such as travel agencies and tour operators, will help you capture the attention of this all-important traveller profile. This is where partnering with a global distribution company, like us at Hotelbeds, is so pivotal to increasing your exposure as the perfect choice for this traveller profile.&nbsp;With access to global source markets and hard-to-reach segments, our 66,000+ travel bookers get your properties into the hands of your ideal audiences, to effectively maximize your occupancy.&nbsp;Register today to begin your journey with us!&nbsp;The Luxury TravellerDid you know that 43% of travellers are planning to increase their travel budget in 2023, even in spite of a looming recession?&nbsp;Luxury travel is sure to be one of the trends that should be at the forefront of your attention as hoteliers, alongside other unmissable travel trends set to shape the industry this year. Post-pandemic, there has been a strong sense of increased appetite for travel, with 46% of respondents in a recent study by OTA Expedia stating that travel is more important to them than ever before. In times when customers are prioritizing getting away and are willing to spend more, it’s key that as hotel owners, you are seeking to get in plain sight of these eager travellers.The luxury market is most likely to remain profitable even in times of a potential economic downturn. Should you be able to target this particular sector, the rewards are undoubtedly: according to luxury service provider Virtuoso, travellers are planning to increase their expenditures by 34% in 2023&nbsp;equating to an average spending of $27,800.However, like the similarly-astute Gen Z crowd, luxury travelers are keen to express that ‘(travel experiences) that best fit [my] expectations are more important than price’ – in fact, a massive 75% agreed with the sentiment. But what exactly does that mean? Anticipated trends for the luxury market in 2023 include trips to in-demand destinations such as Japan, Italy and Montenegro; solo endeavors including regenerative yoga retreats or spa weekends; yachting holidays, cultural immersion and, as is the case with most traveler demographics, sustainable escapes.Understanding the leading trends in the luxury market for 2023 will be critical to a successful campaign, but also equally as important is knowing exactly who these luxury travellers are. According to Forward Keys, customers from the USA, Germany, and the UK are among the biggest spenders – and one of the best ways to capture their attention is to be part of the only-curated Star Collection Program.Designed to optimize the business potential of hand-picked hoteliers - whether that’s hotel chains, unique properties or multi-hotel chains - our Star Collection enhances the visibility of your property on non-competing platforms and gives you access to our global sales network. And because we partner with thousands of knowledgeable, skilled travel providers, your properties can be delivered to in-market end travellers through bespoke consultations!If you’re not already one of our exclusive hotel partners, register now today to start scaling your visibility ahead of this all-important year for the travel industry.Log in to your account now to begin scaling your occupancy rates ahead of this busy year for the travel industry.&nbsp;The Experiential TravellerIf there is one industry buzzword you’ll be unable to escape in 2023, it’s experiential.Otherwise, referred to as ‘immersion travel’, experiential travel is a type of tourism in which travelers aim to get ‘more’ from their trip, by way of more authentic experiences and engagement with their host country – whether that’s its environment or its people.So what is the appeal of experiential travel? Much like the phenomenon of revenge travel, experiential travel has gained considerable popularity and weight amongst travellers as they seek to remedy the ‘loss’ over the last few years as a result of closed borders or travel restrictions. It is evident that the global pandemic has caused a shift in priorities for many travellers as now, more than ever, they are eager to ‘feel the world’. Experiential travel resolves this desire for authentic connection, and slower-paced trips.Popular methods to regain this sense of connection include cultural immersion, food tours, wildlife encounters and active holidays – in short, travellers are seeking to awaken their senses.&nbsp;The Sustainable TravellerSustainability has been a staple of the travel agenda for some time now, including here at Hotelbeds, from the ‘Green Hotel’ filter that allows travel bookers using our booking platforms to deliver eco-hotels to their markets, to our Plastic-Free Hotels initiative and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments, we know that our industry can be a force for good.&nbsp;With an estimated 90% of consumers actively looking for sustainable options when travelling, embracing this all-important trend is going to be key to the survival of our planet, and the success of your business.Defining ‘sustainability’ and delivering on its many facets is a challenge that many organizations struggle with. However, to improve on the universal understanding of what sustainability really means, one of the best and most appropriate ways to do this is to turn to travellers themselves, as they are shaping the industry with their expectations and booking behaviours.According to TripAdvisor, one of the 5 most common points in customer reviews for 2022 referred to the elimination of single-use plastics, providing evidence that this is an absolute priority for travellers. That being said, sustainability isn’t just limited to solar-powered hotels and plastic-free initiatives; being truly sustainable refers to the ways that the travel industry as a collective is able to support local economies by engaging with communities. It refers to the responsibility of the industry to change the ‘norms’, and provide ground-breaking ways for travellers to experience the world without contributing to climate pressures.Consider how you as hoteliers are working within the area local to your properties - whether you have a unique location or operate in multiple destinations - and how you’re also offering eco-friendly schemes for your employees, not just the final traveller.&nbsp;While there is a notable increase in luxury travellers who can comfortably afford the higher price tag that comes with industry-leading sustainability; are you also catering for travellers who want to make good decisions but are restricted by where their wallet can take them?&nbsp;It’s key that you’re keeping ahead of your competitors when it comes to sustainable focus - especially considering that sustainable travel is not only a fast-growing and impactful trend, but also necessary to ensure the longevity of the travel industry.&nbsp;We hope that this has been an insightful article, and that you’re feeling more inspired than ever to tackle 2023 travel and attract the right customers to your properties. Starting 2023 off by catering for these all-important traveller profiles is a key way to securing your bookings and capitalizing on increasing demand. And we’re here to facilitate that as your travel partner!Ready to secure those 2023 bookings with us? Register your property today.Ready to secure those 2023 bookings? Log in to your account.&nbsp;

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The 4 Types of Traveller That Must Be on Your Radar

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Wondering how to put your hotel on the map in 2023? We've compiled a list of key dates and events in the 2023 calendar to help inspire your travel marketing efforts, and to attract a wealth of travelers in the era of 'revenge travel'. Save this page as a bookmark to use as a reference over the next 12 months.

As an additional resource, get an even more in-depth look at some of the most impactful travel trends of 2023&nbsp;in our free guide&nbsp;and use this alongside our key events for this year to ensure you capitalise on every available opportunity.

KEY DATES FOR YOUR 2023 TRAVEL CALENDAR



JANUARY

1st - New Year's Day, Global

The event has come and gone, but there's still time to take advantage of the 79% of travelers planning at least two leisure trips this year and make the most of their New Year's resolution to 'travel more'. Offer special packages and promotions to cater to the afterglow of celebration that your potential bookers may still be feeling.

22nd - Chinese New Year, Asia

Chinese New Year is a significant holiday celebrated worldwide. This year, the event fell on January 22nd and marked the the Year of the Rabbit. Next year will be the year of the Dragon, so consider incorporating dragon motifs and symbols of Asian festivity, like fortune-telling and fireworks, into your marketing efforts (or even your hotel's decor) to attract guests of Chinese heritage and those interested in the culture. If your hotel has a restaurant, you could also offer special menu items like spring rolls and noodles to add to the festive experience.



FEBRUARY

12th - Super Bowl, United States

The highly-anticipated Super Bowl came around again on February 12th in Arizona. With the NFL season in full swing and superstar Rihanna having performed during the halftime show this year, this event always attracts a large crowd. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans may call in sick the next day due to 'football fever.'

The event is said to bring in an estimated $300-$400 million for the host city and, as a hotel owner, you can capitalize on this event by offering packages for friends and family to enjoy the ultimate Super Bowl experience.

14th - Valentine's Day, Global

Valentine's Day is a prime opportunity for hotel bookings.&nbsp; Encourage your guests to make their stay even more special by offering additional experiences such as dancing or cooking classes. Other ways to appeal to the amorously inclined include room upgrades with amenities like flowers and a complimentary bottle of wine, in-room dining or candle-lit dinners, or couple's experiences like spa treatments and massages.

17th - Rio Carnival/Carnival, Americas and LATAM

The Rio Carnival, held annually in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a major attraction that draws millions of guests and participants, including hundreds of thousands of international visitors. This spectacular festival features colorful parades, intricate costumes, upbeat music, and energetic dancing, offering a unique cultural experience for locals and guests alike to fully immerse in Brazilian culture. To maximize the experience, consider offering packages for guests to arrive in Rio de Janeiro before the festivities begin to explore the city's beauty.

Alternative Carnival celebrations are held globally in destinations such as those in New Orleans, the Dominican Republic, and other areas with Latin communities. Hoteliers can&nbsp; offer a customized experience by arranging local tours, offering traditional Brazilian cuisine and drinks, and promoting the vibrant atmosphere of the carnival to entice guests to book.



MARCH

8th - Holi, Asia

The Hindu festival of Holi is a vibrant celebration of color and cultural traditions held in India and Nepal around the beginning of March. As the festival marks the beginning of spring, it's an opportunity for Hindu communities to come together and forget any grudges, celebrating with food, music and lively activities.

For hotel owners, offering packages that include cultural tours, traditional food experiences and proximity to Holi celebrations can be a great way to attract guests and offer them an authentic cultural experience.

17th - St Patrick's Day, Ireland

St Patrick's Day is a public holiday in Ireland, with thousands of visitors flocking to cities like Dublin to take part in festivals, parades and cultural tours. Celebrations of St. Patrick's Day also occur in the United States, with many planning gatherings, parades and special events.

For hotel owners, offering packages that include proximity to St. Patrick's Day events, traditional Irish food experiences, and tours of historic Irish landmarks can attract guests and showcase the famous Irish hospitality.

22nd - Ramadan, Global

Ramadan is a month-long religious observance for Muslims, where they abstain from food and drink during daylight hours. The end of Ramadan is marked by the three-day festivities of Eid-ul-Fitr and is a time where many Muslims travel to be with their families.

For hotel owners, offering special packages and promotions well in advance of Eid-ul-Fitr can attract guests at a time where bookings are likely to be in hot demand. Marketing these offers effectively, highlighting the convenience and proximity to family-friendly activities, can make your hotel a popular choice for travelers during this time.



APRIL

8th - Hana Matsuri, Japan

The re-opening of Japan in 2022 has sparked interest in travel to the country, with many tourists adding it to their 'revenge travel' list. Hana Matsuri, also known as cherry blossom season, is a particularly popular time to visit, with cities like Kyoto, Himeji, and Tokyo being top choices for viewing the blooms. However, other destinations like Kawaguchiko and Kushiro offer off-the-beaten-path experiences that are just as beautiful and budget-friendly. To help guests plan their trips, hotel owners can keep an eye on the Japanese Weather Association for sakura bloom forecasts, as the season runs from March to May.

Hoteliers can attract tourists to their property by highlighting the beauty of Hana Matsuri and the best spots for viewing cherry blossoms. Offer seasonal packages that include tours or experiences related to the event, provide guests with information about local festivities and events related to Hana Matsuri, and consider partnering with local travel companies to offer discount packages for travelers visiting during cherry blossom season. If your hotel has an on-site restaurant, consider switching up its menu to take advantage of the season: cherry-blossom flavored or themed dishes/drinks are sure to go down a treat!

9th - Easter, Global

Easter is not typically a reason for travel, but it provides a window of opportunity for hotel owners to engage in seasonal marketing. To encourage bookings, consider offering secret discounts or unique promo codes, or hosting special events related to Easter. For clients based in the UK, it's important to note that Easter is celebrated over a four-day weekend this year (April 7th-10th), making it an ideal time for a quick getaway.

13th - Songkran, Thailand

Thailand's natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and rich culture make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Songkran, a celebration of the Buddhist new year, offers a truly immersive cultural experience for guests. The three-day event involves cleansing rituals and an enormous water fight that is sure to be a memorable experience. The biggest celebrations take place in Bangkok, and hotel owners can suggest a tour of the capital's major sights to round out the trip.



MAY

3rd, 4th, and 5th - Golden Week, Japan

Golden Week is a term that refers to a series of consecutive holidays in Japan, which takes place from April 29th (Showa Day) to Children's Day (May 5th). During this time, many Japanese citizens travel, making it a busy period for tourism in the country.

Hotel owners can capitalize on Golden Week by offering early bird specials for those booking in advance, highlighting the beauty of cherry blossom season (which may still be ongoing, depending on the region) and offering packages that include tours and experiences during the celebrations.

6th - Coronation of King Charles III, UK

The coronation of King Charles III is a rare and historic event that is likely to bring a surge in tourism in the UK. British citizens and anglophiles from around the world will want to witness the event, which takes place on a Saturday, followed by a bank holiday on the 8th. Hotels that are on the procession route will likely do well for bookings (be sure to market your property as a vantage point!) while others should lean fully into British culture: consider serving cream teas to your guests, or decorating with bunting in light of the occassion. Discounts for three-day stays will appeal to price-conscious guests; meanwhile, offering packages that include tours of historic and cultural sights in London can also help attract more guests.



JUNE

All month – Music Festivals, Europe

June marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and is a great time for music lovers to attend outdoor festivals. Europe boasts renowned festivals such as Primavera Sound in Barcelona, Glastonbury in Somerset, and Rock am Ring in Nürburgring, attracting music fans from around the world. As a hotel owner, this presents a unique opportunity to target these travelers and offer them comfortable accommodation during their festival visit.

As well as positioning your property as an ideal place to stay, outlining activities near the festival or offering packages with festival tickets and transportation will help to enhance your guests' experience.



JULY

4th – Independence Day, United States

Independence Day is the quintessential American holiday celebrated with family reunions, fireworks, parades, political speeches, and sporting events. According to a Skift report, 55% of American adults had plans to travel for the Fourth of July weekend in 2022, and the number is expected to rise in 2023.

As a hotel owner, this is a prime opportunity to attract domestic and international travelers looking to experience the American dream. Offer packages with transportation and tickets to popular Independence Day events and promote your hotel's proximity to these events. Where possible, upsell additional services like car rentals, airport transfers, and activities to make the trip more convenient for guests.

20th – Women’s World Cup, Australia and New Zealand

The Women's World Cup is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world and is expected to bring a boost to the tourism industry in Australia and New Zealand. The recent World Cup had major economic benefits for its host country, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, which saw a 42% increase in hotel guests in 2022 - so what's to say the Women's World Cup won't be a similar success?

As a hotel owner in Australia or New Zealand, you should promote your hotel as the go-to destination for World Cup fans. Offer packages with tournament tickets, transportation, and activities to create a complete World Cup experience for guests or, if you have the facilities on-site, consider airing the match live for guests to enjoy in the comfort of the hotel. Sports events bring people and cultures together, so be sure to highlight the sense of community and festivities surrounding the tournament to attract guests.



AUGUST

Throughout the month - Hanabi (Fireworks Festivals), Japan

Attendance at Hanabi fireworks festivals across Japan is a must for those looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. The dazzling display of colorful fireworks and traditional Japanese music and food creates a lively and captivating atmosphere. This is a great time for guests to visit various parts of Japan and take in the beauty of its culture and tradition, and hotel owners can appeal to guests by offering unique experiences and amenities related to the event. If your hotel is in a location close by to the festivities and has rooms with a balcony, consider selling these rooms as the perfect vantage point for firework viewing.

19th -&nbsp;World Photography Day, Global

Travel and photography are intertwined, as evidenced by the popularity of photography-related hashtags on social media. Tourists love to capture their special moments, from their first family vacation with a newborn to a once-in-a-lifetime safari.

For hotel owners, World Photography Day presents an opportunity to gather user-generated content. Encourage guests to share pictures from their stays with you and consider featuring them on your website or social media. You could also run a photography competition, where the winner receives a discount on their next booking. This will not only showcase your hotel but also help to build a positive reputation and encourage repeat bookings.



SEPTEMBER

21st - Oktoberfest, Munich

Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is a world-famous celebration of German culture that features delicious food, live music, and plenty of beer. Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, games, and immerse themselves in the joyous and festive atmosphere of the event. To encourage bookings from guests, hotel owners in Munich can offer package deals that include Oktoberfest tickets, traditional German food and drinks, and cultural activities for guests to fully experience the festivities.

29th - Mid-Autumn Festival, Asia

The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is an important celebration in Chinese culture. This year, the event takes place on September 29th. With a history of over 3000 years, this festival is a significant time for both domestic and international tourism in destinations such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. Hotel owners in these areas can enhance their guests' experience by offering cultural activities, such as lantern making and street performance tours, as well as offering traditional mooncake treats and souvenirs. Additionally, hosting festive events in the hotel, such as mooncake tasting or a lantern-lighting ceremony, can also appeal to guests and encourage bookings.



OCTOBER

31st - Halloween, Global

Halloween is a perfect occasion for hotel owners to entice travelers and offer a one-of-a-kind vacation experience. Encourage your guests to celebrate Halloween in a unique way by transforming your property into a 'haunted' hotel or partnering with tour operators to secure tickets to a theme park, such as Universal or Disneyland (both of which transform for the season).



NOVEMBER

1st - Day of the Dead, Mexico

The Day of the Dead in Mexico is a colorful celebration that offers tourists a chance to experience Mexican culture and traditions. The holiday, which honors the dead with altars, traditional food, and lively parades, creates a rich and vibrant atmosphere that your guests can immerse themselves in. Providing local information for your guests to get involved with Day of the Dead festivities will go a long way to making their stay a memorable one, and will also help to support the community.

24th - Black Friday, Global

Black Friday provides an opportunity for hotel owners to attract travelers by offering deals and promotions. Take advantage of this commercial holiday, along with Singles Day, Buen Fin, and Travel Tuesday, to create attractive offers and campaigns on social media.



DECEMBER

25th – Christmas Day, Global

The holiday season is a busy time for tourism, with people looking to spend time with loved ones and create special memories. This is, predictably, an expensive time for travel (least of all for flights!), so to ensure that you remain appealing to your potential guests, be sure to market festive stays ahead of time. Decorating your hotel's lobby in line with the season will ensure a memorable and cozy stay for your guests; take things to the next level by offering a traditional Christmas dinner or seasonal treats in your on-site restaurant (if you have one).

31st - New Year's Eve, Global

And so the cycle begins again!&nbsp;New Year's Eve is a popular time for travel, as people look to start the year off with a bang. Treat your guests to an experience they'll never forget by providing entertainment, activities and dining options; decorate your property with sparkly, festive decorations to create a celebratory atmosphere; suggest places for guests to celebrate the countdown or, alternatively, offer a complimentary bottle of champagne (or similar) so that your guests can ring in the New Year in the comfort of your hotel!

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Key Travel Dates and Events for 2023

As the travel industry begins to rebound in 2023, hotel owners and administrators need to stay informed about the latest trends to ensure they are positioning their properties and services in the best way possible. In this article, we'll have a look at some of the most important travel trends for 2023 and provide insights and tips on how hotel owners and administrators can make the most of them.

For a comprehensive overview of the travel behaviours we expect will shape the year to come, we’ve compiled a summary of 2023 travel trends for hoteliers in a downloadable guide, designed to ensure you capitalise on every opportunity and scale your success.

Here are just a few of the predictions and insights that we think will be pivotal for the year ahead:



Sustainable Travel

Sustainability has been a growing concern in the travel industry for the past few years, and it's expected to be even more important in 2023 and beyond. As travellers become more aware of the environmental impact of their travel choices, they are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable practices.

For hotel owners and administrators, this means finding ways to promote sustainable practices and attract eco-conscious travellers. Some ways to do this include:


	Offering eco-friendly amenities such as reusable water bottles, low-flow showerheads, and energy-efficient lighting.
	Implementing recycling and waste reduction programs.
	Supporting local conservation efforts and promoting sustainable tourism in the surrounding area.
	Offering packages and activities that promote sustainable experiences and transport options.


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Revenge Travel

After long periods of travel restrictions, travellers are determined to get out and explore the world again and pent-up demand promises to boost bookings for the whole industry. This demand is being dubbed ‘revenge travel’ and it’s expected to be a major travel trend in 2023.

For hotel owners and administrators, this means adapting to the needs of travellers who are looking to make up for lost time. Some ways to do this include:


	Reevaluate your partnerships with local communities to offer packages and activities that align with ‘bucket list’ aspirations.
	Offering flexible cancellation policies to accommodate last-minute changes.
	Providing information and resources on local activities and attractions to help travellers make the most of their trip.
	Offering packages and deals that make it easy for travellers to book multiple nights or activities.


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Luxury Travel

Did you know that around 43% of travellers are planning to increase their budget in 2023? And when considering the luxury traveller, this is no small increase to spending. Hotel owners and administrators can capitalise on this trend by offering high-end amenities and experiences that cater to the demands of those seeking to awaken their senses in style this year.

Here are a few of the ways that hotel owners can attract and cater for luxury travellers in 2023:


	Scale up your customer service and offer bespoke, personalized experiences to guests&nbsp;
	Consider how you might accommodate increases in specific luxury travel, such as yachting, luxury wildlife explorations, and even conservation programs to affluent travellers looking for once-in-a-lifetime trips.
	Offer luxurious amenities such as spa services, private balconies, and in-room fireplaces.


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Bleisure Travel

A combination of business and leisure travel, ‘bleisure’ travel took off in 2022 and is expected to remain at the forefront of 2023 travel trends as the line between corporate and leisure travel continues to blur for many of today’s travellers.
But it’s not only remote workers who are changing their travel behaviours - business travellers are also capitalizing on this trend and extending their trip lengths to capitalise on time out of the office.

It’s important that you consider how to cater for this fast-growing travel trend, such as:


	Ensuring you offer rooms and spaces with high-speed internet connections.
	Considering how your hotel rooms can accommodate travellers looking to work, as well as relax, during their stay.


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Destinations Hoteliers Need To Watch in 2023

It’s crucial that as a hotel owner you’re considering where your perfect travel customer wants to visit, and how you can accommodate these behaviours for the year to come. Drawing the right traveller at the right time is only possible if you understand what today’s traveller is seeking.

From tourists seeking ‘bucket-list’ experiences and long-haul trips to destinations like the Great Barrier Reef, or Killamanjaro, to travellers seeking immersive stays in some of the most visually captivating locations around the world, the trends of 2023 are set to benefit hotel owners who monopolize on the needs of today’s traveller.&nbsp;

Whether you’re a luxury hotel who can offer an immersive, restful trip to your customers, or you can provide activities and experiences for the curious, conscious traveller, understanding which destinations are top of mind for today’s traveler is key. This allows you to attract your ideal traveller and provide the experience they’re after.

For more insights on 2023 travel trends and inspirational pointers for how you can cater to these as hotel owners, download our guide&nbsp;to see where we think travellers want to go in 2023, and the activities and experiences that are shaping 2023 travel.&nbsp;

We hope you find our predictions and insights beneficial to navigate the year ahead, and ensure a successful 2023 for your property.

Are you ready to distribute your property to the world’s largest network of B2B travel buyers? Register your property today for free, and start maximising your success as a hotel owner.


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