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It’s no secret that big sporting events are synonymous with success for the hospitality industry. Sport tourism attracts more travellers to host cities, boosts spending, and has a positive impact on the local economy. &nbsp;&nbsp;France experienced this during the latest Women’s World Cup in 2019, where all nine host cities achieved an impressive 90% occupancy rate. With over 1.2 million attendees and&nbsp;40% foreign visitors, the event generated approximately EUR 248 million to France’s gross domestic product (GDP), greatly benefiting the hospitality sector.&nbsp;This year, it’s time for Australia and New Zealand to host the Women’s World Cup. In recent years, women's sports have taken their rightful place in the sports spotlight, and it’s expected that millions of people will attend this event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of the upcoming 9th Women's World Cup – which will take place between July 20th and August 20th –, and the overall importance of sports tourism for hoteliers, we have compiled a list of major sporting events in the next twelve months. Additionally, you will find suggestions on how to capitalise on each of them.&nbsp;Discover the main tournaments and events that will take place close to your property, and make the most of them!&nbsp;AUGUSTUS Open, Tennis, New York: Aug 28th-Sept 10thThe first event to be included in this list couldn't be any other than the US Open, which always takes place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Queens, New York.&nbsp;&nbsp;With 128 players competing in amazing matches, this is certainly the biggest and most famous tennis event in the country. It’s so popular that over 800,000 fans come each year, making the US Open the highest-attended annual sporting event in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tournament generates more than $750 million per year in direct economic impact to New York City.&nbsp;Our recommendationsEvery year, the USTA sets up a kiosk for organisations to distribute information about restaurants, cultural sites, and destinations. Consider getting in touch with the USTA and proposing collaborations with them to feature your property as the ideal accommodation for visitors.&nbsp;Besides, since the event always occurs in the same place, it’s worthwhile to secure some tickets and create special packages for your guests.&nbsp;And don’t forget to promote local activities and tours, allowing visitors to explore more about Queens, like the ‘Fan Week’ prior to the tournament with practice matches, performances, and other free activities.&nbsp;SEPTEMBER&nbsp;Rugby World Cup, France: September 8th-October 28th&nbsp;The tournament will be played across nine French cities (Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, Saint-Étienne, Nice, Nantes, Toulouse), with the final taking place in the capital.&nbsp;&nbsp;With 20 national teams qualified, the Rugby World Cup is expected to be a major sporting event which draws in a significant number of supporters to the Gallic country.&nbsp;&nbsp;An example of the Rugby World Cup’s success can be seen in the 2019 edition held in Japan, which exceeded predictions and generated $6.1 billion for the host nation.&nbsp;A report also highlights that the average length of stay was 16 nights, with over 242,000 international visitors from 178 nations, and 60% of fans visiting Japan for the first time.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our recommendationsYou can offer packages for groups of friends travelling together to watch the matches, including discounts for longer stays.&nbsp;You could also consider airing the matches at the hotel, especially the semifinals and final. If that’s not possible, you can recommend the best places to watch them if your guests don’t have tickets. You’ll ensure a fantastic and unforgettable stay!&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, consider partnering with excursion companies to take tours in the different cities where the event will take place. You could even create an offering which includes transportation packages between these cities.&nbsp;Asian Games, Hangzhou, China: September 23rd-October 8thThe 19th edition of this international competition will be held this year in China. It’s the biggest multi-sport event in Asia, attracting athletes from 45 countries every four years, with over 450 matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Asian Games will take place in 44 venues, mostly in Hangzhou city and nearby areas, including Deqing, Jinhua, Ningbo, Shaoxing, and Wenzhou.&nbsp;&nbsp;To better understand its impact, let’s look at the results for Jakarta (Indonesia), the last host city. A survey revealed that during the 2018 games, tourists spent $244 million, and foreign tourists stayed an average of 13 days.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our recommendationsThese games are significant for Asian countries, so it’s worth capitalising on them. As they will be held in China, a country with an impressive culture and gastronomy, foreign travellers will expect to experience it during their stay.&nbsp;&nbsp;We encourage you to partner with local restaurants and tour companies to offer discounts on a complete cultural experience. Consider hosting themed dinners in your own restaurant to allow guests to enjoy Chinese culture without leaving the hotel. Also, providing big screens to watch the main events can enhance their experience.&nbsp;Invictus Games, multi sports, Düsseldorf: Sept 9th-16th&nbsp;Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is a very special multi-sport event which embodies diversity, inclusion, resilience, and pride. It aims to inspire recovery and rehabilitation for wounded servicemen and women worldwide.For the first time, the Games will be held in Germany, and it’s expected to be even more successful than the last edition in The Hague (The Netherlands), which attracted nearly 100,000 visitors in one week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our recommendationsTake this opportunity to showcase the wonders of the German country and Düsseldorf. Highlight the city’s beauty and its best spots to immerse your guests in the national culture.&nbsp;&nbsp;Collaborate with local tourism boards to provide guests with information about other attractions, sightseeing tours, and cultural experiences. Offer packages that combine the sporting event with unique local activities, showcasing the city's broader offerings.&nbsp;FEBRUARY&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;NFL Super Bowl LVIII, Las Vegas, United States: February 11th&nbsp;The NFL Super Bowl LVIII, which will be held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas in 2024, is one of the most popular and profitable sporting events of the year.&nbsp;Hosting the Super Bowl is a significant opportunity for a city to gain worldwide recognition, and Las Vegas aims to further boost its already well-known status through this event.&nbsp;According to a report by the NFL, the Super Bowl influences the city’s future business more than any other event or convention in the United States. For example, the economic impact of the Super Bowl in 2023 generated around $600 million in revenue for Arizona, attracting over 100,000 visitors, 80%-90% of whom were foreign travellers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Notably, tickets for the Super Bowl are usually expensive, with the most expensive ticket in 2023 costing $6,200. Fans willing to pay such high prices are likely to have a generous budget, making them an attractive market for luxury hotels and upscale rooms.&nbsp;Positioning your property as a fantastic option for these travellers is essential, as hotel rooms during the Super Bowl weekend are sold at triple the average rate.&nbsp;Our recommendationsThis event is unique, so consider offering an immersive experience to your guests. For instance, why not incorporate motifs and symbols related to the Super Bowl in the hotel decor to build on the exciting atmosphere?&nbsp;Furthermore, providing Super Bowl guests with discounts, vouchers, points, or rewards for future hotel stays can incentivise them to become repeat customers.&nbsp;Consider hosting pre-event receptions or gatherings to connect guests who share a &nbsp;passion for sports, and encourage staff to wear sports-themed uniforms or badges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, have in mind offering special discounts for longer bookings, as well as providing convenient transportation options, which will be highly appreciated.&nbsp;Lastly, setting up a large screen for guests to watch the match will be crucial to offer the best experience possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;MAYMonaco Grand Prix: May 24th - 26thThe FIA Formula One World Championship is undoubtedly the highest class of international racing.&nbsp;The prestigious motorsport event generates millions of dollars from ticket sales, hospitality packages, sponsorship, and merchandise.&nbsp;&nbsp;The glamorous lifestyle associated with F1, renowned for its luxury and extravagance, makes Monaco’s Grand Prix one of the best locations to host a F1 race. Each year, many celebrities and wealthy individuals come together to indulge in a weekend of luxury. As an alternative, Singapore's F1 Grand Prix (with its ticket prices of around £1k) may appeal to affluent attendees from the APAC region, or even those just passing through. Pairing a decadent excursion like this with a night or two in a high-end hotel will certainly appeal to guests with finer taste - &nbsp;if you happen to own a hotel close to an event like this, consider how to capture their attention.&nbsp;Also, don't hesitate to check out our article on luxury travellers if you want to go deeper on the luxury travel segment.&nbsp;Our recommendationsTo capitalise on this opportunity, create exclusive packages&nbsp;that include accommodation, race tickets, and additional perks like access to rooftop viewing areas or after-race parties. Emphasise the luxury and excitement of experiencing the Grand Prix from your hotel.&nbsp;Offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the event venue, ensuring convenient transportation for attendees. Securing VIP access to the event can also attract high-end clientele.&nbsp;JUNEUEFA Champions League Final, London: June 1stDon’t miss out the UEFA Champions League Final, a must-attend event for every football lover. In 2024, this event will be held at the famous Wembley Stadium, a place that has hosted the match several times in the past.&nbsp;Apart from its sporting importance, the final brings significant tourism and economic benefits to the host city and its surroundings, making it a highly sought-after destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our recommendationsJust like with the Super Bowl, create special packages including tickets, transportation and local tours to enhance your guests’ experience in the city and encourage their spending.&nbsp;Also, set up screens at your hotel to broadcast the match while offering some drinks to create a fantastic atmosphere.&nbsp;&nbsp;JULYOlympic Games, Paris: July 26th - August 11thThe Olympic Games are the ultimate sporting event. Paris will host the next edition along with other 16 cities across metropolitan France and even one in Tahiti (French Polynesia), for the Olympic surfing competition.&nbsp;&nbsp;After an exceptional situation during the Tokyo 2020 Games, where no spectators were allowed, the next Olympics are expected to attract thousands of visitors. This will not only benefit the well-known capital of France, but also will give smaller, lesser-known cities the opportunity to shine and showcase their charm.&nbsp;Our recommendationsSince it’s one of the most international events, why don’t you bring this international atmosphere to your property? For example, you can develop sports-themed menus or offer dishes inspired by participating countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also, consider offering perks such as discounted room rates, event tickets, exclusive access to sports-related amenities, or themed merchandise.&nbsp;As the games will take place in various cities, partner with excursion companies to help your guests discover the wonders of each location.&nbsp;&nbsp;AUGUSTParalympic Games, Paris: August 28th - 8th September&nbsp;When the Olympic Games come to an end, the Paralympics will take over. With 549 events scheduled and including 22 sports, it will ensure&nbsp;high occupancy rates in France for almost one month and a half.&nbsp;Our recommendationsMaintain the same strategies we suggested doing for the Olympics, as both events are similar. It will help you make the most out of this significant sporting event.&nbsp;Final Tips to Keep in Mind About Sports TourismAs we approach the end of this article, here are some final suggestions to consider regarding sporting events. So far, we’ve covered major events - but it doesn’t stop there! Take a note of the following tips:&nbsp;&nbsp;Don’t overlook low-profile or second-tier events. People not only travel to watch sports but also to participate in them, opening a huge potential for sport tourism to a wider range of destinations.&nbsp;As a hotelier, stay informed about what’s happening in your city or region. Speak to local and regional authorities, or leisure centre managers to stay updated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Create accommodation and ticket packages, especially for smaller events.&nbsp;There is a great deal of interest in women's sports these days, so make sure you are aware of the events near your property and promote them through your marketing efforts.&nbsp;Finally, working with Hotelbeds will ensure you reach your desired audience. If you have already registered your property with Hotelbeds, access here and keep taking advantage of our multiple benefits.&nbsp;&nbsp;Still not part of our worldwide network? Access over 60,000 travel distributors by signing up today. Are you ready to be part of the game?&nbsp;&nbsp;Plus, don't forget to download our free guide on the main travel trends in 2025. Discover valuable tips and insights to better understand today's travel industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Capitalising on Sporting Events: A Winning Strategy for Hoteliers

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How To Capitalise on Global Sporting Events

&nbsp;While solitary travel has undeniably been on the rise for years, it’s becoming more and more evident that women are diving headfirst into traveling alone. The future of solo travel might well be female!&nbsp;Search interest in ‘solo female travel’ has increased six-fold during the lasts four years. Not only this, but 70% of hotel website visits are carried out by women as standard, and women make the overwhelming majority of bookings, whether that’s for themselves, families, friends or parents and colleagues. &nbsp;&nbsp;Women are the influencers that should matter to you as hoteliers.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, it makes sense that your services as hotel owners are delivering on what women want, especially when it comes to solo female travellers. &nbsp;&nbsp;We’ve explored several idea kick-starters you can use to ensure you’re meeting those demands and being as inclusive as possible when it comes to your accommodation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Understand What Solo Female Travellers Look For In Their Destinations&nbsp;A study carried out by Solo Female Travelers in 2020 found that traveling solo was a choice, not necessarily a ‘lifestyle’, with many respondents choosing to travel alone for the flexibility that it provided and the ability to adhere to their own schedule. 38% said it was to ‘challenge’ themselves.&nbsp;&nbsp;Within their chosen destination, many women said that cultural sightseeing, immersion, and nature and wildlife experiences are important for them during their stay – along with the eco-friendliness of businesses they support.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, 73% still said that safety was their main concern, and 42% of female travellers who hadn’t yet traveled solo cited this as the main reason they’d not made that leap yet.&nbsp;Some factors that might be of consideration for female travellers looking to set off alone:Whether the country or region is a major tourist destination.How good the tourism infrastructure is as a consequence.What the crime rate of the destination is.What online review sites, blogs, friends and family and social media groups say about the safety of the country or destination – many suggested that TV and online ads were not as trustworthy.How affordable the destination is for a solo trip – especially considering accommodation.The overall reputation of the country and how it treats women.&nbsp;It is important to consider these against your current facilities, location and offerings for this traveller type. How have you positioned yourself in the market for women travelling solo? How are your competitors conveying themselves to this segment, in a way that's different to you?&nbsp;It is worth being aware of what solo travel for women means, especially when travellers are in the crucial decision-making process and the smallest detail about how your hotel is presented could determine whether they book their stay with you or not.Cater For The Luxury Solo Female Traveller&nbsp;In the last several years, women taking solo trips within the luxury travel sector have increased significantly, and we think this is a prime opportunity to understand and accommodate, this important audience to boost your success as a travel agency and ensure you’re as inclusive as possible for today’s traveller.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example:&nbsp;Scott Dunn, a leading UK luxury tour operator, reported that they’d seen a dramatic uplift in solo bookings in the last three years, and that of those, 60% were women.Up Norway, a company that curates high-end excursions through Scandinavia, suggested that bookings from solo female travellers were up 40-50% compared to 2019.Bespoke tour operator Morocco by Design revealed that a full quarter of its bookings now came from women traveling alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only are women looking to explore the world alone more frequently, but many solo female travellers are looking to travel within the luxury sector, with bespoke trips curated specifically for their preferences. &nbsp;&nbsp;The industry is starting to take note of this increase in demand for luxury solo travel, so it’s important that as hotel owners you are aware of the opportunities out there! &nbsp;&nbsp;From ‘Alonemoons’, offering solo travellers the deluxe experience a couple on their honeymoon might enjoy; women-only group travel; to tour operators and travel bookers offering amenities catering specifically to women traveling solo, there are many ways that the industry is providing opportunities when it comes to solo travel for women.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ensuring that your hotel is accessible and appeals to women travelling alone is a sure-fire way to begin capitalising on this growing audience and keep your hotel front of mind when tour operators are upselling their clients on these experiences. &nbsp;The first step is gaining maximum visibility to the right traveller at the right time! Over 60,000 travel distributors and sellers all over the world have exclusive access to our portfolio, from which they can offer the very best accommodation to in-market travellers across even the most hard-to-reach markets thanks to our global network.&nbsp;This means that hotels who make it clear they acccommodate to women travelling alone are top-recommended in our AI-driven Booking Engine when travel sellers are booking this type of client!&nbsp;Gather Crucial Audience Insights &nbsp;There are numerous ways that you can gather more understanding of what existing and new customers want when considering booking solo trips, including:&nbsp;Existing Audience Research&nbsp;Send out an email to existing customers within this demographic – ask for honest opinions on their travel with you. Incentivise this with a small discount or offer that makes your existing customers feel like they’ve given you valuable feedback and received something in return. &nbsp;&nbsp;Create social posts for your social media platforms – whether you create a poll, a post inviting comments, or ask customers to get in touch via email, organic socials are a great way to see what your audience expects of you.&nbsp;&nbsp;Set up market research discussions – bring together a control group of women interested in travelling alone, or who have in the past, to evaluate your current facilities and destinations and offer in-market feedback.&nbsp;&nbsp;Competitor Research&nbsp;Review trusted blog websites – Solo Traveler World and Solo Female Travelers are examples of valuable, trusted platforms where insights, shared experiences and customer-centric recommendations are shared by women for women looking to travel solo. &nbsp;&nbsp;Keeping a close eye on platforms like this can provide interesting insights into how other hoteliers are catering for the growing audience of solo female travellers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Organic competitor research – identify your most direct competitors and scope out how their facilities compare to yours: what services are they offering that you aren’t? Have these competitors made specific accommodations that would attract more female solo travellers, and how might you incorporate these into your own business model? &nbsp;&nbsp;Review Relevant Travel Forums&nbsp;Considering that a study conducted by the aforementioned Solo Female Travelers found that 76% of women trust relevant solo female travel groups Facebook groups more than they trust the recommendations from friends and family (73%), reviewing such travel forums and social pages can be invaluable.&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid The Single Supplement&nbsp;In many cases, the single supplement can mean that solo travellers are still paying double occupancy, because many rooms, tours and cruise accommodations are packaged in a way that they are priced per person based on double occupancy.&nbsp;&nbsp;This charge is one of the main turn offs for solo travellers – especially considering that female millennials are considered the thriftiest – so if you want to cater for more solo travellers you need to start focusing on ways to avoid or reduce your single supplement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here’s how:&nbsp;Consider absorbing some of the cost of a single room into the cost of a double room by amending this in your business model.Waiving the single supplement during the shoulder seasons (between peak and low) as standard – as solo travellers tend to be more flexible around when they travel – this would also be a great way to encourage customer loyalty!Consider waiving this single supplement charge on any unsold hotel rooms to encourage last minute bookings.Host ‘matching’ services, which brings together solo travellers who are happy to share a room for a section of their journey to work around this fee.&nbsp;How our Partner Portal Can HelpOf course, one of the best ways that you as hotel owners can ensure you're aware of, and meeting the needs of this high-value segment is by working with a global distribution partner like HBX Group.&nbsp;As our partner, you'll gain exclusive access to our Partner Portal intranet which offers you all the tools and resources you need to maximise your occupancy rates, including the option to create bespoke rates and fees that can be offered to travellers all around the globe on a more individual basis. &nbsp;&nbsp;Our Partner Portal also offers:A fully interactive calendar - to allow easier amendments to availability and rates across room types.An intuitive content manager - maximise the quality of your content with our user-friendly interface.The ability to make numerous updates at once - using our integrated update tool means you can quickly update your availability and prices across multiple rate and room types.A global dashboard - so you can easily review current&nbsp;arrivals, bookings and cancellations, as well as comparisons between your competitors.Sign up to gain access to this time-saving resource, and begin optimising your occupancy rates today.&nbsp;Consider How Your Services Reflect What Solo Female Travellers Want &nbsp;Understanding what solo female travellers want is the first step – evaluating this against your current facilities is the next. &nbsp;&nbsp;The key here is that you don’t have to only&nbsp;cater to&nbsp;women travelling solo, just make it clear you accommodate them. This means that you don’t have to restructure your business model or revamp your packages completely – unless you want to!&nbsp;&nbsp;Just make it obvious that you are aware of what women want when they travel and that you can deliver on this.&nbsp;&nbsp;Practical ways you can cater for solo travel for women:Consider implementing women-only floors – the Four Seasons Riyadh and the Dukes Hotel in London are already doing this!Som Dona in Mallorca has gone one step further and made this location women-only which has proved incredibly popular.Ensure that you have up-to-date information regarding your facilities on your website and any profiles with distribution partners (like our Booking Engine) – i.e., up-to-date CCTV coverage, information on women-only or inclusive timeslots in your leisure or spa facilities.Set up 24-hour receptionists and door security.Stage inclusive social events to encourage solo travellers to interact with like-minded people while away.Turn the lobby into happy hour, organise women-only or inclusive activities to help travellers feel part of a community and to combat loneliness. &nbsp;Add more transfer options with trusted providers for women travelling solo&nbsp;– especially after-dark airport transfers!&nbsp;With a connected community of other hoteliers, and access to over 60,000 travel sellers around the world, combined with a fresh approach to data intelligence, working with HBX Group is one of the best ways that you as hotel owners can reach your desired audience and curate the ideal experience for your guests.&nbsp;Why not consider signing up as one of our valuable partners today?&nbsp;

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How Hotel Owners Can Effectively Target Solo Female Travellers

&nbsp;While solo travel has undeniably been on the rise for years, it’s evident that more women than ever are diving headfirst into solo ventures. The future of solo travel might well be female!&nbsp;With the majority readership of large publications like Solo Traveler World being women, online searches for ‘solo women travel’ increasing by a staggering 230% in 2019, and popular social media platforms like Pinterest logging a 350% increase in pinned articles about female solo travel, it’s evident that more women than ever are travelling alone.&nbsp;So with that in mind, we dive into how travel providers like you can ensure you’re meeting and exceeding the needs of women travelling solo - and why you should want to capture this growing audience of high-value customers!Understand the Unique Characteristics of Solo Travel For WomenIt’s important that you understand the challenges, sensitivities and experiences of female solo travel and this traveller type, so that you can better cater for this valuable segment.&nbsp;Some factors that many women travelling solo consider when booking or planning a trip are:Whether the country or region is a major tourist destination.How good the tourism infrastructure is as a consequence.What the crime rate of the destination is.What online review sites, blogs, friends and family and social media groups say about the safety of the country or destination – many suggested that TV and online ads were not as trustworthy.How affordable the destination is for a solo trip – especially considering accommodation.The overall reputation of the country and how it treats women.&nbsp;These are important factors to consider when promoting destinations to solo travellers, and even more so for women travelling alone; and are equally crucial for when you are building an idea of destinations that you would recommend from your portfolio in future consultations.&nbsp;Make Dedicated Information Easily Accessible&nbsp;Create hubs on your website with relevant information about how your services can be tailored to female solo travel.&nbsp;Whether this is FAQs, or dedicated pages in your service collections, make sure you list which hotels, tour operators and destinations are recommended for women travelling solo and why.&nbsp;Don't forget to offer unique fee/payment information upfront - be clear on your fees, refund, and cancellation policies for solo travellers! Especially when it comes to unique fees like single supplements and cancellations if plans change.&nbsp;This is critical when you consider that it takes the average consumer around 50 milliseconds (that’s 0.05 seconds!) while looking at a website to form an opinion not only about your brand but about whether they want what you’re offering.&nbsp;One of the best ways to do this is a design technique called progressive disclosure - essentially, you’re streamlining important content into a user-friendly format, which improves navigation and allows the user to discover more information about your brand and offerings without being bombarded all at once. And consider that once they’re on your site, the average user spends around 5 seconds reading written content.&nbsp;So, ensuring that your prospective audience understands, quickly, that you can offer the services or experiences they’re after is key.&nbsp;Cater For The Luxury Solo Female TravellerIn the last several years, women taking solo trips within the luxury travel sector have increased significantly, and we think this is a prime opportunity to understand and accommodate this important audience to boost your success as a travel agency and ensure you’re as inclusive as possible for today’s traveller.&nbsp;For example:Scott Dunn, a leading UK luxury tour operator, reported that they’d seen a dramatic uplift in solo bookings in the last three years, and that of those, 60% were women.Up Norway, a company that curates high-end excursions through Scandinavia, suggested that bookings from solo female travellers were up 40-50% compared to 2019.Bespoke tour operator Morocco by Design revealed that a full quarter of its bookings now came from women travelling alone.&nbsp;Not only are women looking to explore the world alone more frequently, but many solo female travellers are looking to travel within the luxury sector, with bespoke trips curated specifically for their preferences.&nbsp;&nbsp;The industry is starting to take note of this increase in demand for luxury solo travel, so it’s important that you’re aware of the opportunities out there!&nbsp;&nbsp;From ‘Alonemoons’, offering solo travellers the deluxe experience a couple on their honeymoon might enjoy; women-only group travel; to tour operators and travel bookers offering amenities catering specifically to women travelling solo, there are many ways that the industry is providing opportunities when it comes to solo travel for women.&nbsp;Consider how you can accommodate this type of traveller; what changes would have to be made to the partnerships you have with tour operators, or indeed to your tours themselves if you’re organising them for the end client?&nbsp;Plus, when you work with a travel partner like Hotelbeds, you’re immediately boosting your visibility to this growing audience.&nbsp;Tour operators, you’re opening up a whole new avenue of distribution for your experiences; while travel providers, you’re accessing a massive, ever-growing portfolio of over 23,000 experiences and 250,000 hotels in trending destinations worldwide!&nbsp;&nbsp;This allows you to capitalise on reaching and catering for the right audience, with the right resources you need.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sign up today to start boosting your bookings from the valuable solo female travel segment!&nbsp;How Insights Can Help&nbsp;And so, keeping up with industry trends in your market is more important than ever, as more and more women seek out solo trips. You can do this easily with our search and recommendation tool, Insights.&nbsp;Designed to offer market-specific insights, gathered from thousands of daily searches and booking data from our users, The Compass allows you to see what’s being booked in your market and when.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only this, but you'll receive tailored growth opportunities depending on what is most likely to sell in your market, based on real-time data, booking history and seasonality, as well as your personal preferences thanks to Insights' intelligent algorithm.&nbsp;This time-saving, sales-boosting tool is exclusive to our partners, so sign up today to start scaling your success with Insights.&nbsp;Offer Women-Only Group TravelQuite often, travelling solo can be daunting, and for many, the idea of venturing on a long-haul journey even to their dream destination is overwhelming no matter who is embarking on the journey. This is where group travel can be so valuable, especially to solo female travellers.&nbsp;&nbsp;While some women travelling solo won’t necessarily feel the need to travel in a women-only group, for some travellers this will significantly decrease any concerns or doubts around travelling alone amongst a group.&nbsp;Many tour operators around the world have already begun introducing women-only tours to great success - for instance, the tour company Trafalgar introduced women-only tours in early 2022, and suggested that 61% of bookings came from women travelling alone.&nbsp;So, there’s never a better time to make sure you’re filling your portfolio with tours and experiences offered by tour operators and travel providers catering to this valuable segment, in order to meet the needs of the female solo traveller, and therefore boost your bookings.&nbsp;Our ever-growing portfolio is the perfect place to start, with tours and experiences uniquely designed for solo travellers and access to thousands of travel sellers worldwide!&nbsp;Do Your ResearchIn ‘standard’ communication narratives, the solo female traveller is not usually the focus. Many decision-makers in travel, including travel agencies, cannot relate to the challenges of women travelling solo.&nbsp;This presents a significant opportunity for savvy travel providers to get to know this audience better and offer products and destinations that cater for their demands and challenges.&nbsp;By doing so, you’ll position yourselves as the ones to beat for this particular audience. Competitor and market research is an invaluable practice no matter the age, experience, or reputation of your travel agency, and even more so if you’re interdependent!&nbsp;And considering that successful female-focused travel organisations like the Solo Female Travelers Club are already offering consultations for businesses to reevaluate their offerings in light of the growing demand from female travellers going it alone, it’s important that you’re viewing your offerings through the lens of a solo female traveller and consider where any opportunities for improvement might be.&nbsp;Here are just a few ways you can do your research, and therefore identify any gaps in your business or offerings:Read trusted insightsOur Client Resources page is packed full of regularly updated insights, inspired and influenced by global travel trends, and driven by our very own wealth of industry data gathered from thousands of bookings from travel providers all over the world. Check back regularly for insightful and inspiring content for travel agencies!&nbsp;But as we mentioned before, Solo Traveler World and Solo Female Travelers Club are examples of valuable platforms with high social proof attached to them where insights, shared experiences and customer-centric recommendations are shared by women for women looking to travel solo. Keeping a close eye on platforms like this can provide interesting insights into how other travel providers are catering for the growing audience of solitary female travellers.&nbsp;Organic competitor researchIdentify your most direct competitors and scope out how their facilities compare to yours: what services are they offering that you aren’t? Have these competitors made specific accommodations that would attract this segment, and how might you incorporate these into your own business model in a way that makes you stand out?&nbsp;&nbsp;Utilise customer feedbackGetting insights from past or existing customers about their experiences with you is invaluable, and is one of the best ways that you can highlight any shortcomings with how your agency handles female solo travellers, and accommodates this type of traveller needs. Ensuring you’re GDPR compliant, of course!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So there you have it! This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to catering for solo female travel, and it’s especially important that if you’re going to accommodate this type of traveller specifically, you really dedicate time to understanding the unique needs and preferences of women travelling alone.&nbsp;But one of the best ways to start is by working with a travel partner dedicated to connecting the world of travel, no matter the audience or segment! At Hotelbeds, our global network and portfolio allow you to attract and keep your ideal audience, even in hard-to-reach markets.&nbsp;Sign up today today to get started!&nbsp;&nbsp;

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How Travel Distributors and Providers Can Effectively Target Solo Female Travellers

&nbsp;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 riseThe demand for sustainable travel options is undeniable 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 is predicted to grow by $335.93 billion by 2027 (Global Sustainable Tourism Market 2023-2027).&nbsp;&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 market1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Expand your sustainable property portfolioHotels 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 easilyReady to expand your sustainable property portfolio? You can access over 40,000 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.&nbsp;&nbsp;Join the B2B travel partners already taking advantage of the Sustainable Hotels Programme by clicking&nbsp;here.&nbsp;Beat plastic pollutionThis 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.&nbsp;Hotelbeds can help travel distribution partners to offer sustainable ancillaries: in fact, our mobility and experiences portfolio contains 23,000 activities overall, giving plenty of choice to your clients.EMERGING TREND: REGENERATIVE TRAVELSustainability 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 budgetsIt 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.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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;The important role travel distributors play in sustainable travelTravel 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;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ready to start selling sustainable experiences? Register now!&nbsp;

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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

&nbsp;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 allow our partners to:Identify growth opportunities and market-specific booking patterns.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.&nbsp;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). 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 ensure 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 promising feature 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. 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.’&nbsp;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 portfolio and network of connections 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 sales even further.&nbsp;Sign up today to take your travel business even further with our leading insights, technology solutions and global portfolio.&nbsp;

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

&nbsp;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;&nbsp;To keep ahead of the curve, it’s important to re-evaluate what was once considered ‘luxury’ travel, as many of today’s 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&nbsp;Here are just a couple of key insights into what luxury travellers are looking for from their trips include:&nbsp;&nbsp;To ‘get under the skin’ of a destination.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 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 intersection 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)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;&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;&nbsp;As a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), at Hotelbeds we understand how critical it is to remain successful, but for the industry as a whole to shift towards conscious travel. Our Sustainable Hotels 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;&nbsp;Sign up to join 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.&nbsp;&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;Have longer lead times than other distribution channels.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.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 join our Hotelbeds network and scale your offerings.&nbsp;&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 far beyond this year. 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;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;It's essential to recognise 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. Interestingly, premium travellers also: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, 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;&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 that 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 deserves a place on the radar.&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.&nbsp;&nbsp;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 today, and maximise your success in the ever-changing travel industry.&nbsp;

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How To Cater To Travel Trends: Luxury Travel

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.

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Working From 'Roam': The Best Destinations For Remote Workers in 2023

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, personalisation (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 HBX Group, 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 maximise 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 prioritising 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 travellers 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 endeavours including regenerative yoga retreats or spa weekends; yachting holidays, cultural immersion and, as is the case with most traveller 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.If you’re not already one of our exclusive hotel partners, register now to start scaling your visibility ahead of this all-important 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 travellers 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 HBX Group, 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 organisations 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 current travel demands, keep up with travel trends, and attract the right customers to your properties. Starting to cater for these all-important traveller profiles is a key way to secure your bookings and capitalise on increasing demand. And we’re here to facilitate that as your travel partner!Ready to secure those bookings with us? Register your property today.&nbsp;