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Today's travelers expect more than a comfortable stay; they demand a seamless, tech-enabled, and authentic experience that resonates with their values. This blog explores the evolution of guest expectations and how a hotel's design, technology, and commitment to sustainability are essential for captivating and retaining the modern traveler.
What Are Modern Guest Expectations for Hotel Development?
Today's guests are well-informed and have a wide range of choices. They're looking for more than a bed and a minibar; they want an experience that aligns with their lifestyle and values.
- Seamless Technology: Today’s travelers expect a smooth, tech-enabled journey from booking to checkout. Surveys show that 70–71% of American travelers prefer hotels with app-based or kiosk self-check-in over traditional front desks, and more than half (53.6%) want hotels to permanently adopt contactless options like mobile keys and digital checkout. This underscores the shift toward seamless, self-service technology as a core driver of guest satisfaction.
- Health and Wellness: The global wellness tourism market continues to grow rapidly. In 2022 it was valued at $814.6 billion, rising to an estimated $923.6 billion in 2023, with projections that it could reach over $2 trillion by 2030. For hotels, this means wellness amenities, such as spa services, fitness programs, and holistic experiences, are increasingly essential to attract health-conscious travelers.
- Sustainability: Sustainability is becoming a decisive factor in travel decisions. According to Booking.com, 74% of global travelers want to see more sustainable choices in the year ahead, and in the U.S.. While figures vary globally, the consistent trend is clear: hotels that demonstrate meaningful environmental responsibility stand out in the marketplace.
- Personalization: Travelers are also seeking experiences that feel uniquely tailored to them. Whether it’s curated dining options, tailored excursions, or in-room preferences like temperature and entertainment. For hotels, leveraging guest data to deliver thoughtful personalization is becoming a standard expectation rather than a luxury.
What Real Estate Development Trends are Shaping the Future of Hotels?
To meet these evolving expectations, hotel development is moving beyond traditional models. Several key trends are influencing how new properties are designed and built:
- Mixed-Use Integration: The trend of combining hotels with residential units, retail, and entertainment spaces is creating vibrant, multi-functional destinations. This approach satisfies the desire for convenience and a complete, immersive experience.
- Focus on Communal Spaces: Lobbies and communal areas are being reimagined as social hubs with co-working spaces and food and beverage offerings that encourage interaction.
- Flexible and Adaptable Design: Developers are incorporating flexible spaces that can be used for various purposes, such as meeting rooms that can be converted into event spaces or co-working areas. This adaptability future-proofs the asset against changing market demands.
Glasswater Group: Partnering to Meet Modern Demands
Glasswater Group understands that a hotel's success today hinges on its ability to integrate these imperatives from the start. We work with developers to ensure their hotel is designed to meet and exceed guest expectations. In an industry driven by guest satisfaction, a strategic development partner is essential for success.
