New-age traveller’s behavioral trends set to transform industry in 2024
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It is estimated that the global traveller is 2.5 times more likely to search for hotels through a search engine than through friends or brands. In countries like Thailand, the traveller is five times more likely to do so.
Likewise, 36% of Australian travellers look for accommodation using a search engine. These travellers are followed by travellers from the United Kingdom and France. On the other hand, Italians at 32% are more likely to search for a hotel through an OTA or website. This is followed by the Spanish and Chinese with 29% and 28%, respectively.
Meanwhile, the use of social networks continues to grow and permeate the travel and hospitality industry. Its influence is particularly increasing for Gen X travellers.
It is estimated that more than 50% of travellers do not complete an online hotel reservation due to a bad experience. Incidentally, 75% of those in this category are from Gen Z and Millennials.
Therefore, within the hotel forecasts for 2024, security and a perfect digital experience are the priorities. Well, today’s traveller spends a lot of time online and is also exposed to scams. Therefore, a simple and secure booking process should be a fundamental aspect of a hotel website.
It is estimated that three out of four travellers confess that their demands have changed in the last one year. And among the things that today’s traveller wants most is to enjoy a great experience.
Among the markets that most seek memorable experiences are the Indian, Chinese and Indonesian markets. Added to these markets is the subgroup of the young, working traveller, who prefers luxury experiences.
Consequently, luxury boutique hotels will be among the most in demand in 2024. Not surprisingly, those providing momentously unique and unforgettable experiences will be the most sought after ones.
Now hotels are evolving to become special places to spend more time outside the home and office. In this case, the current traveller is looking for precisely such an accommodation. Well, it is estimated that 50% of travellers surveyed say they want to spend most of their time in accommodation on their next trip.
Another aspect that is part of the hotel trends or forecasts for 2024 is optimism towards extra expenses. Well, many travellers are willing to spend additional money on their accommodation. It is expected that by 2024, tourists’ desire to connect with local communities will continue to grow. For more than 30% of travellers surveyed globally, this aspect is more important now than it was last year.
The traveller of 2024 will seek to connect more with culture, gastronomy and people from local communities. This is why accommodation establishments must seek to create deep relationships with their local community. In this way they will be able to offer a meaningful and conscious product.
In recent years, the hospitality industry has experienced unprecedented growth and innovation. From advanced reservation systems to personalized guest experiences, technological advancements have played a crucial role in shaping the way hotels, resorts, and other establishments provide their services.
However, as we approach the year 2024, it is time to look ahead and explore the top trends set to further transform this dynamic industry.
In this article, we will delve into an exciting array of emerging trends that are poised to revolutionize hospitality by offering unparalleled convenience for guests while enhancing operational efficiency for businesses.
From AI-powered chatbots to sustainable practices that prioritize eco-conscious travellers, you can join us as we uncover the future of hospitality and how it will shape our experiences in just a few short years.
AI-powered chatbots and virtual concierges are enhancing guest experiences. The use of AI-powered chatbots and virtual concierges is on the rise in the hospitality industry. These technologies are enhancing guest experiences by providing quick and efficient responses to inquiries and requests.
The chatbots can handle a wide range of tasks, including reservation bookings, room service requests and answering FAQs. They are available 24x7 and thereby reduce the need for guests to wait for assistance from hotel staff. This improves customer satisfaction levels and allows staff to focus on more complex administrative and logistics issues.
Forecasts for the hotel sector in 2024 offer an encouraging outlook after years of challenges. The recovery of real estate investments and the correction of prices in the hotel sector indicate a promising future for investors and hoteliers.
Additionally, traveller behavioral trends point toward greater optimism and growing demand for unique experiences.
With the importance of connecting with local communities and the preference for digital technologies, the hotel sector is in a constant process of adaptation to offer travellers what they want.