COVID-19 is a major disruption to the travel industry. It has impacted the way that people travel. Travellers’ priorities have changed as a result of the pandemic. They now place more emphasis on safety, health, and flexibility, and prefer to take road trips and visit destinations closer to home. Travellers’ priorities have changed dramatically since the pandemic. Accommodation providers should offer travellers simple but impactful amenities when it is safe. Here are some ways that accommodations can win the hearts of travellers in 2021 and beyond.
1. Access to the right information is easy
Easy access to accurate, relevant, and timely information is a very valuable service in a world of information. It is especially important to have accurate and relevant information during a pandemic, when local regulations regarding a destination or travel can change every hour. Travellers will need to be able to make the best decisions during their stay if they have complete and up-to-date information about local regulations. Also, local updates in real time on local tourist attractions are crucial, including whether museums are open or what safety protocols apply to local attractions. In addition, providing clear information about the health and safety measures taken at their chosen destination and accommodations helps to win over travelers’ confidence.
2. Workcation: More than just Wi-Fi and computers
Remote workers need to be flexible in their work setups today, as they want to avoid the monotony that comes with ‘working from home’. The pandemic allows people to manage their business and travel seamlessly, whether they are travelling on a workcation for the entire trip or working remotely during leisure time. Contrary to popular opinion, a strong Wi-Fi connection may not be sufficient to satisfy today’s digital nomadic workers who seek comforts at home during long workcation periods. A steady Wi-Fi connection, a dedicated workspace, and value-added amenities like a kitchen, where travellers can prepare their own breakfasts and coffee, or regular activities, such as nature walks, that allow them to take a break away from their screens, may be enough.
3. Local food experiences
In fact, travellers often enjoy trying out local cuisines while on vacation. Booking.com surveyed 38% of Indian travellers who said they were eager to try local cuisines. In this context, accommodation partners must go beyond the routine ‘bed and breakfast’ and offer well-thought-through services such as creating food guides with recommendations on nearby restaurants/eateries, as well as information on delivery services or takeaways, to save guests the hassle of searching around. A sweet gesture can also be to form partnerships with local food providers who offer discounts and authentic foods.
4. Sustainable experience
Booking.com’s recent research shows that 94% of Indian travellers have made sustainable travel their priority for the future. 98% of Indian travelers are also looking to stay at an eco-accommodation once or twice in the near future. Sustainable travel is a priority for Indian travellers. Accommodations can use sustainable practices to help travellers feel better about their accommodations.
It is not necessary to make huge investments when you start adopting sustainable practices. Instead, take small steps toward a more eco-conscious goal.
To minimize the environmental impact, initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastic bottles for water and toiletries are possible.
5. Smart home technology
The demand for smart home technology is increasing, driven by a greater need for safety and health. This can make the difference between a good experience and a great one. Smart lighting, for example, allows guests to automate or remotely control their lights, removing the need for a wall switch. Smart tech can also offer multiple benefits to property managers, such as cost-savings of up 23% in heating and cooling or staffing reductions.
6. How to maintain a personal touch even in the ‘contactless era.’
In a world where social distancing is still a concern and travellers prefer to check in as quickly as possible without any contact, it’s important that property owners maintain a personal touch and provide a warm and welcoming experience for travellers. A simple handwritten message, a welcome gift, or an extra step to ensure travellers get the most out of their trip, such as providing local advice, can create a more personalized experience.
7. Health & Fitness
Many people have become fitness enthusiasts as a result of the lockdown, and they’ve learned basic fitness routines at home to stay healthy. Many people have made physical well-being a priority as a result of their experience with the pandemic. They would like to continue their fitness regimens while on vacation. By providing in-room workout equipment like yoga mats, small dumbbells, or jump ropes, a hotel can attract health-conscious guests.
8. Supporting local communities
Travellers are now more motivated to help their communities during these difficult times. According to our research, 73% Indian travellers are interested in knowing how their money helps local communities. Accommodations can work with local craftsmen to provide samples of products that are representative of a destination. Guests will then have the opportunity to buy them if they choose.
COVID-19 taught businesses a lot, from resilience to empathy and flexibility. Businesses can use these lessons as a guide when we move slowly towards a healthy, prosperous and mask-free world. Accommodation providers can enhance the travel experience of travellers in the interim, while India battles the second pandemic wave and travel is once again at a standstill.
