Traveling is a great way to see the world and experience other cultures. It is also a way to relax and escape from the daily grind. In addition, traveling can be a powerful form of education that opens up new perspectives and allows people to see things they would never otherwise have seen.
Finding the right accommodations while traveling abroad can make or break your trip. The wrong hotel, bed and breakfast, vacation rental, guest house or treehouse can be an uncomfortable and disappointing experience. A good hotel, on the other hand, can be a comfortable and convenient base for your trip with standard amenities like wifi, a pool or fitness center, and an easy-to-navigate website that makes booking a snap.
A recent study by Cornell University found that people who travel more frequently report higher levels of creativity and problem solving, a sense of perspective and cognitive flexibility, and are more adaptable at work and home. But not everyone has the time or money to take multiple trips per year. And even when you do have the time, it can be difficult to plan a memorable trip without having the right accommodation in mind.
Hotels have long been the mainstay for business and leisure travelers looking to stay in a comfortable place that offers the basic comforts of home, including free wifi, paid parking and in-room coffeemakers. Some hotels offer extended-stay options for travelers who need a longer timeframe for their travels, while others may feature spas or restaurants for those who want to relax and dine during their stay.
Hotel loyalty programs are a major draw for many travelers, as they can often earn points on each dollar spent at hotels included in their program, or through the use of a credit card that has partnerships with a hotel brand. These rewards can be redeemed for future stays or used toward travel expenses like airfare and hotel stays. Airbnb, on the other hand, does not currently have a full-fledged loyalty program.
However, the industry is evolving, and many hospitality brands are focusing on different aspects of their properties and experiences to differentiate themselves from competitors. For example, new luxury boutique hotels are opening in former industrial or medical buildings that have been converted to luxurious accommodations, and some hotels are offering unique travel experiences like staying in a yurt or treehouse. As consumer preferences shift towards adventure and culture immersion in travel, the lodging options available will continue to change.