Travelers are prioritizing experiences and connections this festive season with rooms revenue pacing 30% ahead of 2019 for resort locations worldwide. With leisure travel continuing to soar, Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) shares the most compelling travel trends for global guests and suggestions on how to make the most of festive season travel.
Hotels and Resorts Prove To Be Preferred Over a Home Rental
Spreading joy and delight, hotels and resorts are delivering on the festive spirit this time of year with seasonal décor, food, music and more. According to a global survey commissioned by Hyatt and conducted by OnePoll, nearly two-thirds of people traveling with families prefer to stay at a hotel or resort rather than a home rental.
Allowing guests to maximize their travels and focus on spending quality time with loved ones, many Hyatt hotels and resorts around the world offer luxury amenities, on-site dining options, 24-hour room service, concierge services, wellbeing experiences and more. In addition to offering the necessities, Hyatt hotels and resorts around the world participate in seasonal celebrations that make it easy for the entire family to get into the festive spirit through exciting experiences including:
- A Christmas concert under the stars at Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk, allowing guests and locals to enjoy a night of cocktails and to hear some of the greatest festive season hits live.
- A New Year’s Eve “Sail Away Party” at Hyatt Regency Brisbane, featuring welcome cocktails, a beverage package, roving canapes, food stations, live entertainment, a photobooth and a glass of sparkling champagne at midnight.
- The opportunity to bask in everything New York City has to offer and ring in the new year with spectacular views and close proximity to the iconic Times Square Ball Drop at the new Grayson Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
Multi-Generational Families Seek Togetherness and Reunite with Loved Ones Through Travel
This year, many parents and grandparents will gather with their families for the holidays, with 94% of adults ages 45+ who responded are planning to travel in December and 58% in January, indicating that connecting with loved ones is top of mind for travelers.
Travelers seeking to participate in meaningful and immersive experiences while creating lasting memories can look to all-inclusive resorts, such as Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun in Mexico and Dreams Karibana Cartagena Golf & Spa Resort in Colombia, which invite guests of all ages to connect with one another. Those looking for the perfect destination for the entire family to gather and carry on seasonal traditions can consider The Lodge at Spruce Peak in Stowe, Vermont. This Destination by Hyatt property offers something for everyone – from the all-natural spa for adults to crafting workshops and a game room for kids.
Say Goodbye to Wrapped Presents: Travel and Unique Experiences Top Consumers’ Wish Lists
While some people enjoy a traditional gift, experiences create memories – which is why 61% of respondents noted they would be excited to receive travel or an experience such as a vacation, plane tickets, spa and meditation session or a cooking class as a gift this year. When it comes to gift giving, consider an unforgettable travel adventure or an immersive experience this festive season.
Global, Dream Getaways are Making a Comeback with Japan, Canada and Italy Being Some of the Most Popular Destinations
With leisure travel continuing to increase and many borders now open around the world, consumers are prioritizing once-in-a-lifetime trips with unique experiences and opportunities to connect. According to the survey, 62% of respondents agree that the festive season is a great time to cross off a bucket list destination with some of the most popular destinations being Japan, Canada and Italy.
Loyalty Programs Reign Supreme During the Festive Season as Travelers Try to Make the Most of Budgets
Loyalty programs, such as World of Hyatt, provide travelers with more ways to save and more reasons to gather all year round, especially during the festive season. Sixty-two percent of survey respondents said they would use a travel rewards program that lets them earn and redeem points, offers discounts and features unique experiences and 51% said if there was an impressive travel rewards program offer, they would change their travel plans or go out of their way to earn and redeem points.
Temperature Continues to Drive Seasonal Travel Plans: Snow is the Number One Preference
While some travelers may seek a reprieve from the cold in sunny destinations, 56% of respondents agree that it doesn’t feel like the festive season without snow.
The survey was commissioned by Hyatt through OnePoll, who conducted an online survey among n = 8,500 adults aged 18+ across 14 countries. The survey was conducted Oct. 6-21, 2022.