Make Memories, Not Just Beds & Catch The New Wave Of Experiential Travel

What do travellers really hope to gain after ticking off their must-see lists? Many are eager to immerse themselves deeper in the local culture, history, and everyday life of their destination as travel broadens the mind.

So instead of just reserving a hotel and enjoying the usual comforts, they crave experiences that will leave a lasting impact long after they’ve zipped up their suitcases.

This is where experiential travel comes into play.

I. What's experiential travel all about?

II. Why is experiential travel on the rise?

III. How can hotels take advantage of this trend?

IV. What to consider when starting an experiential travel business?

V. In conclusion

experiential travel

What's experiential travel all about?

Lounging by the pool at a 5-star resort is no longer at the top of modern travellers' bucket list. According to TripAdvisor's Travel Report in 2022, more and more people prefer experiencing cultures and extreme activities rather than simply checking off the sights.

experiential travel

People are getting more curious, wanting to try out something brand-new for the first time. They're all about trying hidden gems, joining in on traditional celebrations, and hanging out with the locals.

Here are several key elements that set it apart:

Authenticity: Discovering the local culture, traditions, and way of life in their real eyes
Immersion: Deeply engaging with the destination through hands-on activities
Connection: Building meaningful connections through personal interactions with local people
Learning: Gaining knowledge of the local culture, environment, or history as travel broadens the mind

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Why is experiential travel on the rise?

Travellers today want to try something that significantly impacts their mood, thoughts, and inner selves. That’s why the demand for experiential travel is higher than ever. Experiential travel comes in many forms and allows them to reach the highest excitement.

Adventure travel

Adventure experience travel

Adventure travel focuses on outdoor activities and exploration, like mountain climbing or deep water diving, which is perfect for adrenaline junkies.

Of course, this type of adventure is not always suitable for everyone, as it’s dangerous, requiring participants to meet certain health conditions.

Volunteer travel

volunteer-1

Ideal for gap year students who want to take a short break or individuals who are on the way to exploring life and themselves. This form of travel fulfills their needs while enabling them to give back to communities and gain valuable life experiences.

Culinary travel

Who can deny delicious food? Culinary travel includes cooking classes, food tours, and wine tastings, especially suitable for those who seek relaxation while exploring new flavours. They will venture through markets, streets, and restaurants to try as much of the local taste as possible.

Music tourism

Music experience travel

Millions of music lovers flock to concerts and music festivals, which can significantly boost local economies. For instance, Taylor Swift's recent concert—The Era Tour—in Chicago shattered hotel occupancy records, illustrating the power of music tourism.

Sport tourism

Sport experience travel

Big sporting events like the World Cup and European Championships draw in thousands of fans, leading to a huge increase in demand for accommodation and related services.

It's clear that the last two types have a major influence on the hospitality industry. However, the industry itself isn't responsible for organising large events. So, how can hotels enhance the experience for music enthusiasts or sports fans? We'll explore this further in the later sections of this blog.

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How can hotels take advantage of new tourism trends?

Hotels can do more than provide accommodation for resting. Hotels can play a crucial role in enhancing experiential travel by acting as intermediaries and providers of unique experiences.

For adrenaline junkies who look forward to thrilling adventures, hotels can provide a safe place for keeping their belongings or suitable equipment or directions before the start of their journey.

For culinary travel, hotels can collaborate with local businesses and travel agencies to create unique packages that are appealing to not only solo travellers but also families and older travellers.

Hotels can collaborate with local NGOs or volunteer organisations to provide a variety of meaningful opportunities for travellers seeking this meaningful experience. Offering package deals that include rooms to stay in and a volunteer project can simplify planning.

By decorating your hotels with sporting themes, playing the artist's playlist in the waiting area, or serving local cuisine, you can improve the satisfaction of your guests during their sports and music trips.

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What to consider when starting an experiential travel business?

If your hotel is considering venturing into experiential travel, there are several factors to keep in mind:

Expect the unexpected: The travel sector is influenced by numerous variables, such as weather conditions, geographical location, and local activity. A “what if” analysis can help you prepare for potential disruptions, ensuring your tourists have a smoother experience.
Explore the specific attractions of the destination: Figuring out the local attractions allows you to curate experiences that resonate with travellers. It’s weird when your hotel is located by the beach in Hawaii but offers a Son Doong cave exploration in Vietnam.
Dig into the insight of travellers: Whether they’re seeking excitement, relaxation, or a chance to dive into a new culture, knowing their desires can help you tailor your offerings to connect with the right audience.

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In conclusion

Experiential travel is on the rise. People aren’t just looking to snap pictures; they’re eager for experiences that engage them and leave a lasting impact. The hotel managers need to make firm decisions to meet these changing demands.

Beyond comfortable accommodations, they also consider offering genuine local connections and immersive experiences. True travel isn't about checking off destinations; it's about creating those unforgettable moments that stay with your guests forever.

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