Latest news with #localexperiences
Hospitality Net
10-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Connect, Curate, Customize: Teamwork and Technology Turn Outdoor Experiences into Unforgettable Adventures
As summer travel trends shift, one truth remains: the more personalized and immersive the experience, the more likely guests are to return. In today's uncertain marketplace, travelers are booking later and staying for shorter periods, often Thursday through Sunday rather than a full week. With rising costs and global events weighing on decision-making, guests are opting for quick getaways — and looking for meaningful experiences to make the most of them. Despite the uncertainty, outdoor adventure remains a strong draw. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, the U.S. outdoor recreational economy is worth $887 billion annually and according to CRR Hospitality, outdoor adventure tourism is projected to grow by 15.3% annually through 2033. To stay competitive, hotels must go beyond standard offerings. Guests want to feel immersed in the local culture and environment — something they cannot replicate at home. At Motto by Hilton Bentonville in Arkansas, for instance, we've seen how curated, hyper-local experiences drive deeper guest satisfaction. Experiences Are the New Amenity Today's travelers prioritize destination over décor. Functional, efficient guest rooms are appreciated, but it is the experiences beyond the room that guests remember. Partnering with local event managers, tour companies, and artists helps uncover the 'hidden gems' that make your market memorable. Start with your team. Ask employees what they love about the area. Their insider knowledge can uncover the best trails, museum exhibits, bike routes, or lesser-known eateries — things guests might miss on Google. Personalization matters. Avoid generic recommendations. Take the time to understand what each guest is looking for. A QR code linked to an e-Concierge platform can share staff-curated favorites, updated in real-time to reflect seasonal events and local discoveries. Partner for Personalization Creating truly customized adventures is easier when you have the right partner. At our Arkansas properties, we work with 37 North Expeditions to provide on-demand outdoor experiences — from e-bike rentals to kayaking tours and corporate scavenger hunts. These kinds of partnerships are key to delivering flexible, high-quality adventures that align with your guest demographic. Eco-consciousness is another growing priority. Guests are seeking sustainable, walkable destinations beyond crowded hotspots. They will choose a pricier stay if it offers a stronger connection to the community and natural surroundings. Source: Hilton Motto Bentonville Source: 37 North Expeditions Source: 37 North Expeditions Get Involved 'Locally' Everyone on your team should engage with the community. Sales leaders can become ambassadors for local CVBs. GMs can join promotional boards. Offer your lobby space to community partners for pop-ups or meetings. Promote nearby parks, restaurants, and events on social media. Curate, Do not Just Sell Help guests plan their day. Be a connector, not just a host. A stay at your hotel should open the door to local experiences — not just serve as a place to sleep. Think Creatively About Partnerships Even if your property is not in a traditional resort area, there's value nearby — whether it is a public art installation, a farmer's market, or a mom-and-pop coffee shop. Build relationships with these businesses to enrich the guest experience. Start Small and Add Value Begin with a simple amenity, such as a hiking map and a locally made snack included in a room package. Instead of relying solely on discounts, find ways to enrich your existing offerings. Be Ready for Unique Needs Flexibility is key. Big events like cycling races may require creative bike storage or early check-ins. Anticipate these needs and plan accordingly. For example, our Motto by Hilton extended bike valet service, an extension of our bike storage and service offerings. Looking Ahead We expect demand for hyper-local, eco-conscious travel to keep rising. Properties can get ahead by investing in sustainability — like offering sparkling and still water refill stations or contributing to carbon offset initiatives for outdoor experiences. Personalization, authenticity, and sustainability are the new standards. Hotels that lean into these values will lead the way. Those that do not will be left behind. About the Author Bailie Sonnentag is Director of Sales, Northwest Arkansas, for Hospitality America, a leading third-party hotel development and management company and a preferred partner of Hilton and Marriott. Hospitality America is recognized as a winner of USA Today's Top Workplaces 2024 - 2025 awards. For more information, please visit or connect with Hospitality America on LinkedIn. Barb Worcester Owner, President at PRPRO 14409305770 Hospitality America
Travel Daily News
15-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
Why holiday cottages are the UK's best-kept secret
If you're tired of cookie-cutter hotel stays and long airport queues, it's time to consider the charm and practicality of the UK's holiday cottages. From coast to countryside, these hidden gems deliver an experience that's richer, more relaxing, and ultimately more memorable. In recent years, more UK travellers are discovering the charm of staying in holiday cottages, opting for unique and flexible accommodation over traditional hotels or overseas trips. Whether nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside or perched along dramatic coastlines, these hideaways offer an intimate, authentic British experience that big resorts simply can't match. With domestic tourism on the rise and a renewed appreciation for local escapes, it's time to explore why holiday cottages are being hailed as the UK's best-kept secret. Below, we delve into the top five reasons more people are turning to these quintessential retreats. 1. Authentic Local Experiences Staying in a holiday cottage places travellers at the heart of a destination. Unlike standardised hotel chains, cottages are often deeply integrated into their local surroundings—be it a thatched-roof home in a chocolate-box village or a converted barn on a working farm. This setting gives visitors a real taste of local culture, food, and traditions. The design and charm of holiday cottages often reflect the history and character of their region. In many places, you can enjoy local produce from nearby markets, interact with village life, and even walk to family-run pubs or tearooms. The experience feels less like a tourist and more like a temporary local—one of the key draws for those who want more than just a place to sleep. 2. Unmatched Privacy and Flexibility One of the standout advantages of top holiday cottage destinations, such as Cofton Holidays, is the level of privacy they offer. Without neighbours on the other side of a thin hotel wall or daily interruptions from housekeeping, you're free to truly relax on your own terms. This makes cottages ideal for romantic getaways, family holidays, or solo retreats. Flexibility is another key factor. You can cook your own meals in a fully equipped kitchen, come and go as you please, and enjoy a living space that feels like a home rather than just a room. Whether you're spending a quiet evening reading by the fireplace or enjoying a summer BBQ in the garden, the sense of autonomy enhances the overall experience. 3. Access to Nature and Outdoor Adventures Many holiday cottages are set in rural or coastal locations, offering immediate access to some of the UK's most beautiful landscapes. From the moors of Yorkshire to the cliffs of Cornwall, cottages serve as perfect bases for exploring walking trails, beaches, national parks, and nature reserves. For example, if you're looking for holiday cottages in Devon, you'll find properties surrounded by lush countryside and within striking distance of both Dartmoor and the Jurassic Coast. These settings provide a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and paddleboarding. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual nature lover, the opportunities are abundant. 4. Pet-Friendly and Family-Oriented Stays Hotels often impose strict rules when it comes to pets or children, but many holiday cottages in Devon are designed with families and furry friends in mind. You'll find properties with enclosed gardens, game rooms, and even dog-washing stations—making them a practical choice for those travelling with their full household. Parents appreciate the space to spread out, cook child-friendly meals, and avoid the stress of dining out with little ones every night. Likewise, pet owners can enjoy walks straight from the front door and rest easy knowing their pets are comfortable. It's a win-win situation that few traditional accommodations can offer so comprehensively. 5. Better Value for Longer Stays When it comes to longer holidays, cottages often deliver better value for money than hotels. With self-catering facilities and no need for constant restaurant meals or extra room bookings, families and groups can save significantly while enjoying a more spacious, comfortable stay. Take, for instance, those looking for holiday cottages near Dawlish. Many cottages in that area offer weekly rental rates that rival or beat hotel costs—especially during shoulder seasons. Plus, with amenities like Wi-Fi, private gardens, and washing machines included, the overall convenience and cost-effectiveness make them an increasingly popular choice for both short breaks and extended stays. Discover a Better Way to Holiday in the UK If you're tired of cookie-cutter hotel stays and long airport queues, it's time to consider the charm and practicality of the UK's holiday cottages. From coast to countryside, these hidden gems deliver an experience that's richer, more relaxing, and ultimately more memorable. Next time you plan a break, think beyond the usual options. Whether it's a cosy cottage nestled in Devon's rolling hills or a cliffside retreat near Dawlish, the perfect escape is likely closer—and more enchanting—than you think. Photo by Lois Portelli on Unsplash
