HOSPITALITY CADENCE NEWS

"Discover useful Trade shows for the hospitality Industry: What fits my hotel?"

In today's competitive hospitality industry, the role of a hotel consultant is invaluable when it comes to reviewing and enhancing commercial planning and execution. The dynamic nature of the market, combined with ever-evolving customer preferences and trends, necessitates the need for expert guidance to maximize profitability and operational efficiency. A hotel consultant brings a wealth of experience, industry insights, and a fresh perspective that can significantly impact a hotel's success. In this article, we will explore the importance of having a hotel consultant review commercial planning and execution and how their guidance can propel a hotel towards achieving its business objectives.

As the hospitality industry emerges from the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, it is essential for professionals in the field to stay abreast of the latest trends and developments. Travel events and tourism exhibitions play a vital role in fostering growth, innovation, and collaboration within the industry. Here, we present a curated list of the top 10 travel events that every hotelier should consider attending.

1. International Tourism & Travel Industry Show:

Recognized as the fastest-growing sector in the world of travel events, the International Tourism & Travel Show offers a platform for travel agents, tour operators, and tourism offices to showcase their offerings. This event stands out for its ability to provide thrilling experiences, expert advice, and new destination discoveries to attendees, making it an unmissable opportunity for hoteliers.

Vancouver International Travel Expo:

The Vancouver International Travel Expo is renowned for its exceptional travel experiences. It offers a unique opportunity for hoteliers to connect with exhibitors specializing in diverse destinations worldwide. From airlines and adventure travel to cruises, travel agencies, hotels and resorts, and honeymoon destinations, this event encompasses the best that the hospitality sector has to offer. Expert speakers further enhance the learning experience by addressing attendees' queries.

ITB Berlin:

ITB Berlin is a prominent commercial platform that attracts global tourists and facilitates valuable networking opportunities for industry leaders. This travel event serves as a meeting point for professionals from various sectors, including travel agencies, hotels, tour operators, and transportation companies. The exchange of ideas and knowledge-sharing among decision-makers and experts make ITB Berlin an essential event for hoteliers seeking to stay ahead of the curve.

The New York Times Travel Show:

Regarded as a major promoter of the tourism industry worldwide, The New York Times Travel Show is a premier event that attracts a significant number of participants. The 17th anniversary of this show witnessed a record-breaking attendance of over 34,000 individuals, including both travel trade professionals and consumers. With exhibitors representing 175 countries and pavilions organized by country and category, this event offers hoteliers an excellent platform to forge valuable connections and gain global exposure.

The Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum:

The Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum acts as a gateway for travel agents to connect with global travel suppliers. This exclusive event provides leisure travel agencies with networking opportunities, educational sessions, and immersive experiences. Hoteliers attending this forum can leverage the limited space to foster business relationships, gain industry insights, and explore vacation experiences and resources from around the world.

The Travel and Vacation Show:

For travel agencies and industry professionals, The Travel and Vacation Show is a must-attend event. Offering a conducive networking environment, this show enables hoteliers to discover exciting destinations, participate in quiz games, and explore various vacation-related deals and services. From hotel deals and travel packages to car rentals and adventure tourism opportunities, this event caters to every aspect of a traveler's needs.

South Asia’s Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE):

Recognized as South Asia's leading travel show, SATTE provides a comprehensive platform for domestic and international buyers, as well as professionals from the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. Supported by national and state tourism boards, this event fosters business collaborations, knowledge-sharing, and innovative solutions. Hoteliers attending SATTE can expect to be part of an environment that promotes growth and accelerates the industry's progress.

The IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism:

The IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism event offers an opportunity for industry professionals to engage in discussions on Canada's economic, social, environmental, and cultural fabric. By focusing on innovation and shaping the industry in alignment with modern progressive values, this event empowers hoteliers to contribute to a sustainable future for the hospitalityindustry in Canada. Attending this event allows hoteliers to join their peers in finding innovative solutions and strategies for sustainable growth.

The World Travel Market London (WTM London):

Recognized as the leading global event for the travel industry, WTM London provides unparalleled opportunities for hoteliers to network, establish connections, and conduct business. This event attracts professionals from various sectors, offering a platform to showcase products, engage with industry trends, and explore new business opportunities. Hoteliers attending WTM London can leverage its global reach and industry networks to enhance their professional growth.

Arabian Travel Market:

As the market-leading international travel event, the Arabian Travel Market focuses on unlocking the potential of the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals. This event plays a crucial role in shaping the future of international travel and tourism by promoting innovation, growth, and effective recovery. Hoteliers attending this event gain valuable insights into emerging trends, business opportunities, and strategies for success in the Middle Eastern market.

The post-pandemic recovery phase presents an opportunity for hoteliers to embrace growth, innovation, and collaboration within the hospitality industry. Attending these top travel events and tourism exhibitions is essential for professionals seeking to stay updated with industry trends, expand their networks, and gain valuable insights. By participating in these events, hoteliers can position themselves as industry leaders and drive their businesses towards success in the evolving landscape of travel and tourism.

"Unveiling the Soul of Luxury: How Hotels Embrace Local Culture and Heritage to Craft Unforgettable Guest Experiences"

Luxury hotels have embarked on a remarkable journey, intertwining local culture and heritage into the guest experience. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, travelers are yearning for more authentic and meaningful encounters that allow them to forge connections with the local community. In response to this evolving trend, luxury hotels are employing ingenious strategies to immerse their guests in the rich tapestry of their surroundings.

Art plays a pivotal role in bringing local culture and heritage to life within the walls of luxury hotels. Instead of generic decor, many hotels are now curating collections that spotlight local artists or draw inspiration from the region's unique allure. Take, for example, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, boasting an impressive collection of over 280 works by Hawaii's most revered artists. Through paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces, guests are invited to embark on a visual journey that encapsulates the island's breathtaking beauty and cultural legacy.

Cuisine, another gateway to local traditions, has become a focal point for luxury hotels seeking to offer an authentic gastronomic experience. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, hotels like the Ritz-Carlton, Bali, go beyond the ordinary by offering guests the opportunity to participate in Balinese cooking classes. Here, guests can learn the secrets behind traditional dishes like lawar, a tantalizing spicy vegetable salad, and babi guling, the succulent roasted suckling pig that is synonymous with Balinese cuisine.

Beyond the confines of their properties, luxury hotels are keen to ensure their guests truly embrace the essence of the surrounding area. Curated tours and experiences provide unparalleled opportunities to explore hidden gems and delve into the heart of local culture. The Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello, Italy, for instance, offers an exquisite tour of the enchanting Amalfi Coast. With a private boat ride and a visit to a local ceramic workshop, guests can savor the authentic flavors of the region while immersing themselves in the craftsmanship and heritage of the area.

Hotels are also embracing the concept of workshops and classes as a means of connecting guests with local culture. From traditional craft-making to language lessons, luxury hotels are fostering unique learning experiences. The Park Hyatt Paris-Vend?me, for instance, entices guests with a captivating perfume-making workshop. Guided by experts, guests can unveil the secrets of traditional French perfumery techniques and create their own signature scent, becoming a part of the storied heritage of fragrance in the process.

Architecture, too, plays an instrumental role in celebrating local culture and heritage. By incorporating traditional architectural elements into their design, luxury hotels establish a strong sense of place. Aman Tokyo exemplifies this approach with its design inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, featuring a magnificent double-height lobby reminiscent of a serene Japanese temple. Guests are enveloped in an ambiance that pays homage to the country's rich cultural legacy from the moment they step foot inside.

To truly immerse guests in the rhythms and movements of local culture, luxury hotels have embraced the power of music and dance. Nightly performances of the Kecak dance at the St. Regis Bali Resort transport guests to the heart of Balinese tradition. As a chorus of men chants and sways, the hypnotic rhythm unfolds, captivating guests and creating a lasting connection to the region's vibrant cultural heritage.

Supporting local artisans and businesses is another vital aspect of incorporating local culture and heritage into the guest experience. Luxury hotels achieve this by showcasing and promoting local products. From featuring locally sourced ingredients in their restaurants to offering spa treatments infused with indigenous plants and herbs, hotels go the extra mile to ensure guests feel a genuine connection to the local community. In the gift shops of the Rosewood Mayakoba in Mexico, guests can purchase exquisite handmade hammocks and pottery crafted by local artisans, thus directly contributing to thesustainability and economic growth of the region.

The incorporation of local culture and heritage into the guest experience also carries significant benefits for both guests and hotels alike. For guests, it provides an opportunity to connect deeply with the local community, gain insights into the history and traditions of the destination, and create lasting memories that extend far beyond their stay. It allows them to embrace a more authentic and enriching experience, fostering a sense of appreciation and understanding for the local culture they encounter.

Moreover, guests have the satisfaction of knowing that their choice of accommodation supports local businesses and helps preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of the destination. By partaking in local activities and indulging in regional cuisine, they actively contribute to the sustainability and vitality of the communities they visit.

For luxury hotels, incorporating local culture and heritage into the guest experience elevates their brand identity and sets them apart from competitors. It allows them to create a unique and memorable atmosphere that resonates with their guests, cultivating loyalty and positive word-of-mouth recommendations. Through partnerships and collaborations with local businesses and organizations, hotels forge meaningful connections within the community, fostering a sense of mutual support and growth.

In addition to the intangible benefits, incorporating local culture and heritage can have a positive impact on the financial success of hotels. By exceeding guest expectations and providing an unforgettable experience deeply rooted in local culture, hotels increase guest satisfaction, leading to repeat visits and positive reviews. The result is enhanced revenue and a sustainable business model that thrives on the goodwill generated by the authentic guest experiences they offer.

In conclusion, luxury hotels have become pioneers in incorporating local culture and heritage into the guest experience. Through curated art collections, authentic cuisine, immersive tours and workshops, traditional architecture, music and dance performances, and the promotion of local products, hotels are creating extraordinary and unforgettable stays for their guests. By celebrating the unique traditions and history of the surrounding community, hotels not only provide an authentic and immersive experience but also play a vital role in supporting the preservation and celebration of local culture. The benefits extend to both guests and hotels, fostering meaningful connections, creating memorable brand identities, and contributing to the sustainability and economic growth of the destinations they serve.

"Captivating the Next Generation: How TikTok Can Revolutionize Hotel Marketing and Drive Direct Bookings"

In the world of social media marketing, hotels have traditionally relied on platforms like Instagram and Facebook to create their online presence and attract guests. However, with the rise of TikTok, a new question arises: Can TikTok be a valuable platform for hoteliers? In this essay, we will explore the potential of TikTok as a marketing channel for hotels, particularly in reaching the next generation of travelers. We will examine the influence of TikTok on Generation Z, the benefits it offers in terms of brand visibility, and provide strategies for hoteliers to effectively market their properties on this platform.

TikTok's Growing Popularity:

TikTok, a video-sharing social networking service, gained widespread popularity during the pandemic. It became the most popular overall app downloaded globally and the fastest-growing brand of 2022. Despite concerns regarding data privacy and mental health, TikTok has captivated the Gen Z crowd, making it a powerful marketing channel across various industries.

Reaching the Next Generation of Travelers:

Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is a generation that holds significant spending power and has a growing interest in travel. Although the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted their travel plans, Gen Z adults have enthusiastically resumed their adventures. They are avid travelers, with over half of them taking at least three leisure trips in 2022, surpassing the travel frequency of higher-earning Gen Xers and baby boomers. As this generation matures and gains more spending power, they are expected to outpace even the travel-happy millennials.

The Dominance of Social Media and TikTok's Role:

In the realm of online presence management, hotels have primarily focused on Google to optimize their visibility. However, the landscape is changing, and social media platforms are becoming increasingly relevant. Research by Influencer Marketing Hub reveals that TikTok is the most-used media in an internet minute, surpassing even Google search. Moreover, 40% of the top queries on Google are related to social media networks. This indicates a higher level of activity on social networks compared to search engines, including Google.

TikTok as a Search Engine for Gen Z Travelers:

TikTok has become the go-to search engine for Gen Z travelers, who prioritize authentic content. With users spending over 1.5 hours per day on TikTok and 167 million TikTok video views in an internet minute, having a presence on this platform can significantly expand a hotel's reach and positively impact its bottom line.

Considerations and Legal Concerns:

While TikTok offers immense potential, it is essential to address the legal concerns surrounding the platform. The future of TikTok is uncertain, with some states in the US proposing bans or localized ownership. Hotels, particularly in the US, may choose to monitor the situation before fully embracing TikTok as a marketing channel.

Marketing Strategies on TikTok:

If you consider the entry into it then watch out on the following. To effectively market a hotel brand on TikTok, certain strategies can be employed:

1. Create a unique business account with content that differs from other channels. Short-form, entertaining videos work best to captivate the audience.
2. Engage in TikTok trends, such as hashtags, songs, and challenges, which align with the hotel's destination, local events, and activities.
3. Showcase the hotel's personality, raising brand awareness and adding value to the audience's lives.
4. Use TikTok as a tool to advertise the hotel by encouraging staff and guests to interact, driving traffic to the hotel's website and potentially increasing direct reservations.
5. Share hidden gems and local secrets to offer guests an authentic local experience.
6. Humanize the brand by telling stories and showcasing behind-the-scenes moments, incorporating the hotel team and a sense of humor.
7. Highlight the hotel's unique selling pointssuch as stunning views, infinity pools, art pieces, restaurant recipes, or talented staff members. Collaborating with influencers who align with the hotel's offerings can also enhance visibility. Hashtags can be used for product-based challenges or client takeovers to engage the audience.
8. Ensure authenticity and simplicity in showcasing the hotel's unique features, as research shows that 80% of users remember videos they have watched within the past 30 days, particularly Gen Z individuals.

With its rapidly growing user base and global presence, TikTok has become a platform that hotels cannot ignore. Leveraging TikTok's popularity can lead to increased brand awareness, direct bookings, and overall marketing success. However, a well-defined strategy is crucial to ensure effective utilization of this channel. Hoteliers should assess whether their target audience is present on TikTok, identify engaging content, align brand values and vision, establish business goals, consider budgetary aspects, and designate appropriate management for the hotel's presence on the platform.

Embracing TikTok as a marketing channel can unlock new opportunities for hotels to connect with the next generation of travelers. By capitalizing on TikTok's features, engaging with the audience, and delivering captivating content, hotels can foster stronger relationships with existing and prospective guests, ultimately driving direct bookings and cultivating a loyal customer base.