The Mews U.S. hospitality survey for 2024 highlights several emerging travel trends. Nearly 80% of Americans expect to travel more next year, averaging 11 trips per person. A significant increase in “bleisure” travel—where business trips are extended for leisure—is notable, with half of travelers participating.
The demand for technology-driven experiences is high, with 80% preferring automated check-ins and 36% using AI for trip planning. Fast Wi-Fi and smart room features top the list of priorities, while sustainability has become a growing concern for travelers, as more guests prefer eco-friendly accommodations.
What Makes the “Perfect” Hotel?
According to the survey, travelers in the U.S. believe the perfect hotel should offer automated check-ins, fast Wi-Fi, and eco-friendly practices. Technology and sustainability are becoming non-negotiable for many travelers. Hotels that implement strong digital infrastructures, such as smart room controls and seamless tech experiences, are rising in favor. This is a significant shift toward tech-forward hospitality solutions that enhance guest convenience and satisfaction.
The Rise of Sustainability in Travel
Sustainability is another critical area of focus. The survey found that many travelers now expect eco-friendly practices from the hotels they stay in, from energy-saving systems to the reduction of single-use plastics. As global awareness of environmental issues grows, hotels are increasingly investing in sustainable solutions to meet guest expectations and industry standards.
Personalization through AI
Personalization is also becoming a key factor in guest satisfaction.
AI tools are being used to tailor experiences based on guest preferences and previous stays, with many travelers indicating that they appreciate personalized recommendations for dining, activities, and amenities. This trend highlights the shift toward more tailored services in hospitality, driven by AI and data analysis.
“Technology enables our teams to gather robust guest information before they arrive at one of our locations, which empowers our customer service teams to create unique ‘excite and delight’ opportunities for guests, resulting in powerful moments and lifelong memories for our guests,” commented Ryan Krukar, VP Sales & Marketing at Gravity Haus. “Identifying and understanding a guest’s needs before they arrive at one of our locations and going above and beyond for guests is key in delivering authentic hospitality and provides additional value and comfort while simultaneously immersing a guest in the unique culture of the destination they are visiting.”
Shifting Expectations of Luxury
The survey points to a shift in expectations for luxury, with travelers prioritizing convenience, sustainability, and tech integration over traditional markers of luxury like décor or amenities. Hotels that adapt to these trends will be better positioned to cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers, who now look for high-tech, seamless experiences as part of their stay.
According to MEWS, the study also found that a large majority of hotel staff surveyed (85%) saw locals come to their hotel to use the amenities, often to get access to the hotel pool (47%), restaurants (43%), lobby (39%), gym (31%) and parking (26%).
Local amenities appear to go both ways — 79% of hotel workers said guests “always” or “often” ask for local recommendations.
According To Travelers In The Us, What Should “perfect” Hotels Offer?
- Fast Wi-Fi – 70%
- A king-sized bed – 55%
- Having a smart TV – 54%
- Being near attractions – 48%
- An in-building restaurant – 47%
- A fitness center/gym – 38%
- Online or self-service check-in/check-out – 37%
- A personal hot tub – 37%
- A personal bathtub – 37%
- A spa – 36%
Conclusion
Overall, the Mews survey shows that technology, sustainability, and personalization are key drivers of guest satisfaction in 2024. Hotels that invest in these areas will not only meet current guest expectations but also set themselves up for success in the future. For more detailed insights, visit the full survey here.
