Hotel stays these days may appear a bit different than they did in the past. Many people are becoming comfortable enough to book vacations again, and others are booking at hotels with different expectations than they had a year ago.

Today, we will look at a few ways a small hotel stay may appear different this coming year compared to years past.

Evolving Standards

Safety and health concerns are at the top of everyone's minds when they travel. People make their own decisions on where to book their stay based on how the establishment is handling safety and security for its guests. So, there is more pressure on small hotel chains to meet new requirements and address travelers' continued concerns.

New guidance is focused on health in the hospitality industry, and this guidance is a guide on how to manage risks associated with travel, COVID-19, health, and safety.

What To Expect

When booking a hotel stay, there are a few things one may come to expect.

  • Reduced Staffing: minimal staffing may be happening in some smaller hotels to help with cost savings and to have fewer people in the space at a time. Guests who have booked in the last year may have noticed, for example, one desk clerk compared to two that might have been staffed in previous years.
  • No Buffet: hotel risk mitigation and customer preference have done away with buffets. Instead, small hotel properties are investing in pre-packaged, on-the-go breakfast items.
  • Extended Stays: extended stay hotels may also see an influx of guests because their rooms offer all the conveniences of home without the shared space. Guests can access a living area, kitchen area, and even laundry area on-site and minimize the amount of time spent in shared spaces.
  • Smart Rooms and Technology: technology will also take front and center as small hotels find new ways to reduce touchpoints and in-person engagement. So, guests can expect less face-to-face contact for a safer stay.

Do you work in the hospitality industry? What are you doing to compensate for these unprecedented times? If you need help or advice when marketing your small hotel and improving retention, don't hesitate to consult with the experts at Occupancy Solutions, LLC.