Market Trends

📚 Situ's white paper reveals generational differences in business travel preferences. A survey of over 550 business travelers shows 30% of Millennials desire full flexibility in accommodation choices. Gen Z leans towards non-hotel lodging, with only 21% using company tools. Sustainability matters to 41% of Gen X and 34% of Boomers. These insights highlight the industry's need to adapt to multigenerational needs, enhancing travel experiences and addressing sustainability and flexibility in business travel.

🏖 In 2026, travel will reflect individual identities. Nearly 49% of Brits may alter travel plans based on spiritual advice, while 68% are drawn to romantasy destinations. Relationship-testing trips interest 67%, and 77% are open to skincare-focused glow-cations. Tech aids nostalgia trips for 68%, and 79% may car-share. Souvenirs shift to kitchen culture; 65% may buy design-led items. Humanoid helpers appeal to 74% in vacation homes.

Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., 20 October 2025 – Fresh data from short-term rental analytics company Key Data shows that hotels and vacation rentals in Austin moved almost in step ahead of this year’s Formula 1…

🏆 City Lodge Hotels, alongside TBWA Hunt Lascaris Johannesburg, triumphed at the Loeries 2025 in Africa and the Middle East, winning 8 awards from 23 shortlisted entries. The "Save Our Stay" campaign garnered a gold for Comedic Impact, silvers in Service Design and PR & Media Communication, and several bronzes across categories. The Loeries, now in its 47th year, is a prestigious annual event celebrating creative excellence. Zuki Jantjies, City Lodge's Sales and Marketing Director, was a judge this year.

🏠 Branded residences are booming globally due to increasing wealth and lifestyle shifts post-pandemic. Dubai leads with $8.5 billion sales in H2 2024, while Miami hosts 42 active projects. The market, dominated by hotel brands (79%), sees growth in non-hotel sectors like fashion and automotive. The UHNWI demand for private, luxury living drives standalone residences. Developers and brands benefit from high returns and loyalty, with major hotspots in New York, London, and emerging markets like Saudi Arabia.

🏨 UK, 2026: Pride of Britain Hotels’ report reveals affluent travelers (1,646 surveyed) favor heritage stays (75%) and multigenerational travel (19%, up 7%). Most (over 50%) take three UK breaks annually, planning to continue in 2026. Couples dominate at 79%, with friend groups rising to 28%. Bookings often occur within days or hours (reported by 75% of hoteliers). Hidden charges frustrate 69% of guests. Direct bookings are preferred, influenced by transparent pricing and perks.

💸 Gloria Thalasso & Hotels in Gran Canaria and Lanzarote increased direct sales from 2.7% in 2014 to 45% of total sales by 2025. In collaboration with Mirai since 2014, they implemented a new website, booking engine, digital marketing, and the Omnichannel Contact Center. Metasearch campaigns achieved 99% coverage, while calls achieved a 37% conversion rate. The Mirai Twin 3D shopping process improved interaction and conversion, enhancing guest-centered service and sustainability focus.

Blog Post Excerpt 📈 Midscale hotels saw the strongest growth in satisfaction, doubling 5-star growth rates. On October 16, 2025, Shiji's Q3 report highlighted a 86.8% Global Review Index, with 3-star properties growing satisfaction by 0.8pp. Global review volumes rose 2.6% year-over-year, driven by a 33% increase on Google. Despite gains, Europe and Asia review volumes fell slightly. Average response times improved to 3.0 days, down from 4.7 days in Q3 2023, thanks to AI tools.

💰 McKinsey forecasts luxury tourism spending will grow to $391 billion by 2028. Michelin Keys now rates over 7,000 properties. Private clubs are evolving, predicted to double by 2033. OpenAI suggests websites could be obsolete. Dutch VAT on hotels rises from 9% to 21% in 2026, pushing for innovation. Nike's campaign shifts focus from action to motivation. Despite economic uncertainty impacting luxury goods, aspirations for luxury persist, with Gen Z driving shifts in luxury consumption.

📊 According to the U.S. Consumer Travel Report 2025, travelers are maintaining the number of trips but are spending less annually. Increased cost-consciousness is evident, with a slight rise in younger travelers who prefer OTAs for price comparison. Consumers consider road trips over air travel if flights become costly. AI-powered tools are influencing research and bookings, as general search usage declines, indicating a shift in how trips are planned and chosen.