The Future of Experiential Travel: What It Means for Property Owners
Travel isn’t just about visiting a destination anymore—it’s about living the experience. Today’s travelers want authentic, meaningful, and immersive adventures that go beyond the standard tourist checklist. According to RLA Global, experiential travel is projected to be one of the fastest-growing sectors of the travel industry in 2024, with more guests seeking trips that connect them deeply to local culture, people, and places.
If you’re a property owner in the short-term rental space, this shift offers a huge opportunity. By aligning your rental with the experiential travel trend, you can attract guests, earn glowing reviews, and set yourself apart in a competitive market. Let’s explore what experiential travel is and how you can tap into its potential.
What is Experiential Travel? Experiential travel focuses on creating authentic, memorable moments for travelers. It’s about connection—to people, places, and cultures. National Geographic highlights that experiential travelers prioritize:
Immersion: Guests want to learn about and engage with the local culture, history, and traditions.
Uniqueness: They’re seeking experiences they can’t get anywhere else, like cooking classes with local chefs or guided hikes to hidden gems.
Personal Growth: Travel that challenges or inspires them, such as workshops or eco-tours, is particularly appealing.
The key takeaway? Guests want to feel like participants, not spectators.
(Source: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/is-experiential-travel-the-next-big-trend)
Why Property Owners Should Care The rise of experiential travel means that the traditional “bed and breakfast” model is evolving. Today’s guests are looking for more than just a place to sleep. Mountain Travel Research points out that the “standard” rental is less appealing to modern consumers, who value:
Tailored Experiences: Properties that offer unique add-ons or local insights are more likely to stand out.
Higher Perceived Value: Travelers are willing to pay a premium for stays that include memorable experiences.
Increased Loyalty: Guests who have meaningful interactions are more likely to return and recommend your property.
(Source: https://research.mountain.com/insights/consumers-are-seeking-out-experiential-travel/)
How to Align Your Rental with Experiential Travel You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to offer experiential travel. Small, thoughtful touches can go a long way:
Offer Curated Itineraries Provide guests with insider tips on local restaurants, hidden trails, and unique activities. Think beyond the obvious tourist attractions and include suggestions for authentic experiences.
Partner with Local Businesses Collaborate with local chefs, guides, or artisans to offer special perks, like a wine tasting or a private tour. These partnerships not only enhance your guest’s experience but also support your local community.
Create On-Site Experiences If your property allows, host activities like cooking classes, yoga sessions, or art workshops. These hands-on moments can leave a lasting impression.
Focus on Storytelling Use your property’s listing to tell a story about the experience guests can expect. Highlight what makes your space unique and how it connects to the local culture.
Leverage Sustainable Practices Eco-conscious travelers love properties that align with their values. Incorporate sustainable features like locally sourced decor, recycling programs, or energy-efficient appliances.
(Source: https://rlaglobal.com/en/insights/outlook-for-2024-the-rise-and-rise-of-experiential-travel)
The Benefits of Going Experiential Aligning your rental with experiential travel trends isn’t just good for guests—it’s great for your bottom line. Properties that offer unique experiences often command higher nightly rates and attract more repeat visitors. Plus, they’re more likely to earn those coveted 5-star reviews that drive future bookings.
Conclusion Experiential travel isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of the industry. As a property owner, offering authentic, immersive experiences can help you attract today’s travelers, stand out in a crowded market, and maximize your rental’s potential. Ready to transform your property into more than just a stay? Start creating experiences your guests will never forget.
CTA: Looking for ways to bring experiential travel to your rental? Contact CoCasa today, and let’s create unforgettable stays together!
