It is time to bid farewell to cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all hotels. Sure, soulless resorts are still not entirely extinct and can still be found dotted around the world's beautiful coastlines, but they well and truly are the dinosaurs of the hospitality industry.
Been there, done that. Time to move on to bigger and better things.
To stay ahead of the curve, we need to learn from the best, and the best are always looking to the future. Granted, with the hospitality industry changing so rapidly it can be hard to stay in the loop. That's why we've put together a small list of truly impressive, trailblazing hotels and the key lessons to be learned from their success. Think of it as a cheat sheet to help improve your business! You're welcome.
1. 1Hotels - USA
1Hotels is THE epitome of sustainable luxe. In fact, they've been making the sustainable hotel experience sexy since 2015. Developed with the idea that “those that travel the world also care about it,” 1Hotels uses recycled and repurposed natural materials throughout its spaces (currently located in Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and South Beach), collaborates with Tesla to provide their guests eco-friendly car rides, and sources and showcases locally made art and furniture. Oh, and it goes without saying that their bars and restaurants are bursting with mega-healthy and delicious vegan options.
Lessons learned: Sustainability is not only in demand, but it also enhances your brand.
2.Eccleston Square Hotel - London, UK
Nestled in the prestigious neighborhood of Belgravia, the 5-star Eccleston Square Hotel is one of the most technologically advanced hotels in the world. Each room includes a digital concierge, 3D TV, complimentary smartphone with unlimited data, touch sensors and a massage bed.
Lessons learned: Embrace the power of tech. The marketplace is highly competitive. Chocolates on the bed every evening coupled with fluffy robes are no longer considered to be the epitome of luxury.
3. COQ - Paris, France
Based in the creative and buzzing district 13th arrondissement, this Parisian gem combines style with practicality. COQ is all about creating a community of quality - which essentially translates to fantastic hospitality and multi-purpose spaces. If you're staying in COQ, you'll have absolutely no problem finding a comfortable spot to do a little bit of work in between hours of play in the French capital.
Lessons learned: Co-working, multi-purpose spaces integrated into high-quality hotels are super hot right now. Not only with millennials, but also with regular businessmen looking for 'bleisure' (that's business + leisure).
