As the festive season approaches, boutique hotels and homestays are gearing up to provide unique experiences that go beyond standard hospitality. With travelers seeking more personal and immersive stays, these intimate accommodations are stepping up their game to create memorable celebrations.
Boutique hotels are embracing local traditions, offering curated packages that highlight regional festivities. From special holiday menus featuring local cuisine to themed decorations that reflect the culture, these establishments are turning their spaces into festive wonderlands. Guests can enjoy cozy evenings by the fire, participate in local workshops, or join in community celebrations, creating a sense of belonging that larger hotels often lack.
G.S. Rathore, Founder of Jungle Camps India, notes, “Ahead of the festive season, we are preparing for a surge in travel demand, with an anticipated annual growth of 20-25% in wildlife tourism. Our lodges are offering personalized, immersive experiences, from customized itineraries to exclusive wildlife safaris.” Rathore emphasizes the growing preference for eco-friendly accommodations, stating, “With 70% of travelers preferring eco-friendly options, we are enhancing our sustainability initiatives, utilizing solar power, and supporting local communities.”
In urban settings, boutique hotels are adopting similar strategies. Ahsan Shervani, Vice President of Star Hotels Ltd, shares, “We are implementing extensive measures to provide an unparalleled travel experience. Whether in renowned destinations or hidden gems, our teams are prepping to offer curated local tours and delectable local cuisine, transforming each stay into a celebration of culture and adventure.”
Meanwhile, homestays are capitalizing on the desire for authenticity. Hosts are preparing to welcome guests with homemade treats and personalized itineraries that showcase hidden gems in the area. Many offer unique experiences like cooking classes, guided hikes, or artisan market tours, allowing travelers to connect with the local community meaningfully.
The shift towards immersive travel experiences is echoed by Amanpreet Bajaj, General Manager – India, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, for Airbnb. He states, “Immersive travel, or slow tourism, allows individuals to step beyond traditional tourism, seeking meaningful and authentic experiences.” This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for local cultures and supports community engagement.
Capt. Sarabdeep and Er. Hari, host of a unique Airbnb in Dehradun, has noticed this trend firsthand. “We’re seeing travelers move away from traditional luxury stays and instead seek experiences that offer depth and connection,” says Capt. Sarabdeep. Their home combines sustainable architecture with local traditions, creating a rich cultural experience. “It’s about creating a space where people can slow down and embrace local traditions,” adds Er. Hari.
Travelers across India are echoing these sentiments. Neha Sharma, a frequent traveler from Delhi, remarks, “I love finding places that reflect the local culture. It makes my trips more meaningful.” Another traveler, Vikram Mehta from Bengaluru, shares, “I prefer staying in homestays where I can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.”
To accommodate increased demand, both boutique hotels and homestays are enhancing their booking systems and staffing to ensure seamless experiences. Sustainability is also at the forefront, with many properties incorporating eco-friendly practices to appeal to environmentally-conscious travelers.
