The way we pick places to stay is getting a serious glow-up.
Picture this: It’s 2025, and travellers aren’t just booking a room to sleep in—they’re hunting for something more. A cozy bed? Sure, that’s still a must. But now, it’s about soaking up local vibes, feeling good about sustainability, and turning a hotel stay into a story worth telling. According to SiteMinder’s Changing Traveller Report 2025, over half of us are planning to hang out at our hotels way more than before, craving that sweet spot where comfort meets culture.
Living Like a Local, Hotel-Style
This isn’t your grandma’s vacation anymore. A massive survey of 12,000 travellers worldwide shows we’re all about ‘conscious travel’ these days—where your hotel isn’t just a pit stop but part of the adventure. “Comfort’s non-negotiable,” says Supakrit Phansomboon, SiteMinder’s Thailand country manager, “but people want places that feel plugged into the local scene, not walled off from it.”
Here’s the scoop:
– 65% of Thai travellers (and 29% of folks globally) are ready to make their hotel their home base.
– Gen Z and Millennials? They’re the ones pushing this vibe, chasing stays that spark joy and connection.
– Meanwhile, only 11% of Thai locals feel the same—guess they’re too busy exploring their own backyard!
And the wishlist for amenities? It’s next-level. Younger travellers are dreaming of:
– Spa days (37%)
– Fancy dinners or wine nights (35%)
– Live music vibes (35%)
– Cooking classes with a cultural twist (22%)
– Yoga or meditation to zen out (18%)
– Dance lessons or storytelling sessions (16%)
Oh, and don’t sleep on the quirky stuff—16% are even into farming or sleep-better workshops. Wellness and immersion? Sign us up.
Paying for What Matters
Here’s the kicker: even with prices creeping up, we’re not scared to splash out for the good stuff. The report says 70% of travellers worldwide are cool dropping extra cash for eco-friendly digs, and in Thailand, that number shoots up to 94%. Green travel’s not just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle.
Where you’re from shapes what you’re into, too:
– Aussies are all about the great outdoors—think holiday parks and campfires.
– Chinese (35%) and Singaporeans (32%)? They’re vibing with boutique or luxe hotels.
But let’s not kid ourselves—the basics still reign supreme. We’re talking:
– Comfy beds to sink into (56%)
– Killer views to stare at (53%)
– AC or heat that actually works (35%)
Fancy towel swans? Meh. 80% of us are like, “Keep it simple, we’re good.”
Making Memories, One Stay at a Time
So, what’s the secret sauce that makes a hotel stay unforgettable? It’s those little moments—37% of travellers say great food, killer drinks, or a cool event can seal the deal. For Thai travellers especially, top-notch service (51%) is the golden ticket when picking a spot.
In 2025, it’s clear: we’re not just travelling to go somewhere. We’re staying to feel something. Hotels, you’ve been warned—the bar’s been raised.
Inspired by SiteMinder’s Changing Traveller Report 2025