Alternative Stays 2023: The New Era of Travel Accommodation

Alternative Stays 2023: The New Era of Travel Accommodation

By Author

Published on October 31, 2023

In the ever-changing world of travel, the year 2023 marks a significant chapter in the story of lodging preferences. Post-pandemic, the lodging industry has witnessed not just a recovery but a transformative shift, with alternative stays gaining unprecedented momentum. This trend isn't just a fleeting response to the global crisis but a profound change in traveler behavior, as revealed by recent reports from Expedia and Booking.com.

Expedia's Eye-Opening Insights

Expedia's findings, particularly through its vacation rental marketplace Vrbo, paint a clear picture of this shift. The demand for alternative stays in Q3 soared, recording triple-digit growth year-over-year and surpassing Q3 2019 levels by over 50%. Villas, once a niche offering, have seen considerable growth, indicative of travelers' evolving preferences for unique and private accommodation experiences. This shift is partly attributed to people traveling in larger groups, seeking not just a place to stay but an experience to remember.

The alternative stays landscape has also diversified significantly. Beyond the conventional choices like farmhouses and homestays, travelers now have options like yachts, mills, boats, towers, recreational vehicles, and chalets. It’s not just about staying somewhere different; it's about experiencing something unique.

Booking.com's ‘How India Travels’ Report

Booking.com’s ‘How India Travels’ report further underscores this trend. The demand for non-traditional accommodations – hostels, campsites, vacation rentals, chalets – is outpacing that of hotels. The data speaks volumes: for every camp night booked, there are three villa nights and fourteen guest house nights. This preference isn’t limited to leisure destinations like Goa or Varanasi; it’s evident in business hubs like Bengaluru and Delhi, with weekend bookings for these unique stays multiplying compared to the previous year.

The Future of Lodging

As we delve deeper into 2023, it's becoming increasingly clear that alternative stays are more than just a trend; they're the new face of travel and lodging. These choices reflect a deeper desire for personalized, unique experiences, moving away from the one-size-fits-all hotel approach. The rise of alternative stays isn't just about accommodation; it’s about redefining what it means to travel and experience the world.


The Evolution and Philosophy of the Modern Butler

The Evolution and Philosophy of the Modern Butler

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on September 11, 2024

In today's world, where bespoke services are in demand more than ever, businesses and individuals alike seek service providers who can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. These providers must be quick thinkers, brand ambassadors, detail-oriented professionals with a deep understanding of etiquette and protocol, and experts in personalization who deliver impeccable service. In short, they must possess the qualities of a butler. These are the hallmarks of outstanding service.

The Timeless Profession of the Butler

One of the oldest professions, the term "Butler" is derived from the French word "Bouteiller," meaning one who cares for bottles. Historically, butlers were responsible for the wine cellar, fining and bottling wines before serving them in the evenings. The first recorded mention of butlers dates back to the 11th century. At that time, they were only responsible for wines; stewards were in charge of managing the household. Eventually, butlers took on household duties and gradually became heads of households. Today, butlers are employed across various settings, including hotels, resorts, yachts, cruise ships, private banks, and corporate offices, where they maintain the values aligned with traditional butling, albeit with differing responsibilities.

Butlers are often romanticized in films, where their virtues of selfless service, professionalism, and discretion are showcased. At its core, the philosophy of a butler is about managing a household and attending to the needs of their employer and guests with the utmost attention to detail, courtesy, and respect. In earlier days, they served royals and aristocrats. Now, in the realm of private service, butlers are in demand among ultra-high-net-worth families, Hollywood A-list celebrities, embassies, royal palaces, and stately homes. Female butlers, known as "Butleress," are also in demand today, highlighting that this profession applies to all genders.

My Journey: From Burghley House to the World of High Net Worth Clients

I had the privilege of working as an interim head butler at Burghley House in Stamford, England, before moving on to serve high-net-worth entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom.

The Rise of Hotel Butler Services

With the advent of air travel, butler services found their way into hotels. In London, the Lanesborough Hotel was the first to introduce a dedicated butler service in Europe in 1990, although Taj Hotels in India had offered such services much earlier. The butler's role in a hotel is akin to a conductor coordinating different services to cater to their guests' needs. A butler service manager at the Royal Mansour in Morocco, Antoine Berche, explains, "Butlers perform many jobs simultaneously: head waiter, sommelier, cook, housekeeper, receptionist, concierge, security guard, and personal assistant." A butler is prepared for all kinds of requests—from packing suitcases and arranging romantic dinners to organizing marriage proposals. Their service is invaluable due to their ability to anticipate needs with efficiency and discretion. As Mohamed Fadil, a butler at Royal Mansour, states, "Before the arrival of the guest, I prepare myself for all types of requests I might receive." This foresight is what makes a butler indispensable.

The Butler’s Code of Ethics

The code of ethics that butlers live by is built on a foundation of trust, professionalism, and discretion:

  • Confidentiality: A butler keeps all information about their employer's personal life and affairs confidential.

  • Professionalism: Trained in social grace and household management, a butler is always professional and concerned with the welfare of their staff.

  • Loyalty: A butler acts in the best interest of their employer.

  • Discretion: A butler respects privacy and never shares confidential information.

  • Attention to Detail: Duties are performed to the highest standard.

  • Respect: All guests and staff are treated with respect and courtesy, regardless of their background or position.

  • Responsibility: A butler ensures the smooth running and upkeep of the household or suite they are responsible for, taking a flexible approach to care for their employer's welfare and possessions.

The Modern Butler: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

While certain duties remain consistent, a butler's role today varies greatly depending on the household, the culture of the family, and other factors. Experienced butlers often want to know the nature of the household they will serve—whether it is a formal, traditional household or an informal, "nouveau riche" one. This distinction helps butlers assess whether the household suits their personality and style.

Traditional vs. Nouveau Riche Households

  • Elegance vs. Excess: Traditional households emphasize simplicity and understated luxury, while the new rich often prefer opulence.

  • Formality vs. Informality: Traditional households adhere to fixed etiquette and schedules, while informal households are more spontaneous.

  • Customary vs. Trendy: Butlers in traditional households may stick to time-honored traditions, while those serving the new rich must be ready for last-minute changes.

  • Respect for Hierarchy vs. Personal Freedom: Traditional butlers navigate a structured hierarchy, whereas modern butlers may deal with self-made individuals with different priorities.

  • The Art of Discretion: Traditional butlers often keep family secrets, while modern butlers may handle more public-facing clients.

The Role of Education: Training Butlers for the 21st Century

Today’s butler training programs have evolved to meet the changing demands of clients. Modern training includes teaching the use of technology for organizing and administering household tasks. Butlers must have an excellent organizational mind, knowledge of protocol and etiquette, and the resilience to adapt to varying environments.

Mr. Prem Anand, Founder of The London Butler Academy® Switzerland, authored this article.

About the Author: Prem Anand is the Founder of The London Butler Academy® in Switzerland and has been serving five-star hotels, cruise ships, and high-net-worth families for over 30 years. He is currently dedicated to training and coaching butlers internationally, with a mission to make private service education accessible and affordable to all. For any inquiries or further insights, please contact Prem Anand at India@butlercoachprem.com


The Ultimate Raksha Bandhan Gift Guide: Unique Ideas to Cherish Your Sibling this Year

The Ultimate Raksha Bandhan Gift Guide: Unique Ideas to Cherish Your Sibling this Year

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 14, 2024

Raksha Bandhan is just around the corner, and if you're on the hunt for the perfect gift for your sister, look no further! This year, why not choose a gift that truly speaks to the heart? Whether it’s a stunning piece of customized jewelry or a personalized photo album, the essence of Raksha Bandhan lies in the thought and love you put into selecting the perfect gift. Here are some unique ideas to help you make this special day one to remember.

Vaum Tonics: For a gift that's both unique and thoughtful, consider Vaum Tonics. This brand is all about bringing people together over delicious and refreshing beverages, perfect for sharing special moments. Vaum Tonics offers diverse flavors made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients. Their tonic water is quinine-free, low in sugar, low in calories, and gluten-free, making it a great way to show your sister you care about her health and happiness.

image

In:ha Wellness: This Rakshabandhan, gift your sister the serenity of self-care and bonding. Instead of traditional physical gifts, help her unwind and release life & work stress and tension in a calming and soothing environment. Give your sister the gift of relaxation, mindfulness, and quality time together. Nurture the bond of love and protection with a Heart Chakra crystal layout, Mood board, and Color therapy, followed by a soothing Tea ceremony meditation experience, perfect for Raksha Bandhan

image

The Pantry-Guilt free Goodness (Cloud Kitchen): Celebrate Raksha Bandhan by treating your siblings to delicious and healthy food from The Pantry. Show them how much you appreciate them while helping them stay on track with their health goals. The Pantry offers fresh salads, hearty wraps, and yummy smoothies, making it a wholesome alternative to greasy fast food. You can order through Zomato or Swiggy, or even DM them on Instagram for a personalized experience.

image

image

Amazonia, BKC: For an unforgettable Raksha Bandhan, take your sibling to Amazonia, a rainforest-themed luxury Pan-Asian restaurant in BKC. Their Monsoon Festival: Couture & Culinary Monsoon is not just a dining experience but an adventure where flavors and style collide. The monsoon-inspired menu, served beneath a transparent umbrella, includes small plates like Soup-er Broccoli and Potato Mille-Feuille, followed by farm-fresh chicken pot rice and smoky BBQ jackfruit. A visit to Amazonia with your sibling promises to be a truly memorable experience.

image


OBLU Resorts: Atmosphere Core’s Commitment to Green Travel in the Maldives

OBLU Resorts: Atmosphere Core’s Commitment to Green Travel in the Maldives

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on June 5, 2024

Atmosphere Core, a renowned international hospitality company, continues to make significant strides in sustainability across its eight Green-Globe-certified resorts. Through initiatives focused on the community, operations, resources, and the environment, Atmosphere Core exemplifies an environment-conscious approach that benefits both the natural world and the local communities.

Sustainability Achievements Across Four Pillars

Atmosphere Core’s dedication to sustainability is evident through impactful initiatives such as renewable energy infrastructure and water-saving technology. Each resort contributes uniquely, with pilot projects like the vertical hydroponic garden at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and the in-house biogas setup at OBLU SELECT Sangeli showcasing innovation and commitment.

Operations and Resource Management

The company’s ethos of reusing, reducing, and recycling is reflected in practices such as a paperless app-based booking and check-in system and the maintenance of kitchen gardens across all resorts. “Sustainability isn't an option; it's our ethos,” comments Shrikant Dash, Deputy Managing Director for Corporate at Atmosphere Core. This commitment ensures eco-friendly choices that contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Driving Positive Community Impact

Recognizing the importance of community, Atmosphere Core supports charities and drives impact through the Atmosphere Foundation. This non-profit organization has built a high-quality training kitchen for special needs students, run reading programs for over 7,000 youngsters, and supported health screening programs for nearly 600 senior citizens.

The Bamboo for Climate Change Mitigation project stands out, with Atmosphere Foundation donating over 4,000 germinated seedlings and introducing saplings to 27 islands. This initiative is pivotal in making the Maldives a carbon-free destination, thanks to bamboo’s exceptional carbon absorption rate.

Harnessing Solar Power

Atmosphere Core is at the forefront of the solar revolution in the Maldives. Since installing a marine and rooftop solar system at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO in 2019, the company has expanded solar energy production across its resorts. As of May 2024, 8,890 solar panels installed across seven resorts have produced 16,500 MWh of clean energy, significantly reducing diesel use and CO2 emissions.

Commitment to Coral Conservation

Coral conservation is a key focus, with seven out of nine resorts actively managing coral conservation programs. In 2023 alone, 279 coral frames were installed, with 13,436 coral fragments contributing to vibrant marine life. Continuous monitoring and maintenance ensure the success of these conservation efforts, attracting diverse marine species and fostering a thriving underwater ecosystem.

Green Globe Certification

All Atmosphere Core resorts have received Green Globe Certification, with OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO earning gold certifications. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Atmosphere Core’s comprehensive approach to sustainability sets a benchmark in the hospitality industry. Through innovative projects and a steadfast commitment to the environment and community, the company not only enhances the guest experience but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

image

About Atmosphere Core

Atmosphere Core operates nine resorts in the Maldives and has a robust pipeline of future projects, including one resort in Sri Lanka and ten hotels and resorts across India. Each property is distinguished by unique design, an authentic sense of place, and exceptional service, making Atmosphere Core a leader in sustainable hospitality.

Media Contacts:

  • India: THE OZEN COLLECTION, COLOURS OF OBLU, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.