Hilton Predicts 2025 as the 'Year of the Travel Maximizer'

Hilton Predicts 2025 as the 'Year of the Travel Maximizer'

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 6, 2024

Hilton's Annual Trends Report predicts that 2025 will be the "Year of the Travel Maximizer," as travelers are seeking to combine relaxation and adventure to make the most of their time and money. After the "Year of the Great Recharge" in 2024, where sleep retreats, mindful drinking, and wellness-themed rooms gained popularity, Hilton's new report highlights emerging trends that will shape the travel landscape in 2025.

Hilton President and CEO Chris Nassetta stated, "Our 2025 Trends Report uncovers what has been simmering for years – the intersection of work and play; of relaxation and adventure; of being alone but together. Travelers don’t just want to choose their own adventure – they want to maximize every moment of their time away."

The report is based on extensive global research, including input from 13,000 travelers across 13 countries, feedback from over 4,100 Hilton team members, and interviews with Hilton travel experts. Key findings from the report reveal several trends that will influence travel behaviors in 2025:

Adventure and Relaxation Blend

Go Getaways: Nearly 70% of global travelers enjoy being active during their trips, with one in five leisure travelers planning outdoor adventures in 2025. This indicates a desire to incorporate physical activities into their vacations.

Sleep Retreats & Hurkle-Durkling: While many travelers seek adventure, some also indulge in rest. About one in five global travelers participate in "Hurkle-Durkling," a Scottish term for lounging in bed all day while on vacation. Over a quarter of travelers will book wellness treatments, such as spa services, to improve their sleep quality during trips.

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Nostalgia and Cultural Immersion

Time Travel: Nostalgia plays a role in travel decisions, as 58% of travelers who journey with their children revisit destinations from their own childhood.

Slow Travel: One in four leisure travelers plan to engage in "Slow Travel" in 2025. This means taking the time to immerse themselves in a destination, experiencing the culture like a local by staying for an extended period.

Technology and Disconnecting

High-Tech Travel: Travelers continue to appreciate technology that makes their experiences smoother. Around 63% of travelers value having the option of a digital room key, allowing them to bypass the front desk and head straight to their room.

Digital Detox: Despite the growing importance of technology, 24% of travelers say they are more inclined to disconnect from social media during vacations compared to the past, suggesting a shift towards more mindful and present travel experiences.

Companions on the Rise

Pet-Friendly Travel: Solo travelers, known as "MeMooners," are embracing pet-friendly travel. Approximately 25% of these travelers bring their pets along for leisure trips, compared to the average leisure traveler at 19%.

Frolleagues: The trend of "Frolleagues" (friends who are also colleagues) traveling together is on the rise, with nearly 30% of travelers enjoying leisure adventures with work friends.

Generational and Solo Travel Trends

Gen Alpha Effect: Children’s preferences play a big role in family vacation planning, as 70% of respondents with children choose their destinations based on what their kids want.

MeMooners: Solo travelers are increasingly seeking enriching travel experiences. In 2025, 64% of solo travelers will consider a good book as their favorite travel partner, highlighting a desire for both exploration and solitude.

Culinary Travel and Drinking Trends

Foodie Exploration: Food plays a central role in travel experiences. Nearly one in five global travelers seek new culinary experiences, and half of them make restaurant reservations before booking their flights.

Tempo Drinking: A trend towards mindful drinking, or "Tempo Drinking," is growing. One in four travelers has reduced or stopped their alcohol consumption in the past year, highlighting a move towards wellness-oriented travel.

Inner and Outer Explorations

Soft Travel: More than one in five travelers plan trips for self-discovery or mental health, reflecting the trend of "Soft Travel," which promotes simplicity and spontaneity.

Sports Surge: From 2019 to 2024, Hilton’s sports-related sales revenue tripled, driven primarily by youth and amateur sports, highlighting the growing influence of sporting events on travel choices.

Hilton is adapting to meet these emerging needs by expanding its portfolio with luxury hotels and partnering with hospitality brands like AutoCamp to create diverse travel experiences. These initiatives are aimed at providing travelers with more choices to fulfill their evolving travel aspirations.

For more information about Hilton's 2025 Trends Report, visit stories.hilton.com/2025trends.


ITC Increases Stake in Oberoi Group and Leela Mumbai Ahead of Hotel Arm Demerger

ITC Increases Stake in Oberoi Group and Leela Mumbai Ahead of Hotel Arm Demerger

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 20, 2024

In a strategic move ahead of the January 1, 2025, demerger of its hotel business, ITC has increased its stakes in two major players in the Indian hospitality industry. ITC has raised its shareholding in EIH Ltd, the parent company of Oberoi Hotels, to 16.13%, and in HLV Ltd, which owns The Leela Mumbai, to 8.11%.

As of September 2024, ITC held a 13.69% stake in EIH. By acquiring an additional 2.44%, equivalent to 1,52,32,129 equity shares, ITC now commands a 16.13% stake in the company. Similarly, ITC’s stake in HLV Ltd has increased from 7.58% to 8.11%, following the purchase of 34,60,829 equity shares.

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In a regulatory filing, ITC announced, “...the company today has acquired 2.44 percent of the share capital (comprising 1,52,32,129 equity shares of INR 2 each) of EIH Ltd and 0.53 percent of the share capital (comprising 34,60,829 equity shares of INR 2 each) of HLV Ltd, from Russell Credit Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.”

This move is seen as a part of ITC’s preparation for the demerger of its hotel business, ITC Hotels, from its parent group. The demerger, set to take effect from January 1, 2025, is expected to unlock greater value for ITC’s stakeholders and enhance its focus on core operations.

With the increased stakes, ITC is cementing its presence in the premium and luxury hospitality segments, strengthening its relationship with iconic brands like Oberoi Hotels and The Leela Mumbai.


Bangkok’s Funk Meets Bangalore: FunkyTown x Muro Collaboration

Bangkok’s Funk Meets Bangalore: FunkyTown x Muro Collaboration

By Author

Published on November 27, 2024

Mark your calendars for November 29th and 30th, 2024, as FunkyTown, Bangkok’s culinary sensation, teams up with Muro, Bangalore, for two nights of bold, boundary-pushing flavors. Led by the talented team of Pae Ketumarn, Earth Pirwkram, and Theo from FunkyTown and Sarnies Thailand, the event promises an extraordinary menu of innovative small bites and cocktails exploring the depth of Thai cuisine with a unique "funk level" scale, ranging from mild to daringly intense.

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Guests can indulge in creations like Scallop Crudo Tart, Beef Tartare Cone, and Duck & Apple Snail Tsukune, paired with signature drinks such as the Durian Colada, Mango Martini, and the adventurous Green Curry Cocktail. Each dish and drink combines creative flair, sustainability, and locally rooted ingredients to offer a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.

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Whether you prefer subtle tastes or are ready for the ultimate funky adventure, this exclusive collaboration is a must-attend for food and cocktail enthusiasts. Limited seats available—book now for an unforgettable celebration of Thai-inspired innovation and artistry!


Odia Bhoj - Transcend to the Flavors of Odisha in Mumbai with Chef Biswajit Odia Pop-Up at Momo Café, Courtyard by Marriott!

Odia Bhoj - Transcend to the Flavors of Odisha in Mumbai with Chef Biswajit  Odia Pop-Up at Momo Café, Courtyard by Marriott!

By Author

Published on November 25, 2024

What if you could savor the essence of Odisha—its coastal breeze, vibrant spices, and time-honored recipes—right here in Mumbai? Well here's your chance! At Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport's Momo Cafe, Chef Biswajit Moharathi, a MasterChef India Season 7 Top 25 contestant, invites you to embark on an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. This exclusive pop-up, running from 22nd November to 1st December 2024, brings the heart of Odisha's cuisine to the city that never stops craving new culinary experiences.

Chef Biswajit, a Bhubaneswar native and engineer-turned-culinary visionary, known for his ability to elevate Indian cuisine while staying true to its roots, invites you to explore the flavors of his homeland through a thoughtfully curated buffet that promises a symphony of taste, tradition, and innovation. "Odisha's food is about balancing flavours—earthy, tangy, spicy, and sweet. I'm excited to bring this experience to Mumbai, a city that appreciates bold flavors and culinary innovation," shares Chef Biswajit Moharathi

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 Indulge in a symphony of taste, as Chef Biswajit curates a delectable buffet showcasing the best of Odia cuisine. From the fiery spices to the delicate flavors, each dish is a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. Start with the refreshing Mandia Guda Sherbet, a traditional Odian drink made from jaggery and roasted ragi. Move on to the savoury Dali Bara with Tamarind Dip, a popular Odia snack. For the main course, savour the rich and spicy Kankada Jhola, a crab curry, or the tender Chicken Kassa. Accompaniments such as Badi ChuraAmbula Rai, and the smoky Tomato Poda will make your journey to the eastern even more delightful. And to conclude your meal on a sweet note, indulge in the heavenly Manda Pitha, a steamed rice cake filled with coconut and jaggery or the crispy Malpua, and creamy Rabdi.

 Indulge in a culinary journey that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Odisha. Book your table now and experience the magic of Odia cuisine!

Timings - 7pm to 11pm 

Date – 22nd November- 1st December 2024

Address – CTS 215, Andheri - Kurla Rd, opposite Carnival Cinemas, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400059

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of approximately 9,000 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®️, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

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