- Workcations have cropped up as an outcome of the pandemic. What according to
you is the future of this trend in the coming years?
The onset of the pandemic was a disruptor for every industry, but the maximum
brunt was faced by the tourism and hospitality industry, globally. The outcome post
two years as normalcy returns is many hospitality establishments failed to survive,
while some managed to stay afloat, and some have overcome the onslaught.
Now, with the pandemic graph flattening, people are starting to travel again.
However, the rules are different in a post-pandemic world as travel preferences have
changed. Similar to staycations and weekend gateways, workations have become
increasingly popular among travellers. The concept is simple to cater to digital
nomads who want to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life.
- You mentioned that ‘directly or indirectly corporate and software companies
encouraged workcations’. Today, increasingly companies are asking employees to
return to work with a drastic reduction in WFH culture. What is your view?
Most organizations are asking employees to return to work or at least adopt a hybrid
model. As per reports, out of 100 companies, 50-60% still allow employees to work
from home for varied reasons. Nonetheless, news reports suggest that by 2025,
every industry will be functioning normally. To make a point, the hybrid approach
helps both companies and employees. In this new trend, an employee is expected to
be present in the office whenever their physical presence is required and also to host
events and internal development activities.
- With your experience in the hospitality industry and its ever-evolving nature, how
have your businesses adapted and how are things different in a post-pandemic
world?
The hospitality industry has always been the first to catch on to any evolving trend.
As a Group, ROHL is always striving to be on top of our game and capture the right
amount of market shares for our business. As the concept of Workations grew, our
team promptly reached out to all past potential interested clients. Guests who had
the option of remote working enthusiastically responded to the idea. We analysed
that different needs motivated guests to opt for long-stay rentals. Some wanted a
safe sanctuary from the pandemic, especially in cases of Tier 1 & 2 cities. Others
wanted to escape house chores. The third motivation is simply wanting a change
from being restricted at home, especially, if the option is a villa with a view and a
pool.
- Concerning workcations, which of your properties witnessed the most visitors? i.e.
beach resorts, hill stations, business properties etc.
We cannot exactly point to which properties got a lot of traction as guest
preferences are varied. Many of our guests opted for beach properties while some
hill stations or our wildlife resorts. Thus, we are clear that we want to give our guests
an experience to remember. Today’s traveller is all about new experiences, hence we
are investing in experiences like wildlife, spiritual, heritage, and leisure while
continuing our expansion in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities.
