As we look to evaluate the global scenario, I believe that hospitality will see a considerable ramp up in 2023 as compared to 2022. Whilst this year and the last saw a lot of revenge travel across the market, next year is forecasted to show a further normalcy in the travel space across the globe. I predict a correction in the rates, both for local and global, considering that markets are now in a recovery stage. Apart from the ARR, we can also expect a rise in the average per cover in both F&B and banqueting. For Goa and our geo location specifically, I believe that the launch of the new Mopa airport will push demand for the hotel further given the proximity and improved connectivity. Also, the G20 summit will attract a considerable number of eyeballs from across the world making India, a more desirable location for leisure travel.
We are currently witnessing a plethora of ever-evolving trends, and as a business, it is our responsibility and duty to monitor the pulse of the industry and adapt in order to maintain our relevance. Here’s a broader look at current trends:
- Digital Booking Patterns: The ease of booking is what has made the hospitality industry more accessible for people of all age groups. With a rise in staycations, purpose driven and leisure travel – I believe that the digital booking patterns will continue to evolve further.
- AI and Robotics Integration: The trends towards digital and contactless services have gained a considerable momentum. People are now more than familiar with the practices and are ready for next steps. Whilst robotic integration is at its nascent stage, I see a massive growth in the technological sector of the industry in 2023.
- Enhanced In-Room Entertainment: Whilst guests enjoy stepping out and exploring the city, in post Covid, we’ve noticed a lot of guests even enjoying their down time in the rooms. Hence, it is our responsibility as a hotel to ensure that every experience our guests have is personalized and exceptional. Enhancing our in-room entertainment offerings is only one part of our bigger idea. We have some truly engaging and interactive opportunities in the works for our guests.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices: These practices are less of a trend, more of a necessity and now more so. Each of our effort is moving towards being even more sustainable in our practices across the property. We’ve already installed EV Charging stations, made a 100% Eco Friendly Minibar and are working on introducing a bottling plant to discontinue the use of plastic completely across our property.
- Marriott International’s focus on Luxury: As a premium hotel on Marriott’s portfolio, we have also set aside practices for members and non-members to enjoy enhanced travel experiences as personalization and curation is the way to go for 2023.
I believe that ‘Goa’ as a leisure destination, sells itself and it’s a blessing to be in a property that also does just that. It gives me immense joy and makes my job a tad bit easier. To start with, the infrastructure itself is getting better. I predict a massive oncoming traffic of both domestic and international travellers considering the one ‘pain-point’ of all travellers – the airport to hotel journey, will now seize to exist considering the construction of the Mopa Airport. I’m expecting a growth in all segments from MICE, Leisure, Social (small as well as large scale) and weddings – that’s another segment that I’m certain will pick up considerably for this property moving into 2023, given our preferred venues. Given the fact that, Westin Goa opened in the midst of the pandemic, I anticipate a significant rise in business for this property as we progress and focus on a more profitable model to break the market monotony and attract an enhanced target clientele with Hi-End Mice and Social, Families and Groups and Celebrities and Influencers. Our conscious effort is on our forthcoming shift in positioning and marketing this magnificent space by establishing ourselves as a party hub that offers ‘The Best of Goa, Under One Roof,’ whether it’s on the rooms, banqueting, F&B offerings, or spa vertical, we have-it-all.
