The TripBarometer study analysed survey responses from 44,000 travellers and hoteliers worldwide and found that a third of travellers plan to increase their travel budgets in 2016, with half of the respondents citing that their family deserves it, a third believing that it will improve their health and well-being, and a quarter saying that they will spend more as they plan to visit long haul destinations.
Special offers impact the choice of destination for one-in-two holidaymakers, the study found with 21 per cent saying that they chose to visit somewhere due to a hotel’s special offer. Recommendations also play a key role in choosing a destination with 29 per cent of people saying that they visited a destination following a recommendation from a family member or friend. Almost half of people (47 per cent) choose to visit places to experience its culture and society.
The TripBarometer found that 63 per cent of people will not stay in a hotel without air conditioning and that 46 per cent would not stay somewhere that does not offer free Wi-Fi, although 11 per cent would be willing to pay extra for super-fast Wi-Fi.
Helena Egan, director, global industry relations, TripAdvisor, said: “Value is key for global travellers in 2016, as they look to get the most out of their trips. While a third plan to increase their travel budgets for next year, the majority of global travellers expect essential amenities, such as Wi-Fi, to be included in the price of their hotel and more than half say special offers can play a big part in their choice of destination.”
Around half of hoteliers (47 per cent) are planning to raise room rates in 2016. Most are increasing the rates to compensate for increased overheads (65 per cent), while 37 per cent say that recent renovations have increased the prices, and 35 per cent cite increased demand.
Three quarters of hoteliers are optimistic about profitability in 2016, the majority believing that local events and conferences will make a positive impact on their business. Changes in tourist attractions around the area and changes in the number of restaurants and shops in the area are other factors that business owners believe will increase profitability.