“Instead of rushing through multiple locations, people are embracing a slower pace,” says Akaal Manchanda, Founder and Director of Zuper Hotels & Resorts. “Guests desire immersive, unforgettable experiences. A longer stay at a single location fosters deeper connections with the environment.”
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This transition has enabled resorts to maintain high occupancy rates even during shoulder seasons. Properties within driving range of cities—such as those in Pushkar, Udaipur, and Ajabgarh—experience substantial demand spikes during national holidays.
“At Ananta Hotels & Resorts, we have noticed that extended weekends can become lucrative periods,” says Mohit Goyal, Director. “Travellers are now orchestrating short, rejuvenating breaks around long weekends.”
Changing Spending Patterns
Modern travellers are no longer merely in search of deals; they prioritize value, comfort, and personalization. “Today’s guests expect seamless digital experiences, attentive service, and even AI-powered security measures,” notes Manchanda. “Surpassing expectations has become standard practice.”
This attitude influences their spending as well. “Rather than scrimping on short trips, people are opting for upgrades,” Goyal explains. “They prefer private villas, spa treatments, experiential dining, and wellness therapies.”
This phenomenon isn’t confined to leisure travel. According to Vinod Kumar Sah, CTO at CoTrav, “Companies are now selecting immersive venues for offsite events. Even places like Dubai, Thailand, and Singapore are in consideration for team gatherings.”
Gaurav Mudgal, Managing Partner at Aamaghati Wildlife Resort, concurs: “Guests are seeking more than just accommodations. Activities like jungle safaris, wellness services, and gourmet dining are increasingly popular. We’ve observed a rise in spending across food & beverage, spa services, and adventure offerings.”
What Guests Are Booking
Popular packages consist of two- or three-night stays that include bundled services.
“Price is no longer the primary concern,” Sah states. “Guests are selecting resorts based on service quality and overall experience.”
“Today’s guests pursue indulgence while remaining mindful,” Goyal adds.
Behind the Scenes: Financial Strategies
To meet escalating demand, the hospitality sector is employing dynamic pricing strategies. Rates increase as travel dates approach, while longer stays are incentivized through bundled offerings. “We tend to avoid one-night bookings and deep discounts to safeguard profitability,” Sah explains.
Zuper Hotels provides early-bird promotions—such as a 10% discount on a three-night stay with a complimentary fourth night—to attract families during peak weekends. “We also upsell personalized upgrades to returning corporate clientele,” Manchanda notes.
Ananta has gone further with its ‘Work from Nature’ packages designed to boost weekday occupancy. “We engage local communities to enhance authenticity while keeping costs manageable,” Goyal says.
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