OPINION: Why Hospitality Professionals Need to Travel More.
Today I spent the better portion of my time digging out of emails and was reminded just how grateful I am to have a strong team, understanding clients, and incoming project requests.
It is my first day back in the office after a trip of a lifetime.
I say “trip of a lifetime” for three reasons. First, it was the first time both grandparents traveled to Italy - and the first time since our move to Japan that our kiddos have seen their nonnas and nonnos. Second, if you're familiar with military life, it's a rare occasion that your spouse has time off - much less time at home. Eddie and I would finally get the family time we've been missing. And finally, I'd be lying if I didn't admit I've been on the brink of burnout - if not living through it - since calling Japan home. COVID regulations, a lot of solo-parenting, and transitioning to a 3am-4pm schedule on some days have been exhaustive.
Our two-week vacation across southern Italy was the proof I needed to be reminded how travel changes your life and why hospitality professionals need to travel more.
Travel PRIORITIZES TIME with the ones YOU LOVE MOST
While COVID wreaked havoc on international tourism, it did do us one solid. It reminded us to cherish time with those we love most - and taught us to appreciate every moment on foreign soil.
Your marketing takeaway? Your brand positioning should always speak to your ideal guests' deepest desires and the scarcity that accompanies it. Here's an excerpt I wrote for Direction Capri - the yacht charter photographed below.
Spend the day immersed in the history of the sun-soaked Mediterranean, surrounded by peaceful waves, indulgent aperitifs, and only the company you choose to board. Direction Capri is your private yacht charter and exclusive pass to experience the Amalfi Coast from the best perspective - by sea. Reservations are limited.
Travel reignites your CHILDLIKE WONDER of EXPLORING THE UNKNOWN
When was the last time you looked at something and physically stopped in awe? It's been a minute for me too. This was my third visit to Rome, and I saw it through new eyes again. My daughters' first taste of chocolate gelato, my parent's first view of ancient Roman ruins and the Vatican, and my first time truly appreciating the art and architecture of the city.
Your marketing takeaway? View your property or experience through the eyes of a novice. Engage with your guests so you uncover new areas to improve or add additional instruction. Forever be a student and a steward to guest satisfaction - this earns you your 5-star status.
Travel OVERFLOWS YOUR HEART with APPRECIATION for the PRESENT
One moment that is now a cherished memory is our single day along the Amalfi Coast. I swam in the briny Mediterranean sea, ate the most delicately plump mussels of my life, and fell asleep to the gentle rocking of the boat with my daughter. Every minute of that memory was created by a fantastic host - Amelia Concierge. She convinced me to skip docking in Amalfi or Positano and spend the day offshore away from the crowds, and it made this one day my most valued memory of our trip.
Your marketing takeaway? Create a memory for guests they'll want to share, over and over, with your insider knowledge. If restaurants are overcrowded in the high-season, offer to book reservations for them when they reserve your property. If your property is made for large groups, have a curated list of private chefs and experiences that can cater to their needs. Make each visit personal and memorable.