Gen Z is changing the way of their travel – Are hotels keeping up?
In the ever-evolving world of hospitality, a new generation of travelers is making its mark, and the hotel industry is scrambling to keep up. Meet the Gen Z jetsetters, a tech-savvy, experience-hungry cohort that is redefining the very notion of what it means to “check in.”
It all started with a trip to Mussoorie, a picturesque hill station in the Best hotels in Mussoorie, in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. I had booked a stay at the Divine Group of Hotels, a unit of the Divine Paradise Group, known for its stunning views and impeccable service. Little did I know that this seemingly routine getaway would open my eyes to the seismic shifts happening in the hotel industry.
A recent survey reveals that massive change in travelers aged 18–27 known as Gen Z — are transforming the travel landscape across Asia. With bold choices and digital-first habits, they’re not just following trends, they’re setting them. From eco-conscious getaways to offbeat local experiences, Gen Z is paving the way for a new era of travel that future generations are sure to follow.
As I strolled through the lobby, I couldn’t help but notice the distinct energy of the guests. They weren’t the typical middle-aged couples or business travelers I had grown accustomed to. Instead, the space was abuzz with a youthful, vibrant crowd, their eyes glued to their smartphones, fingers tapping away furiously.
“Ah, the Gen Z crowd,” the concierge chuckled, catching my puzzled expression. “They’re a different breed, that’s for sure.”
Indeed, these digital natives were a far cry from the traditional hotel guests of yesteryear. Gone were the days of politely queuing at the front desk, patiently waiting for their room keys. These young travelers had a different set of expectations, and the hotel industry was scrambling to keep up.
Instant Gratification and Seamless Experiences
The first thing that struck me about the Gen Z guests was their insatiable appetite for instant gratification. They wanted everything, and they wanted it now. From checking in to ordering room service, they expected a level of speed and efficiency that would make even the most seasoned hotelier break a sweat.
“They don’t have time for the old-fashioned way of doing things,” the concierge explained, as he effortlessly navigated the hotel’s mobile app to assist a guest. “These kids want to be able to do everything from their phones, from booking to checkout.”
And they weren’t just talking about the basics. Gen Z travelers craved seamless, personalized experiences that catered to their every whim. They wanted to be able to customize their stays, from the pillow menu to the in-room entertainment options.
Experiential Travel and Social Media Influence
But it wasn’t just the operational aspects that were being transformed. The very nature of the hotel experience itself was evolving to cater to the Gen Z mindset.
“It’s all about the experience these days,” the concierge continued, as he guided me through the hotel’s Instagram-worthy photo spots. “These guests aren’t just looking for a place to sleep. They want to be able to share their adventures with their friends and followers.”
Indeed, the Divine Group of Hotels had gone to great lengths to create instagrammable moments throughout the property. From the meticulously curated lobby decor to the artfully plated meals at the in-house restaurant, every aspect of the hotel was designed to be social media-friendly.
Sustainability and Social Consciousness
But the Gen Z revolution in the hotel industry didn’t stop there. These young travelers were also acutely aware of the environmental and social impact of their travel choices.
“They want to know that their stay is making a positive difference,” the concierge explained, as he highlighted the hotel’s sustainability initiatives. “From eco-friendly amenities to community outreach programs, these guests are looking for hotels that align with their values.”
And the Divine Group of Hotels was more than happy to oblige. They had implemented a range of green initiatives, from solar-powered heating to a zero-waste policy in the kitchens. But it wasn’t just about the environment – the hotel also had a strong focus on supporting local communities and empowering marginalized groups.
The Future of Hospitality
As I bid farewell to the A Unit of Divine Paradise Group of Hotels and headed back home, I couldn’t help but wonder what the future held for the hospitality industry. The Gen Z travelers had clearly shaken things up, and it was up to the hotels to adapt and evolve to meet their ever-changing needs.
But one thing was certain – the days of the stuffy, impersonal hotel experience were long gone. The hotel industry was being transformed, one tech-savvy, socially conscious traveler at a time. And if the Divine Group of Hotels was any indication, the future of hospitality was looking brighter than ever.
So, the next time you find yourself in Mussoorie, be sure to keep an eye out for the Gen Z jetsetters. They might just be the ones leading the charge in redefining the hotel experience as we know it.
The hospitality industry is standing at a crossroads — and Gen Z is holding the compass. This generation isn’t just booking rooms; they’re booking experiences that reflect their values, digital lifestyle, and thirst for authenticity.
Conclusion
From seamless tech to sustainable practices, and from social media-worthy spaces to community-driven stories, Gen Z travelers are pushing hotels to evolve — not someday, but now.
The Divine Group of Hotels, with its blend of tradition and modernity, shows that transformation is not only possible — it’s powerful. As more properties begin to listen, adapt, and innovate, the future of hospitality looks brighter, more inclusive, and certainly more exciting.
Because Gen Z isn’t just shaping travel — they’re redefining what it means to feel at home, anywhere in the world.
