Organic Chic
Dubbed "Organic Chic", natural luxury products are hot in 2006. "There is a movement towards authenticity, simplicity, and environmentally correct consumption. It's the new luxury, an indulgence that doesn't seem harmful, and appeals to consumers who feel the need to express their individual values and moral responsibilities," says travel expert Karen Weiner Escalera, president of communications firm KWE Group. "Celebrities and consumers alike are taking the plunge, but in a way that makes the right political, environmental, or philosophical statement, by adorning themselves in non-conflict diamonds, organic fiber gowns, and leather-free shoes." From the food in the fridge to the sheets we sleep on, organic is also moved to the hotel bedrooms in a big way - organic mattresses and organic bedding are becoming an important new trend for travelers on a quest for a healthier lifestyle on the road.
Cozy Hideouts
Another intriguing definition, courtesy of Charles Leadbetter of London's Observer newspaper, is that in all ages luxury reflects what we are trying to escape, as in everyday experiences. In a world grown too complex, simplicity becomes the new luxury as in products that are intuitive. Brands that are ubiquitous, found in every major capital and even in airports become mundane, to be replaced by unique, one-of-a-kind offerings. And, as Leadbetter said, in an "always on", tremendously fast paced world people will seek sanctuary where we can go a lot slower. Interestingly enough, the trend- spotter and trend- setter Andre Balazs in recently explaining his new hotel, The Standard, in South Beach claims to offer a hideout which is all about "withdrawing."
Creative Travel
According to Escalera, 2006 will be the year where we see travel products beginning to cater more to people's desire to express their individual, creative side and interactive pursuits will open up new markets and build loyalty. This calling for creativity has produced a new category in deluxe hotels — for design and artistic voyeurs — making these hotels a destination of their own. At Madrid's Puerta America, every floor has been designed by a different name-brand architect. Or see Copenhagen's Hotel Fox, where each of their 61 rooms is an individual piece of modern art, from whacky comical styles, graphic design, and fantastic street art to Japanese Manga. The Marquis Los Cabos Resort in Mexico is also making noise with its "Aspiring Artist Package" complete with full art supplies and private painting lessons with a well known local artist, helping guests discover their inner artist.
Start-to-Finish Journeys
Moreover, hotels will begin to not only focus on the hotel experience, but will need to address the entire travel experience, door to door, going well beyond computerized guest preferences and airline meals to go. The Palms in the Turks and Caicos is making waves with its "Spa Journey" which begins when guests step off the plane, met by a spa attendant, and for VIPs, a private car complete with a Car Spa Kit. On departure guests are given a "Breath of Life" infused tissue to aid easy breathing and calm travels home. "Rooms by the hour" no longer has that old notorious connotation — one leading hotel in Mexico City, with its "Spatacular Layover Package" aims to improve layover hassles by shuttling travelers from the airport to the hotel for rest and relaxation at the largest and most luxurious spa in the city. To streamline travel, cruise ships are also allowing guests to check into connecting flights while still on board ship.
Family Travel
Expect to hear more about resorts, products and services for five-star families. Luxury brands are targeting not only the parents, but a young demographic, trying to develop brand loyalty at an ever earlier age, not to speak of the additional revenues families bring in. The billion dollar, 13 island Durrat Al Bahrain project will have one island devoted to a five-star family hotel and aqua park and the Riviera Maya's Esencia was designed as a sophisticated family-friendly alternative to its adult only hideaway up the beach.