A standout example of this trend is Bacalar, a serene, crystal-clear lagoon in Mexico, often referred to as the “Lake of Seven Colors.” As travelers opt for unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacations, locations like Bacalar, with its mix of natural beauty, tranquility, and unique stays, have surged in popularity. But this isn’t just happening in Bacalar—it’s a global movement that reflects a significant shift in how and where people are choosing to travel.
The Rise of Unique Accommodations
A study by Booking.com found that 40% of global travelers are now seeking out destinations and accommodations that offer more than just a bed and breakfast. Instead, they want to experience something that stands out and offers them a unique, personalized experience. This might mean staying in a treehouse in the Amazon, a luxurious overwater bungalow in the Maldives, or even a repurposed train car in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
According to Airbnb’s 2022 report, 1 in 3 of its customers are willing to pay a premium for unique stays. Properties that offer something out of the ordinary, whether it’s an unusual location, architecture, or design, are seeing a dramatic uptick in demand. Airbnb’s “Most Wish-Listed” properties have seen a 33% increase in bookings over the past three years, and travelers are more likely to splurge on these distinctive homes than on standard hotel rooms.
Spending More on Unique Travel Experiences
This growing preference for exceptional destinations and accommodations is also translating into higher travel spending. According to a Skyscanner report, travelers are allocating a higher percentage of their vacation budgets to unique accommodations. In particular, international destinations with one-of-a-kind stays have seen a surge in bookings from tourists willing to pay a premium for these experiences.
Take Bacalar as an example. In recent years, travel to Bacalar has increased by over 45% year-on-year, as reported by local tourism boards. The increase is partly attributed to the unique accommodations that have sprung up around the lagoon—ranging from eco-friendly boutique hotels, floating villas, and private glamping tents to luxurious boutique resorts. According to Mexican tourism statistics, travelers visiting Bacalar are now spending an average of 30% more on accommodations than they did just five years ago.
In a 2019 report from the Adventure Travel Trade Association, 77% of respondents said they would be willing to spend more on an experience if it offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, with 48% willing to spend up to 20% more on unique and custom experiences. This finding reinforces the idea that travelers are prioritizing distinctive, personalized stays that offer them a deeper connection to the destination, even if it comes at a premium.
The Economic Impact of Unique Travel Experiences
The shift to unique stays is not only benefiting travelers but also has a significant economic impact on local economies. In destinations like Bacalar, local businesses, from boutique hotels to local tour operators, have seen substantial growth in demand. According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the rise in demand for experiential tourism has driven a 15% increase in regional tourism revenues over the past three years, with small, eco-conscious boutique accommodations seeing the most significant growth.
In places like Bacalar, where the tourism infrastructure was once limited to basic accommodations, the influx of high-spending travelers is driving up investment in unique properties, sustainable tourism practices, and the preservation of natural environments. This trend also extends to other destinations, such as Iceland, where the popularity of staying in a remote cabin surrounded by volcanic landscapes has significantly increased.
Why Travelers Are Choosing Unique Stays
The shift away from cookie-cutter hotels to unique stays is influenced by several factors:
- Authenticity and Immersion: Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that connect them with the local culture, nature, and people. Whether it’s sleeping in a traditional Mongolian yurt or staying in a historic Italian villa, unique stays offer a deep dive into the local way of life.
- Customization and Personalization: Many unique stays offer tailored experiences, from private chefs and guided tours to personalized wellness retreats and adventure activities, which enhance the overall experience and create lasting memories.
- Instagrammable Moments: Social media plays a big role in influencing travel decisions, and travelers are keen to share their unique experiences with their followers. Properties that offer spectacular views, architectural wonders, or other-worldly locations are particularly attractive to those looking to document their journeys.
- Sustainability and Eco-Tourism: Many travelers are turning to eco-friendly stays in remote, untouched areas, like sustainable treehouses or beachfront eco-resorts. According to Booking.com, 70% of global travelers say they are more likely to book accommodations that prioritize sustainability and the protection of local environments.
The Future of Travel: Custom, Unique, and Immersive
As travelers continue to pivot away from traditional, all-inclusive resorts, it’s clear that the demand for unique stays in extraordinary destinations will only continue to grow. The desire for experiences that go beyond the typical vacation is a trend that’s shaping the future of travel. In fact, 41% of millennials and 38% of Gen Z travelers say they would prefer to spend more money on unique travel experiences rather than traditional accommodations.
From wellness Airbnb’s like Namaste Bacalar to underwater suites in the Maldives, travelers are willing to invest in experiences that align with their desire for adventure, culture, and a deeper connection to the world around them.
Final Thoughts …
The future of travel is shifting towards the extraordinary. Travelers are no longer satisfied with the cookie-cutter, all-inclusive hotel packages of the past. Instead, they are seeking out unique stays in equally unique destinations like Bacalar and beyond—places where they can create unforgettable memories, immerse themselves in new cultures, and connect with nature in ways that traditional vacations simply can’t offer.
As this trend continues to rise, both the travel industry and local economies stand to benefit from the increasing demand for exceptional, bespoke travel experiences. For those looking to capitalize on this movement, offering distinctive accommodations and experiences will not only meet the desires of today’s travelers but also help shape the future of tourism.
Explore Unique Stays in Bacalar
As travelers seek out one-of-a-kind accommodations, Bacalar stands out as a top destination for immersive and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat or an adventure-filled escape, NAMASTĒ BACALAR offers a perfect blend of luxury, nature, and cultural connection. Explore this unique stay and elevate your next travel experience.
By Ryan Gravel, Real Estate Investor and Developer