The Future of Hotel Stays: Ana’s Journey in 2030
According to recent research from the industry, this article explores how travelers in 2030 will choose hotels and what they expect from their stays.
Ana, a traveler in 2030, isn’t just looking for a hotel—she’s searching for the perfect experience: seamless, personalized, and truly memorable. Her journey to booking a hotel is shaped by three key factors: technology that simplifies, social media that inspires, and a desire for experiences that go beyond just a place to sleep.
For hotels, this means staying ahead of trends, understanding what modern travelers truly want, and ensuring that when guests like Ana are ready to book, they choose you.
Step 1: The Search Begins—How Ana Finds the Perfect Stay
Long before Ana clicks “Book Now,” she’s already deep into her research. She wants to be sure she’s making the right choice, and her first stop is Google.
Google: The Starting Line for Every Trip
Like 80% of travelers, Ana begins with a Google search. In just a few clicks, she can compare options, read guest reviews, and even check out room rates across multiple platforms. But by 2030, Google has taken things even further:
- All-in-One Reviews: With 88% of travelers trusting guest feedback, Google gathers all reviews in one place, making it easy to get a full picture.
- Smarter Filters: Need an eco-friendly stay? A hotel within walking distance of top attractions? Ana can refine her search instantly.
- Direct vs. OTA Price Comparisons: Transparency is key—hotels that highlight their best direct booking perks stand out.
But Google isn’t the only place Ana looks for guidance.
Social Media: The New Travel Guidebook
Ana doesn’t just search—she scrolls. TikTok, Instagram, and even YouTube play a huge role in her decision-making.
- 89% of Gen Z & Millennials turn to Instagram and TikTok for travel ideas.
- Short-form video reviews provide real, unfiltered insights. A quick hotel tour from another traveler can be far more convincing than a glossy website.
- User-generated content (UGC) is king. Hotels that engage with real guest content and encourage social sharing build credibility fast.
Word-of-Mouth Still Wins
Despite all the tech, one thing hasn’t changed—people trust people. Ana values recommendations from friends, family, and even online communities:
- 68% of travelers prefer community-driven platforms like Reddit for authentic advice.
- Private WhatsApp & Facebook groups influence booking choices more than traditional ads.
At this point, Ana has a shortlist. Now, it’s all about choosing the experience that feels right for her.
Step 2: More Than a Room—What Makes Ana Choose One Hotel Over Another?
For Ana, a hotel isn’t just a place to stay—it’s part of the trip itself. She’s looking for an experience that feels effortless, personalized, and connected to the destination.
Technology That Helps, Not Overcomplicates
Ana loves convenience, but she doesn’t want technology to replace human hospitality. She expects:
- Mobile check-in and digital keys to skip the front desk.
- App-controlled rooms where she can adjust the lighting, temperature, and entertainment to her liking.
- Automation where it makes sense—but also the option to talk to a real person when needed.
A Stay That Feels Personal
Ana doesn’t want a one-size-fits-all experience. The hotels that win her over are the ones that:
- Remember her preferences (room temperature, pillow type, minibar choices).
- Offer thoughtful recommendations for restaurants, activities, and local gems based on her interests.
- Make her feel like more than just a guest.
Experiences That Go Beyond the Hotel Walls
Ana isn’t just booking a hotel—she’s booking a feeling, a connection to a place. She’s drawn to hotels that:
- Offer unique cultural experiences like cooking classes with local chefs or art workshops.
- Serve farm-to-table dining options that showcase regional flavors.
- Prioritize sustainability —76% of travelers prefer eco-conscious stays.
At this point, she’s excited. She knows where she wants to stay. Now, it’s all about booking it the right way.
Step 3: The Power of Direct Booking—Why Ana Chooses to Book Directly
Ana might have started on Google or TikTok, but when it’s time to book, she heads straight to the hotel’s website. Why? Because it just makes sense.
Why Direct Wins
- Exclusive perks & better deals – 39% of travelers book direct for special offers and added benefits.
- A seamless booking experience – A fast, mobile-friendly site with real customer support makes a difference.
- Loyalty & personalization – Booking direct means the hotel remembers her preferences and makes future stays even better.
“Direct is the future,” says Pedro Calvo, Marketing Director at Paraty Tech.
“Hotels that own the guest journey—start to stay—will dominate the future of hospitality.”
The bottom line? If hotels want stronger guest relationships and higher revenue, direct is the way forward.
Conclusion: What Hotels Need to Learn from Ana
Ana’s journey reflects what modern travelers expect: effortless technology, meaningful experiences, and personalized service. Hotels that want to thrive in the future need to adapt to these changing expectations.
Here’s what matters most:
- Be visible where guests are searching – Whether it’s Google, TikTok, or travel forums, a strong online presence is essential.
- Make booking seamless and direct – A hotel’s website should be easy to use, offer clear benefits, and create a smooth experience from start to finish.
- Offer more than just a place to sleep – Guests today want more: local experiences, sustainability, and genuine hospitality.
- Balance technology with the human touch – Smart automation is great, but real connection is what makes a stay memorable.
Ana isn’t just one traveler—she represents the future of hospitality. The question is: Is your hotel ready to meet her expectations?
