#United States #Eco-tourism #Denver #hospitality #Wellness Tourism

How 2025 Travel Trends Are Shaping Hospitality Construction

As vacation season peaks in 2025, hospitality businesses are responding quickly to meet evolving guest expectations. To stay ahead, many hotel owners are focusing on renovations instead of new constructions, aligning with emerging travel trends that prioritize guest satisfaction. According to hospitality construction experts from PCL Construction, guests are increasingly looking for thoughtful amenities, sustainability, and personalized experiences, spurred by social media, technological advancements, and shifting cultural values.

The Shift Towards Renovations

To keep pace with a fast-evolving landscape, many hotel operators have embraced renovations, refreshing their properties every five to seven years. Rather than opting for new constructions, renovation projects enhance existing facilities by incorporating modern technology and sustainable practices.

"Renovating allows owners to maintain their property's unique identity while introducing modern amenities that cater to today's guests," said Julio Vasquez, a PCL construction manager involved in a recent renovation at the renowned Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Hawaii. He emphasizes that guests increasingly seek upgraded dining options, retail experiences, and flexible spaces that adapt to their needs.

Eco-Tourism Trends in Hospitality

Sustainability has emerged as a critical consideration for today's travelers. They show a discernible preference for accommodations that uphold environmentally-friendly practices. As such, many hotels are pursuing certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and WELL to meet the demand for eco-friendly stays. Properties are incorporating energy-efficient systems, water conservation methods, and utilizing renewable energy sources to create low-impact experiences for guests.

Focus on Health and Wellness Amenities

Wellness tourism is on the rise, and hotels are responding accordingly by enhancing their amenities to support mental and physical health. Guests are now seeking accommodations that offer high-end fitness options, nutritious dining choices, and advanced wellness amenities like infrared saunas and aesthetic treatments. According to Caleigh Raymer, preconstruction director at PCL's California offices, wellness is about creating environments that make guests feel rejuvenated and connected to their surroundings.

Integrating Advanced Technology

In the modern hospitality sector, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping guest experiences. Many travelers prefer accommodations that offer tech-savvy features such as automated check-ins and keyless entry systems. Some hotels are exploring innovative tech solutions, including generative AI for voice-activated services, which enhance guest convenience.

Vasquez notes, "Our clients are pushing the boundaries to offer cutting-edge experiences. We aim to create spaces that can grow in tandem with technological advancements and meet future guest expectations."

Catering to Group Travel

With the resurgence of group trips—whether for families, colleagues, or events—hotels are adapting by designing spaces that can accommodate larger groups. For instance, at Evermore Orlando Resort, the new Flats offer spacious four-bedroom condos perfect for group getaways, while the adjacent Conrad Orlando caters to all generations with event-friendly amenities.

Challenges Amidst Labor Shortages

Despite facing challenges including labor shortages and supply chain disruptions, the construction industry is finding solutions by self-performing critical construction elements. This approach enables contractors to maintain strict control over quality, scheduling, and staffing needs. David Keeler, a senior project manager at PCL, remarked on the importance of self-performing key scopes for large-scale resorts, stating, "Having skilled labor in-house is essential for timely project delivery while upholding high standards."

In summary, as the hospitality industry navigates the complex landscape of travel trends in 2025, the focus remains on creating better guest experiences through thoughtful renovations, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge technology. For further insights on PCL's contributions to hospitality construction, explore their offerings at PCL.com.

About PCL Construction

PCL Construction represents a collective of autonomous construction companies operating across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Australia. As one of North America's largest contracting firms, PCL completes over $8 billion in projects every year, continuously shaping communities while adhering to a 100% employee ownership model that fosters dedicated service in various markets, including buildings, civil infrastructure, heavy industrial, and solar. Explore PCL's commitment to building excellence at PCL.com.