What is the new frontier in luxury outdoor accommodation?

Glamping, a portmanteau of the words "glamorous" and "camping," has emerged as a revolutionary concept in the hospitality industry, transforming the traditional idea of camping into an upscale and luxurious experience. This trend, which first gained popularity in the UK in 2005 and was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016, has now spread globally, captivating travelers who seek the thrill of the outdoors combined with the comforts of a five-star hotel.

Glamping hotels offer a unique blend of nature and luxury, providing guests with fully equipped and stylishly decorated accommodation options ranging from safari tents to treehouses, wooden cabins, and even mobile homes. These accommodations are often equipped with high-end amenities such as flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, sound systems, bathtubs, and full sets of furniture and bed linens, turning the camping experience into an immersive and indulgent one.

The appeal of glamping hotels extends beyond just the accommodation. Many glamping sites also provide a range of organized activities and experiences, such as guided hikes, stargazing, wildlife watching, and culinary classes, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings while enjoying the perks of a luxury resort.

The profitability of the glamping concept is also significant. Glamping travelers are not only willing to spend more on rent, but also on food and activities on site, driving up income in F&B outlets and leisure activity programs. As a result, operating and managing a top-level glamping site is more comparable to operating and managing a leisure resort than a straightforward campground.

In recent years, the glamping trend has also seen a shift towards urban glamping, with city hotels offering glamping experiences on their rooftops or terraces. This new form of glamping allows urban dwellers to experience the thrill of the outdoors without having to travel far from the city, making it an accessible and attractive option for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The rise of glamping hotels has also sparked interest from developers and hospitality operators, who see the concept as a lucrative investment option. With shorter construction lead-times and lower initial investment costs compared to traditional holiday resorts or hotels, glamping offers a higher return on investment, making it an attractive proposition for those looking to expand their portfolio.

As the glamping trend continues to grow, we can expect to see more innovative and unique glamping accommodation options popping up around the world. From glamping domes in the desert to igloo-style accommodations in the snow, the possibilities are endless. Glamping hotels are here to stay, and they are set to revolutionize the way we experience the outdoors.