In the realm of luxury hospitality, the concept of inclusivity has become a defining characteristic for many upscale properties. The Ivy in Baltimore, a 17-room boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century mansion, has positioned itself as a highly inclusive establishment since its inception in 2015. The hotel’s general manager, Rob Arthur, emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of generosity for guests, likening the experience to staying at the home of a worldly friend with an extraordinary house. By offering amenities such as valet parking, chef-made breakfast, on-site activities, daily afternoon tea, and private car service, The Ivy strives to eliminate the need for guests to worry about additional costs during their stay.
According to Arthur, the shift towards inclusivity in luxury hospitality is driven by a desire to provide guests with a seamless and hassle-free experience. He notes that an increasing number of guests expect the nightly rate to be justified by the value of the amenities and services offered. In an era where consumers are weary of being charged for every little extra, properties like The Ivy aim to stay ahead of the curve by providing a comprehensive package that caters to the needs and desires of their guests.
Another notable example of a property that has embraced the inclusive model is the Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California. Since 1992, the 40-room hotel has included a minibar with wine, daily made-to-order breakfast, and various activities such as yoga, forest meditation, and Chef’s Garden tours in its nightly rate. Stephen Andrews, vice president of marketing and sales for the property’s parent company, Passport Resorts, highlights the importance of these inclusions in maintaining a high percentage of repeat business. He emphasizes that guests appreciate the value proposition created by the service offerings and amenities provided at the Post Ranch Inn, which fosters a sense of belonging and familial treatment.
In Europe, the J.K. Place brand has gained a reputation for setting a new standard of inclusivity across its properties in Rome, Paris, Milan, and Capri. At the 27-room J.K. Place Roma, guests are welcomed with complimentary drinks and receive a la carte breakfast throughout their stay. Access to the property’s e-bikes is provided at no extra cost, and arrival and departure gifts are offered to enhance the guest experience. General manager Maria Strati highlights the brand’s commitment to exceeding expectations by showering guests with thoughtful gestures, such as personalized gifts and surprises to commemorate special occasions.
The trend towards inclusivity in luxury hospitality reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards a more personalized and fulfilling travel experience. By prioritizing the well-being and satisfaction of guests, properties like The Ivy, Post Ranch Inn, and J.K. Place have redefined the notion of luxury by offering a truly comprehensive and immersive experience. In a competitive market where attention to detail and exceptional service are paramount, inclusive luxury has emerged as a driving force for guest loyalty and satisfaction. As travelers seek out more meaningful and memorable experiences, the art of inclusivity in hospitality continues to shape the future of luxury travel.
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