Hotel and resort day passes are becoming a go-to choice for travelers who desire the splendor of a high-end hotel experience without the expense of an overnight stay. With over 1,300 premium properties in its network, including prestigious brands like Waldorf-Astoria, JW Marriott, and Fontainebleau, ResortPass has taken the lead in the day-guest niche by making opulent amenities accessible at a fraction of the price.
Travel aficionados such as Lora Bowler, hailing from New York, have adopted the practical strategy of using day passes to savour the luxury hotel environment. “It’s a fantastic way to indulge in a bit of luxury at a premier hotel without the full commitment of an overnight stay,” said Bowler. She’s particularly fond of lounging on upscale daybeds and making the most of poolside services, even stumbling upon an offer that provided a temporary office space for her spouse. Day passes open the doors to hotel facilities, like swimming pools, spas, and fitness centers, circumventing the need for a room booking, thus making luxury experiences more aligned with tight budgets.
According to a Booking.com survey from July 2023, 60% of respondents envisaged their cost of living would impact their upcoming travel plans for 2024. Improving their accommodation experience was on the agenda for over half of the travelers, and a significant number of Americans demonstrated enthusiasm for day passes to experience premium hotel amenities without the overnight cost.
Hayley Berg, the main economist at Hopper, observed an increase in people mindful of their travel budget. “Vacationing has once again become a thoughtful expenditure,” Berg commented. She emphasized that day passes present a win-win situation, meeting traveler desires while also boosting hotel revenue.
Virgin Hotels New York City, situated in Manhattan’s pulsating Koreatown, invites guests to relish its rooftop pool that flaunts impressive vistas of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline. Patrons can pick between a leisurely lounge chair and an exclusive cabana experience complete with complimentary perks and refreshments. Pool club day passes commence at $130. “Everyone deserves a little diversion,” remarked Sarah Payton, who heads partnerships and programming at Virgin Hotels New York City.
Since its inception in 2016, ResortPass has carved out a significant presence in the day-guest segment, boasting a 95% market share. With over 3 million users across more than 250 cities, ResortPass enables access to luxury hotel amenities with day passes starting at $25. CEO Michael Wolf views the service as a boon to those looking for a nearby respite. “It’s about providing a mini-vacation without the need to travel far,” he said. “It’s a perfect complement or even an alternative to traditional travel.” Typically, ResortPass guests spend about $165 for full-day access, tending to splurge more on extravagances than overnight guests, often spending upwards of $250 on-site.
Looking forward, ResortPass aims to roll out a club-like program tailored for regular day-pass patrons later in 2024, promising extra benefits and convenience for those seeking affordable slices of luxury.
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