How are TikTok Trends Affecting the Eating Habits of the New Generation?
We live in a constantly evolving digital era where social media has transformed the way we communicate, consume content, and yes, even how we eat. Among these platforms, TikTok has stood out as a cultural phenomenon, especially among the younger generation. It's no surprise to announce that TikTok has become one of the most influential social networks. In just two years, it has become one of the social networks with the most active users and recorded a revenue of over $9 billion in 2022 alone. But beyond dance and entertainment videos, TikTok has proven to be fertile ground for exploring the world of food and beverages. According to data from News Room TikTok, 68% of TikTok users have discovered a food or beverage brand by seeing it on the platform, and 46% have purchased a food or beverage product after seeing it on TikTok. Furthermore, 72% of these purchases were unplanned. One of the most notable ways TikTok is affecting eating habits is through viral food trends. Videos featuring clever and delicious recipes can go viral in a matter of hours. The result? Users, mostly young people, feel the need to try these culinary creations for themselves. For example, the "TikTok bread" recipe,
The Evolution of Tourism and Hotel Performance in the Post-Pandemic World
The world of tourism and the hotel industry have witnessed a remarkable evolution in recent years, especially in the context of a world marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2023 have reached an impressive 80% of pre-pandemic levels, compared to the same period in 2019. This 86% growth from the previous year reflects the ongoing strength of international tourism, with approximately 235 million tourists traveling internationally during the first three months of the year. In this dynamic context, hotels play a fundamental role as they have had to adapt and evolve to meet the changing demands of travelers while providing memorable experiences. Emerging tourism trends As we have discussed on previous occasions, sustainability has become a key aspect of tourism in 2023. Travelers are increasingly concerned about the environmental and societal impact of their trips, charting new paths to destinations that not only captivate their imagination but also contribute to environmental conservation. Concrete examples of this trend include the growing demand for eco-friendly accommodations, the rise of volunteer travel, and the popularity of destinations with sustainability certifications. Furthermore, health and wellness tourism has taken on a
Gastronomy as a form of cultural expression
Gastronomy is much more than a mere source of sustenance. It is a language, an artistic expression deeply rooted in the cultural identity of a people. Through its flavors, aromas, and culinary techniques, gastronomy transcends borders, allowing us to explore and understand the richness of the cultures that create it. On this occasion, I am pleased to discuss with you a deeper perspective on this industry, and how it is more than just a basic necessity; it is a way of communicating, sharing, and celebrating. Gastronomy as a Reflection of Cultural Identity A region's cuisine mirrors its history, traditions, and values. Each dish, each ingredient, tells a story about its place of origin. For example, Mexican cuisine is a blend of flavors and cooking techniques from pre-Hispanic, European, and African cultures, while French cuisine is known for its sophistication and use of high-quality ingredients. Both are historical archives where the influences of past generations are found. Gastronomy as a Form of Communication In a globalized world, gastronomy has become a bridge that connects people from different backgrounds. Eating together is a way to build bonds and understand cultural differences. When we share a meal prepared with love and care, we engage in a silent conversation
Women entrepreneurship in the gastronomy industry
In the midst of the 21st century, the gastronomy industry remains a battleground where women strive to carve out their place in a world dominated by deeply rooted gender stereotypes. While women are often the queens of the kitchen in our homes, the most prestigious and visible positions in renowned restaurants are predominantly occupied by men. According to data from ONU Women (2020), less than 4% of chefs with three Michelin stars (the highest culinary distinction) are women. This imbalance is undeniable and reflects a reality that, despite social advancements, still persists. María Canabal, a journalist and founder of Parabere Forum, presented an even more revealing perspective at the 2017 Paralelo Norte forum: 93% of those who cook at home are women, 48% of culinary school graduates are women, and 39% of restaurant cooks are women, yet only 18% of women in the industry are chefs, that is, head chefs. This stark gap between women's presence in the kitchen and their representation in leadership positions highlights the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in this sector. Let's delve into some of the main challenges: - Gender wage gap: women often earn less than men for the same work. - Inequality in task distribution: women still
The keys to success in the tourism industry
The tourism and hospitality industry, with its unmistakable charm, is constantly in motion and evolution. In a world where mobility and curiosity are the norm, excelling in this competitive sector is an art that combines a passion for travel with the ability to offer exceptional experiences. In this article, we will delve into some of the essential keys to success in the tourism industry. Offering a unique and memorable travel experience: travelers seek more than just destinations; they crave experiences that differ from their everyday lives. Experiential tourism is a concrete example of this, as it is a growing trend where travelers increasingly seek authentic, memorable experiences that leave a positive impact on them. Adapting to market trends: the tourism sector is constantly evolving, so companies must stay up-to-date with the latest trends and adapt their products and services accordingly. For example, the increasing demand for sustainable travel has led many tourism businesses to offer environmentally friendly products and services. Continuous innovation: innovation is the backbone of success in any industry, and tourism companies must provide innovative products and services. As Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), pointed out, "tourism companies must leverage new technologies to offer more personalized and
Recycling, waste management, and other initiatives for a more sustainable hotel industry
The hospitality industry is one of the largest and most prosperous in the world, generating approximately $7.7 trillion in global revenue in 2022. However, it is also one of the most polluting. A study published in Nature Climate Change estimates that the hospitality industry is responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) predicts that CO2 emissions from tourism will increase by at least 25% by 2030. Given the challenge posed by climate change and the responsibility that falls on renowned corporations and brands, it is my pleasure to address in this article the actions that major hotel chains are taking to reduce their environmental footprint. One of the primary sources of pollution in the hospitality industry is waste. Hotels, restaurants, and other tourism businesses generate significant amounts of waste, including paper, plastic, glass, and metal. This waste can have a detrimental impact on the environment, contributing to climate change, air and water pollution, and biodiversity loss. In this regard, in recent years the hospitality industry has begun to take measures to mitigate its environmental footprint, with a key strategy being recycling. A significant example is the commitment of the Hilton hotel chain, known for
Sub-Tourism: An Alternative to Addressing the Challenges of Mass Tourism
Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, and its growth has been steady in recent years. According to data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), in 2019, an estimated 1.465 billion international trips were made, marking a milestone in the industry's history. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 represented an unprecedented setback for the sector. With grounded airplanes, closed hotels, and travel restrictions worldwide, the number of trips plummeted dramatically to 406.98 million. Despite the challenges faced by the industry, UNWTO reported that by 2022, approximately 962.80 million trips were recorded worldwide, demonstrating astonishing growth of 136.95% compared to 2020. These figures underscore the sector's resilience and adaptability, prompting questions about how we can maintain a balance between this rapid growth and sustainability. One of the most pressing challenges of mass tourism is its impact on the environment and local communities. The overexploitation of tourist destinations can deplete natural resources and disrupt the daily lives of host populations. In response, UNWTO has acknowledged these issues and promotes sustainable tourism as a solution. This involves adopting environmentally friendly practices and fostering healthy cultural interaction. In this context, the concept of "sub-tourism" emerges as an alternative. It involves seeking more authentic and less crowded
The evolution of boutique hotels: personalized and exclusive experiences
In a world where hospitality and comfort converge with individuality and exclusivity, boutique hotels have emerged as beacons of light in the modern hotel industry. According to a report from the Statista Research Department, the boutique hotel market in the United States experienced a significant recovery, projecting to reach $23.18 billion in 2022. This resurgence is even more remarkable considering the decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent reduction in travel. In 2021, the boutique hotel sector in the United States hosted a total of 3,797 companies, a significant increase from the 3,352 the previous year. Optimistic projections anticipated that the number would reach 4,487 in 2022, demonstrating continued confidence in the potential and sustained demand for these unique and personalized experiences. The evolution of the market size not only reflects an impressive recovery but also a consistent growth in the number of sector companies over the last decade. The Impact of Boutique Hotels on the Hotel Industry The influence of boutique hotels on the hotel industry cannot be underestimated. These distinctive establishments have introduced a revolutionary approach that highlights individuality and personalized attention. While traditional hotel chains offer a uniform experience, boutique hotels stand out for their distinctive character and
Hospitality as an alternative investment
The hospitality industry is one of the largest and most dynamic in the world, with millions of people traveling annually in search of unique and memorable experiences. This sector not only fulfills the purpose of providing unforgettable moments for travelers but also generates millions in revenue and provides employment opportunities for numerous people. The rise of hospitality as an investment In recent years, the hotel sector has experienced steady and sustainable growth worldwide. According to a Statista report, in 2023, the global hospitality market reached nearly 4.7 trillion dollars and was projected to grow to 5.8 trillion dollars in 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5 percent. Undoubtedly, hospitality, with its focus on customer satisfaction and the creation of meaningful experiences for visitors, has emerged as an extremely attractive investment option. As people seek more genuine experiences during their travels, there has been a shift towards a greater demand for boutique accommodations, eco-resorts, adventure tourism, and unique gastronomic options. Now, let's explore a little about how hospitality has become a viable option for investors and how this industry offers a fresh and constantly growing perspective. Stability and resilience: while financial markets may be volatile, the hospitality industry tends to be more stable
Plastic Reduction: companies leading the way towards plastic usage reduction
It is no secret that the issue of plastic has become one of the most pressing challenges for our planet today. The massive production and indiscriminate use of plastics have had a devastating impact on our ecosystems, threatening marine life, contaminating water, and affecting our health. However, amidst this concerning reality, there is a ray of hope. In the face of this challenge, many companies have decided to take bold measures to reduce their dependence on plastic and find sustainable alternatives to maintain their business success. Let's take a look at some of these pioneering companies and the solutions they are implementing to address this crisis. Patagonia: Towards a Circular Economy The renowned outdoor clothing brand, Patagonia, has long been a benchmark for sustainability and environmental responsibility. Founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard, their focus on a circular economy has been a cornerstone of their strategy to reduce plastic usage. They have implemented a clothing recycling program where customers can return used garments for reuse or recycling into new products. Additionally, the company has significantly reduced plastic packaging for their products and opted for recycled and biodegradable materials whenever possible. Undoubtedly, Patagonia's initiative not only promotes a significant reduction of plastic in their supply