The Revolution of Hotels as Gastronomic Destinations in 2024

In the hotel industry, innovation and adaptation are key to staying relevant and competitive. One of the emerging trends we’ve observed, especially looking towards 2023 and 2024, is the transformation of hotels into true gastronomic destinations.

According to the World Food Travel Association, the global culinary tourism market is estimated to be worth $1.8 trillion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.2% between 2023 and 2025.

A clear example of this can be seen in Mexico, a country recognized for its rich culinary diversity. This year, Mexico has been highlighted by the prestigious Michelin Guide, which has decided to include five Mexican destinations – Mexico City, Nuevo León, Oaxaca, Baja, and Los Cabos – in its repertoire for the first time.

Additionally, Los Cabos is emerging as a clear example of how hotels can capitalize on this trend by integrating high-quality gastronomic experiences into their offerings. In recent years, Los Cabos has seen the opening of new luxury properties from recognized brands such as St. Regis, Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, Soho House, Aman, and Velas Resorts.

These properties not only expand the luxury accommodation portfolio in the region but also integrate international-caliber gastronomic services, reinforcing the destination’s position as a high-profile tourist center.

On the other hand, places like Macau and Dubai have been highlighted for their luxury gastronomic offerings, with Macau leading with the highest number of five-star hotels in the world and Dubai introducing new five-star hotels with notable culinary options.

In turn, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman has become the first hotel in the Caribbean to achieve a triple five-star status thanks to its seafood-focused restaurant, Blue by Eric Ripert, and its ultra-modern spa.

The strategy behind this evolution is clear: by integrating unique and high-quality gastronomic experiences into their offerings, hotels can increase their appeal and create more memorable experiences for their guests. This not only improves customer satisfaction but can also increase profitability through higher occupancy rates and on-site spending.

In conclusion, the transformation of hotels into gastronomic destinations is a trend we are watching with great interest towards 2024. It is a clear indication of how the hotel industry is evolving to meet the changing demands of consumers, offering experiences that go beyond traditional lodging. For those of us in the hotel business, this is a reminder of the importance of innovating and adapting our offerings to stay at the forefront of the industry.