ATTRACTIVE HOTELS FOR SENIOR GUESTS: THE EXPERIENCE OF THE ALGARVE REGION

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study about the characteristics that hotels should have in order to meet the needs and expectations of senior guests. The study was based on interviews with six directors from 4- and 5-star hotels located in the Algarve region.

The results indicate that senior guests do not appreciate being treated as a distinct group and are looking for hotels used by guests of all ages. However, senior guests particularly value aspects such as: being welcomed and treated with familiarity; having peaceful places away from the bustle where they can relax; feel safe in the hotel and the surrounding public spaces; having access to health advice if needed; walking in levelled and clear pathways; having access to entertainment activities in the hotel; being able to integrate organized activities outside the hotel; and keeping regular schedules while they are staying in the hotel and when they engage in other activities. In addition, senior guests are particularly sensitive to environmental comfort conditions in rooms, including acoustic comfort, thermal comfort, sights and sun exposure.