In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the hospitality industry, with llamas emerging as the latest trend in hotel amenities. These four-legged creatures have quickly gained popularity, surpassing the previous goat yoga craze that was prevalent before the Covid-19 pandemic. While llamas and alpacas have long been a staple in South American tourism, they are now making their mark across North America. The presence of llamas in unexpected places, such as luxury resorts like The Hythe in Vail, Colo., showcases their growing influence in the hospitality space.
One of the key aspects of the llama trend is the unique experiences they offer to guests. For example, at The Hythe, guests can participate in the „Take a Llama to Lunch“ hiking experience, where llamas not only serve as companions but also carry food, water, and gear for the hike. This not only adds a charming touch to the excursion but also enhances the overall experience, making it more enjoyable for guests of all hiking skill levels. The popularity of llama hikes, as demonstrated by Paragon Guides, indicates a growing demand for these types of experiences in the hospitality industry.
Several U.S. properties have been quick to adopt llama programs as part of their guest offerings. The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa in Whitefield, N.H., stands out as a pioneer in llama programming, having introduced llama experiences since 2004. With both llamas and alpacas on-site, the resort invites guests to interact with these animals through various activities such as the MVG Llama Experience and the Llama Tee Time Trek. These unique offerings not only add a fun element to guests‘ stays but also set the property apart from competitors in the region.
Beyond their cute and fluffy appearance, llamas also serve a practical purpose in activities like hiking. Llamas are capable of carrying significant loads, making them ideal companions for outdoor adventures. Properties like Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyo., have capitalized on this utilitarian appeal by offering guests a range of llama-related experiences, from full-day hikes to family-friendly grooming sessions. The versatility of llamas in different contexts, such as snowshoeing in winter, adds to their appeal as a unique and engaging hospitality amenity.
Despite their reputation for spitting, llamas are often described as gentle and friendly animals by those who work with them regularly. Karli Miller, marketing director for Brush Creek Ranch, emphasizes that llamas are not only happy and interactive but also surprisingly well-suited for human interaction. The misconception surrounding llamas‘ behavior highlights the need to educate guests about these animals and showcase their positive attributes in hospitality settings. By dispelling myths and highlighting the endearing qualities of llamas, properties can further enhance the guest experience and create lasting memories for visitors.
The rise of llamas in the hospitality industry signifies a shift towards more unique and engaging guest experiences. By incorporating llamas into their programming, hotels and resorts have the opportunity to attract a broader audience and differentiate themselves in a competitive market. As guests increasingly seek out memorable and immersive activities during their stays, llamas offer a charming and practical addition to the hospitality landscape. Whether used for hiking, interactive sessions, or even painting experiences, llamas have proven to be a versatile and appealing amenity that adds a touch of whimsy to the guest experience.
Napsat komentář