Even 5-star hotels discover Basic Economy: if you want to go to the pool, you pay extra
In general when we talk about "extra" or "economy" services, at 99% the reference is to flights, especially the [...]
In general when we talk about "extra" or "economy" services, at 99% the reference is to the Flights, especially the Low Cost, which offer rates base to which must then be added all the extra, such as second luggage, checked baggage, priority boarding, extra space, choice of seat next to a travel companion or oxygen on board, all luxuries that low-cost airlines charge to high price.
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Well, now that remaining 1% refers to the -- hotels!
Forget "All Inclusives," hotels are relishing a new strategy to cope with the massive leaks suffered due to the Coronavirus pandemic: the Basic Economy.
What does Basic Economy mean?
Should you decide to book a stay at the luxurious 5-star Andaz Hotel in Singapore, the Basic Economy rate provides the room, with the appropriate amenities, Wi-Fi and... Enough!
Any other service outside the room turns out to be a extra, to take advantage of the swimming pool you will have to pay a DAY PASS, With which we will purchase a nice relaxing swim.
Same for the gymnasium, To secure access, it will be necessary to have the following pass at the Front Desk and only then can you take a jog on the treadmill.
With the overnight-only package at the Andaz in Singapore, one can enjoy a 1-night stay with a double bed, minibar in the room, all at the modest (to use an understatement...) price of about €150 nothing included.
Will all hotels switch to this new rate?
The Andaz is not the only one offering this new package, certainly for the period we are experiencing hotels, especially high-end hotels, have costs of management very high and therefore to avoid losses or try to recover some money they will put this new option into play.
For some it will simply be a gimmick of marketing to push advantageous prices, but that basically already existed in the facilities. A name change will not change the world of the hotellerie, but it will be an excuse to be able to charge a little more by playing up the initial room price.
Still very few hotels are adopting this formula, but we are sure that in a while we will hear more and more about Basic Economy in hotels.