Final answer:
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, hotels saw increased use of technology, a more diverse international clientele due to globalization, sustainable practices, local experiences, and a rise in boutique hotels. These trends halted abruptly with the pandemic, which had severe impacts on the industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
Changes Observed in Hotels Pre-COVID-19
In the two years preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, hotels in many cities, including my own, experienced several observable changes. Firstly, there was an increased adoption of technological developments such as online check-ins, digital room keys, and smart rooms equipped with IoT devices to enhance guest experiences. Secondly, the globalization aspect led to an influx of international visitors due to easier travel, resulting in a culturally diverse clientele and a demand for more tailored services.
Moreover, hotels began to adopt sustainable practices, reducing their carbon footprint by investing in energy-saving technologies and minimizing food waste. There was also a trend in the hotel industry to create more local experiences for guests, including offerings of local food and cultural tours. Lastly, a notable change was the rise in boutique hotels and unique accommodations catering to travelers looking for personalized and niche experiences over traditional chain hotels.
However, as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold globally, these trends were dramatically interrupted, with significant impacts on hotel operations, revenue, and employment levels. This led to a stark contrast between the anticipatory growth and the actual severe downturn faced by the hospitality industry.