The travel landscape is constantly evolving, and a recent Booking.com survey presented at IHIF EMEA 2025 reveals fascinating trends that directly impact how we think about Flexible Accommodation. While the report focuses on the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel planning and other emerging preferences, we can glean valuable insights into the changing needs of travellers and how Flexible Accommodation adapts to them.
AI Adoption: A Threat or an Opportunity for Discovery?
A surprising finding is the rapid adoption of AI by all generations in travel planning. From Millennials (54%) to Baby Boomers (30%), a significant number of travellers are using AI to organise their getaways. However, Flavio Leoni, regional director of global accounts at Booking.com, warns that AI could limit the discovery of new destinations by delivering results based on the user's biases and prior information. Despite this, Leoni stresses that travel companies must adapt to the ubiquity of AI to understand their customers' needs. For the Flexible Accommodation sector, this means that platforms and providers must be smart in how they present their offerings through AI-powered channels, ensuring that flexibility and diversity of choice are visible.
Multigenerational Travel and the Importance of Flexibility
One notable trend is the rise of multigenerational travel, driven by Baby Boomers who are investing their savings in shared experiences with their families. Some 46% of Baby Boomers globally and 42% in Europe have adopted this practice. In addition, many Baby Boomers finance their children's travel, with 52% of young people admitting that their parents paid for a trip in the last year. This trend underlines the growing need for accommodation that can accommodate large and diverse groups, offering flexibility in terms of space, amenities and length of stay. Flexible accommodation, such as serviced flats, co-living or even the possibility of connecting hotel rooms, presents itself as an ideal solution for these family dynamics.
Inclusive Travel and Accommodation Adaptability
Another important trend mentioned is the increase in inclusive travel for neurodivergent people. This implies that accommodations need to consider a wider range of needs and offer adapted environments. Flexible Accommodation, by its nature, can often provide more control over the environment and offer customised options to meet diverse needs, making it an attractive option for this segment of travellers.
Stays in Escala and the Opportunity of Accommodation Nearby
Finally, the growth of long-haul travel is leading more people to make stopovers. Leoni points out that travellers no longer want to stay at the airport during these stopovers, but want to explore the location. This creates an opportunity for Flexible Accommodation close to airports, offering short and convenient stays for those who want to make the most of their stopovers.
In summary, the trends presented by Booking.com at IHIF EMEA 2025, while focused on AI and the changing preferences of travellers, indirectly highlight the growing importance of Flexible Accommodation. The need to accommodate multi-generational groups, offer inclusive and convenient options for short stays during stopovers are all factors driving demand for accommodation solutions that go beyond the traditional hotel. The future of travel demands flexibility, and the accommodation sector must be prepared to meet these new demands.
