Marriott Bonvoy has launched Marriott Bonvoy Outsides this fall. The digital platform allows outdoor adventurers to book and discover their next vacation based both on the destination as well as activities available at that location. Users can access over 450 Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 50,000 Homes & Villas, curated Tours & Activity options, including glamping and hiking. W Verbier in Switzerland, Moxy in Banff, or Alaia Belize Autograph Collection in Belize are all examples.
Marriott Bonvoy’s new digital offer supports a trend that is gaining momentum in the travel sector. There have always been outdoor enthusiasts that travel around the globe in search of the next adventure. Marriott International’s chief customer officer Peggy Roe said: “We have known this group for many years that they are a reliable group and that is one that we need to cater to. Lodging. It is not a secret that outdoor travel has seen a significant increase in the past few years. While some may have viewed this as a short-term trend, our data shows that it represents a permanent change. Marriott Bonvoy insights reveal that 75% of its members have taken an outdoor adventure in the last year and 80% want to take more. Many travelers struggle to plan these outdoor trips. It can be difficult to decide where to go or what to do.
Roe explained that after identifying which hotels and Homes & Villas would be included on Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors “we organized all the content around seven passions – Ski, Hike Bike Paddle Fish Dive and Surf – so travellers can search based not only on where they wish to travel, but also on what they enjoy doing.” Outside Interactive has also collaborated with us to curate content that will be available on Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors. This includes maps, guides and tips from experts to help travelers plan and discover their ideal outdoor vacation.
Inaugural Brands
Marriott has recently launched its new brand alongside the Marriott Bonvoy platform. The Outdoor Collection is a collection of properties that are outdoor-focused and design-forward, set within a natural setting. Postcard Cabins, and Trailborn Hotels are the two first brands of this collection. Creating an escape from daily life to connect with nature, Postcard Cabins offers more than 1,200 Scandinavian-inspired cabins across 29 U.S. locations, each situated just two hours from major cities. Trailborn Hotels includes Trailborn Grand Canyon (North Carolina), Trailborn Highlands, and Trailborn Surf & Sound in North Carolina. More will be added next year.
Roe said that the Outdoor Collection of Marriott Bonvoy is distinguished by its unique designs and direct access to nature, as well as the amenities and comforts of a hotel, including electricity, running hot water and comfortable beds. Postcard Cabins is a new cabin concept with thoughtfully designed cabins, complete kitchens, bathrooms and lots of space. It’s perfect for those who want a quiet retreat near nature. Trailborn Hotels on the other, offer boutique-style hospitality in iconic outdoor destinations such as the Grand Canyon or the Blue Ridge Mountains. They also provide locally inspired cuisine, curate experiences and have onsite staff who can help guests get the most out of their environment. The Outdoor Collection is just beginning to redefine the meaning of staying outdoors by combining adventure, design and loyalty into one seamless experience.
This year, the brand has a great start by engaging outdoor enthusiasts with its Drop Pin Challenge, in collaboration with television personality, film maker, and outdoors enthusiast Dylan Efron. The promotion was a “treasure hunting” in 20 Outdoor Collection Hotels across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Travelers were challenged to locate the correct locations, go outside and scan each code.
Roe stated that, in the future, the Outdoor Collection “will continue to grow, including a variety of accommodations, such as lodges, yurts, eco-retreats, and unique nature getaways. All seamlessly integrated within the Marriott Bonvoy Ecosystem of points, benefits, and experiences.”
