Best Western’s luxury and lifestyle brand, WorldHotels, is officially entering the upscale outdoor hospitality market. The company has unveiled WorldHotels Backdrop, a new collection of properties designed to blend high-end comfort with immersive nature experiences, commonly known as “glamping.”
What is WorldHotels Backdrop?
The Backdrop collection focuses on providing “nature retreats without sacrifice.” Instead of traditional hotel rooms, guests can expect unique accommodations such as:
– Luxury cabins
– Covered wagons
– Safari-style tents
These properties are strategically located near major natural attractions, including national parks and wildlife hotspots, and are equipped with amenities like fire pits and onsite recreation areas to enhance the outdoor experience.
Current Locations and Future Expansion
While the collection is currently in its early stages, it features three distinct locations:
1. Zion Wildflower Resort (Utah, USA): Offers stays in covered wagons near Zion National Park.
2. Asheville River Cabins (North Carolina, USA): Situated along the banks of the French Broad River.
3. The Lodge at Pico Bonito (Honduras): An upcoming addition located near Pico Bonito National Park.
The brand has signaled significant growth ambitions, with plans to expand into diverse international markets, including Vietnam, Australia, and various African safari destinations.
Leveraging Loyalty Points for Adventure
A key advantage for travelers is that WorldHotels is integrated into the Best Western Rewards program. This means members can use their accumulated points to book these unique stays.
For example, a night in a covered wagon at the Zion Wildflower Resort can be redeemed starting from 32,000 points (or approximately $175). This integration allows travelers to pivot from standard roadside lodging to premium outdoor experiences using the same loyalty currency they already collect.
The Broader Trend: Boutique Experiences in Loyalty Programs
The launch of Backdrop reflects a significant shift in the hospitality industry. Major players like Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott have all recently introduced niche or boutique brands to capture the growing demand for “experiential travel.”
Modern travelers—particularly those looking to escape urban environments—are increasingly seeking accommodations that offer a sense of place and adventure. By incorporating glamping and unique outdoor properties into their portfolios, major hotel groups are ensuring their loyalty programs remain relevant to a younger, more adventurous demographic that values unique memories over standardized hotel rooms.
Conclusion
By launching the Backdrop collection, WorldHotels is successfully bridging the gap between rugged outdoor adventure and luxury hospitality, offering Best Western Rewards members a new, points-driven way to explore the world’s most scenic landscapes.
