The Accommodation is Now the Destination
There was a time when a vacation was all about the destination, and the hotel was merely a base for sightseeing. That era is fading fast. According to the 'How India Travels 2026: The Homes Edit' report by Booking.com, a significant shift is underway
where the accommodation itself has become a central part of the holiday experience. This isn't just about a comfortable bed; travellers are now actively seeking stays that offer unique, curated, and authentic experiences. In fact, a staggering 80% of Indian travellers plan to spend the majority of their time at the property they book, a figure much higher than the global average. This trend shows that the stay is no longer a backdrop but the main event, influencing everything from activities to memories.
The Rise of Alternative Stays
Hotels are no longer the default choice for many Indian travellers. Alternative accommodations like homestays, villas, guesthouses, and farm stays are moving from a niche option to a mainstream preference. The numbers tell a compelling story: online searches for alternative stays grew at a much faster rate than for hotels, and the segment is projected to reach a gross booking value of ₹415 billion by fiscal year 2029. According to the report, 62% of consumers actively compared rentals with hotels for their last trip. This surge is driven by a desire for experiences that traditional hotels often cannot provide, especially for groups and families.
Why We Still Love Hotels
Despite the rise of rentals, the classic hotel experience holds strong appeal. For many travellers, the allure lies in convenience, reliability, and service. Hotels offer a predictable standard of quality, from room service and daily housekeeping to amenities like swimming pools and on-site restaurants. This is particularly valued by those on shorter trips or business travel, where efficiency is key. For travellers seeking a hassle-free getaway where every need is catered to, the structured environment of a hotel remains the gold standard. It represents a true break from daily chores and responsibilities, offering a sense of pampering that rentals, which often require more self-sufficiency, do not.
The Charm of a 'Home Away From Home'
So, what is driving travellers towards rentals? The reasons are deeply connected to the kind of experience they want. The Booking.com report found that 87% of travellers believe alternative stays help create more meaningful holiday memories. Key drivers include the desire for authentic local experiences (85%), suitability for families and groups (83%), and perceived value for money (83%). A rental often provides more space, a kitchen for shared meals, and a living room for evening conversations, fostering a sense of togetherness for groups. It allows travellers to 'live like a local', discovering neighbourhood eateries and markets that aren't on the typical tourist map. This sense of immersion and privacy is becoming a new form of luxury for many.
Work, Stay, and Play
The trend isn't limited to leisure trips. Business travel is also being reshaped. Professionals are increasingly choosing apartments and homestays, especially for longer workations. The report notes that business travellers accounted for nearly one in five bookings at alternative accommodations in FY26. The primary motivation is space — having a separate workspace, a living area for meetings, or the ability to accommodate family members who travel along. This blends the lines between work and leisure, allowing professionals to work remotely from a new city while exploring it in their downtime.
How to Choose Your Perfect Stay
Ultimately, the choice depends on the trip's purpose. If you're on a short city break and prioritise convenience and service, a hotel might be ideal. If you're travelling with a large family or a group of friends and value space, privacy, and a shared, home-like experience, a villa or apartment is likely a better fit. For those seeking deep cultural immersion and a break from the tourist trail, a homestay offers an unparalleled connection to the local way of life. The report makes it clear that Indian travellers are becoming more intentional, choosing their accommodation not just for its price, but for the experience it promises to deliver.
