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Ace the stay: Hospitality firms roll out padel courts to net more bookings, serve up pickleball and more

In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, hotels and resorts are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract guests and enhance their stay experiences. A growing trend among hospitality firms in India is the integration of niche sports facilities, such as padel and pickleball courts, into their properties. This strategic move is designed to cater to a diverse clientele, including sports enthusiasts and younger demographics, while also boosting bookings and creating unique selling points for their establishments. By offering access to trendy and social sports, these firms are tapping into a global phenomenon that combines fitness, fun, and community engagement, thereby redefining the concept of a hotel stay.

Padel, a racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, has been gaining significant traction worldwide, particularly in Europe and Latin America. Often played in doubles on an enclosed court, padel is accessible to players of varying skill levels, making it an appealing activity for families, friends, and corporate groups. Recognizing its rising popularity, several Indian hospitality chains have begun incorporating padel courts into their properties. For instance, luxury resorts and urban hotels are installing these courts to provide guests with a novel recreational option that stands out from traditional amenities like swimming pools or gyms. The sport’s social nature also encourages interaction among guests, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the overall guest experience.

Pickleball, another fast-growing sport, is also making its way into the hospitality sector. Originating in the United States, pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and is played on a smaller court with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball. Its simplicity and low-impact nature make it suitable for a wide range of age groups, from children to seniors. Hotels are capitalizing on this inclusivity by setting up pickleball courts as part of their recreational offerings. The sport’s compact court size means it can be accommodated even in properties with limited space, making it a feasible addition for both sprawling resorts and boutique hotels in urban settings. By introducing pickleball, hospitality firms are not only diversifying their activity roster but also aligning with global fitness trends that prioritize accessibility and enjoyment.

The decision to integrate these sports facilities is driven by a deeper understanding of changing guest preferences. Today’s travelers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly seeking experiential stays that go beyond mere accommodation. They value activities that promote wellness, social interaction, and unique memories. Hospitality brands are responding by curating offerings that cater to these desires, with padel and pickleball serving as perfect examples of activities that tick all these boxes. These sports are not just games; they are social events that encourage bonding, whether among family members, friends, or even strangers who meet on the court. Hotels are leveraging this aspect to create a vibrant atmosphere that keeps guests engaged and encourages longer stays or repeat visits.

Moreover, the inclusion of such facilities is a strategic business move aimed at increasing revenue streams. By offering padel and pickleball courts, hotels can attract a niche segment of sports enthusiasts who might choose a property specifically for these amenities. Some establishments are even hosting tournaments or offering coaching sessions, which can serve as additional revenue generators. These activities also provide an opportunity for hotels to partner with sports brands or local clubs, further enhancing their appeal and visibility. For instance, organizing a padel tournament can draw in local players and spectators, turning the hotel into a hub of activity and potentially boosting food and beverage sales or spa bookings during the event. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the investment in sports facilities yields returns beyond just room bookings.

The trend also reflects a broader shift in the hospitality industry toward wellness and active lifestyles. As health consciousness rises among travelers, hotels are under pressure to offer more than just relaxation—they must provide opportunities for physical activity and mental well-being. Padel and pickleball fit seamlessly into this narrative, as they offer a fun yet effective way to stay active. Unlike traditional gym workouts, which can feel monotonous to some, these sports provide a dynamic and interactive experience that feels less like exercise and more like play. Hotels are thus positioning themselves as destinations for holistic well-being, where guests can balance indulgence with fitness.

Geographically, this trend is not limited to metropolitan areas or luxury resorts in tourist hotspots. Even smaller boutique hotels and properties in tier-two cities are exploring the potential of niche sports to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. The relatively low cost of setting up a pickleball court, for example, makes it an attractive option for smaller players in the hospitality sector who may not have the budget for expansive golf courses or large swimming complexes. Additionally, the growing interest in padel and pickleball among urban Indians, fueled by social media and international exposure, means that there is a ready audience for these facilities across diverse locations. Hotels in business districts are also adopting this trend to cater to corporate travelers who seek recreational outlets after long meetings or conferences.

The social media appeal of these sports cannot be understated. Padel and pickleball are inherently photogenic and shareable activities, with their vibrant courts and energetic gameplay making for engaging content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Guests are likely to post pictures and videos of their matches, inadvertently promoting the hotel to their followers. This organic marketing is invaluable for hospitality brands, as it amplifies their reach without significant additional investment. Some hotels are even designing their courts with aesthetics in mind, incorporating colorful designs or scenic backdrops to enhance their visual appeal and encourage social media engagement.

Furthermore, the introduction of these sports facilities aligns with the hospitality industry’s push toward sustainability and community building. Padel and pickleball courts require less space and resources compared to larger sports complexes, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, by hosting local events or inviting community members to use the facilities, hotels can strengthen ties with the surrounding area, fostering goodwill and creating a loyal customer base. This community-centric approach not only enhances the hotel’s reputation but also ensures a steady flow of local visitors who might not otherwise consider staying at the property.

However, the adoption of padel and pickleball is not without challenges. Hospitality firms must ensure that they have trained staff or partnerships with coaches to guide beginners and maintain the courts to a high standard. There is also the need to educate guests about these relatively new sports, as many may not be familiar with the rules or equipment. Hotels are addressing this by offering introductory sessions or partnering with sports academies to provide professional instruction. Additionally, the initial investment in constructing courts and purchasing equipment can be significant, especially for padel, which requires enclosed spaces with specific dimensions. Despite these hurdles, the long-term benefits of attracting a diverse guest base and enhancing the property’s appeal often outweigh the costs.

In conclusion, the integration of padel and pickleball courts into Indian hospitality properties represents a forward-thinking approach to meeting the evolving demands of modern travelers. By embracing these trendy, social, and accessible sports, hotels are not only enhancing the guest experience but also positioning themselves as innovative leaders in a competitive industry. This trend underscores the importance of adaptability and creativity in hospitality, where the goal is no longer just to provide a place to stay but to create a memorable and engaging environment that resonates with guests long after they check out. As more properties jump on this bandwagon, padel and pickleball are set to become staple offerings, transforming hotels into dynamic spaces where leisure, fitness, and community converge. Whether it’s a luxury resort in a coastal town or a business hotel in a bustling city, the sound of paddles striking balls is becoming a new hallmark of hospitality innovation.

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