DALLAS—A large number of business and leisure travelers nationwide surveyed in a recent wellness travel survey by Omni Hotels & Resorts admitted to routinely gaining weight while on the road as a result of poor dining and drinking habits.
According to the results, seven in 10 respondents indicated that, despite extra efforts to maintain healthy dietary habits on the road, they have put on extra pounds. The report indicated they gain anywhere from “just a couple of pounds” (37%), to “more than five pounds” (16%), to so much weight they will need “to hit the gym when they get home” (17%). Business travelers are the most likely to overeat (38%). And, half of respondents enjoy more adult beverages while traveling to take advantage of generous expense accounts.
Some travelers, however, are trying to maintain a healthy routine while on the road. More than one-third of business travelers pack their own snacks in an attempt to eat nutritiously while traveling. In addition, 62% of travelers also drink more water during their trips.
To produce the travel wellness report, Omni Hotels & Resorts queried more than 500 high-income business and leisure travelers across the country. Working with Omni’s nutritionist, Cheryl Forberg, R.D., a James Beard chef and nutritionist for NBC’s The Biggest Loser, the luxury hotel brand developed the survey as part of its commitment to anticipate the evolving wellness needs of its guests.
“Health and wellness is top of mind with our guests, and staying healthy on the road is a struggle that many travelers face,” said Anne Tramer Brownlee, VP, corporate communications, Omni Hotels & Resorts. “We are on a mission to address the ongoing needs of the health-conscious travelers. Understanding these results allows us to address the areas that matter most to our guests—ensuring we have healthier menu offerings, wellness programs and fitness options available at all of our properties.”
Committed to providing guests with healthy dining options, Omni Hotels & Resorts offers cooking oil with zero grams of trans fat. It also institutes an exclusive use of cage-free eggs. In 2011, Omni began offering gluten-free breakfast buffet stations at all of their locations. Last year, the brand rolled out gluten-free snacks from Hail Merry, including seasoned nuts from various regions of the country. The company also provides complimentary bottled water for members of its Select Guest loyalty program. Forberg has worked closely with Omni chefs to create wholesome menu selections.
As for fitness, Omni provides gyms with various equipment and fitness choices. At select properties such as Omni Austin Downtown, the brand designed Get Fit Rooms for guests who prefer to work out in the privacy of their guestrooms. Available for a nominal fee, the rooms feature a treadmill and a Get Fit Kit. The Get Fit Kit, available to any guest upon request, contains 2-lb. dumbbells, a floor mat, stretch cords and a bottle of water.
“As part of our commitment to providing a superior travel experience, we offer a variety of wellness amenities and programs,” said Tramer Brownlee. “However, simply providing the tools isn’t enough. We know from our wellness survey that hotel guests have good intentions but, at times, do not follow through. We seek to educate travelers on how to make better health travel decisions and stick to their goals while on the road.”
For instance, the brand launched a series of wellness programs and initiatives within the past year to reinforce healthy travel education. The “Healthy Travel Series” video campaign provides travel wellness and lifestyle tips, and the new Omni Kitchen Kids-themed backpack offers family-friendly health and nutrition focused games and goodies.
“Travelers admit to overindulging in food and beverages,” said Tramer Brownlee. “With more health and wellness programs offered at hotels, it’s actually becoming easier to maintain a healthy diet when on the road. It now comes down to the individual guest to start making better choices and take advantage of our healthy options. With the help of Forberg, we will continue educating our guests to make the best choices as we build upon existing programs and launching new options that align with current health and wellness trends.”
—Matthew Marin