The best sleep you’ll get should be at home, on a bed matched to your sleep needs. But hotels are catching up, and sleep-tailored experiences are no longer considered amenities or gimmicky programming opportunities.
Some resorts have also made big changes to accommodate those interested in catching up on much-needed Zzz’s, going so far as to employ sleep specialists to work with guests on tracking underlying issues and/or improving bedtime hygiene.
“The growing interest in sleep-focused travel speaks to something far deeper than a trend — it reflects how travelers are redefining wellness in their everyday lives,” says Amanda Al-Masri, vice president of wellness at Hilton. “Rest has become a priority, not a luxury, and guests are increasingly seeking environments that help them recover from the pace and pressure of modern life.”
How hotels are prioritizing sleep
Hilton
The Conrad New York Downtown has a special sleep-centric stay package, the Goodnight Conrad, which includes a sleep mask, white noise machine, and calming body products.
“To round out the experience, the package also includes a guaranteed 1 p.m. late checkout for a truly restorative stay,” explains General Manager Chintan Dadhich.
Guided meditations, narrated Sleep Stories, calming soundscapes, and mindfulness exercises can be streamed directly from in-room TVs with no subscription required.
“From intentionally designed spaces and flexible sleep configurations to access to guided mindfulness content, supporting rest is at the core of how we think about hospitality today,” says Al-Masri. “It’s about providing guests with the tools and choices to feel better while they’re with us — and long after they leave.”
Though Marriott’s portfolio of hotel brands is robust, Westin has emerged as the company’s certified stand-out in the sleep space. The chain most recently announced a series of videos titled “Sleep Training for Grown-Ups.” These feature wellness experts who provide tips on how to improve their sleep habits, especially while traveling. In addition, Westin loyalists can enjoy a Sleep Well late-night menu with a curated selection of snooze-inducing superfoods.
JW Marriott, the brand’s luxury extension, has also made its mark in the wellness space with rooms that offer aromatherapy scents and circadian mood lighting that mimics a sunrise.
To assist travelers with combating restless nights, IHG has piloted the use of a portable and versatile mobile task light that is designed to help regulate sleep when traveling. Some Crowne Plaza locations, including one in Guam, also partake in programs that offer a leaflet with info on how to achieve a perfect night’s sleep, as well as in-room perks such as a pillow menu, aroma menu, humidifier, eye warmer, tea, and bath powder.
Hyatt now offers a bevy of sleep-forward media content to guests around the world. Aside from guided meditations and sleep sounds that can be streamed directly from in-room televisions, their “Science Behind Sleep” series delves into scientific sleep tips to ease jet lag, establish a travel routine, and make more mindful food and beverage choices.
Hyatt visitors in Australia and New Zealand will also benefit from a Sleep at Hyatt Ritual Pack that includes an eye mask, de-stress linen mist, rest and relax herbal tea, aromatherapy bath salts, and pulse point roll-on to help guests wind down for the evening.
Aside from sleep retreats and even sleep-enhancing spa treatments such as float meditation and a neuro aromatherapy massage, Velas Resorts has become a leader in fostering more sleep-friendly stays. The Mexico-based portfolio also touts a comprehensive pillow menu, ranging in material, softness level, and support type to accommodate any type of sleeper.
Six Senses has set the bar when it comes to anything regarding sleep tourism. From personalized sleep trackers and expert consultations to rooms fitted with dream-friendly mattresses and eucalyptus-derived linens, the hospitality company partners with renowned industry professionals to create an atmosphere that is most conducive to slumber. Some properties also offer yoga nidra, holistic massages, and nighttime soporific drinks to help globetrotters unwind and wind down after a long day of sightseeing.
In 2022, Rosewood Hotels introduced the Alchemy of Sleep: retreats designed to “promote rest through sleep-inducing treatments, movement-driven activities, and special amenities.” In addition to a range of practices such as nutrition plans, expert consultations, and dream-inducing classes, guests at participating locations are also equipped with a Curated Sleep Box that includes essential oils, tea blends, aromatherapy linen mists, and silk eye masks.
How to sleep well in a hotel
Sleep is bound to change when you travel, but here are a few quick tips to help you when you’re far from the comforts of your own bedroom:
- Black out your curtains or pack a sleep mask. If any light is peeking in from the bottom of the blinds, cover it with a spare towel. And if curtains won’t stay closed, use hair clips or the clips of a pants hanger to keep them together.
- Request a white noise machine and/or wear earplugs. This will block out any outside noises and/or inconsiderate neighbors.
- Pack a pillow spray. Many of these contain essential oils like lavender that are scientifically proven to calm the brain.
- Adjust the thermostat. 65-67 degrees Fahrenheit seems to be the sweet spot for most people.
- Take a warm bath. Pamper yourself and ease tension by submerging the body in hot water within an hour of bedtime.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Room service can be tempting, but it’s not wise to consume stimulants or depressants (or even a large meal) before falling asleep.
