Q&A with Hotel Management Guru Peter Anderson
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“The best thing that could happen to a hotel is a complaint. If you clarify that complaint and fix it, you get a better customer than if they had no complaint at all.” Professor Peter Anderson, Board Member The Ageless Traveler
You think you know hotels? Think again. Between boutique Airbnbs, glamping pods, 5-star palaces and everything in between, the lodging game has flipped on its head.
I interviewed Peter Anderson, consultant to the hotel industry with decades of hotel-management wisdom to break down what truly matters when you pick your dig.
Q1: Hotels vs. Home-shares—who wins?
Peter: “Hotels used to be the only game in town. Now travelers crave local flavor, authenticity. Home-shares give you the corner café next door. But hotels deliver consistency: you know you’ll get clean sheets, 24/7 help, curated experiences.”
Anderson highlights that while hotels offer a curated experience with consistent amenities, alternative lodging options provide a sense of place and authenticity that many travelers crave.
Q2: I want to feel safe—but not like I’m in a fortress. What should I look for in hotel security measures?
Peter: “Visible security—cameras, key-card access—can reassure but also unsettle. Best practice is discreet monitoring: staff who greet you by name, subtle tech that locks down perimeters without making guests feel they’re on lockdown.”
Look for hotels that brag less about their CCTV and more about staff training. They all have security, but the implementation counts. Anderson explains that hotels are taking various measures to enhance security, such as monitoring access to buildings and implementing strict locking systems. However, he notes that visible security can sometimes make guests feel uneasy, as it may indicate underlying issues. The challenge for hotels is to ensure guests feel secure without making them feel uncomfortable.
Q3: Star ratings—useful or useless?
Peter: “Stars factor room size, amenities, service level. But they don’t capture heart. A 3-star boutique with passionate staff can outshine a 5-star chain where you’re just another folio number. Don’t chase stars—chase reviews that rave about staff going above and beyond.”
Anderson clarifies that star ratings are based on a variety of factors, including room size, amenities, and the level of service provided. Interestingly, he points out that sometimes a lower-rated hotel may offer a better experience due to superior service or a more desirable location.
Q4: Accessibility matters—are hotels keeping pace?
Peter: “With an aging global population, accessible rooms are no longer niche. Savvy hoteliers now dedicate more inventory to roll-in showers, visual alarms, grab bars—so they can serve everyone. When you book, filter for ADA or ‘accessible’ rooms—and then call to confirm the specifics you need. Never assume.”
Accessibility is another important aspect of modern accommodations. As the population ages, hotels are recognizing the need for accessible rooms and amenities. Anderson emphasizes that savvy hoteliers are increasing the availability of these rooms to cater to a growing demographic of travelers who require special accommodations.
Q5: “Greenwashing” or genuine eco-effort—how do I tell?
Peter: “Real sustainability shows up in operational details: water-recycling systems, locally sourced menus, energy-efficient HVAC. Marketing buzzwords without data? Red flag.
Pro Tip: Scan the hotel’s sustainability report (often on their website). Look for concrete numbers: gallons of water saved, percentage of renewable energy used.”
Sustainability is a hot topic in today's travel landscape. Many travelers are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact, and hotels are responding by implementing eco-friendly practices. Some hotels are genuinely committed to sustainability, while others may use it as a marketing ploy. He encourages travelers to look deeper into a hotel's sustainability initiatives to determine their authenticity.
Q6: Wellness travel—is it here to stay?
Peter: “Absolutely. The global wellness market is booming. Hotels are adding fitness studios, yoga decks, nutrient-focused menus. Guests want alignment: if you’re on a detox retreat, the minibar shouldn’t be stocked with soda and chips. Check if the hotel partners with local wellness experts—massage therapists, nutritionists, trainers. That’s a sign they mean business.”
Wellness has emerged as a critical component of travel. With the wellness industry projected to grow significantly, hotels are increasingly incorporating fitness facilities and healthy dining options into their offerings. Anderson suggests that travelers are now looking for hotels that align with their health goals, making wellness a key consideration when choosing accommodations.
Bottom Line for Ageless Travelers
- Experience over extras. Don’t get blinded by marble lobbies—find the team that cares.
- Peace of mind > showy security. Friendly, trained staff beat cameras any day.
- Read between the stars. Hunt for service stories, not just rating badges.
- Accessibility is non-negotiable. Demand details.
- Sustainability takes receipts. Ask for the data.
- Wellness isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of the package.
Our podcast episode with Peter Anderson offers valuable insights into the changing landscape of hotels and accommodations.
As we seek unique experiences, prioritize safety, and embrace sustainability, the hospitality industry must adapt to meet these evolving needs.
Tune in to the full episode on Spotify or Apple or on our website for a deeper dive into these topics and more! And don’t forget to leave us a review.
To book and compare prices for hotels, rental cars, guides in Jamaica, including the Sunset Palms, use these links created for you by The Ageless Traveler:
