What Is Hospitality?

Hotels and Resorts

A hospitality degree and services find their most direct application in hotels and resorts, where delivering exceptional guest experiences is essential to stand apart from the competition.

For instance, luxury resorts such as Aman and Four Seasons distinguish themselves by crafting personalized guest experiences, including curated itineraries and dedicated private butler services.

Travel and Tourism

The travel and tourism industry thrives thanks to the dedication and expertise of passionate hospitality teams who bring the travel dreams of countless cultural adventurers to life.

Take award-winning travel companies like Ciconia, for instance. They specialize in crafting culturally immersive tours, with every itinerary carefully designed to showcase the essence of each destination. From authentic accommodations to savoring local cuisine and engaging in once-in-a-lifetime activities, Ciconia ensures travelers experience the true heart of their journey.

Food and Beverage

Fine dining establishments take hospitality to another level by offering a refined and upscale experience that goes beyond merely serving meals.

Take Eleven Madison Park in New York City, for example—a three-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exceptional hospitality and unparalleled attention to detail. Sometimes, before arrival, the restaurant researches personal details, such as dietary preferences or special occasions, and incorporates thoughtful surprises into the meal.

Event Management

Event management firms are taking hospitality to new levels with innovative services, personalized experiences, and a focus on attendee satisfaction across various types of events. 

For example, at festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella, there are often on-site accommodations ranging from simple camping options to luxury glamping with amenities like beds, linens, and sometimes even air conditioning.

For those interested in such a career, SHMS offers Event Management as a specialization in its Bachelor's and Master's degree programs.

Healthcare

Healthcare establishments such as hospitals, wellness clinics, and silver economy services are adopting hospitality principles to improve patient care and overall satisfaction.

For example, the world-famous Mayo Clinic offers concierge services that provide patients and their families with travel, lodging, dining assistance, and information about local activities and services.

Entertainment and Recreation

Entertainment venues and recreational facilities apply hospitality skills to engage audiences and ensure enjoyable visits.

For example, Disney parks employ hospitality-trained staff to create magical experiences with attention to detail and exceptional customer service.

Real Estate and Property Management

High-end real estate developers and property managers often incorporate hospitality elements to enhance the luxury living experience, differentiate their offerings, and attract discerning clients. 

For example, Fifteen Hudson Yards in New York offers a full suite of in-house lifestyle services managed by a dedicated concierge team. The Ritz-Carlton Residences provide residents with amenities such as a private chef, in-residence dining, and personalized fitness training.

SHMS offers a design specialization for its BA students who would like to create high-level luxury spaces.

Retail and Luxury Brands

Retailers of all genres are creating more engaging and personalized shopping experiences that improve the customer experience, encouraging longer visits and ultimately increasing sales.

Tiffany & Co. uses private salons where customers can view pieces in a luxurious, intimate setting, making customers feel valued, which is instrumental in high-ticket purchases.

For those aspiring to shape such high-end experiences, SHMS offers Luxury Brand Management as a specialization in its master's degree program, equipping students with the skills to lead and succeed in the world of luxury retail.

Tech Industry

Tech companies are using hospitality principles to improve user experience. This can be seen in user interface design, customer support, and workplace environment. 

Apple is an excellent example of a tech company that employs hospitality to improve client satisfaction. From the birth of its easy user interface, which launched its popularity, to the chic and hands-on retail store experience, to the Genius Bar concierge-style repair service, and their education platform, Today at Apple, the company puts the customer experience first in every regard.

Education

Universities and colleges apply hospitality practices to improve student services, campus life, and accommodation, aiming to provide a better overall student experience. 

For example, the University of Pennsylvania offers Penn Hospitality Services, which includes guest accommodations and conference services that operate akin to a hotel for Penn students and their guests.

Banking and Finance

Financial institutions are integrating hospitality to improve customer service, from in-branch operations to user interface experience online, and to improve customer satisfaction and retention.

For example, UBS offers bespoke advisory services that are akin to a personal concierge in a luxury hotel. HSBC has rolled out Premier Centers worldwide, which function similarly to airline business class lounges. Bank of America, recognizing the importance of convenience in hospitality, has invested heavily in its digital platforms to ensure a seamless user interface experience.

Whether in a bustling hotel, a neighborhood café, a home, or even a bank, hospitality holds the extraordinary ability to create cherished memories and make the world a kinder, more connected place. In a world often marked by division, the genuine warmth of hospitality fosters trust and community.

By choosing SHMS, you're positioning yourself for extraordinary career growth and transforming your dreams into reality.

SHMS prepares its students to stand out in a competitive job market. Whether your passion lies in hotel management, event coordination, luxury brand management, or design, SHMS equips you with the tools to shape a successful career and make a lasting impact in industries that thrive on exceptional service.