I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a renowned expert in hospitality who has honed her expertise in the travel and tourism industry. With a deep understanding of consumer behavior and a passion for creating meaningful experiences, Katarina also brings a unique perspective from her work in entertainment and events, often speaking at expos and conferences. Today, we’re diving into the insights from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection’s Time Rich Report, exploring how people value quality time, the role of travel in fostering connections, and how the industry is evolving to meet these emotional needs.
What inspired Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection to conduct the Time Rich Report, and what were the key goals behind this initiative?
We wanted to truly understand how people perceive and prioritize time in their lives, especially when it comes to meaningful connections. The Time Rich Report was born out of a desire to explore what “quality time” means to today’s travelers and how travel fits into that equation. Our goal was to uncover insights that would help us tailor our offerings to better serve guests, ensuring their time with us feels impactful and fulfilling, whether they’re with family, friends, or a partner.
The report found that 82 percent of Americans feel they aren’t getting enough time with loved ones. Did this statistic catch you off guard, and what does it say about modern lifestyles?
Honestly, it wasn’t entirely surprising, but it’s still a sobering number. It reflects how busy and fragmented life has become—between work, technology, and other demands, people are craving deeper connections but struggling to find the space for them. This tells us that there’s a real emotional gap, and travel can be a powerful way to bridge it by creating dedicated moments to reconnect without everyday distractions.
With 62 percent of respondents viewing travel as a form of quality time, why do you think it holds such a special place in building connections?
Travel takes you out of your routine and puts you in an environment where you can focus on the people you’re with. It’s about shared experiences—whether it’s exploring a new place, laughing over a meal, or just relaxing together. Those moments create memories that bond you in a way daily life often doesn’t. At our resorts, we see this firsthand, and we strive to design spaces and activities that amplify those interactions, making every moment count.
The survey showed that 42 percent of people would choose a dream trip with family if money weren’t a factor. What insights does this give you about family travel priorities?
It highlights how much families value shared experiences over material things when given the chance. People want to create lasting memories with their kids, parents, or extended family, and travel offers a unique way to do that. It’s not just a vacation; it’s an investment in relationships. We’re responding by ensuring our resorts are family-friendly, with programs and amenities that cater to all ages, so everyone feels included and engaged.
For couples, 84 percent said time away together had a lasting positive impact even after returning home. Why do you think a getaway can have such an enduring effect on relationships?
A getaway allows couples to step away from daily stressors and focus solely on each other. It’s a chance to rediscover what brought them together—whether through quiet moments or shared adventures. That renewed connection often carries over into everyday life, reminding them of their bond. We prioritize creating romantic settings and tailored experiences, like private dinners or couples’ spa treatments, to help nurture that intimacy while still offering diverse activities for other guests.
Half of the respondents mentioned that just planning a trip boosts their mood. What do you think makes the planning process so uplifting for people?
Planning a trip taps into anticipation and excitement. It’s about imagining the possibilities—what you’ll see, who you’ll be with, and how you’ll feel. It’s almost like the first step of the journey. We try to make this process seamless and enjoyable for our guests by offering user-friendly tools and personalized support, reducing any stress so they can focus on the fun of dreaming up their perfect getaway.
Hyatt’s new campaign, “Time Here Is Worth More,” emphasizes enhanced services and experiences. Can you share more about what this initiative aims to achieve?
This campaign is all about recognizing that time is precious and ensuring that every moment guests spend with us feels valuable. We’re focusing on elevated services, curated experiences, and thoughtful touches that help guests connect with each other and themselves. Whether it’s through wellness offerings or unique activities, the goal is to remove distractions and create an environment where personal journeys and relationships can thrive.
What is your forecast for the future of travel when it comes to prioritizing quality time and meaningful experiences?
I believe travel will increasingly become a tool for intentional connection. As people continue to feel time-starved, they’ll seek out experiences that offer depth over quantity—trips that allow them to slow down, be present, and build stronger bonds. The industry will need to adapt by focusing on authenticity, personalization, and wellness, ensuring travelers leave with more than just photos, but with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
