I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality with a deep background in travel and tourism. Katarina has made a name for herself as a leading voice in the industry, often sharing her insights at major expos and conferences. Today, we’re diving into Marriott International’s exciting new venture into outdoor-focused accommodations with the launch of the Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy and the Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors digital platform. Our conversation explores the inspiration behind this nature-centric brand, what sets it apart in a growing glamping market, the unique identities of its inaugural properties, and how Marriott is helping travelers reconnect with nature and loved ones through innovative tools and experiences.
What inspired Marriott International to venture into outdoor-focused stays with the Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy?
The inspiration really comes from a growing desire among travelers to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort. People today are craving experiences that get them out of their daily routines and into inspiring landscapes, like those near National Parks. Marriott saw an opportunity to tap into this trend by creating a collection that blends the raw beauty of the outdoors with the reliability and amenities guests expect from a trusted hospitality brand. It’s about meeting travelers where their passions are—seeking adventure and meaningful escapes.
How did the focus on locations near National Parks and natural wonders shape the vision for this collection?
From the start, the idea was to position properties in or near iconic natural settings. National Parks and similar destinations draw millions of visitors each year, and they represent a kind of timeless allure. Marriott wanted to offer stays that serve as a gateway to these places, making it easy for guests to explore trails, lakes, or cliffs while having a cozy, well-equipped base to return to. It’s about enhancing access to these bucket-list spots and creating a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation.
What sets the Outdoor Collection apart from other outdoor hospitality options or even other Marriott brands?
The Outdoor Collection stands out by striking a balance between immersion in nature and the comforts of a traditional hotel stay. You’ve got elements like real beds, hot running water, and private restrooms, which aren’t always a given in the glamping or outdoor space. Unlike other Marriott brands that focus on urban or resort experiences, this collection is hyper-focused on natural environments. It’s designed for travelers who want to unplug but not rough it too much, setting it apart from both rustic camping and more conventional hotel stays.
Can you tell us more about the two founding brands in the collection, Postcard Cabins and Trailborn Hotels, and what makes each unique?
Absolutely. Postcard Cabins brings a cozy, intimate vibe with over 1,200 cabins spread across 29 U.S. locations, all within a couple of hours of major cities. Their Scandinavian-inspired design gives a modern, minimalist feel, and they come with private fire pits and easy access to trails and lakes—perfect for a quick nature getaway. Trailborn Hotels, on the other hand, are positioned as premium properties in iconic, must-visit destinations like the Grand Canyon and the Blue Ridge Mountains. They cater to travelers looking for a more upscale experience in breathtaking settings, blending luxury with the outdoors.
How did the acquisition of Postcard Cabins and the partnership with Trailborn influence the launch of this collection?
Those deals were pivotal. Marriott acquired Postcard Cabins and formed a long-term agreement with Trailborn last year, which laid the groundwork for launching the Outdoor Collection in 2025. Both brands already had a strong outdoor ethos, which aligned perfectly with Marriott’s vision. Postcard Cabins brought a scalable network of accessible cabins, while Trailborn offered high-end properties in dream destinations. Together, they provided a diverse foundation to build a collection that appeals to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, from casual weekenders to luxury seekers.
Turning to the Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors digital platform, what’s the core purpose behind this new tool for travelers?
The platform is all about simplifying and enriching the travel planning process with a focus on outdoor experiences. It combines over 450 hotels, 50,000 Homes & Villas, and a huge variety of curated tours and activities—think skiing, hiking, surfing, or even scuba diving. The goal is to inspire travelers to craft trips that match their interests, whether that’s catching the perfect wave or stargazing in a remote spot. It’s a one-stop shop to book a stay and pair it with unforgettable experiences, making the journey as meaningful as the destination.
How do you see the Outdoor Collection and the digital platform helping people reconnect with themselves and their loved ones, as highlighted by Marriott’s vision?
I think it’s about creating space for genuine connection. When you’re out in nature—whether it’s hiking a mountain trail or just sitting by a fire pit under the stars—you’re away from the noise of everyday life. The Outdoor Collection offers places to stay that encourage those moments, with thoughtful designs and locations that invite you to slow down. The digital platform adds to this by curating activities that families or couples can do together, fostering shared memories. It’s travel that reminds you what matters most—being present with yourself and the people you care about.
What’s your forecast for the future of outdoor-focused hospitality, especially with major players like Marriott entering the space?
I believe we’re just at the beginning of a major shift. With more travelers prioritizing nature and wellness, outdoor-focused hospitality is set to boom over the next decade. Marriott’s entry, along with other big brands dipping their toes into glamping and outdoor stays, signals that this isn’t just a niche anymore—it’s becoming mainstream. I expect we’ll see even more innovation, from sustainable designs to tech-driven booking tools, as companies compete to offer the most authentic yet comfortable experiences. The challenge will be preserving the raw appeal of nature while scaling these offerings, but I’m optimistic that brands like Marriott will lead the way in finding that balance.
