Dogs Included: Hotels in Thailand Adjust to New Travel Trends

Avani Hotels & Resorts in Thailand is marking International Dog Day on August 26 with special options for travelers who want to bring their dogs along. At Avani+ Hua Hin, the "Doggie Getaway" package gives guests access to private villas, walking areas, and simple comforts for pets like beds, bowls, and treats. At Avani+ Khao Lak, families can choose suites set up for pets, while the "Waggingly Good Getaways" package offers toys, treats, and outdoor areas where owners and their dogs can unwind together.

In Bangkok, hotels are making changes too. At Avani+ Riverside, small dogs receive their own beds and bowls, while Avani+ Ratchada has set up a pet area on the 12th floor with clear rules to keep it safe and comfortable for all. The group, which manages more than 40 hotels in over 20 countries, is using its global experience to test how pet-friendly policies can be integrated into Thai hospitality.

The rise of packages like these points to a wider trend in tourism. Many travelers now prefer to take their pets with them instead of leaving them at home. This means designing stays that accommodate both travelers and their pets, helping to make journeys easier and less stressful. This change also reflects a larger travel movement driven by lifestyle preferences, where holidays focus on relaxation, meaningful connections, and valuable time spent with loved ones.

Nevertheless, allowing pets into hotels comes with certain challenges of its own. Hotels must focus on cleanliness, uphold safety standards, and create an environment where all guests feel at ease. Rules like proof of vaccination, weight limits, and designated pet zones are now viewed as key to reducing these risks. This makes it clear that pet-friendly hotels are not only about offering extras, but about finding the right balance between practical needs and guest expectations.

These developments suggest that pet-friendly services may soon be viewed as a regular part of the travel experience. Whether these services become standard or stay a niche option will largely depend on how the travel industry develops in the years ahead. What is evident is that hotels in Thailand are increasingly taking part in the broader conversation about what inclusive travel represents today.