Festive Outlook 2025-2026: Resorts Ditch Gala Dinners, Embrace Flexibility
As the 2025–2026 festive season approaches, top-tier resorts across Asia and the Indian Ocean are reshaping their strategies. A review of the best-rated resorts reveals five clear trends shaping the luxury market:
1. Premium Pricing—With a Twist
While festive ADRs are up ~40% vs. 2023, hikes vary wildly:
- Goa (+96%) and Maldives (+95%) lead the pack.
- Phuket now outprices Bali, reversing 2023’s hierarchy.
- Nusa Tenggara remains a value outlier, with ADRs half of Bali’s.
Insight: The sharpest strategies aren’t just about rate—it’s how resorts structure flexibility, upsells, and guest experience that drives conversions.
2. Phuket & Maldives Lead in Festive Premiums
Phuket’s top resorts command festive surcharges as high as +281%, with Maldives also strong at +66%. Meanwhile, Krabi offers a modest +5%, positioning itself as a more accessible upscale option.
Insight: Tiered pricing is working—if matched with perceived guest value. Monitor rate elasticity closely.
3. Goodbye, Mandatory Gala Dinners
The once-mandatory NYE gala dinner is fading fast:
- From 72% enforcement in 2023 to just 25% for 2025–2026.
- Bali and Krabi have largely abandoned the policy.
- Phuket still holds out, with some charging USD1,000+.
Insight: Guests want autonomy. Upsell festive experiences as optional luxuries, not compulsory fees.
4. MLOS Restrictions Are Softening
Over 60% of top resorts now accept 1-night stays on NYE—especially in Bali, Goa, and Nusa Tenggara. Maldives and Phuket remain stricter.
Insight: Flexibility is a selling point. Consider where strict MLOS adds value—and where it hinders bookings.
5. Value Destinations Repositioning
- Goa now offers the best premium-tier value.
- Krabi is 50% cheaper than Phuket—down from a premium position in prior years.
- Nusa Tenggara grows festive premiums while keeping accessibility.
Insight: Emerging destinations are leveraging value—not just luxury—to draw high-yield guests.
3 Strategic Moves for Owners & Operators
- Benchmark Smartly – Top-tier properties behave differently. Use refined comps to optimize pricing and promotions.
- Flex Where It Matters – Guests reward freedom. Loosen MLOS. Make gala dinners optional.
- Tailor to Market – Push premiums in Maldives and Phuket. In Goa or Krabi, win with smart value positioning.
