Despite some recent controversy surrounding the exclusivity of adult-only holiday accommodation and establishments, demand for the concept among South African travellers remains strong.
According to The Independent, the French High Commissioner for Childhood is seeking legal measures to limit adult-only establishments, arguing that such spaces may deepen the divide between families and child-free individuals.
However, a Travel News poll revealed that over 50% of agent respondents have noticed that clients travelling without children are proactively asking for adult-only accommodation options.
Industry experts say that specific segments of clients including couples, honeymooners and friend groups actively seek adult-only properties for more relaxing and romantic holidays.
Adult-only escape
“There is always a demand for this type of holiday, especially with honeymooners and couples who want to holiday child free. This type of holiday also appeals to friends, who want to spend time together, in an adult environment,” said Brenda Mitchell, Head of Sales at World Leisure Holidays.
Camille Janse van Rensburg, Sales Manager of Club Med, explains that, post pandemic, Club Med noticed a growing interest in adult-only experiences, as guests sought personalisation and flexibility in their holidays, leading to a demand for spaces where adults can unwind independently of their family dynamics.
Joanne Visagie, Sales and Marketing Director at Beachcomber Tours, agreed: “They want a peaceful break away from the distractions of families, and to be with like-minded individuals who are all seeking the same thing: rest, relaxation, romance and a mature and chic atmosphere. The interest for areas that cater only for adults is strong; it’s a fantastic niche, and the demand is there.”
Unique offerings
Visagie explains that adult-only accommodation options offer unique selling points for more intimate experiences.
For example, the Victoria Beachcomber Resort and Spa in Pointe aux Piments, Mauritius, features adult-only ‘Swim Up Rooms’ perched on the edge of the wing’s 800sqm swimming pool, allowing guests to step straight from their room terrace into the waist deep water and make their way to the swim up bar.
While Club Med’s fully adult-only environments, such as Club Med Turkoise in Turks and Caicos, cater exclusively to adults, it has observed success in offering dual experience resorts that cater to families but also provide clearly defined adult-only ‘Zen Zones’.
“These areas strike a balance, allowing for relaxation and wellness while preserving the brand’s identity as a family-friendly destination,” said Janse van Rensburg.
Club Med’s Zen Zones offer adults-only areas featuring private pools, lounges, and wellness services such as yoga, massages, or quiet beach areas.
Janse van Rensburg explains that it is all about guiding guests toward the property that best suits their needs, whether they’re travelling as a family, couple, or group of friends.
“When clients are looking for something more romantic, refined, or sophisticated, they tend to dig a little deeper to find the perfect fit. That’s why matching the right resort to the right client is so important,” said Visagie.
