In recent years, cryptocurrencies have gained much popularity owing to their accessibility. Several industries – such as the food, e-commerce, and tourism industries – have begun accepting cryptocurrencies as payment.
Recently, luxury hotels around the world decided to jump on the bandwagon and allow their guests to settle their payments in crypto. That’s right! Now, you can book a stay using nothing but cryptocurrencies!
But why are virtual currencies becoming more popular as a method of payment in the hospitality industry? For starters, they provide a safe and convenient way to pay without the need to convert currency. Moreover, they are less expensive than credit card payments for international travelers.
Let’s go on a trip to luxury hotels around the world that now accept cryptocurrencies!
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland
The Chedi Andermatt, a luxury hotel located in the Swiss Alps, now accepts payments in Bitcoin and Ethereum, in partnership with Worldline and Bitcoin Suisse. Guests can now pay safely without worrying about risky rate fluctuations. The cryptocurrencies will immediately be converted to Swiss Francs upon confirmation, so it’s as easy as using conventional payment methods.
This 5-star hotel is located 1,447 metres above sea level in the middle of the mountains. It boasts 5 restaurants and bars, all highly rated by Forbes Travel Guide 2022. Whether you want to relax at the spa or go hiking and skiing, this hotel has it all!
The Kessler Collection, U.S
The Kessler Collection is the first U.S luxury hotel group to team up with BitPay and accept cryptocurrency as payment. Guests can now settle their bills using Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Litecoin, Shiba Inu, and 5 stablecoins. The hotel will send an invoice to the guests’ email, prompting them to pay using their BitPay wallet.
The Kessler Collection of luxury hotels are spread out across various states in the U.S and offer unique experiences. You can indulge in your favourite cuisine, visit art galleries, and learn how to cook and blend wine – all while staying in the lap of luxury.
The Pavilion Hotels and Resorts
The Pavilion group of hotels and resorts accept 42 types of cryptocurrencies at all of their locations spread across Europe and Asia! The group partnered with CoinDirect and became the world’s first global boutique hotel group to accept virtual currencies for bookings. Guests will receive a payment link via email which will be valid for 90 minutes. Many of the Pavilion resorts also allow guests to invest in them using crypto.
The Pavilions are known for their luxury stays in unique locations. Whether you want to stay in the most happening part of the city, or enjoy some quiet time in a private villa, The Pavilions have it all. You can explore your surroundings, indulge in some local cuisine, or swim a few laps in the privacy of your villa.
The Dolder Grand, Switzerland
This famous 5-star hotel in Zurich was the first luxury property to accept crypto way back in 2019 and even has a cryptocurrency ATM in the foyer! The hotel teamed up with Swiss fintech Inacta AG and developed the Incapay app to accept payments in Bitcoin.
In 2021, the hotel partnered up with BitLux, a private air charter firm, and allowed guests to fly to the hotel privately and pay for their travel as well as their stay with crypto! It’s safe to say that this luxury hotel paved the way for other hotels to accept virtual currencies.
The Dolder Grand is 122 years old and offers an amazing hillside retreat. Nestled between forests, it offers stunning views of Lake Zurich and the Alps. The rooms are equipped with whirlpool baths and stereo systems, and the hotel boasts a whopping 43,000 square foot spa!
Seeing as how the hotel is pioneering crypto payments, it would be cool for them to make their own brand of online crypto casino connected to their entertainment system as well as the rooms. Guests could in theory have a round at Bitcoin Casino Blackjack during their stay, and continue where they left off once they come back from vacation.
Soneva Hotels
Soneva now accepts virtual currencies (i.e., Bitcoin, Ethereum) at its resorts in the Maldives and Thailand. This will be facilitated by TripleA in conjunction with Pomelo Pay. Guests will be able to pay using a secure QR code, and the payments will be protected against price volatility. Some other benefits of using TripleA include locked-in exchange rates, instant confirmations, and instantaneous conversions. Soneva also offers villa ownership in the Maldives for overseas buyers using crypto.
The Soneva hotels are some of the most luxurious hotels located in remote and breath-taking places. You can enjoy ocean views from the privacy of your villa and indulge in cuisine cooked by Michelin-starred chefs. They are also known for their wellness retreats.
Sri Panwa Phuket, Thailand
This award-winning 5-star luxury resort in Thailand accepts several types of cryptocurrencies including major ones such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC, and USDT. Crypto is also accepted at their subsidiaries — Baba Beach Club Hua Hin and Baba Beach Club Natai.
The stunning resort and private residences are located on top of Cape Panwa, one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. The pool villas offer breath-taking views with maximum privacy. You can take part in various beach activities such as kayaking and biking, enjoy a sunset with a view, or relax at the spa.
Palazzo Versace, Dubai
This 5-star luxury hotel in Dubai has partnered with Binance, one of the world’s largest crypto exchange platforms, to allow guests to pay using Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Coin. Apart from their stays, people can also pay for their dining and spa treatments using virtual currencies. The hotel will soon accept crypto payments on its ecommerce platforms as well, allowing guests to buy gift vouchers and flowers using crypto.
The Palazzo Versace is built in the Neoclassical style with traces of Arabian architecture. It looks like a 16th century Italian palace and is located along the shores of the Dubai Creek. Each suite has been designed by Versace using only the finest materials. With its lagoon pools, landscaped gardens, and unobstructed view of the skyline, this place is truly a treat!