Dutch hotels fuller, more expensive; recovers to pre-crisis levels

Both the occupancy rate and the average room rate in Dutch hotels increased in 2014, according to newly-released research conducted by hospitality industry expert Horwath HTL. Further growth is expected in both areas for 2015 as well. The survey conducted among 300 different three, four and five star hotels in the Netherlands shows that the occupancy rate grew from 67.5 percent in 2013 to 69 percent in 2014. It is the first time the rate is above the level of 2008, near the beginning of the financial crisis. Horwath HTL expects the rate to rise up to 70 percent during this year. The average room rate increased by one euro from 95 euros per night to 96 euros per night. It is expected to increase by three percent up to 99 euros in 2015, which would also be the highest rate since 2008. In the luxury segment, the occupancy rate decreased by 2.4 percent, from 68.6 percent to 66.2 percent. However, the average room rate went up by six percent bringing it from 181 euros to 192 euros per night. Like the national average, the luxury segment is also expected to grow. This year should bring a five percent increase to the nightly room price, taking it to 202 euros, while the occupancy rate is expected to climb back over 68 percent again. Amsterdam was the frontrunner in prosperous hotel development. The occupancy rate increased for the first time since 2007, hit the limit of 80 percent and is expected to climb to 81 percent. Average Amsterdam hotel room rate also increased from 117 euros to 119 euros per night and the experts see the rate going up by five percent this year, resulting in 125 euro nightly rate.