The Untapped Opportunity in Asia’s Outdoor Lodging Market — Why So Few Takers?
A recent industry analysis highlighted something fascinating — and ironic — about Asia’s outdoor lodging sector:
It is low-cost, high-return, and offers fast payback, yet the number of serious players entering this space remains surprisingly small.
Asia has some of the world’s richest natural assets: mountains, coastlines, forests, islands, rural landscapes. Traveler preferences have also shifted dramatically toward nature, low-density environments, open-air experiences, and sustainable travel. In theory, outdoor lodging — from luxury tents to nature-based cabins — should be thriving.
And yet… it isn’t.
At least not at the scale the fundamentals suggest it should be.
This raises a set of important questions for our industry:
If the investment structure is attractive,
If demand for nature-based stays is rising,
If the capex and operating barriers are far lower than traditional hotels,
why do so few developers, owners, and operators seize this opportunity in Asia?
Is it a matter of land access?
A lack of operating know-how?
Regulatory uncertainty?
Or simply that the traditional hotel mindset makes this segment feel “non-core” despite its strong economics?
The “irony” here is actually a window of opportunity:
Because the field remains underdeveloped, early movers still have the chance to define standards, secure the best locations, and shape the guest experience for an entire emerging category.
Before the space becomes crowded — as it has in the US, Australia, and parts of Europe — Asia may still be in its formative stage.
I’d love to hear your thoughts:
What is holding outdoor lodging back in Asia?
What barriers are real, and which are simply perceptions?
Do you see this sector becoming a core hospitality asset class in the next 5–10 years?
Looking forward to learning from the community’s insights.
Link: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bennyshen_the-untapped-opportunity-in-asias-outdoor-activity-7404349286412689408-pdwu?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAEZBqx4BgKJtBTJISyieeFfdw6hklJInSSk
