The unexpected feature hotels are using to attract Aussie guests: 'A vital requirement'

These days, when travelling, there are countless things guests are looking for in a hotel – is it close to the city's attractions? Does it have a pool? Does it have good dining options? Is there a bath in the room? Does it have a view? Is there a health club? And all of these requests are fulfilled by InterContinental Wellington.

InterContinental is part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Luxury and Lifestyle collection. I always seek out IHG properties when I travel – last year, I visited the Kimpton Vividora Barcelona, and it was just stunning (the hotel had its own signature scent as you entered the building, I was obsessed!), so I was very excited to visit InterContinental Wellington during a recent trip to New Zealand.

I was lucky enough to spend two nights at the hotel and there was one feature in particular that I think will be a major feature in the years to come, with an expert revealing to Yahoo Lifestyle that there are "several benefits" that go with it.

Surprising feature hotels are using to attract guests

During my stay at the InterContinental Wellington, I beelined for the newly refurbished Health Club to try out something I'd never done before – a cold plunge! And it seems as though I'm not the only one, cold plunges are emerging as one of the more popular features that hotels are using to attract guests.

With it being my first time, I tested out the infrared sauna and then psyched myself up to get into the cold plunge with the only aim to beat how long my husband spent under the freezing water (my record was 30 seconds, not great, but not terrible for a newbie, surely?).

Given I only did it once, I probably didn't reap too many benefits, but Deb Sarah, founder of Ice Baths Sydney, tells us why the trend has taken off for Aussies in particular, "Cold plunges have several benefits, including reducing inflammation, speeding up muscle recovery, boosting circulation, and supporting the immune system."

Benefits of an ice bath after a long flight

She adds, "Cold plunges can indeed be beneficial for travellers, especially in boosting mood and improving circulation after long flights. While there’s no direct evidence that cold plunges cure jet lag, they can help reset energy levels and support the body’s recovery by boosting blood flow and reducing inflammation."

That doesn't mean you should jump straight into one as soon as you land, Deb explains, "However, it’s important to note that cold plunges are a stressor on the body. If you're straight off a long flight, I recommend listening to your body — sometimes a good night’s rest is better, and plunging the following day may be more beneficial."

Deb adds that she "definitely" thinks more hotels should offer cold plunges, telling us, "They provide an easy, effective way for guests to refresh, especially after a long trip. It's also a unique wellness feature that could differentiate hotels and attract health-conscious travellers."

'Vital requirement' for travellers

A spokesperson for InterContinental Wellington tells Yahoo Lifestyle that installing a cold plunge pool was something guests were asking of them, describing it as a "vital requirement".

"InterContinental Wellington does target sports teams and fitness travellers who value health-conscious amenities," they share. "It's often used by athletes for muscle recovery, which appeal to teams staying at the hotel during training or events. As a hotel that hosts large sports groups, this was a vital requirement to cater to fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and guests seeking wellness treatments."

They add that this is also part of their luxury wellness experience that they offer, saying, "The plunge pool definitely enhances the appeal of our hotel’s fitness centre. It provides a unique, luxurious experience, adding to the range of therapeutic options like the infrared sauna. This differentiation is certainly attracting guests looking for high-end wellness services."

Intercontinental Wellington – The perfect stay for a city escape

Other than their gym and pool, the wellness benefits continue in the rooms. If you've just jumped off a long-haul flight and need a good night's sleep, then you're in luck. The beds at the InterContinental Wellington are so comfy (and huge!) and will offer you one of the best night's sleep you'll ever have. While you're perfectly positioned to visit all of Wellington's best cafes and restaurants, what better way to spend the morning than by enjoying a room service breakfast while overlooking the water views?

One of my favourite parts about the room was the bathroom – I loved the rain shower and the fact the hotel had Byredo skin and haircare products. We were also lucky enough to have a huge spa bath in our room, and after walking all over the city, it was nice to know that we didn't have to leave our rooms for some relaxation.

The hotel is also home to some excellent dining options, including The Lobby Lounge, which offers an extensive drinks list with all-day meals available. There is also an InterContinental High Tea Experience, which I didn't get to enjoy but is known as a favourite in Wellington!

Next to the hotel is Two Grey, which offers excellent coffee, brunch and a diverse dinner menu. GPO, another dining space, draws influence from the vibrant cuisines of the Mediterranean, Southern Europe, and Levantine. It also features excellent seafood, pasta, and locally grown organic produce.

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We also loved the fact that the hotel was just a 10-minute walk to all the coolest shops, bars, restaurants and cafes. It's also very close to Te Papa, New Zealand's leading museum.

Yahoo Lifestyle was a guest of InterContinental Wellington.

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