In the context of travelers increasingly prioritizing responsible tourism, hotels and resorts can no longer stand aside from the trend of incorporating sustainable interior design to enhance guest experiences and attract the new generation of tourists.

According to the 2025 Sustainable Tourism Survey by Agoda, 77% of Vietnamese travelers and 68% of travelers across Asia reported that sustainability is an important criterion when planning their travel this year. This is a clear signal of a shift in consumer behavior, where the experience is not only expected to be convenient but also responsible toward the environment and community.

1. Hotel Interiors: A Key Element of Sustainable Commitment

A sustainable resort space must include elements such as:

Environmentally friendly materials (recycled wood, organic fabrics, low-VOC paints).

Minimalist design that saves energy and utilizes natural light and ventilation.

Furniture that can be reused or recycled after its lifecycle.

Priority for local sourcing, supporting local communities.

These solutions not only reduce the environmental impact but also create an engaging brand story – something that modern travelers increasingly care about.

2. Vietnamese Travelers Among the Leading "Green" Tourists in Asia

According to a survey by Agoda, with over 6,000 participants from 11 countries in Asia:

Vietnam ranks 5th among the countries with the most sustainability-conscious travelers, following the Philippines (86%), India (82%), Taiwan, and Malaysia (80%).

Nearly a quarter of Asian travelers prioritize authentic travel experiences that are close to the community.

20% choose accommodations with sustainability certifications.

18% bring reusable items, with Japan standing out at 25%.

These figures show a clear shift in the standards for selecting accommodation, urging hotels and resorts to make long-term investments in sustainable interior design.

3. Green Design is No Longer an "Option" – It’s a Competitive Advantage

To meet this new preference, hotels should:

Restructure interior spaces in a green direction: use natural materials and intelligent layouts to save energy.

Tell the design story: each piece of furniture should carry a sustainability message – from FSC-certified wood to emission-free production processes.

Obtain green building certifications (LEED, EDGE, Green Key, etc.) to enhance credibility.

Collaborate with interior contractors knowledgeable about green design to ensure quality while optimizing the budget.

Image source: Sani Resort, Greece, from One Planet Journey

Conclusion

Sustainable tourism is no longer a trend, but a lifestyle for an entire generation. Hotel interiors play a core role in conveying green values directly and subtly. Businesses that adopt this trend early will have a significant advantage in the race to win the hearts of conscientious and responsible travelers.