Essay

In this essay, you will examine resorts from two perspectives: the guest and the operator.

Part 1: A resort vacation stay can be considered an unnecessary expense for some; however, others consider it a necessary evil. Choose a resort in the United States that you would consider visiting and address the following:

- Describe your resort, and plan your stay to be at least five days to a week. What made you choose this resort? Does your chosen resort capitalize on new market trends? How so, or why not?

- Prepare a food expense report for your stay. Include all foods consumed and their costs, from breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, room service, and convenience items, such as sodas and alcohol.

- Write an expense report (organized by day) with the total spent. Include travel, lodging, daily food totals, entertainment, and recreation. Is this vacation something you would take advantage of if you had the financial capability? Why, or why not?

- Why did you pick this type of resort over others? Compare and contrast your choice to either a timeshare, cruise ship, specialty resort, casino, or other.

Part 2: The operations of a resort property are financially complex. Imagine you are the resort owner and operator for the resort you choose in Part 1 and address the following:

- Identify some sustainable programs or efforts that could make this a less-complex function. In other words, how can resort management be rewarded financially for implementing "green" or sustainable programs?

- What are the management differences between a resort property and a hotel?
- What are the financial challenges? Include a discussion on seasonality and competition?