The recent episode of MC Fireside Chats focused on the evolving world of outdoor hospitality—particularly the glamping sector—and its strong emphasis on enhancing the guest experience. Guest hosts Greg Emmert, founder of Vireo Outdoor Hospitality Consulting, and Scott Bahr, president of Cairn Consulting Group, guided the conversation alongside Brian Searl, who joined remotely from Croatia.

The discussion is framed by the concept that regardless of geographic location or cultural differences, the core challenges and goals in outdoor hospitality remain universal. Brian Searl, joining from a remote Airbnb in Croatia, shares insights from the local camping conference, noting that European "Open Air Resorts" face similar struggles to North America regarding permitting, regulations for mobile homes, and, most importantly, the rising demand for unique guest experiences. He also highlights impressive, high-end developments in Croatia, such as RV sites with private pools.

A central theme introduced by Greg Emmert is that glamping operators are setting the pace for the rest of the outdoor hospitality industry by being "further ahead" in curating unique experiences. Scott Bahr concurs, stating that the glamping sector is actively moving beyond merely offering a "unique accommodation" to providing a "unique experience," a shift that is critical for success in the modern market.

The guest panel brings this concept to life with diverse real-world examples, starting with David Byers, Chief Visionary Officer for Canadian Sleeping Barrels. David, a supplier, explains his product—barrel-shaped accommodations with a large acrylic viewing bubble—and reveals his strategy for driving bookings for his clients: offering custom airbrushed murals on the barrels. This artistic personalization encourages repeat bookings as guests seek to stay in different themed units, transforming the investment into a "Return on Emotion" (ROE), not just a standard return on investment.

Another unique perspective is provided by Steph MacDonald, owner of the single-unit Quabbs Cabin in Wales, UK. Steph demonstrates that success isn't determined by scale. By focusing on a single, luxury, romantic, and dog-friendly cabin, she offers an extreme level of luxurious exclusivity and a highly personal connection to her guests. Her success has been fueled by transparently sharing the cabin's build process on social media, fostering an online community that converted into loyal repeat customers and advocates.

Steph further elaborates on the successful blend of luxury with sustainability at Quabbs Cabin. Initiatives include solar power, water recycling, using reclaimed and sustainable materials, and a wood-fired hot tub, using wood sourced directly from the farm. She points out that by maintaining high standards of luxury alongside these eco-friendly practices, she is actively dispelling the perception that sustainability must equate to a downgraded guest experience, which has garnered positive attention from the media.

MacKenzie Whitsell, owner of Wild Ride in Connecticut, showcases how a mission-driven business can create the ultimate curated experience. Her glamping domes are set on a mustang sanctuary for formerly wild horses. The accommodations are merely a base for guests to engage in immersive, equine-centered activities, such as helping with the evening horse feed and taking guided hikes. MacKenzie's approach successfully draws in both horse enthusiasts and the wellness crowd, offering activities like yoga, sound healing, and a commitment to reconnecting with nature and animals.

The experts also spend time wrestling with the term "glamping" itself. Brian Searl notes that major hospitality brands like Marriott and Hilton are investing in the space but often avoid the term, preferring phrases like "outdoor experience" or focusing on "cabin rentals." Scott Bahr's data suggests that for consumers, the most common definition is simply "elevated camping." The panel concludes that the term should be highly inclusive: if the property successfully connects people to nature and the outdoors, and provides a level of quality and service, it fits the bill.

Looking forward, the operators detail their plans for future growth and improvement. MacKenzie Whitsell is focused on continuous enhancement of the entire property, planning to beautify trails, add more common area gathering spots like hammocks and fire pits, and integrate technology via an app-based interactive scavenger hunt to encourage guests to explore the 150-acre property. This strategy is specifically aimed at catering to the younger, Gen Z demographic who seek controlled social interaction alongside personal space.

Finally, David Byers, the supplier, and Steph MacDonald, the singular-unit owner, conclude their forward-looking statements. David reveals that demand for Canadian Sleeping Barrels is strong enough that he's opening a second shop to double production capacity to 300 units per year, with sales extending across the globe, including Sardinia, Italy. Steph, meanwhile, remains committed to her one-cabin operation, prioritizing the high-touch, personal luxury experience that she has found to be so successful, ensuring the highest level of care and consistency.