UPDATE: In a groundbreaking move for pet owners, Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport has just opened a state-of-the-art hotel for dogs, revolutionizing travel for animal lovers. This initiative comes as travel ramps up, especially during Italy’s peak holiday season.
The new facility, named Dog Relais, offers a seamless experience for travellers. Staff members retrieve dogs directly from the terminal, allowing pet owners to head straight to their flights without the stress of prior arrangements. “This project is fitting into a strategy to provide a very immersive experience to passengers,” stated Marilena Blasi, chief commercial officer at Aeroporti di Roma.
Designed with comfort in mind, basic rooms at the dog hotel start at approximately $47 USD and feature temperature-controlled floors, private gardens, and calming ambient music at night. For more anxious pups, the hotel provides secluded kennels where dogs can interact with caring staff instead of other animals.
Dog owners can also indulge their pets with a range of optional services, including grooming, bathing, and even aromatherapy to promote relaxation. For those who want to stay connected, premium rooms equipped with video call capabilities are available for $70 USD, allowing owners to check in on their furry friends anytime.
The facility not only caters to travellers but also offers daycare services for local pet owners. Alessandra Morelli, an HR professional for Aeroporti di Roma, praised the hotel’s impact on her lifestyle, saying, “Since I’ve been able to bring Nina to this dog hotel, my life and the balance between my personal and professional life have changed.”
In addition to its innovative services, Dog Relais has proven popular among customers. All 40 rooms were fully booked in August, coinciding with Italy’s traditional summer holiday rush. Since opening in May 2023, the hotel has maintained an impressive occupancy rate of nearly two-thirds.
Moreover, this launch aligns with recent changes in Italy’s aviation regulations. Starting this week, large dogs will be permitted to fly in the cabin on domestic flights within secured crates. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini expressed his pride in this development, acknowledging the mixed feelings among the public.
“While some may find this a nuisance, I believe it’s a step forward in terms of civilization,” he remarked at a pet conference. As travel continues to surge, Fiumicino Airport’s dog hotel is set to redefine how pet owners approach travel, ensuring they can enjoy their journeys without leaving their beloved companions behind.
With the growing trend of pet-friendly travel options, the demand for such services is likely to increase. Pet owners looking for stress-free travel can now breathe easier knowing their dogs are in safe hands while they jet off to their destinations. This innovative service at Fiumicino Airport is not just a convenience; it’s a reflection of changing attitudes toward pet ownership and travel.
As this story develops, keep an eye on how other airports may respond with similar initiatives in order to enhance the travel experience for pet owners worldwide.
