Two Capella hotels now accept cryptocurrency payments, signalling a new standard for guest services and financial operations in high-end travel and hospitality. Olivia Palamountain reports
Capella Hotel Group has announced it will begin accepting Digital Payment Tokens (DPTs) aka crypto at two of its flagship properties: Capella Singapore and Patina Maldives, Fari Islands.
The Singapore-based hotel group has partnered with dtcpay, a DPT payment service provider licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, to facilitate these transactions without exposing guests to price volatility risks.
How does it work? At Capella Singapore, guests can now settle their bills by simply scanning a QR code on a dtcpay terminal at the front desk during check-in or check-out. The hotel currently accepts DPT payments for all charges to the room that can be settled upon departure.
At Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, payments can be made through a secure link. Find further details abou
The Capella properties currently accept five types of digital tokens:
1. WUSD (Worldwide USD)
2. USDT (Tether)
3. USDC (USD Coin)
4. Bitcoin (BTC)
5. Ethereum (ETH)
This range of options offers guests the benefits of swift, secure transactions and the convenience of avoiding currency conversions for international payments.
With more than 560 million people globally owning digital currencies, Capella’s adoption of DPTs is poised to appeal to a new segment of travellers. From an operational standpoint, this initiative is expected to reduce settlement times and enhance the overall customer experience.
Cristiano Rinaldi, president of Capella Hotel Group, says: “We are proud to be one of the first Singapore-based hotel groups to accept digital payment tokens, testifying to our commitment to innovation and unparalelled service. This is just the beginning of our journey into the world of digital assets, and we look forward to exploring more innovative ways to enhance the guest experience through technology.
“By integrating digital payment tokens, we’re not only enhancing convenience but also significantly boosting operational efficiency. This technology allows for fast, secure transactions, reducing the complexities often associated with international payments.”
The group plans to extend this payment option to more Capella and Patina properties in the future, signalling a broader shift towards digital currency adoption in the luxury hospitality sector.