With more and more short-term vacation rental options popping up every day, offering a clean place to sleep isn’t enough anymore. Guests expect more than just a bed and a bathroom. They often want experiences, and they want to feel special.
This is where personalized guest experiences come in. It’s about going the extra mile to make your guests feel welcome, valued, and, well, special! Things like a handwritten welcome note, a basket full of local goodies, and specially selected food and drinks waiting in the kitchen can go a really long way.
And while this may seem a bit over the top, once you see the consistent 5-star reviews come in you’ll see just how much it’s worth the extra effort.
Know Thy Guest
To create a truly personalized experience, you need to know your guests before they even show up. Everyone is unique, with their own preferences, interests, and reasons for traveling. Start by paying close attention to the information they provide when booking. Are they celebrating a special occasion? Did they mention any dietary restrictions? Little details like these can make a big difference.
Communication is key here. Don’t be afraid to send a friendly message to ask about their plans or if they need anything specific. You could even create an automated one to go out when a booking comes in to get the ball rolling.
Ask if they need any local recommendations, what they hope to do during their stay, and if they may need any extra blankets or towels. If someone is gluten- or dairy-free, you can stock the fridge and cabinets with appropriate snacks and drinks. It brings back memories of the early days of Airbnb when hosts and guests would actually talk and spend time together!
Taking the time to reach out and chat before they arrive at your property shows you care and gives you an opportunity to tailor their stay to their liking.
Create a Memorable Stay
Now that you know your guests a little better, it’s time to start wowing them. A welcome gift is a great place to start — but instead of a generic basket of toiletries, consider doing something more thoughtful. Foodies would love a selection of local treats. Nature enthusiasts might need a hiking map and some granola bars for an afternoon spent outdoors. Families with children would get a lot of use out of toys, coloring books, and board games.
Local experiences are another way to stand out. Share your favorite hidden gems with your guests. Maybe it’s a charming café, a scenic walking trail, or a neighborhood dive bar. One of the biggest reasons travelers choose Airbnb over traditional hotels is the opportunity to experience a destination like a local. When you provide your own, personalized recommendations you help them make the most of their trip.
Not only does this enhance the guest experience, but it also sets you apart from other hosts!
Surprise and delight are also key. If you know your guests are celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or an accomplishment, leave them a handwritten note congratulating them — or even a special gift. Leaving out some champagne or sparkling apple juice with some fancy cups is sure to impress.
Finally, let your amenities do some of the talking. Aim to go beyond the essentials like pillows, blankets, and free coffee and tea. Small touches like investing in an espresso machine or smart home features like adjustable lighting and temperature controls will set your STR apart even further.
Go the Extra Mile
To truly wow your short-term rental guests, treat your property like a 5-star hotel. Offer concierge services like booking reservations, arranging transportation, and setting up walking tours and the like. It’s a great opportunity to partner with local businesses on exclusive discounts or experiences available only to your guests.
If you have the time (or help to back you up), you could even set up a daily cleaning/refresh, just like at a hotel. You can also leave a basket full of breakfast foods on their doorstep each morning with the neighborhood paper. Talk about living like a true local!
When you invest time and effort into personalized guest experiences, you’ll create happier guests and build a loyal customer base. Word-of-mouth is a powerful thing, and people will be more likely to talk about their stay when they have an exceptional experience.
As you consider what to do at your property to wow your customers, remember that it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. By paying attention to your guests’ needs and preferences, you can create unforgettable stays that keep them coming back for more.
