In the highly competitive hotel industry, standing out from the crowd is more crucial than ever. UK hotels can benefit greatly from enhancing their online presence by offering more than just overnight stays. Here’s a guide to how your hotel can create unforgettable experiences for your guests and foster long-lasting relationships with local businesses.
1. Offer Unique Experiences
- Local Experiences – Think about what makes your location unique. Maybe there’s a local craft beer tour, or a pottery workshop that visitors would love. By associating your property with these unique experiences, you can create memorable stays.
- Guided Excursions – Why not turn an ordinary hotel stay into an unforgettable adventure? By partnering with local tour guides or companies, hotels can offer excursions and activities that reflect the local culture. From historic castle tours to adventurous mountain hikes, make your guests’ stay an experience to remember.
- Restaurants and Culinary Adventures – Create a list of top restaurants around your property, from fine dining to hidden gems. Including short descriptions or signature dishes which can entice your guests further. Consider establishing partnerships with these local restaurants, who can curate culinary experiences that showcase regional flavours and local cuisine. In exchange for promoting them on your site or social media, they might offer discounts for your guests or promote your property to their customers.
- Nightlife and Entertainment – Nightlife can be a major draw for many travellers. Guide your guests to the best local nightlife by partnering with nearby clubs, pubs, or entertainment venues. Signpost to cultural night events, such as theatre productions, night markets, and open-air cinema events that guests might be interested in. Exclusive passes, guided pub crawls, or simple recommendations can turn a night out into a memorable experience.
2. Social Media Collaborations
Leverage the power of social media to enhance your online presence and reach a broader audience
- Influencer Partnerships – Collaborate with travel influencers who align with your brand. Offering them a complimentary stay or a unique experience in return for coverage on their channels can lead to increased visibility and bookings. Consider Instagram takeovers, where local influencers or businesses take over your property’s Instagram for a day. This exposes your property to a new audience and enhances content variety.
- Cross-Promotions with Local Businesses – Sharing details of local restaurants, shops, and attractions and engaging in reciprocal mentions can foster a sense of community and encourage guests to explore the local area. It also builds a network of local businesses that support each other.
3. Create Comprehensive Local Guides
Consider creating a comprehensive guide detailing everything guests can do around your property. This not only serves as a resource for visitors but also boosts your property’s reputation as an expert on local attractions. You could include such information as:
- Local attractions and landmarks.
- Best restaurants and cafés.
- Nightlife and entertainment options.
- Shopping areas and unique boutiques.
- Transportation and logistical information.
These guides can be available both online and in print, offering a valuable resource to guests looking to explore the area.
4. Offer Customisable Packages
Let your guests create their experience by offering customisable packages. Whether they want a romantic dinner, a guided tour, or tickets to a local show, give them the freedom to choose and create a tailored stay.
5. Create Themed Packages
- Weekend Getaway Packages – Combine stays with local events or activities, such as a wine tasting weekend or a local festival.
- Romantic Packages – Partner with nearby restaurants for a romantic dinner or with local companies for activities like couples’ massages.
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