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In today’s competitive hospitality landscape, hotel distribution channels are critical to connecting hotels with potential guests. These channels include online travel agencies (OTAs), global distribution systems (GDS), metasearch engines, bedbanks, and direct bookings, among others.&nbsp;Thanks to the wide range of channels at their disposal, independent hotels and small chains have the opportunity to compete with global hotel brands. However, success depends on using these distribution channels effectively, rather than trying to use them all at the same time. Selecting the right mix of channels that align with a hotel’s goals is crucial. &nbsp;&nbsp;In this article, we'll explore direct channel distribution, its current landscape, key benefits, and future projections for 2024–2025. Additionally, we'll discuss how hotels can optimise direct bookings while complementing their B2B distribution strategy with platforms like Hotelbeds.&nbsp;&nbsp;How Does a Direct Distribution Channel Work?The direct booking channel allows hotels to sell rooms directly to guests through their own platforms, such as the hotel website, phone, email, live chat, or messaging apps. This channel is particularly attractive to hoteliers because it removes commission fees, for example. As a result, hotels retain more revenue per booking, while maintaining full control over pricing, guest relationships, and branding.&nbsp;Recent data shows that while 60% of hotel bookings are made online, only about 20% are completed directly on hotel websites, according to a report by Amadeus. In contrast, OTAs still dominate the market. This disparity can be attributed to OTA marketing budgets, consumer trust, and the convenience of booking through well-established third-party platforms. &nbsp;&nbsp;A report by Phocuswright forecast that, throughout 2024, direct bookings would grow modestly, due to technological improvements and increased guest preferences for personalised service. However, the direct channel still has many competitors, which offer strong customer acquisition capabilities, particularly in emerging markets. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hoteliers must invest in user-friendly technology, marketing, and guest experience enhancements to capture more direct bookings. For example, studies indicate that by 2025, direct bookings could grow by 10-15% if hotels optimise their digital strategies and focus on personalising guest journeys.&nbsp;Benefits of Leveraging the Direct Channel DistributionDirect bookings offer hoteliers numerous advantages beyond avoiding OTA commissions. These benefits include cost savings, enhanced guest experiences and brand control. &nbsp;&nbsp;Higher Profit Margins: By eliminating the OTA commissions, which can be as high as 25%, direct bookings significantly improve a hotel's profitability. A HSMAI report found that hotels could improve revenue per booking by up to 18% through direct channels, contributing to better bottom-line performance. &nbsp;&nbsp;Stronger Guest Relationships: The direct channel provides hotels with the opportunity to interact with guests from the beginning. This enables more personalised communication, which fosters loyalty. According to Skift, hotels that focus on direct bookings have the potential to increase their guest retention rate by 8-10%, as they offer custom experience. &nbsp;&nbsp;Complete Control Over Brand and Guest Experience: Through direct bookings, hotels control the entire guest journey—from pre-booking to post-stay engagement. This level of control ensures that the hotel can provide a consistent brand experience, personalising every touchpoint, such as emails, booking confirmations, and follow-ups, which contributes to long-term guest loyalty. &nbsp;&nbsp;Revenue Management and Data Insights: Direct channels offer better insights into customer behaviour, allowing hotels to refine their pricing and marketing strategies. Access to direct customer data enables hotels to implement targeted marketing campaigns, helping increase RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room).&nbsp;Why Is the Direct Channel the Perfect Complement to B2B Distribution?While direct booking channels are a powerful tool for hotels to increase profitability and control, they work best when complemented by a solid B2B distribution strategy. For example, Hotelbeds provide hotels with access to over 60,000 travel trade distributors globally, which allows them to reach high-value, long-haul customers and niche markets that may not be easily accessible through direct channels. &nbsp;&nbsp;By integrating the direct booking channel with a robust B2B platform like Hotelbeds, hotels can reduce their dependence on other distribution channels with higher commissions while maintaining high visibility across multiple markets. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hotelbeds is part of HBX Group, a global network of interconnected products and services that serves the needs of global travel players. The group also includes Roiback, the brand specialised in direct distribution. In this way, through the HBX Group offering, we enable hoteliers to integrate their revenue streams with both B2B and direct distribution channels, balancing short- and long-term goals. &nbsp;&nbsp;Essential Features for an Effective Direct Booking ChannelThere are certain components that you could include in your direct booking strategy in order to achieve faster results and streamline your operations. Listed below are those we recommend for effective distribution:&nbsp;Booking Engine: A fast, user-friendly, and secure booking engine integrated into the hotel’s website is essential. It should offer real-time availability, flexible payment options, and seamless navigation to encourage bookings. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loyalty Programmes: Offering rewards and perks for direct bookings helps build long-term relationships with guests and encourages repeat stays. &nbsp;&nbsp;Digital Marketing: Hotels must invest in a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that includes search engine optimisation (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns, social media marketing, and email marketing to drive traffic to their website. &nbsp;&nbsp;Multilingual Support: To appeal to international travellers, it’s crucial for the direct booking channel to offer content in multiple languages. This not only improves accessibility for global customers but also increases conversion rates by making it easier to navigate the site and book rooms. &nbsp;&nbsp;Flexible Payment Options: Providing various payment methods, including local currencies and different payment gateways (such as PayPal, Apple Pay, and international credit cards), ensures that guests from all regions can complete their bookings easily. &nbsp;&nbsp;Integrated Customer Support: Incorporating live chat, chatbot support, or a direct messaging option helps answer potential guests’ questions in real-time. This reduces booking friction by addressing concerns or questions immediately, leading to higher conversion rates. &nbsp;&nbsp;Advanced Analytics and Personalisation Tools: Hotels should use data analytics to track customer behaviour, allowing them to offer tailored packages, special discounts, and personalised recommendations. Data-driven insights help increase conversion rate and guest satisfaction.&nbsp;How to Improve Direct Channel Performance?While the direct booking channel eliminates commission fees, it comes with its own costs, such as technology investments and marketing expenses. Therefore, optimising this channel requires strategic planning and execution. Here are some actionable steps hotels can take to improve their direct booking channel performance - whether they have external assistance or not.Boost Online Visibility &nbsp;SEO Best Practices: Optimise your hotel’s website for search engines by using relevant keywords, creating high-quality content, and ensuring fast load times. Higher visibility on search engines will increase organic traffic and drive more direct bookings. &nbsp;&nbsp;Presence on Metasearch Engines: Metasearch engines like Google Hotel Ads, TripAdvisor, and Trivago allow travellers to compare rates and options from various providers, including OTAs. For hotels, appearing on these platforms increases brand visibility and price competitiveness, directing more traffic to the hotel’s official site. This approach can capture high-intent users already at the booking stage, converting them into direct bookings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mobile-Friendly Design: With more than 50% of bookings made on mobile devices, ensuring your website is mobile-responsive is critical. A mobile-friendly design enhances user experience, encouraging higher conversion rates. &nbsp;&nbsp;Diversify Marketing Strategies &nbsp;Cross-Channel Advertising: Implement a paid advertising strategy that spans search engines, display networks, and social media platforms. This will boost your hotel's visibility, occupancy rates, and RevPAR. &nbsp;&nbsp;Email Marketing: Use email campaigns to engage with past guests and potential new customers. Offer personalised discounts, exclusive deals, and news about upcoming events to drive repeat bookings. &nbsp;&nbsp;Influencer and Affiliate Marketing: Partner with influencers and affiliates to promote your hotel to their audience, leveraging their reach to boost direct bookings. &nbsp;&nbsp;Optimise the User Journey &nbsp;Compelling Visuals and Virtual Tours: Guests rely heavily on visuals when choosing a hotel. Ensure your website includes high-quality images, videos, and virtual tours of your property to highlight its unique selling points. &nbsp;&nbsp;Personalised Messaging: Tailor your marketing and website content to specific guest segments—families, business travellers, or couples—with personalised offers and messaging. &nbsp;&nbsp;Membership and Loyalty Programmes: Offering exclusive perks, such as discounted rates or complementary amenities, will encourage guests to choose your direct channel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintain Rate Parity &nbsp;Maintain Rate Parity: Maintaining rate parity across distribution channels, including OTAs and metasearch engines, is essential for maintaining trust and avoiding potential penalties from third-party platforms.&nbsp;These are just a few areas to pay attention to and invest in to maximise your direct channel value. The responsibility of handling all these tasks can become exhausting and time-consuming, and if you also feel this way, consider partnering with companies like Roiback from HBX Group, specialised in the direct channel, who will help you. &nbsp;&nbsp;Final Thoughts: Maximising Bookings with a Balanced Distribution Strategy&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In conclusion, exploring and investing in direct channel distribution is an essential step for any hotelier aiming to diversify their distribution strategy. While the direct channel offers many advantages—such as improved profit margins, strengthened guest relationships, and greater control over branding—it requires strategic investment in technology and marketing to ensure it is fully optimised for sustainable, medium- to long-term results.&nbsp;When combined with a robust B2B distribution strategy, such as the one offered by Hotelbeds, hoteliers can significantly increase bookings while achieving stronger profit margins than with many other distribution channels. The reach of Hotelbeds’ global network, alongside a well-developed direct channel, allows hotels to maximise their visibility in diverse markets and increase profitability.&nbsp;Register your property with Hotelbeds today to discover the extensive benefits of B2B distribution. To learn more, download our visual guide showcasing the complete range of products and services available to support your property’s growth and efficiency.

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Building a Profitable Hotel Strategy: Direct Channel Distribution  

As the year winds down, there's one night that stands out on every hotelier's calendar – New Year's Eve.&nbsp;This is a golden opportunity for your hotel to turn this celebration into a revenue-generating event.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this article, we delve into the significance of New Year's Eve for hotels, offering insights on how to craft unforgettable experiences for your guests. From themed packages to irresistible dinners and marketing tips, we've got your New Year's Eve covered.Why is This Night Special for Hoteliers?While the Christmas season already brings joy and an increase in bookings, New Year's Eve stands out as a key night for creating memorable experiences and boosting revenue. This event attracts not only hotel guests but also individuals seeking an unforgettable way to bid farewell to the year.&nbsp;Guests often extend their stay for 2 or 3 nights, choosing the convenience of enjoying the festivities without the hassle of preparing meals. Renowned chefs, gala dinners, fireworks, and open bars are just a few reasons why more people opt to spend New Year's Eve in a hotel, seeking a unique experience.&nbsp;Celebrating in a hotel provides ample space for large family gatherings or groups of friends, enhancing the sense of community and festivity.What Can You Do To Make the Most of It?Special Offers for New Year's EveBy strategically designing offers that cater to different preferences, hoteliers can maximise bookings and create a diverse and vibrant New Year's Eve celebration at their establishments. Check out some ideas for creating the most attractive packages.&nbsp;Early Bird Specials: Create a sense of urgency and entice early bookings by offering special discounts for guests who confirm their New Year's Eve dinner reservations well in advance. This not only ensures a committed guest base but also provides an initial boost to bookings.&nbsp;Exclusive Access Passes: Introduce exclusive access passes that include premium benefits such as a reserved table in a prime location, priority service, and free champagne. This caters to guests seeking a VIP experience and adds a touch of luxury to the celebration.&nbsp;Group Discounts: Encourage group bookings by offering attractive discounts for larger parties. This is especially appealing for families and friends planning to celebrate New Year's Eve together, providing an incentive to choose your hotel.&nbsp;Flexible Seating Options: Cater to different preferences by offering flexible seating options. Allow guests to choose between intimate private tables, communal dining for a social atmosphere, or even outdoor dining options.&nbsp;Join Hotelbeds' New Year's Eve campaignAmong our global marketing initiatives, our New Year's Eve campaign is one of the most successful, along with our Black Friday promotions. This is a great opportunity for property owners to increase their visibility in our network, which includes more than 60,000 distributors, like travel agencies, airlines, bank institutions, tour operators, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;We discussed earlier in this article that New Year's Eve is one of the key periods in the year when hotel room demand is high. Hotelbeds plays a crucial role here by offering the best hotels to our wide network of travel distributors.&nbsp;&nbsp;And how do we do it? We implement a wide range of promotional actions, including mass email campaigns, banner placement on our booking engine, the creation of dedicated landing pages, and promotion on social media, among other initiatives. This way, we reach a global audience eager to benefit from this highly beneficial campaign. Here are all the details you need to know:&nbsp;The booking window for travel distributors will be from 26th December 2024 to 31st January 2025.&nbsp;As for the travel window, customers will be able to travel between 26th December 2024 and 31st December 2025. &nbsp;&nbsp;If your property is already registered with Hotelbeds, you will receive detailed information via email about the campaign. If you haven’t registered yet, we recommend joining as soon as possible by completing this brief form. Once completed, we will contact you to guide you through the onboarding process, so you can start distributing your rooms as soon as possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now it's time to offer the best conditions to attract high-value guests during this time when many plan their trips in advance. Ready to make a great start to the new year?&nbsp;&nbsp;Hotel New Year's Eve PackagesApart from offering special promotions for this event, you should consider crafting original, enticing packages to attract more bookings. Themed packages can serve well for this purpose, and here you can get some ideas.&nbsp;Classic New Year's Eve Package: One-night accommodation, gourmet dinner at the hotel's restaurant, access to the New Year's Eve countdown party, a midnight champagne toast, and late check-out on New Year's Day.&nbsp;VIP Luxury Package: Including a luxurious suite, private dinner in-room or at the hotel's restaurant, exclusive VIP party access and a free champagne bottle, and spa treatments and a couples' massage on New Year's Day.&nbsp;Family Fun Package: Create family-friendly packages with special children's menus and entertainment suitable for all ages. This ensures that families feel welcome and comfortable celebrating New Year's Eve at your hotel. Also, provide them with the option to book connecting rooms.&nbsp;Adventure and Outdoor Package: If the weather is good and your property has the facilities, you can offer accommodations in cosy cabins or glamping tents, and a special outdoor New Year's Eve dinner.&nbsp;Themed Party Package: Specially designed for groups of friends, you can offer a themed New Year's Eve party with costumes (e.g., The Great Gatsby, a masquerade ball), live entertainment and special cocktails, and themed brunch or breakfast the following day.&nbsp;Wellness and Detox Package: Following this travel trend, you can cater to travellers looking for a relaxing farewell to 2024 by offering yoga sessions, a detox-focused dinner for New Year's Eve, spa access, and guided nature walks on New Year's Day.&nbsp;Leverage add-ons like spa services, champagne in-room, and late check-out for additional revenue. Utilise the Christmas season to sell restaurant and spa services, targeting guests who have already booked for the holiday season.&nbsp;Ideas For New Year’s Eve Dinner at Your HotelIn order to increase bookings for the dinner, you can go the extra mile and come up with original proposals.&nbsp;For example, you can create a ‘global feast experience’ by offering a New Year's Eve dinner with a selection of dishes from around the world. Also, a fusion-themed menu can be innovative and exceed your clients' expectations, such as an Italian-Japanese fusion menu, which is trendy nowadays.&nbsp;Another good idea would be to embrace the ‘farm-to-table’ concept for this special dinner by featuring locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. You could collaborate with nearby farmers to create a sustainable and environmentally conscious dining experience.&nbsp;Creating a 'photocall' is always a fantastic way to encourage guests to share their pictures with friends on social media. This way, you'll get free visibility about your event and reach potential guests interested in your hotel and facilities. Provide wigs, masks and other festive accessories for your attendees. And don't forget to include some branding in the photocall space, like your hotel name or a specific hashtag you create for the event.&nbsp;Also, why not choose a specific theme for the dinner party? Themes such as a masquerade ball, a black etiquette party, a tropical New Year's Eve party, or an all-white party can take your New Year's Eve dinner to the next level and make it unforgettable due to its originality. If you decide to implement this idea, don't forget to decorate the dining room accordingly. By doing so, you'll stand out from the competition and attract both tourists and locals to your hotel.&nbsp;When it comes to decor, remember that ambiance is crucial to the success of the event. Partner with a local decoration business for original decor ideas, establishing a collaboration for future events.&nbsp;Finally, consider hiring a photographer to capture professional photos of the event. This will provide you with valuable visual content for social media and other online channels, such as your website, emails, etc.&nbsp;How to Promote Your NYE’s EventThe first step in planning your event is deciding what it will look like and what it will include. The next step is to promote the event and reach as many potential attendees as possible. Here are some ideas for promoting your event both online and offline.On Social Media:Build anticipation: Use various content formats to create excitement and interest in your upcoming event. Regarding content formats, consider creating carousels with images explaining what the event is about and the price, a single image with all the info, short videos for Reels/Stories/TikTok where you show a recap video from last year and a member of your team explains what the current event will look like.You can also generate excitement and urgency by launching flash sales or limited-time discounts exclusively on social media platforms.&nbsp;Influencer Outreach: Collaborate with influencers to reach both local and international targets. Ask them to tell what the event is all about and what makes your property special in order to entice visitors. You can offer this person free access to the event and a free stay in exchange.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leverage User-Generated Content: Create a special New year's hashtag related to your event and encourage your attendees to use it and tag you. Afterwards, share their posts through stories and save them in a new 'Highlights' folder under the name ‘NYE 2024’. In preparation for New Year 2025, you can always revisit this folder and reshare some posts to build anticipation.&nbsp;Other online and offline channels:Email Marketing: Send promotional emails with early bird discounts to your database.&nbsp;Website promotion: Update your website with a dedicated section or banner explaining the event and what it includes. See how Marriott promotes its New Year's Eve dinner in New York.&nbsp;Offline promotion: Print flyers, create short local radio ads, and billboards to reach a wider audience.&nbsp;Encourage Guest Testimonials and ReviewsSeek feedback after the event through a variety of channels, such as email, WhatsApp, Google or TripAdvisor reviews.In case you contact them directly through email or WhatsApp, you could take the opportunity to send them a survey. Positive testimonials build trust and credibility, attracting new guests for next year's celebration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout this article, we've explored why New Year's Eve is a great opportunity for hoteliers to not just celebrate, but also increase revenue streams. From crafting themed packages that entice guests to curating unforgettable New Year's Eve dinners and leveraging smart marketing strategies, we've shared insights to ensure your hotel shines amidst the festivities.&nbsp;Additionally, Hotelbeds and our portfolio of 60,000+ partners can help you gain exposure to those travel distributors seeking special New Year's Eve offerings. If you already work with us, update your details for this special night on our Partner Portal. On the contrary, if you are not yet a member, register your property now, and in a matter of days, you'll be able to access our extensive network.&nbsp;Finally, before you leave, here's a valuable resource awaiting you at the end – our guide to 'Understanding Hotel Distribution'. In the ever-evolving hospitality industry landscape, mastering the art of distribution is key. As you prepare for an unforgettable New Year's Eve, ensure you also have the knowledge to navigate the dynamic world of hotel distribution. Get it for free now!

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New Year’s Eve Hotel Events: Ideas for Packages & Promotion Tips

&nbsp;As we approach the holiday season, with Black Friday just around the corner and Christmas not far behind, now is the perfect opportunity to enhance your travel marketing materials.&nbsp;Personalising your marketing content is essential for attracting your target audience, especially during one of the busiest commercial times of the year.&nbsp;Luckily, our data-driven search and recommendation tool, Insights, has a unique flyer creation tool which allows you to create bespoke marketing in just a few clicks.&nbsp;In today's fast-paced marketing world, creating custom flyers that highlight your deals or comparing tailored hotels for your clients is essential. With customers becoming increasingly savvy in their travel choices, it's crucial to offer personalised experiences. Research shows that 80% of clients expect a personalised retail experience, making it more important than ever to stay ahead of the game.&nbsp;As a travel provider, you play a crucial role in shaping the traveller's experience. Clients rely on you to provide them with the best rates, hotels, and experiences that align with their needs and budget. This responsibility becomes even more important during peak commercial periods when countless deals are being promoted by various brands.&nbsp;In an era where travellers are increasingly adept at customising their own unique travel experiences through Online Travel Agents (OTAs), for example, it is imperative for your success to provide travel choices that cater not only to their financial constraints but also to their specific preferences - all while being easily accessible at first glance.&nbsp;So read on to discover just how to create personalised Black Friday marketing flyers with Insights.Step One &nbsp;– Understanding Your ClientStep Two – Artificial Intelligence is Your Friend!Step Three – Make It Personal&nbsp;Step One – Understanding Your ClientThe most important aspect for any travel provider is the ability to offer travel solutions that are tailored to your clients’ needs. This can include the type of holiday they’re looking for, when they’re hoping to travel, and how best to communicate their most suitable options.&nbsp;Insights allows you to translate this knowledge into potential booking options by selecting filters relevant to the client.&nbsp;With Insights you can filter for:&nbsp;Best opportunity – the hotels and resorts most likely to be booked in your marketType of hotel – including top sellers and new hotelsType of traveller – including business, families, and adults-onlyCategory – such as star rating and TripAdvisor rating&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, being able to filter for traveller preferences, types of hotels, and the properties you should be taking advantage of to uplift your revenue, also translates to your travel marketing and how you’re communicating any deals or offers with your customers.&nbsp;Different clients will respond positively to different offers, so it’s important that you’re presenting the most enticing deals at the right time, to the right client, in the right way, no matter the stage of the booking journey they're at.&nbsp;With Insights, you’re able to build travel marketing materials with the Custom Flyer Tool which are entirely tailored to your client’s requirements.&nbsp;Insights’ share functionality seamlessly builds flyers fit for distribution with just a few clicks. When plotting your travel marketing or communication strategy for any client, consider how best they’re going to receive information from you, and under which circumstances.&nbsp;This phase of planning is going to play a valuable role in your relationship with the client, as not only should you hope to delight them with your service, but you want to secure the booking – and should aim to become their go-to travel provider for all future trips.&nbsp;Discover more about Insights as the go-to search and recommendation tool here.&nbsp;Step Two – Artificial Intelligence is Your Friend!We recognise that the expertise of travel providers is often derived from their own experience and industry knowledge. And while there will always be a place for your individual knowledge, putting your trust in artificial intelligence can undoubtedly enhance your value as a comprehensive travel provider.&nbsp;Insights is loaded with real-time data which gives you a clear idea of what today’s travellers are booking and what’s competitive in your specific market. By utilising this live global data, you’ll gain access to valuable information that ensures you’re remaining competitive, and taking advantage of opportunities your competitors may not have access to.&nbsp;Depending on the information you’ve already gleaned from your client through varying means and at different stages of their booking journey, you can amend Insights' filters to bring up the most relevant data relating to the customer.&nbsp;Say, for example, you know that your customer is planning to travel from the United States to somewhere in Europe within the next three months. You also know that you’ve got high growth-potential properties in this destination thanks to your top recommended destinations shown on the Insights dashboard.&nbsp;This means that when you click into any of these recommended destinations, which are ranked by their potential for you and your business, you'll be able to not only filter for hotels in this destination that suit your clients perfectly, but also maximise your revenue by selling stays that will benefit you the most in terms of revenue.&nbsp;By adjusting the filters within Insights you’ll be able to see the top recommended that benefit your business, as well as those your clients will prefer – which leads us onto our next step.&nbsp;&nbsp;Step Three – Make It PersonalNow that you know where your client wants to go (and what offers they’re most receptive to) it’s time to make things personal.&nbsp;&nbsp;Head to Insights’ dashboard, as a first step. Once you’ve looked through your top recommended destinations, handpicked for their potential growth opportunity for your business, you’ll notice a ‘Create Your Flyer’ sharing option.&nbsp;Click this button, and you can select up to eight hotels you think your client will love. &nbsp;&nbsp;If we’re to give a top tip, we’d suggest filtering the hotels out further by traveller type, star rating and TripAdvisor rating. You can also accommodate for essential travel preferences like sustainability by using the appropriate filters.&nbsp;After finalising your top choices, you'll see that the 'Create Your Flyer' button now presents you with the option to either download or share the selected hotels. Go ahead and click this to move to the next step.&nbsp;Next, you'll be prompted to choose a format: portrait or landscape. The landscape option provides additional details about each hotel, while the portrait format is ideal for quickly comparing lead photos and key information like price.&nbsp;Once you’ve decided which your client would prefer, click the option, and move on through to the next stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here, we highly recommend incorporating your logo into your travel marketing materials. This allows for a personal touch that clearly shows off your business to your clients. Marketing can often be a significant investment in both time and money, but with Insights, customising your flyer is a simple and cost-effective endeavour.&nbsp;Next, you’ll be asked if you’d like to customise your content. This is a brilliant way to personalise your marketing materials to a specific client, and we’d recommend adding the client’s name to the header to let them know that these choices are far from generic – in fact, they were carefully chosen by you, their go-to travel provider.&nbsp;Implementing personalisation gestures like this can have a significant impact on your relationship with potential customers, with studies showing that up to 72% of consumers prefer responding to personalised marketing messages.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, if you skipped that stage, revisit step one and customise your headings accordingly. Once you have reviewed your chosen hotels for the final time (adjusting their order or concealing costs as needed), it is time to send out your marketing materials to the client.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, there you have it! Insights’ personalisation features require minimum effort, but could bring maximum rewards.&nbsp;Take a closer look at the other valuable features of Insights as your new favourite search and recommendation tool!&nbsp;&nbsp;If you're not already one of our valued travel partners, then make sure you're taking advantage of this time-saving, booking-boosting tool by signing up for free today.

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Insights, powered by AI

Personalise your Black Friday Travel Marketing with Insights

Smart cities are an attractive target for criminals and cyber threat actors to exploit vulnerable systems to steal critical infrastructure data and proprietary information, conduct ransomware operations, or launch destructive cyberattacks.&nbsp;Smart cities may create safer, more efficient, more resilient communities through technological innovation and data-driven decision-making; however, this opportunity also introduces potential vulnerabilities that, if exploited, could impact national security, economic security, public health and safety, and critical infrastructure operations.&nbsp;With the increase in organised cybercrime globally, businesses and organisations are prioritising cybersecurity best practices to protect themselves. As a provider, it is essential to be well-informed in order to address any questions that arise from travellers.&nbsp;What is a Smart City?And how is this linked to tourist safety in-destination?&nbsp;It is important to note that there is not a universal definition or determining factor that categorises a city as 'smart' over another. The maturity of technology and infrastructure play a key role in identifying a smart city. For instance, a city with a well-established and long-standing integration of technology into its infrastructure would be considered smarter than a city with a newly implemented scheme that is just beginning.&nbsp;So when thinking about what makes a smart city, this can refer to communities or settled areas that:Integrate information and communication technology (ICT), community-wide data, and intelligent solutions in order to transform its infrastructure or optimise community decisions, in response to community needs.Connect operational technology (OT) - used in smart cities to monitor, control, and adjust any machines and systems that run a city's infrastructure including traffic lights, smart cars, and smart buildings - with digital networks and apps that collect and analyse data, like Internet of Things (IoT) devices, artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and cloud computing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Common Cybersecurity Risks in Smart CitiesWhile many risks are not unique to smart cities due to the widespread integration of technology in our daily lives, it is important to acknowledge the specific cybersecurity risks that may arise when visiting destinations known for their advanced technology. These risks should be carefully considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.&nbsp;Learn more about common cyber-attacks and their potential impact on travellers by exploring the information provided here.&nbsp;Data Theft, Interception and SurveillanceSmart cities collect large amounts of sensitive data, such as traffic flow, waste management, and facial recognition. This data can be used for identity theft, ransomware, and device hijacking.&nbsp;Certain countries may actively monitor and/or intercept digital communications made by travellers. This can include emails, messages, or any data which is sent via the internet.&nbsp;Privacy BreachesSmart city public safety systems that use AI-powered surveillance technologies may be susceptible to hacking, leading to privacy breaches.&nbsp;When it comes to the process that travellers can take if they do think their privacy has been breached while abroad, here are a few steps that can be taken: &nbsp;Change passwords/secure devices – depending on the breach, and if it can be mitigated this way.Report any fraudulent activity – when it comes to banking and credit, for example, initiating a ‘fraud alert’ can ensure that your customers’ account is monitored for any future fraudulent activity.Lodge a complaint – with the local data protection agency in-destination. For example, if a traveller is in the European Union (EU), the DPA of the destination they were visting is the main point of contact, even if the company in question processes data in another EU member state.Take legal action against the company or organisation – while it is required that the compromised organisation contacts those involved in a privacy or data breach, individuals can still file an action directly against a company or organisation in court if they have violated data protection rights.&nbsp;Disruption of ServicesSmart cities are constantly striving for greater efficiency, often achieving this through the automation of operations that were once manual. One key example of this is in areas like wastewater management and traffic control systems. However, it is important to note that connecting more components within a system can also lead to potential vulnerabilities, a truth that applies even within the context of smart cities.&nbsp;The integration of multiple separate infrastructure systems into a single network or digital environment increases the potential 'attack surface.' This allows cybercriminals more opportunities to infiltrate the system, exploit weak points, and move across the entire network. As a result, there can be significant disruptions across sectors or operations within the city.&nbsp;This is called a ‘disruption of services’ and when cyberattacks of this type happen, they usually involve critical services like traffic lights, power grids, and water management systems. &nbsp;&nbsp;For example, cybercriminals may be able to access a local government's Internet of Things sensor network, and from there they can move laterally to access the emergency alert systems if these two systems are interconnected.&nbsp;Or, a cybercriminal could use a distributed denial of services (DDoS) to access and overtake the parking meters within a city, if these are an Internet of Things (IoT) device, rendering them unusable, and then use this system to overtake another system within the city.&nbsp;Malware and SpywareIf travellers are connecting to unfamiliar networks, then they may be more susceptible to malware and spyware being installed without their notice. Devices can be remotely accessed via public networks, and can result in malicious software being installed which can monitor activities, access personal data or damage the device’s system. &nbsp;&nbsp;Here are some recommendations you can provide to travellers for when they’re in-destination: &nbsp;Install security software – like anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware.Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) – this encrypts user data, helping to protect users while on shared WiFi networks. &nbsp;Use public WiFi safely – avoiding activities which handle sensitive data like checking online banking or making payments. Connecting through a VPN can help!&nbsp;Use secure apps – only downloading apps from trusted sources/providers can mitigate against accidentally installing malicious software.Back up their data – to another device or to a cloud storage platform before departure.Update their software – keeping operating systems, apps and anti-virus software up to date, and avoid downloading software while away.&nbsp;Unsecure NetworksIn light of informing travellers about the dangers of malicious software, it is equally important to address the issue of unsecure networks. With the widespread use of the Internet of Things (IoT) in various cities globally, the number of unsecure networks available for user connection has risen. Therefore, it is imperative for travellers to be cautious of these potential risks.&nbsp;Public Wi-Fi networks, particularly those offered in hotels, cafes and airports, can be considered hotspots for cyber criminals. Data which is sent or transmitted via these networks can be more easily intercepted and can be potentially used to access sensitive information.&nbsp;Should a traveller not have a SIM card that allows for data roaming or pay-as-you-go data for worldwide destinations, then sometimes using public WiFi is the only choice. In these cases, travellers should use these networks sparingly, turning off their devices ‘auto-join’ function, and avoiding using public WiFi to make transactions. &nbsp;&nbsp;Supply Chain AttacksWithin a smart city, instances of software or hardware components being hacked within these interconnected are more common than in a community wherein this infrastructure is not as connected. &nbsp;&nbsp;This is often because of reliance on a third-party vendor to provide and integrate, these hardware and software elements, that connect previously separate systems. &nbsp;&nbsp;This leaves these very same components vulnerable to attack as a result of this supply chain – either intentionally developed by cybercriminals who may have access to this chain, or through poor security practices.&nbsp;This puts individuals who visit or reside in these communities at a higher risk for:- Data and intellectual property theft- System or network failure due to operational technology availability disruption&nbsp;In the event of a system being breached, cybercriminals could potentially disrupt city infrastructure, compromise or steal sensitive data from emergency service communications, surveillance technology, or utility networks responsible for gas, water, grid, or lighting services.&nbsp;Keeping Travellers Safe Before and After TravelBook their Experiences Before DepartureFor travellers who have a clear plan for their activities at the destination, or are willing to take suggestions, pre-departure booking is the perfect option.&nbsp;&nbsp;This not only guarantees a better experience for the customer by arranging all their activities at once, but also maximises your revenue.&nbsp;Booking your clients’ experiences alongside their accommodation also means that they won’t have to make these purchases in-destination, which mitigates the risk of becoming vulnerable to data interception while making payments for experiences online during their stay.&nbsp;With Hotelbeds you can choose from:250,000+ hotels and resorts in must-visit global destinations.Over 23,000 tours, activities and experiences in 170+ countries worldwide.A network of 3,500 tour operators.and more!&nbsp;Post-Departure and ReturnWhen it comes to your clients’ personal devices, here are a few tips that you can offer to travellers for them to put into action upon their return: &nbsp;Encourage travellers to check their devices for interference – running a full malware scan is advisable, as is following any steps to cleaning their devices of any suspicious software.Reset passwords – for all accounts which were accessed during their trip.Report any suspicious activity – especially when it comes to any activity on banking apps or accounts that isn’t recognised! This can be done via a travellers’ unique provider.Remain alert – if any sensitive data is compromised, this can pose a risk to travellers long after their return. Cybercriminals can use any gained information to launch targeted phishing efforts to gather more data, or access financial accounts.&nbsp;Discover more about the most common cyber-attacks here.&nbsp;Many smart cities regularly test for any security vulnerabilities on a regular basis, to help identify and resolve any potential weaknesses. This process includes routine system audits, threat modeling techniques to identify potential risks in simulated environments, and the implementation of intrusion detection and prevention systems to detect suspicious activities. These measures help to proactively address any weaknesses and maintain a secure environment.&nbsp;While cybercrime remains a prevalent threat globally, traveling to destinations with highly interconnected infrastructure can present a diverse range of risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;One effective method to minimise these risks is to avoid transferring personal information, particularly when conducting online payments during travel. This simple precaution can significantly enhance the safety of travellers and their personal information.&nbsp;Do this by booking any of their in-destination experiences prior to their departure with Hotelbeds, and offer travellers peace of mind while simultaneously increasing your revenue opportunities.&nbsp;

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Cybersecurity: Tourist Safety in Smart Cities

Some sectors are more vulnerable to cyberattacks than others, and the hospitality industry is one of them.&nbsp;Due to the vast amount of personal and financial data it handles daily, combined with increasing digitalisation, cybercriminals are seizing new opportunities to attack this industry.&nbsp;This landscape demands that hotels improve their cybersecurity measures not only to protect their guests but also to safeguard their business continuity.&nbsp;This article will explore how cybersecurity is currently affecting the hospitality sector as we look forward to 2025, as well as the opinions of experts in the framework of the Cybersecurity Awareness Month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cybersecurity Threats to the Hospitality Industry: An Overview &nbsp;Cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly prominent topic—and for obvious reasons. By 2025, global cybercrime costs are expected to reach $10.5 trillion, a remarkable rise compared to $3 trillion in 2015, reports Cybersecurity Ventures. &nbsp;&nbsp;Similarly, 60% of hotel cyberattacks by 2025 will be caused by vulnerabilities in connected devices like point-of-sale (POS) terminals and IoT devices.&nbsp;What does this mean? Hotels will need to continuously strengthen their security measures to protect both their guests and their business, as the associated costs—especially regarding reputation loss and customer trust—could soar.&nbsp;In relation to this, Scott Patterson, CEO of The Knox Corps and an expert on cybersecurity best practices, points out that 'there are organisations that, if attacked today, would not survive tomorrow. A breach could lead to bankruptcy, and customers’ financial and confidential information could be at risk.' &nbsp;This brings us to the next section of this article.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why Is the Hospitality Industry Particularly Vulnerable to Cyberattacks?To begin with, as Christo Butcher, Global Lead for Threat Intelligence at NCC Group and Fox-IT, explains, 'the travel sector is particularly friendly, making its employees vulnerable to social engineering attacks.'&nbsp;The helpfulness of staff can become an entry point for cyberattacks. 'Additionally, cybersecurity levels in the hospitality industry are often lower than in other sectors', Butcher adds.&nbsp;Apart from these factors, there are other reasons why hotels are an attractive target for cybercriminals, including:&nbsp;Sensitive Personal Data: Hotels store large amounts of information, from passport numbers to credit card details, making this data a lucrative target.&nbsp;Multiple Entry Points: Regarding this point, Scott Patterson states that 'the many access points in this sector make it easier to become compromised. Between email communications, phone calls, third parties, partnerships, websites, and even payments, the travel industry makes itself a prime target for cybercrime.'&nbsp;Third-Party Providers: Hotels often rely on third-party service providers, whose security practices can introduce additional risks.&nbsp;Employee Turnover: The high turnover rate in the hospitality sector can create gaps in cybersecurity training. By 2025, it's estimated that 70% of hotel staff will have access to sensitive data without continuous cybersecurity training, according to the World Economic Forum.&nbsp;Interconnected Systems: The integration of property management systems (PMS) with other platforms increases complexity and attack potential.&nbsp;Considering all this, the more knowledge we have about potential attacks, the better prepared the sector will be. This principle is also supported by Paula Felstead, our Chief Tech, Data and M&amp;A Officer at Hotelbeds: 'In an increasingly interconnected world, it's essential to champion awareness and collaboration around cybersecurity, empowering everyone to not just react to threats but to proactively work together.'&nbsp;Examples of Cyberattacks on Hotels and How to Prevent ThemThere is no doubt that the hospitality industry faces many challenges when it comes to cybersecurity. This happens more often than we might think, and it’s important to talk about it to understand what new threats for hotels exist, what tactics cybercriminals are using and, most importantly, what solutions are effective.&nbsp;As Christo Butcher points out, 'While companies may be reluctant to admit they’ve been victims of cyberattacks, sharing their experiences, especially the technical details of the attacks, with trusted authorities like Fox-IT and NCC Group is crucial. Anonymous reporting helps the travel sector build stronger defences by learning from collective experiences, rather than keeping mistakes to themselves.'&nbsp;Looking ahead to 2025, here are some of the biggest challenges in the hospitality industry when it comes to cybersecurity for hotels:&nbsp;1. Social EngineeringSocial engineering exploits the hospitality sector's customer service mindset, manipulating situations to benefit cybercriminals at the expense of targeted businesses.&nbsp;Social engineering exploits human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities.&nbsp;Email Phishing: Deceptive emails designed to steal credentials.Spear Phishing: Attacks targeting specific individuals.Voice Phishing (Vishing): Fraudulent phone calls to extract confidential information.&nbsp;&nbsp;Prevention:Continuous staff training on identifying threats.Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect systems.&nbsp;2. Supply Chain AttacksThe integrations between hotel systems and external suppliers are frequently targeted in cyberattacks. A weak point in an API can compromise the entire network.&nbsp;Prevention:Active monitoring of connected endpoints.Regular updates and strict access controls for external systems.&nbsp;3. RansomwareThis type of attack involves locking down critical systems until a ransom is paid. These attacks are expected to rise significantly in the coming years, especially if adequate security solutions are not implemented.&nbsp;Prevention:Use endpoint detection software.Regular backups and staff education on safe practices.&nbsp;4. Internet of Things (IoT)The growing use of IoT devices in hotels, such as smart locks and climate control systems, increases vulnerabilities. Many IoT devices connect to the network without robust security.&nbsp;Prevention:Ensure IoT devices use secure, unique passwords.Regularly update IoT device software.Encrypt data transmitted by IoT devices. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Final ThoughtsThe cybersecurity landscape for the hospitality industry in 2025 presents significant challenges, but also opportunities for those who are prepared.&nbsp;The evolution of digital threats, especially with the rise of technologies like artificial intelligence and IoT, requires hotels to remain proactive in their defences.&nbsp;As Scott Patterson mentions, 'Before focusing on trends, focus on the basics.' With a solid strategy and a collaborative culture, the hospitality industry can successfully face cybersecurity challenges ahead. &nbsp;That’s why we encourage you to invest time and effort in learning more about the potential threats your property can face, and rely on partners committed to cybersecurity that won’t compromise your hotel, like Hotelbeds.&nbsp;As Paula Felstead points out, 'At HBX Group, we see cybersecurity as a communal obligation. We all owe it not only to our own organisations, but also to every individual and business connected to us. Every transaction made within this ecosystem reflects our duty, and over the past three years, we’ve faced emerging threats head-on by investing significantly in security. With a dedicated cybersecurity team, we’re committed to ensuring that every transaction is handled with care.' Are you interested in experiencing it first hand? Register your property today!&nbsp;Last but not least, we recommend you keep up with the latest travel trends and learn about those that will affect your property in the future. Don’t miss our articles on Wellness Travel, Experiential Travel, or Sustainable Tourism.&nbsp;

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Hotel Cybersecurity in 2025: Why your property can be a target

The festive season is right around the corner, which can only mean one thing: Black Friday is set to return with a bang.&nbsp;As the most significant commercial event of the year approaches, it is crucial to establish your own strategy for the occasion. Whether you need travel marketing tips or assistance in securing the best travel deals for your clients, we are here to support you in making Black Friday 2024 a resounding success.&nbsp;Why do I need to prepare for Black Friday?Of course, you don’t need to do anything – but by not taking any action, you may run the risk of being overshadowed by competitors who recognize the benefits that Black Friday can bring.&nbsp;During 2023, the number of international tourist arrivals worldwide was approximately 1.3 billion. And while this figure was a 33% rise compared to 2022, the levels of international travellers are still below what they were in 2019 pre-covid.&nbsp;&nbsp;This significant number of travellers highlights why events like Black Friday are so important to travel providers! Not only does it signify the sheer demand waiting to be capitalised on, but the remaining growth until we reach the numbers we were seeing pre-pandemic, suggests that offering a great deal might just be one of the best motivators for a hopeful but undecided traveller.&nbsp;This is especially true as travellers continue to become increasingly money-aware, and financially savvy; as Black Friday offers them a key chance to secure bookings for the trips and experiences they may have been bookmarking for later all year.&nbsp;In light of the continuously evolving patterns of traveller and consumer behaviours, as exemplified by the growing overlap between peak seasons and shoulder seasons, the rising popularity of bleisure travel, and shifting preferences regarding duration of stay, it is imperative for you as travel providers to stay well-informed about travellers' needs, and adeptly tailor your offerings to meet their needs.What are the benefits of Black Friday, you ask?&nbsp;Despite the recent inflation concerns worldwide, specifically in European countries, there seems to be a consistent high spending intent for Black Friday and the associated Cyber Week. This presents a valuable opportunity to leverage the demand throughout the sales period, extending beyond just Black Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;For instance, a study conducted by Sojern in 2022 revealed that travellers in the US and Canada spent more on Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday, while Europe and South America experienced higher booking rates on Black Friday.&nbsp;Additionally, while there was an increase in demand for trips 90+ days in advance, the demand for the 'instant gratification' of a trip booked with a shorter lead time was equally just as favoured by travellers - so both styles of travel should be accommodated in your travel marketing efforts.&nbsp;Many businesses, regardless of their industry, note a significant increase in traffic to their sites and bookings during this time, and the numbers don't lie: in 2023, retail industries saw a staggering $9.8 billion in online sales — up 7.5% from the year before. But Cyber Monday shoppers blew those numbers away, spending an additional $12.4 billion, which constitutes a 9.6% increase from 2022.&nbsp;The elongation of the Black Friday period to cover, at times, a whole week, may mean that travellers wait until the last moment to finalise their bookings; and implies that timely and market-specific offers have a higher chance of securing a sale, possibly due to a fear of missing out on these special deals.&nbsp;In short, taking part isn’t a necessity, but it’s something you should certainly consider – especially when getting involved can be as simple as following the steps we’ve laid out below!Step one: the best offers + the best destinations = bookings secured! (suggested timeline: around 4 weeks before Black Friday)When it comes to Black Friday, the best place to start is at the end of the process: what is it that your customers are hoping to book with you?&nbsp;An invaluable tool is Insights, our award-winning search and marketing tool. Offering tailored recommendations based on real-time market data, bookings made by the thousands of agents working with us, and historical search data, Insights provides accurate opportunities which help boost your sales.&nbsp;When using Insights, you might notice that some hotels are labelled with discounts. These are ideal options for your Black Friday campaign, so be sure to save them to your favourites for later.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, you’ll be able to search for more discounted room nights by logging into our time-saving Booking Engine!&nbsp;Did you know?: our upcoming Black Friday campaign is set to be bigger and better than ever – so make sure you’ve got a reminder set for November 20th, when our 2024 campaign goes live.&nbsp;Not one of our valuable clients yet? Sign up today to take advantage of our exclusive deals during this high-demand sales period, and capture all those bookings you might otherwise miss out on.Step two: identify your most valuable sales channel (suggested timeframe: 3 weeks before Black Friday)With the high level of competition during this time, it is essential to identify your most valuable sales channel, especially if you operate online. By doing so, you will be in a strong position to attract customers who are seeking the best Black Friday travel deals, whether they choose to purchase through your online platform or physical locations, if applicable.&nbsp;Of course, in today's digital age, it is undeniable that online travel booking offers unparalleled convenience. With the internet providing lightning-fast comparisons and a seemingly endless array of options, it has become a cornerstone of the travel industry. Moreover, the competitive online landscape during events like Black Friday demands a well-executed online travel marketing strategy.&nbsp;&nbsp;As travel providers, it is crucial to not only navigate but also excel in this environment, ensuring that your message rises above the noise and resonates with potential customers. This is especially important when you consider:The customer dynamic has changed: in 2022 and 2023, 'revenge travel' was still popular, driving travellers to spend more on trips to make up for lost time. However, now travellers want authenticity, and trips that feel more bespoke, which may cause them to be more particular in what they spend on.&nbsp;Competition is fierce: with the increasing popularity and demand for experience-based tourism, many more types of trips are being organised and will be on sale in your market. It's important to carefully evaluate what you offer in order to remain competitive.Customers want true value for money: with increasing inflation around the world, travellers might be looking for a truly valuable deal to part ways with their hard-earned cash.&nbsp;While the online space is certainly one of the most important places to be when it comes to Black Friday marketing, the key to succeeding ultimately lies in your ability to cut through the noise regardless of how or where you sell.&nbsp;&nbsp;Discover our tips below to elevate your strategy:If you operate in-store only:It might take a little extra effort to put your best face forward, but there are certainly ways to appeal to customers (whether they exist or are yet to be acquired).&nbsp;Enhance your social media presence by increasing the frequency of your online posts. You can even use Insights' market-specific suggestions to determine the trending destinations in your market and incorporate this knowledge into your engaging social media content.&nbsp;Even if you’re not advertising Black Friday just yet, social media apps such as Facebook and Instagram are great channels for you to showcase your knowledge and build hype about the most exciting destinations. In order to attract the attention of potential customers, it may be beneficial to make some improvements to your store. One idea is to print out visually appealing flyers featuring popular destinations and hotels and display them on your storefront.&nbsp;&nbsp;Top tip: you can create customised flyers using Insights, with the Custom Flyer Tool, for personalized marketing materials in just a few clicks!If you operate online only:Social media plays a crucial role in the success of websites, just like it does for brick-and-mortar businesses. After all, website traffic doesn’t generate itself! Utilise our search and travel marketing tool, Insights, to pinpoint the latest trending destinations and showcase them on your Instagram page.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, if you have a blog, share travel advice and captivating anecdotes to captivate your audience. Lastly, take the time to interact with other users by exploring travel hashtags and participating in conversations centred around popular destinations.&nbsp;Another top tip for increasing your online reach is to secure some glowing reviews. Make sure that you’re set up on Google or Trustpilot (or, at the very least, have a feedback page on your website/are willing to share examples of feedback on your social media pages), then reach out to clients who you know had a fantastic experience of booking with you.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even if their trip was a little while ago, their fond memories might inspire them to re-live the moment and share it with you - as well as with your next potential customer.If you have the best of both worlds:You’re in the best possible position. Consider a blend of our tips above to put your business on the map, just in time for Black Friday!&nbsp;Step three: tease your campaign (suggested timeframe: 2 weeks before Black Friday)Once you’ve determined which channel will earn you your bookings this Black Friday, the next step is to let your customers know that great deals will be theirs to secure very, very soon.&nbsp;Where applicable for your particular business as travel providers, be sure to pick up the phone and start connecting with your leads; by initiating this contact a few weeks prior to Black Friday, you can generate excitement among your clients about the possibility of a trip. Moreover, this approach allows them ample time to set aside funds or contemplate their next destination.&nbsp;Another way to tease Black Friday is – you guessed it – to utilise your social media channels. Take inspiration from companies inside and outside of your industry to see how they’ve advertised Black Friday ahead of time: from deliberately subtle campaigns to an up-front and unavoidable approach, there are numerous ways to inform your followers and potential customers are about upcoming discounts. If you have a website, consider adding a countdown banner to generate excitement and anticipation among your audience.&nbsp;Finally, a solid email marketing strategy will make sure that your customers are primed and ready for the big occasion. Craft subject lines to pique their curiosity and remind them to mark their calendars for the big day.&nbsp;Top tip: why not offer some early Black Friday deals? By browsing&nbsp;the promotions&nbsp;in our Booking Engine, you can cherry-pick hotels on discount in a particular destination.&nbsp;&nbsp;Or, by using Insights, you can identify which destinations are trending and the hotels on offer right now. Make the most of these deals and start driving your Black Friday sales early!&nbsp;Step four: push those offers! (suggested timeframe: Black Friday-Cyber Monday)You’ve already put in the work to market your Black Friday offers ahead of the occasion, but now is not the time to slow down – you still need to secure those sales!&nbsp;During the Black Friday period, it is highly likely that your customers will be entirely money-driven, and seeking the best deals. Whether they have discovered your offerings through your exceptional social media presence, found your website via Google, or are already familiar with your brand and promotions, it is crucial to ensure that these potential bookings are locked down. So, make sure you know your offers inside out – one of the best ways to do this is by exploring the&nbsp;promotions in&nbsp;our Booking Engine to see the most valuable opportunities for your business.&nbsp;Want to gain access to these exclusive offers? Simply sign up today to become one of our clients, and supercharge your sales this Black Friday period.&nbsp;In order to effectively reach clients who may not be aware of Black Friday, it is essential to promptly inform them of your limited-time offers. This can be achieved by prominently featuring banners on your website, or by personally asking clients if they are interested in booking their trip today.&nbsp;By creating a sense of urgency surrounding your Black Friday deals, you can significantly increase sales and drive customer engagement. Thus, it is crucial to establish and enforce these guidelines for your business.&nbsp;Referring once again to online bookings, it is possible that ‘cart abandonment’ will apply to some bookings: this is where a client will browse offers and get as far as the check-out page, before deciding not to proceed with the booking and closing out of the browser. Ensure that you have an email strategy or web pop-up in place to capture this type of client, with a reminder that prices can and do rise quickly – especially over Black Friday – and that the best time to secure a deal is now.&nbsp;Did you know?: According to some statistics, cart abandonment email reminders have an open rate of 45% - a huge percentage of potential travellers you could be tempting back in.&nbsp;Step five: Travel Tuesday is your time to shine (suggested timeframe: the Monday/Tuesday after Black Friday)Fortunately, the fatigue of over-commercialism has not had a major impact on the travel industry when it comes to the Black Friday sales period, given the predictability of the deals and the ubiquitous offerings out there. In fact, statistics indicate that the Tuesday following Black Friday continues to be a significant success for companies that offer discounted rates on accommodations and flights.&nbsp;Known as Travel Tuesday (or ‘Travel Deal Tuesday to some), this event has become a prime time for would-be travellers to secure their dream escape. In fact, past Travel Tuesdays have been known to offer twice the number of deals than advertised over Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined; in fact, last year more airlines, hotel chains, cruise lines, and tour companies offering deals than in previous years. The hashtag #TravelTuesday also received over 100 million views on TikTok!&nbsp;&nbsp;Even if you’re not offering extra or heavier discounts over Travel Tuesday, the number of travellers looking for a deal is likely to increase – so be sure to capture their imagination by sharing the hotels we have on offer between November 20th – 3rd December!&nbsp;Ready to take on this all-important sales period? Log in to your account now&nbsp;to discover our amazing portfolio of hotels and ancillaries, and keep a look out for our upcoming Black Friday offers!Ready to take on this all-important sales period? Sign up now to discover our amazing portfolio of hotels and ancillaries, and keep a look out for our upcoming Black Friday offers!

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How Travel Providers Should Prepare For Black Friday

Black Friday is the biggest shopping event of the year, and it's also a key date for the travel industry. Every year, travellers know they will find great discounts for their future trips. Black Friday offers them an excellent opportunity to secure bookings for trips and experiences they may have postponed throughout the year. &nbsp;&nbsp;And how does Hotelbeds contribute to this? We satisfy this growing demand by offering the best hotels to our wide network of travel distributors.&nbsp;This is where your property comes into play. To boost hotel room sales, we are once again launching our successful Black Friday campaign, one of the most beloved among our hotel partners. &nbsp;&nbsp;Below, we’ll share all the essential details you need to know about the campaign and how you can participate to make the most of this opportunity. &nbsp;&nbsp;Black Friday Campaign at Hotelbeds: Why it’s beneficial for your property &nbsp;To begin with, offering attractive deals during these campaigns is an excellent way to attract guests who tend to stay longer, come from distant markets, and on average, spend more. &nbsp;&nbsp;Participating in our campaigns significantly increases your hotel’s visibility to over 60,000 travel distributors, including travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, banking institutions, and more. &nbsp;&nbsp;How do we do it? &nbsp;We implement a wide range of promotional actions, including mass email campaigns, banner placement on our booking engine, the creation of dedicated landing pages, and promotion on social media, among other initiatives. This way, we reach a global audience eager to benefit from this highly beneficial campaign. &nbsp;&nbsp;Need more reasons to join? Last year, hotels that took part in our Black Friday campaign enjoyed an average 50% increase in bookings compared to non-participating hotels.&nbsp;All the details about Black Friday for hoteliersHere are all the key details to help you join and make the most of Hotelbeds' Black Friday campaign: &nbsp;&nbsp;The booking window for travel distributors will be from 20th November to 3rd December 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;As for the travel window, customers will be able to travel between 20th November 2024 and 31st July 2025. &nbsp;&nbsp;If your property is already registered with Hotelbeds, you will receive detailed information via email about this and other great campaign opportunities available over the coming months, as well as the steps to follow to participate. &nbsp;&nbsp;If you haven’t registered yet, now is the right time to maximise your partnership with us from the beginning. We recommend joining as soon as possible by completing this brief form. Once completed, we will contact you to guide you through the onboarding process, so you can start distributing your rooms as soon as possible. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Black Friday campaign is one of our key global initiatives, but it’s not the only one. As a Hotelbeds partner, each quarter we will inform you about available global and regional campaigns, as well as the conditions required to participate. On average, hotels that join our campaigns gain a significant competitive advantage over other similar properties in their area that don't participate. It's a fantastic opportunity to stand out! &nbsp;&nbsp;Lastly, if you're new here and not sure what other products and services are available to you, we've got you covered! Download our comprehensive, visual guide now, where we review our full hotel offering. Get it for free below!&nbsp;

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Black Friday Campaign for Hoteliers: All You Need to Know 

Having access to our Partner Portal (previously called MaxiRoom) is the first step on your journey to boost bookings and maximise revenue with Hotelbeds. With plenty of features available for your convenience, our platform streamlines your daily operations and management. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Partner Portal has many advantages, from independently managing your inventory and bookings to monitoring connectivity with your channel manager, setting up offers, and accessing your financial information.&nbsp;&nbsp;With the objective of accelerating your learning process so that you get the most out of our platform, we’ve created the Hotel Help Centre. This article will give you a sneak peek into some of the most frequently asked questions about the extranet. Solve your main doubts below, and visit the Help Center to learn more about our advanced extranet and to find quick videos about our platform and information about our products and services.&nbsp;&nbsp;How to update rate plans and availability? &nbsp;Here are some key details to help you understand your Hotelbeds inventory:&nbsp;Remember that every time you create a new room, you must include them in a rate plan in order for them to be distributed. To do this, link each room to any of your rates.&nbsp;&nbsp;How can you update your availability? Go to the ‘Inventory’ section &gt; Click on ‘Edit Availability’ &gt; Make your changes &gt; Save the changes, while making sure to apply them to the correct number of Available Rooms and Release days. &nbsp;&nbsp;How can you update your rates? Go to the ‘Inventory’ section &gt; Click on ‘Edit Prices’ &gt; Make your changes &gt; Save the changes, while making sure to apply them to the correct number of Available Rooms and Release days.&nbsp;&nbsp;How can you create a new rate plan? Go to the ‘Inventory’ section &gt; Click on ‘Rate List’ &gt; Click on ‘Add new rate’ &gt; Fill your new rate details. If you don't see the 'Add new rate' button or want to create a new rate plan type not found on the page, please contact your Contract Manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;These are just a few examples of the main doubts you can find resolved on the ‘Inventory’ section of the Help Centre. Learn more here about how to create new rooms and how to add them to your rate plans, as well as to get a better understanding of our variety of rate plans and room capacities. Also, here you can download this visual guide to get started with the Partner Portal.&nbsp;Do you manage your inventory via a Channel Manager or a Property Management System (PMS)? We have you covered on this too! Visit this page if you work with a Channel Manager, or this one if you do it with a PMS. &nbsp;&nbsp;How to contact Hotelbeds for Partner Portal-related queries? &nbsp; &nbsp;There are several ways to get in touch with our Hotelbeds support team if you can't find the answer to your questions in the Help Centre. &nbsp;&nbsp;For general queries: Send us a ticket via the Hotel Support Form, which you will find in the Partner Portal’s platform. Simply click the icon (person with a headset) on the right side of the menu.&nbsp;&nbsp;For specific queries: Go to the Partner Portal and click on ‘Contact’, located in the footer. This is where you will find the Hotelbeds contact information you need for financial issues, contractual queries, business optimisation, and other general queries and integration issues. &nbsp;&nbsp;Update hotel content in Hotelbeds' Partner PortalYou can seamlessly upload all hotel-related content to the extranet to ensure that it accurately showcases what your property has to offer. Whether you need help uploading high-resolution images or updating hotel information, room details, or hotel services, this section of the Help Centre has the right answers to all your queries. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Partner Portal's two-factor authentication: what do you need to know? &nbsp;At Hotelbeds, we take security very seriously, which is why we've proactively implemented security measures to protect your Partner Portal account. The two-factor authentication implementation means that every time you access the Partner Portal, you’ll need to enter a one-time code (OTC), which will be sent via email. &nbsp;&nbsp;This is what you should consider: &nbsp;&nbsp;How long will the code be valid? You’ll have 10 minutes to access the platform once you’ve received the code via email. To generate another one, please log in again to the Partner Portal. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What to do if the one-time code doesn’t work? Try logging in again to receive a new one-time code. If the code still doesn't work, please ensure that ‘maxiroom@hotelbeds.com’ is whitelisted by adding it to your address book. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What to do if you haven’t received the one-time code? Make sure that ‘maxiroom@hotelbeds.com’ is whitelisted and not in the spam folder. Also, if you need further assistance, please contact your Contract Manager. &nbsp;Find out more about the two-factor authentication.&nbsp;What payment methods are available at Hotelbeds? &nbsp;VCC PaymentsOne of the payment methods offered by Hotelbeds is Virtual Credit Card (VCC). In order to properly operate with it, this is what you need to know: &nbsp;&nbsp;A VCC will be issued for each booking you receive. To find your card details, visit the Partner Portal’s 'Bookings' section, search for that specific booking, and click on the reference number to see your VCC’s details. From then on, you can introduce it in your Point of Sales Terminal and charge it. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Several factors can cause your VCC to be declined or experience any issues. Make sure to check the VCC activation date, charge the VCC as per the contract currency and charge net amounts. Also, remember that one VCC is created per booking’s total amount (not per room), and your VCC will always be automatically updated in case of booking amount modification. To report further issues, send us a ticket via the Hotel Support Form, as explained previously. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Once your booking has been charged and the invoice is set in your system, you’ll need to send us an invoice via email or via e-billing. &nbsp; &nbsp;Ecobill is our electronic invoicing platform, accessible via our Partner Portal. Besides, for the VCC payment method, a valid tax invoice is mandatory in certain countries. Find out more about Hotelbeds invoicing entities, which countries need a valid tax invoice and how to invoice via Ecobill in this section. &nbsp;&nbsp;Wire PaymentsBank transfer is Hotelbeds' second payment method. If you wish to operate this way, this is what you need to know:&nbsp;In order to get paid, you'll need to send your invoice. By default, suppliers should invoice Hotelbeds for each booking right after the check-out date via our electronic invoicing system called e-billing, available on the Supplier Finance Web.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you need to send the invoice via email or post, you can do so by opening a ticket, and our Finance team will provide you with detailed information. &nbsp;&nbsp;Bank transfers are scheduled twice a month. However, the first condition is to upload or send the invoice. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about how to update your bank details, invoice via e-billing and Hotelbeds’ invoicing entities by country, please refer to this section. &nbsp;&nbsp;What campaigns and offers are available to you? &nbsp;Our offers and campaigns contribute to increasing your property's visibility and bookings. As a result of this exposure, you can attract new guests, enhance brand recognition, and boost your hotel's revenue. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;You can choose from a variety of options:&nbsp;&nbsp;Available offers to create your custom promotion: Last Minute, Opaque, Long Stay, Early Booking and Free Nights are just a few of the available options. Click here to find a detailed explanation of each one, as well as how to set them up. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monthly promotions: Each month, we release 3 new offers specifically designed to attract guests and increase bookings. You can find these campaigns on your Portal Partner account home page. &nbsp;To join any of these campaigns, simply click on the ‘Join Campaign’ button &gt; Select the dates of stay and booking window &gt; Add it to your rate plans &gt; Define your own conditions and combine them with other offers already loaded.&nbsp;&nbsp;Global and Regional Marketing campaigns: We run several global and regional campaigns throughout the year to connect you with wholesale and retail customers not accessible via traditional B2C channels. Some examples of campaigns include New Year, Black Friday, Early Booking Summer, long-haul campaigns, and other campaigns to promote specific territories, such as China.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Campaigns are published on your Partner Portal home page, and you can join them by clicking on the campaign, setting dates of stay and booking window, and adding it to your rate plan. &nbsp;&nbsp;These are a few common questions we've noticed hoteliers have about the Partner Extranet. We hope we have clarified some of them, and if you have any further questions, don't hesitate to visit our Hotel Help Centre.&nbsp;We aim to constantly update this page, so you always have the latest information available. Besides, you’ll find access to several helpful resources for a seamless quick start with the Partner Portal, as well as valuable content about our Hotelbeds' offering and travel industry insights. Take a look!&nbsp;

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6 Frequently Asked Questions about Hotelbeds Partner Portal 

&nbsp;World Tourism Day is an annual event in the travel calendar that encourages industry stakeholders to reflect on the impact of tourism on the world: socially, culturally, environmentally and economically. &nbsp;&nbsp;Each year, this annual celebration is marked by a specific theme that reflects key tourism trends in the sector, from the impact of COVID-19 in recent years, to 2023's focus on innovative solutions for 'people, planet and prosperity', opportunities to reflect and rethink how we do tourism, to this year's focus on 'tourism and peace'.&nbsp;This year's theme reflects on:"Tourism can play a vital role as a catalyst in promoting peace and understanding between nations and cultures, and in supporting reconciliation processes."&nbsp;World Tourism Day is important for travel providers to be aware of and consider, as it can help to:Learn about industry best practiceFind new business opportunities &nbsp;Raise awareness and knowledge &nbsp;Promote sustainable tourismIdentify travel habits and future trends &nbsp;Improve travel offerings&nbsp;So, can you take this year's theme of 'Tourism and Peace', which is a far-reaching theme, and apply it to your everyday?&nbsp;Promoting Peace and Community Resilience through TourismOften highlighted for its role in economic development, tourism also plays an important role in promoting peace. &nbsp;&nbsp;At a global level, where nations are interconnected and interdependent, tourism, an industry created by and for people, is proving to be a compelling and dynamic force in overcoming stereotypes and challenging prejudices.&nbsp;Did you know? &nbsp;Countries with a more open and sustainable tourism sector tend to be more peaceful.Tourism spreads philanthropy and leads to regional cooperation.Tourism supports post-conflict recovery.&nbsp;&nbsp;Success lies in empowering local communities to actively engage with their rich culture, while minimising conflict with the natural environment and all external forces - such as tourism. &nbsp;&nbsp;Real-world example: The town of Lahaina in West Maui was devastated by one of the worst wildfires in American history. Tourism resumed several months later, which raised new considerations for more mindful travellers. For instance, would their stay in a luxurious hotel displace residents who were temporarily accommodated there following the destruction of their homes?&nbsp;While West Maui accounts for 15% of Hawaii's tourism revenue, many local residents viewed the period of rebuilding Old Lahaina as an opportunity to address issues such as overtourism, environmental degradation, and economic imbalance. In fact, 17,000 residents signed a petition to delay the reopening of tourism in order to focus on the needs of Lahaina's working-class population.&nbsp;Nonetheless, with the projected loss of $9 million in tourism revenue per day since the fire, the Hawaii Tourism Authority enacted the Maui Marketing Recovery Plan to aid in the restoration of travel demand. This incident presented a crucial opportunity for thoughtful, intentional travel. A focus on regenerative tourism that reinvests in people, places, and encourages the 'long-term renewal and flourishing of our social-ecological systems' was paramount.&nbsp;It was essential that the tourism mindset shifted from an individualistic to a collective perspective, for visitors and residents alike, to foster empathy and initiate collaborative action.&nbsp;Many travellers were inspired to add several volunteering experiences onto their itinerary upon seeing business owners' livelihoods burned down, and residents respected most the behaviours of travellers who engaged with patience and understanding while also giving back to the community.&nbsp;How can you as providers encourage this type of travel?Encourage travelers to support local businesses and volunteer – these are key ways to continue that shift towards intentional travel that benefits host destinations.Promote alternative destinations – try sister locations to places that are suffering from severe consequences of overtourism.Promote a mindset for travellers grounded in intention - for example, one that asks 'where can we snorkel that's most respectful' instead of 'where do locals go?'&nbsp;Be aware of the wider industry and world – keeping informed as to any local challenges, initiatives or movements within the destinations that you’re recommending.&nbsp;These measures advocate a proactive approach to ensure that economic growth remains inclusive for the entire community, and that tourism is promoted for the benefit of residents as well as visitors.&nbsp;Top tip: Did you know that in February 2024, the General Assembly officially declared 2027 as the ‘International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism’? The next few years are a prime opportunity to take the travel industry even further when it comes to pioneering sustainable, beneficial initiatives.&nbsp;Engaging with Authentic Voices and Preserving Local HeritageCultural tourism is characterised by visitors' ardent desire to discover, experience, and learn about a particular destination. Whether that entails exploring novel cuisines, residing with remote rural communities, supporting local business owners and artisans, or travelling pilgrimage routes, the interest in cultural immersion is rapidly escalating.&nbsp;Ensuring that travel experiences are firmly grounded in the essence of a place is also in the interest of travel providers from a success standpoint:Cultural and historical travel accounts for 40% of all tourism globally.73% of millennials report being interested in cultural and historic places.Cultural tourists spend 38% more per day and stay 22% longer than other traveller types.&nbsp;Many countries and organisations around the world are already showing how it’s possible to balance economic development with retaining vital cultural heritage, and sustainable transformations. &nbsp;Urban regeneration – a ‘Special Area Plan’ in George Town, Malaysia, balances conservation with economic development, allowing local owners to restore their homes and set up businesses, while protecting historic buildings from tourism-induced redevelopment.Prioritising native industries – to avoid over-reliance on sole economic drivers, like tourism. For example, in AlUla investments are being made into native industries such as agriculture. Diversifying the local economy creates increased revenue for residents and lessens the strain on economies that rely on tourism as a main driver of revenue. &nbsp;‘Living heritage’ – the ‘Beirut Housing Rehabilitation and Cultural Creative Industries’ project offers small grants to local artisans, while the regeneration of the historical Mar Mikhael train station aims to reactivate cultural markets and businesses.&nbsp;A pivotal strategy for providers to incorporate sustainable cultural tourism into their day-to-day operations is to elevate local communities to the forefront of your experience recommendations.&nbsp;Adopting this approach satisfies the prevailing trend for authentic, experiential tourism in a manner that generates longer-lasting positive impact for the host community and economy, while also maintaining business engagement with customer preferences.&nbsp;By actively engaging with local communities, the tourism industry can ensure that the generated revenue remains within the community, where it can yield the most substantial impact.&nbsp;Promoting Travel that Champions SustainabilityIn 2015, the Member States of the United Nations collectively adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which endeavor to 'enhance health and education, diminish inequality, and stimulate economic development – all while addressing the challenges of climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.'&nbsp;The tourism industry presents a multitude of opportunities to impact and contribute to the realisation of these goals: through the provision of high-quality tourism training, which invests in education and skills development; by investing in sustainable infrastructure; by working to further the eco-conscious transformations in communities, economies and mindsets, including initiatives to decarbonise the sector; and by investing in innovative travel technology and upskilling tourism's workforces globally.&nbsp;Sustainable tourism is a major focus for the travel industry, with the appetite for sustainability showing no sign of easing: 83% of global travellers believe that sustainable travel is important.&nbsp;For the environment - &nbsp;One of the paramount concerns, not solely for the travel and tourism industry, but for the broader global context of sustainability, is the prevelance of single-use plastics. The hotel industry alone is responsible for the generation of 150 million tonnes of plastic per year – a significant proportion of which ultimately ends up polluting the world's oceans.&nbsp;In light of this, marine and coastal conservation programmes serve as an ideal example of how to promote experiences that cater to customer requirements while adhering to sustainable practices.&nbsp;Real-life example: Based in Cap Ternay research station on Mahé Island - which can be accessed via the Seychelles International Airport for overseas visitors, located near the capital of Victoria – GVI offers several volunteer and study projects where participants can spend their time scuba-diving to help underwater research, snorkelling to collect data on marine life, or even hiking through palm forests. &nbsp;&nbsp;Experiences like these are the perfect example of how agents can promote sustainable travel which not only aligns with the needs and desires of the customer, but that also benefits the host destination.&nbsp;How Hotelbeds HelpsWe’ve looked before at how important is to offer single-use plastic-free options for travellers (as just one example of sustainable tourism) and how this can and should become part of every travel agent’s strategy.&nbsp;But one way we’re making it easier for travel providers to offer sustainable tourism is by offering sustainable experiences in our Booking Engine. Including PADI-approved diving centres for those eco-conscious marine adventures, as well as thousands of other in-destination activities and experiences that offer tangible benefit to both traveller and host.&nbsp;Plus, our ‘Sustainable Hotels’ filter in our Booking Engine makes it simple to refine your searches to hotels that hold sustainability at the forefront of their operations.&nbsp;In fact, hotels are only shown in this filter once they have achieved industry-certified sustainability levels such as the Hotel Sustainability Basics certificate by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the GSTC Industry Criteria offered by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).&nbsp;Sign up today to discover our sustainable hotels and expand your portfolio for the travel options so important to today’s traveller.&nbsp;For local communities - &nbsp;Overtourism represents a distinct tourism-induced challenge that numerous renowned destinations across the globe confront.&nbsp;Initiatives such as the sustainable tourism tax, introduced in the Balearic Island of Mallorca, assist in supporting the conservation of this esteemed destination. Additionally, Kyoto, Japan, has implemented several measures to mitigate the strain of overtourism, including addressing traffic congestion and utilising social media to disseminate alternative routes and information for visitors.&nbsp;To work alongside these internal initiatives implemented by local governing bodies, it's vital that you fulfill your role as an provider to endorse destinations in a sustainable manner. After all, as the expert, you are the one placing travel prospects directly into the hands of travellers.&nbsp;Tip: discover thousands of eco-conscious in-destination experiences with our Booking Engine, encompassing conservation opportunities, regenerative experiences, tours and experiences facilitated by local guides, and a plethora of additional options.&nbsp;Furthermore, our global portfolio equips providers with comprehensive sustainable options as result of our status as a full-service provider, including green transfers and car hire, as well as single-use plastic-free and sustainable hotels.&nbsp;Tourism Helps Create Meaningful Connections&nbsp;This sector can be perceived as the epitome of intercultural dialogue; it allows meeting the "other" through learning about different cultures, hearing foreign languages, discovering new cuisines, creating bonds with other people, overcoming cultural differences through sharing experiences, and building tolerance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Travel, in its quintessential form, is an endeavor to expand one's perspectives. Extensive research has even suggested that 'tourist affiliation with nature and connection with local people' are 'critical determinants of positive psychological outcomes'; that travel fundamentally enhances well-being.&nbsp;This, undoubtedly, aligns with the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) previously mentioned: to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all individuals, irrespective of age.&nbsp;We see the connection between travel, identity and wellness in:Travellers seeking out experiences that align with their personal values, backgrounds or heritage.Travel that actively strengthens bonds with cultures or communities around the world.88% of younger travellers saying that travel has impacted their personal growth.72% of Gen Z travellers remarketing that travel is core to their identity, and how they express themselves.&nbsp;Social belonging is defined as an essential human requirement, a 'fundamental human pursuit' - and tourism plays a vital role in generating prospects for interpersonal connection.&nbsp;Moreover, this sense of social cohesion is also apparent in the industry-wide transition towards experience-based tourism, where authenticity and genuine connection has become paramount for tourists' overall experiences.&nbsp;There is substantial merit in the positive impact for travellers and their companions, including reinforcing connections amongst friends, loved ones, creating more meaningful experiences and memories, as well as increasing the probability of revisiting a destination.&nbsp;There is also, a great deal to be explored about the benefits of more connected social relationships between travellers and host communities:‘Immersion in the local community and socialisation with local people generate learning opportunities for tourists to know different cultures and virtues, which leads to self-reflection and potentially causes personal transformation.’&nbsp;Real-world example: The experiences of 26 international tourists to Fiji were examined in a recent study, to determine the connection between tourism and psychological wellbeing.&nbsp;Fiji has high levels of tourism, thanks to pristine natural environments and cultural diversity, and derives a great deal of revenue from tourism as a result: 34% of Fiji’s GDP was contributed to tourism, and around 150,000 residents are directly employed in the tourism sector. &nbsp;&nbsp;Travellers’ responses were categorised into themes, including ‘gaze’ (how tourists view the people and destinations they interact with and visit), ‘practice’ (a subjective, expressive encounter) and ‘reflection’ (post-trip learnings, related to personal transformation).&nbsp;&nbsp;And from increased sense of enjoyment when experiences where shared, a deeper sense of cultural understanding through authentic encounters with local communities and more chances for ‘shared memory’, results showed that travel can be a vehicle that increases social connectedness, personal development and transformation, and improved mental health.&nbsp;Not only this, but interacting with landscapes and residents who have been relocated due to climate change, or impacted by natural disasters, invokes a sense of awe that is directed not internally, but externally.&nbsp;&nbsp;These connections ‘evokes an ‘environmentally responsible consciousness’ in visitors, redirecting ‘personal concerns’ towards ‘more collective dimensions of personal identity’. These are significant factors in wellbeing, and support the notion that travel creates meaningful connections for people across the world.&nbsp;What are the key takeaways?Travel providers (and destination boards) ought to incorporate group travel into their tourism offerings – for more effective and numerous changes to offer chances for travellers to build connection with their companions during their trip.Accessible facilities are an essential requirement for children and elderly visitors – to promote collective participation in tourism activities and an enhanced sense of connection.Destination loyalty and revisit intentions experience an increase when visitors feel socially connected.Enhancing tourists' connection with nature, their companions and local communities will result in long-term advantages for providers, local economies and travellers themselves.&nbsp;Our Impact &nbsp;As part of HBX Group, it’s our ongoing mission to demonstrate through action how much value we place on industry-recognised travel standards, and our own environmental, social and governmental (ESG) commitments. &nbsp;&nbsp;Following the development of a new reporting framework, we’re able to anticipate future regulations, and achieve higher certification, which means that we can work even harder to make travel a force for good.7,889 volunteer hours completed - contributed by 1015 employees.€7612 raised – for global social causes.444.58kg waste collected from forest and beach cleanings.12,000 trees planted – that’s 9.04 hectares of developing forest.Carbon neutral in scope 1 and 2 – it's our 6th anniversary of this accreditation.Think Big Project – we launched this initiative to help create sustainable micro destinations, to empower local communities in rural areas.40,000 sustainable hotels – including 5000 single-use plastic-free accommodation options as part of our Sustainable Hotels Programme.We’ve become a UN Global Compact member.Hybrid vehicles – offered in even more global cities.Thousands of cultural tours, nature tourism and wildlife-centred activities – available in our Booking Engine, to encourage deeper connection with the environments and habitats of the world.Safari, reforestation, sanctuary and eco-conscious experiences – available for our clients to book.Purposeful Pause – space for employees to discuss important topics, such as financial wellbeing.Health Month – promoting employee wellbeing via yoga sessions, meditation and more.&nbsp;For a closer look at our parent company’s dedication to making ourselves and the world of travel a better place, you can download the HBX Group ESG report for 2023 here.&nbsp;

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world tourism day 2024 travel as a catalyst for understanding

Travel as a Catalyst for Understanding: World Tourism Day

&nbsp;Why are cybersecurity issues so prevalent in the travel sector?&nbsp;&nbsp;The tourism industry holds hugely valuable and sensitive data on every traveller, and it is crucial for travel agencies and providers to recognise that cybercriminals are constantly developing advanced techniques to access and steal this information from booking websites, internal systems, servers, and mobile platforms.&nbsp;The rise of online travel booking has created new opportunities for cybercriminals. With the increasing digitalisation of booking processes and the sharing of personal data online, the risk of security threats has also grown. Mobile travel apps, which are widely used by online travel agencies, have become prime targets for threat actors.&nbsp;In the following sections of this article, we will delve into the valuable insights shared by industry leaders such as MasterCard and Citibank regarding the advantages and security measures provided by virtual credit card tools, which were highlighted during our at the MarketHub Europe in June, hosted by our parent company HBX Group.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, let's first examine the potential risks involved in managing, creating, and processing online transactions, the implications for travel providers like yourself, and the role that Hotelbeds plays in this landscape.&nbsp;Security and the Travel Sector: RisksDuring recent industry-leading MarketHub events hosted by our parent company HBX Group, cybersecurity was a key topic of discussion. Attendees had the privilege of hearing from cybersecurity specialists during these events.&nbsp;One of the reasons why cybersecurity risks are so prevalent nowadays, is that a whole ecosystem has developed – forget the eras of ‘one-man hackers’, cybercrime has become ‘CAAS’, cybercrime as a service. &nbsp;&nbsp;There is a lot of money to be made from cybercrime, and as Christo Butcher, global lead for threat intelligence at NCC Group and Fox-IT, mentioned at our MarketHub Europe event, the travel sector is a low-hanging fruit in the eyes of many cybercriminals. &nbsp;&nbsp;"It's a highly dynamic sector with multiple stakeholders involved and constantly evolving interactions," Christo pointed out. Social Engineering, as a prevalent method of cybercrime discussed in our article on top cybersecurity threats, is particularly prevalent within the hospitality industry.&nbsp;Social Engineering plays off the nature of the sector, taking advantage of the customer service mindset to manipulate a situation to the benefit of the cybercriminals and at the cost of whichever hospitality business is in their sights.&nbsp;So, what can be done, especially when it comes to digital bookings? &nbsp;&nbsp;Data Regulation ComplianceData regulation gives more control over personally identifiable information and aims to simplify the ‘regulatory environments’ for international businesses dealing with this sensitive data.&nbsp;UK and EU businesses must operate in compliance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), while the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is the US equivalent, and the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) applies to businesses and data subjects – people – in Asia. &nbsp;&nbsp;Travel marketers must pay close attention to data handling compliance when executing marketing campaigns and sending enticing offers to customers for bookings. This involves the careful processing, storing, and utilisation of customer databases to ensure everything is handled according to regulations and best practices.&nbsp;Incorporating the core principles and rules of global data protection regulations into your business is critical! These principles include: data minimisation, purpose limitation, storage limitation, accuracy, integrity, and security. Make sure to search for your countries’ relevant data protection regulation to see the most up-to-date rules.&nbsp;Sticking to the strict rules laid down by worldwide data protection regulations helps to:Ensure data accuracyProtects data against unauthorised accessEmpowers people to exercise their rights over their own dataHow is this linked to travel booking?Utilising any form of online booking software encompasses a range of activities falling under the broad scope of 'processing'. This includes collecting, recording, storing, using, and disclosing data through various means such as transmission. From basic contact information to sensitive payment details and personal preferences, every piece of data gathered by travel agencies is subject to stringent data protection regulations.&nbsp;As travel bookers, it’s vital that you’re processing, storing and using data lawfully and transparently.&nbsp;Using online booking systems that adhere to these strict rules not only means that you’re meeting global requirements as a travel provider, and therefore a handler of data, but also ensures the privacy and security of your customers’ data.&nbsp;Using Safe Providers and Booking PlatformsThe use of booking software goes hand in hand with travel providers – even in brick-and-mortar travel provider businesses the booking is completed using an online booking platform. &nbsp;&nbsp;The majority of websites use SSL encryption to protect any data that’s transmitted between a website and a shopper.&nbsp;HTTPS website security is crucial for building guest trust and securing online transactions. &nbsp;&nbsp;Those in the hospitality and tourism industry must take proactive steps, including appointing a compliance champion, educating staff, controlling data access, and collaborating with PCI-compliant vendors, to adhere to these standards and protect against data breaches and hefty fines.&nbsp;Surveys say 84% of users would abandon a purchase if data was sent over an insecure connection, and a large majority are concerned about their data being intercepted or misused online. &nbsp;&nbsp;So, what are the risks involved with online booking platforms, and how can we ensure that bookings made using travel booking software are secure?&nbsp;Christo Butcher, our insightful guest speaker at MarketHub Europe, also spoke about this.&nbsp;Interestingly, though there is potential to hack the booking platform itself, Christo suggested that its ‘much more interesting to focus on the weaker links in the chain: the users.’ In an example where you have users who can log into a booking platform, this account is ‘probably much easier to hack than the platform itself’, and once this is compromised, the hacker effectively becomes the hotelier, or provider, with ‘direct access to all guests and travellers via legitimate communication channels.’&nbsp;This situation provides hackers with an ideal chance to engage with actual end users in a seemingly authentic manner, serving as a significant force amplifier in the cybercrime domain. By hacking a single account, the potential for profitable scalability is enormous.&nbsp;How can this risk be mitigated? Multi-factor authentication.&nbsp;Managing the risk involved in stolen or hacked passwords is key! MFA (multi-factor authentication, sometimes also called two-factor authentication, helps reduce the chances of stolen credentials.&nbsp;Another key risk is third party security, especially when it comes to travel providers such as Online Travel Agents (OTAs). The issue here, for OTAs, is that income pivots around products which are provided and sold by different suppliers, like airlines, hotels, car rental companies, or travel insurance, just as an example. The combination of this dynamic and changing collection of suppliers, along with the ‘inoperability’ between these businesses – for OTAs – opens a prime environment for hackers.&nbsp;Implement Security Standards for PaymentsThe Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a crucial industry standard mandated by major credit card companies. It plays a vital role in ensuring the secure processing, storage, and transmission of credit card information. This standard directly impacts every single credit card transaction, emphasising the importance of compliance and adherence to these rules.&nbsp;Should a guest use their credit card to pay for something at a hotel, for example – be it a room reservation, spa treatment or coffee – or a traveller use their credit card to secure a booking with you, PCI DSS applies to that purchase.&nbsp;When it comes to digital booking, the most important factor is that you’re selecting an online travel booking platform that is fully PCI DSS compliant – like the Hotelbeds Booking Engine.&nbsp;But for day-to-day practices that will also ensure that you’re storing and handling data correctly, here’s a few pointers: &nbsp;Name an owner or champion of PCI DSS compliance within your organisation.Be proactive: teach staff why data security is important and the impact any breach may have. &nbsp;Protect physical data.Restrict access to payment or personal data to only staff who require this information to do their job. Use individual logins and access codes to systems.Clarify the role vendors play in terms of compliance with data-related standards, and seek PCI DSS compliant partners.Secure online booking data: While you may need a paper copy of a reservation, do not print credit card details of customers from your online systems.&nbsp;Virtual Cards – MarketHub InsightsIn today's travel and tourism industry, it is crucial for businesses to cater to travellers for whom the payment method plays a significant role in their decision-making process. As pointed out by Ana Arjones of Mastercard during our recent MarketHub Europe event hosted by our parent company HBX Group, if the preferred payment method of a customer is not available on a hotel's website, 1 in 4 travellers will choose to take their business elsewhere.&nbsp;In answer to this challenge, virtual credit cards (VCC) are a tokenised version of the physical payment formats used by millions of people, companies and organisations worldwide. &nbsp;&nbsp;In a booking related environment, many travel providers have API connections to banks, and anytime a booking is created, a one-time VCC, specific to that booking is created.&nbsp;The virtual card is specifically coded for a designated supplier, amount, and in certain cases for travel or hotel bookings, the associated check-in and check-out dates. This ensures that the virtual card cannot be used for unauthorised transactions, even with the same supplier. After the payment is made, the virtual account number is deactivated and cannot be reused. This method of payment not only enhances security but also minimises the risk of fraudulent activity. &nbsp;&nbsp;Ana Arjones stated that ‘fraud rates on virtual cards are virtually zero’, much lower than the 0.3% rate on regular consumer cards. Which seems like a small figure, but 0.3% of a large volume is a significant number.&nbsp;This is incredibly important when you consider that sales made by travel providers on behalf of hotels is a significant industry, with ‘leisure sales made by travel intermediaries valued at around $500 billion,’ as Ana Arjones again suggested. &nbsp;&nbsp;Virtual Credit Cards and HotelbedsVirtual credit cards are widely supported and used by many travel product suppliers we partner with at Hotelbeds.&nbsp;Much of our supplier finance management processes hinges on the secure processing of virtual credit card transactions, with an E-Billing system specifically designed for VCC suppliers and the effective, safe management of all VCC payments and transactions. &nbsp;&nbsp;This means that when you’re confirming a booking using the Hotelbeds Booking Engine, there are layers of security and encryption involved when your customers’ data and payments are being transferred from their bank accounts to the travel product provider.&nbsp;Discover more about the benefits of partnering with Hotelbeds today.&nbsp;

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Cybersecurity: Staying Safe in a Digital Booking Landscape as Travel Providers

In recent years, the service and marketing industries have shifted their focus from accommodating Millennials as the 'future generation' to now integrating Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Born from the late 1990s to early 2010s, Gen Z and the children of Millennials, known as Gen Alpha, are already making significant impacts and are considered the true 'travellers of the future'.&nbsp;The industry is set on capturing the attention – and spending power – of these up-and-coming demographics of jetsetters, which makes sense given that Gen Z have risen to represent around one third of the global population.&nbsp;A recent study by the European Travel Commission revealed that younger travellers are more likely to: &nbsp;Return to, and add more value to, destinations over timeDiscover and actively seek out new, less-’popular’ travel destinationsIncorporate technology into the planning of, and during, their tripsSeek personal cultural experiences, benefits, and contribute to local communities in-destination&nbsp;It should be noted that Gen Z is currently one of the highest spending demographics in the travel sector. Despite not being individually wealthy, their collective spending power heavily contributes to their travel experiences. This generation's strong alignment between their values and consumer behaviors further solidifies their influence in the market. &nbsp;&nbsp;Let’s take a look at how the ‘travellers of the future’ are changing the landscape of travel and tourism.&nbsp;The impact of younger generations on travel trendsDid you know that Gen Z alone constitutes a spending power of around global spending power of $143 billion (a figure that is only increasing) and accounts for about 40% of all consumers? Or that Millennials and Gen Z consumers will make up 45% of luxury sales by 2025?&nbsp;Digital-native travellersThe upbringing of Gen Z and Gen A in a digital era has resulted in their development during crucial formative years, constantly exposed to evolving and easily accessible technologies.&nbsp;In terms of seeking out assistance from a travel provider, rather than doing things themselves, the likelihood of Gen Z doing so is influenced by various factors. However, among them all, Gen Z tends to prioritize technology integration, easy booking procedures, social environments that encourage connections with fellow guests, interactive communication with service providers, and personalized experiences.&nbsp;In light of Gen Z's ability to meet their own needs through their technological proficiency, it is crucial for travel providers to find ways to engage with this constantly connected generation, such as through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).&nbsp;How to attract and accommodate ‘digital-native’ travellers:Highlight the benefits of using an agency over an OTA – &nbsp;in your content, your communications or ads, your website, everywhere.Personalise all communications to the right audience, at the right time. Gen Z want individual experiences; use this to your benefit as a provider who can offer that.Ensure your approach is ‘mobile-first’ - whether it’s marketing or fighting for a spot on the top results in a search engine, what’s important to know is that 80% of Gen Z travellers use smartphones to research and book their travel. Compete with OTAs and be seen.Create engaging online content – you can’t book travel for customers who can’t find your services. Not only do you need to be seen, but younger travellers need to be convinced of why they should use an agency over an OTA. Convenience is everything – but personalisation is a huge motivator for this audience.Embrace technology and digital experiences – incorporate and promote tech-based recommendations, from hotels that offer AI powered air-con and mobile check-in to using a travel booking platform that has flexible payments – like our Booking Engine!&nbsp;&nbsp;Travel influencersGen Z spends an average of 10.6 hours per day online, making them the most digitally connected generation, and in 2023, around 29% of Gen Zers were inspired to travel to a destination by TikTok. Meanwhile, around 54% of parents say their Gen Alpha child spends up to four hours a day on social media.&nbsp;Many members of Generation Z and Millennials, more than their Gen X counterparts, find travel inspiration predominantly through online platforms. Social media, with its use of hashtags, geotags, and content sharing, provides a convenient way for users to discover and explore various destinations, attractions, and experiences worldwide. Travel businesses and influencers play vital roles in showcasing these destinations through engaging content, essentially serving as virtual tour guides for their audiences.&nbsp;A recent study discovered that approximately 75% of travelers in the UK, US, Australia, China, and Japan utilize social media for travel inspiration. Leading the pack are platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. Interestingly, 48% of travelers end up visiting destinations they stumble upon or are intrigued by on social media. &nbsp;&nbsp;Notably, during their searches, many users actively seek out new destinations, hidden gems, and unique travel experiences.&nbsp;Research indicates that the largest source of inspiration for young travelers is television, news outlets, or movies at 64%, followed closely by recommendations from friends and family at 47%. These findings highlight the significant impact of social media on the preferences of the younger generation of travelers, surpassing even the influence of personal recommendations.Build a positive online social presence to capture Gen Z travellersAnd considering the prevalence and importance of social media in their travel-making decisions, it’s fair to say that Gen Z – and even Millennials - are travel influencers too. &nbsp;&nbsp;It is important to note that for every interaction your Gen Z customers have with your customer service, booking, pre-and post-travel experiences, they are highly likely to share their feedback online, whether positive or negative. Therefore, social media plays a crucial role in the success or failure of travel companies.&nbsp;What does your online presence say about you as a travel provider?Are you creating engaging content? Is it the right content for your audience?How do travellers know what value you provide, compared to OTAs? &nbsp;Are you paying attention to what previous and existing customers say about you or your business?&nbsp;&nbsp;What do travellers want? Experiential TourismA large proportion of Millennial travellers seek culturally immersive, experiential travel – a chance to ‘get under the skin’ of their destination and create personally fulfilling experiences. &nbsp;&nbsp;Generation Z is known for seeking unique experiences, and as the first digitally native generation, their travel preferences reflect a technology-first approach from the start of trip planning all the way to sharing experiences during and after their travels. &nbsp;&nbsp;Most of all, both demographics are proven (find stats) to want and prioritise: &nbsp;Experiential travel – with a focus on authenticity in-destination.Wellness experiences – from holistic therapies to silent travel, wellness is driven by what wellness means to individual travellers, resulting in demands for bespoke experiences.Cultural and destination immersion &nbsp;Niche travel – such as agri-tourism, eco-travel, halal travel, adventure travel and more.&nbsp;The Gen Z demographic is increasingly showing a preference for authenticity in destination experiences. This shift towards experiential travel reflects a desire for bespoke, tailor-made travel experiences rather than the traditional 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Building on the cultural immersion focus of Millennials, Gen Z is leading the way in seeking experiences that align with their values. The trend is towards personalized, unique travel experiences that cater to the individual preferences of this generation.&nbsp;From ‘set-jetting’ travel to luxury culinary tourism, solo travel and wellness tourism, such as ‘silent travel’, there’s no denying the fact that as well as being motivated by a desire for self-discovery, cultural immersion, and localised experiences, Gen Z are just as inspired by ‘on-screen’ destinations, social media and a keen social and environmental awareness.&nbsp;In order to appeal to this future-focused generation of travelers, it is important to stay up-to-date on popular culture knowledge and have environmentally friendly recommendations readily available.&nbsp;See our top 2024 travel trends here!&nbsp;&nbsp;Sustainable Travel for the futureAs evidenced by recent data, sustainable travel is a top priority for Millennials and Generation Z travelers. 82% of Millennials have expressed a strong desire for travel options that are environmentally friendly.&nbsp;Promote sustainable travel options – from hotels that are certified as sustainable (you’ll find these in our Booking Engine – to tours that have reduced their single-use plastic waste.Practice what you preach – many travel companies have signed the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism as signatories, or seek sustainability certification as part of the Sustainable Travel Agencies Certification. &nbsp;Adopt sustainable practices in your day-to-day – a key example would be to use digital travel brochures.Support local causes – recommend locally owned restaurants, tours and own voices from a portfolio of trustworthy and sustainable travel products – like our Booking Engine!Invest in ‘regenerative’ schemes – much like our adjoining company Hotelbeds is dedicated to planting tens of thousands of trees in the Hotelbeds Forest!&nbsp;Conscious travel is top of the demands list for many younger travellers, from sustainable travel practices and experiences that benefit local communities, to voluntourism and regenerative travel, alongside their undercurrent of desire for unique experiences.Discover more about overtourism, and the importance of promoting sustainable tourism here.&nbsp;The impact on Gen Alpha on modern familial travelThe growing utilization of travel technology and enhancements in travel accessibility across various demographics worldwide have created new opportunities for younger generations to travel more easily and affordably. This shift is transforming the expectations of younger travelers as travel becomes more convenient and economical, especially in regions with advanced travel infrastructures.&nbsp;Given this, Gen A is expected to be the most mobile traveller yet.&nbsp;This not only affects the future travel patterns of Generation A, but also their current impact on modern family travel. In fact, approximately 43% of families with Generation A children are influenced or inspired by them when planning a trip.&nbsp;Although the older generations still play a key role in decision-making due to their ability to book trips, Gen A is actively sharing travel-related content on social media and indirectly influencing family travel decisions. Use this insight to provide experience-led recommendations to families with Gen A children.&nbsp;A high number of families are prioritising inter-generational experiences and the needs of the family over the destination itself. Tech-inspired holidays are ideal for family and intergenerational travel as these experiences are engaging, accessible, sustainable, and memorable. Immersive experiential travel is fun for the whole family no matter the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;While this is by no means an exhaustive list or overview of the impact of younger generations on travel, travel trends, and even wider traveller behaviour, it's certainly food for thought when you're considering how to attract, appeal and retain these all important travellers of the future. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Travel Trends 2024: The Travellers of the Future

&nbsp;Did you know that around 80% of global travellers have suggested that sustainability is important to them? Or that 6 out of 10 visitors prioritise hotels that are single-use plastic free? &nbsp;As a travel provider, the responsibility lies in your hands to cater to the growing demand from travelers who are seeking sustainable options, with the aim of reducing their carbon footprint. With more and more travelers aligning their values with their spending habits, it is evident that the industry is moving towards a permanent shift to sustainability.To remain relevant, it’s essential to take into account the consumer trends within the travel industry as a whole, as travellers are increasingly showing a preference for sustainability. This includes a demand for single-use plastic-free hotels, a focus on eco-conscious initiatives in their accommodation choices, and a preference for destinations that prioritise climate change solutions and green investments.So as your travel partner, we’d be remiss not to join those paving the way for travel as a force for good, and assist you in this shift towards sustainability.&nbsp;Make Sustainable Travel Front and CentreSo, how are you able to make sustainability a priority for yourself, and easily accessible for travellers, with Hotelbeds?With our range of travel booking tools and products, our strong commitment to sustainability as a business, and our continuous focus on empowering both travel providers and travellers themselves with opportunities that cater to their specific needs, we strive to provide the best possible travel experience for all.Let’s take a look at how we’re helping you to help your clients travel sustainably.&nbsp;Sustainable Hotels ProgrammeWe have our Sustainable Hotels Programme (formerly our Green Hotels Programme) offered in line with our parent company, HBX Group.Since its beginnings in 2020 our Sustainable Hotels Programme has continued to grow, from offering 15,000 to around 40,000 sustainable hotels, and a recent Accor campaign that Hotelbeds, also under HBX Group, boosted the single-use plastic free hotels we’re able to offer from 500 to 5000.The Sustainable Hotels Programme was established to provide hotels worldwide with a platform to demonstrate their commitment to transforming travel, catering to the growing importance of conscious travel choices for consumers, and facilitating the integration of sustainable options into the booking process for our registered partners.This leads us onto our next point...&nbsp;The ‘Sustainable Hotels’ Filter in our Booking Travel PlatformOf course, travellers need more than just a ticked box to be assured that their choices are wholly sustainable.Enter in, sustainability: certified.One of the fastest ways for our registered travel partners to access, identify, and promote our collection of sustainable hotels is by using the ‘Sustainable Hotels’ filter in our Booking Engine.Hotels are only shown in our ‘Sustainable Hotels’ filter in our travel booking platform, if they have sustainable certification – provided by industry-leading organisations such as the World Tourism and Trade Council (WTTC) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).You can read more about hotel certifications here.By selecting 'Sustainable Hotels' in our Booking Engine, you and your clients can have peace of mind knowing that the hotels and resorts recommended are accredited with the highest levels of sustainability.Considering that travellers are seeking authenticity more and more, it’s important that as their travel booker you’re able to offer trustworthy and approved sustainable options. Not only for ultimate peace of mind, but also to maximise that customer-agent relationship that we know is so important for you and your business.Not signed up yet? Sign up and start taking advantage of our 40,000 sustainable hotels!&nbsp;Personalised Travel BrochuresImagine this: You are a valued member of the Hotelbeds network. With access to a vast array of hotels, experiences, car rental, and transfer services, as well as the expertise of our local and global professionals, all conveniently available to you.What’s next?Well, now you have your portfolio of sustainable hotels, you can promote them in a way that suits your clients best.How? By personalising your own travel brochure.The Star Brochure is considered our flagship product, encompassing everything essential for travel providers: destination inspiration, trend-focused articles, extensive hotel and resort listings, instant booking capabilities, and customisable options for individual client needs.It's important to have a diverse portfolio of sustainable options for travellers, but it's equally important to present these travel options in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. The Star Brochure makes it simple for clients to make the right choice and say 'yes' to that perfect stay.With our customisable travel brochure you can: &nbsp;Choose to include existing content or create your own articles, welcome messages and moreAdd your own branding and logos to stand out from the crowdBook your clients’ dream trip right from the Star Brochure itself &nbsp;Share your travel brochure quickly and easily&nbsp;Furthermore, thanks to seamless integration with our travel booking platform, the Booking Engine, you have the opportunity to offer your clients additional trip-enhancing products such as experiences and mobility solutions. This not only enhances their travel experience but also increases your revenue potential.&nbsp;Additionally, the Star Brochure includes convenient 'Best For' categories that are strategically placed throughout the brochure, making it simple to find the ideal hotel for each client's unique needs.Hotel Comparison in the Booking EngineOnce you and your client have found suitable sustainable options for their needs, it might be tricky for them to narrow down their choices. &nbsp;Luckily, our Hotel Comparison Tool in the Booking Engine makes this simple.Simply select the sustainable hotel options that have caught your clients’ eye, and hit the ‘Compare’ button in our booking platform. It’s that easy. Our Booking Engine allows you to compare up to four hotels at the time of booking, offering a quick glance at each list of facilities to help your client make the decision.&nbsp;Our Exclusive CampaignsWe believe that offering timely, incentivising, and seasonal campaigns is a crucial aspect of being a good partner. Our mission is to provide the best travel products to our partners in a way that excites and delights their clients. Therefore, it is only natural that we run these types of campaigns to meet your needs. &nbsp;Our campaigns are not solely driven by trends, but also serve as a crucial platform to showcase valuable and sought-after products that keep you, as agents, ahead in the travel industry. &nbsp;This includes promoting sustainable options, exemplified in our recent Single-Use Plastic-Free campaign.This campaign was specifically designed to offer travel providers enhanced access to the sustainability certified hotels we previously mentioned. It features only the top recommended hotels and resorts from our Sustainable Hotels Programme.We’ve seen huge success with our sustainably focused campaigns and are dedicated to constantly improving our offering of eco-conscious options. Last year, our campaign with Accor increased the number of hotels and resorts registered as single-use plastic free from 500 to 5000.Read more about why travel providers should offer single-use plastic free hotels here.Of course, our campaigns are only available to our valued partners, so sign up today to begin benefitting from targeted and seasonal campaigns to help you uplift your bookings.&nbsp;So there you have it. While this is a few of the key ways that as a travel parter we make it easy for you to offer sustainable options to travellers, you’ll only be able to ascertain the true value of providing greener alternatives to your clients once you begin! &nbsp;Start catering to the demands of today’s traveller and focus on bringing sustainablility to the forefront of your promotion, and if you haven’t already, sign up to access a global portfolio of sustainable hotel options. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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