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Small and independent hotels may operate differently from larger chains, but that doesn't mean they can't thrive in today's competitive travel landscape.&nbsp;
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In this article, we'll explore how small hoteliers can enhance their business by becoming part of our TravelTech ecosystem at Hotelbeds. Whether you're already familiar with our offerings or just getting started, we're here to show you how we can support your growth.&nbsp;
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So, read on to discover why improving your distribution strategy is crucial and how Hotelbeds can be your game-changing partner.
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Why Small Hoteliers Need to Improve Their Distribution Strategy

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest challenges for small hotels is to become visible to potential guests and to compete with large chains, which typically have strong brand positioning. However, this doesn't mean you can't carve out a niche for yourself if you're a small or independent hotelier.
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A typical strategy is to reduce your prices to become more attractive. In the long run, however, this isn't the best initiative to implement. It's also possible that you rely on a single distribution channel, such as an OTA (Online Travel Agency), but this isn't recommended either. Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket.
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The key is to combine technology with marketing tactics, and to think outside the box. In this article, we'll cover how you can benefit from expanding your distribution channels&nbsp;by joining Hotelbeds.
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Hotelbeds can be a game-changing partner for your small or independent property. Even if you lack an expansive sales team, channel managers, or marketing teams, we provide tech solutions to maximise your visibility, reach and revenue in the markets you're interested in. Want to learn more? Keep reading!
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How Can Small and Independent Hotels Maximise Their Distribution Strategy?

Joining Hotelbeds offers many benefits. Discover some of them below.&nbsp;

Access to 66,000+ Potential Partners

Building strategic partnerships with other industry players is crucial for your business. Expanding your network can enhance your property's visibility and distribution. This network can include tourism boards, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, and more.
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However, building these relationships can be time-consuming, especially for small hoteliers. Then, how can you boost your visibility to stand out from competitors like large chains?
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Hotelbeds can help you to address this issue.
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One of the main advantages of working with us, is that you don’t need to work individually with every player. We ensure that travel agencies and other wholesalers in relevant regions get to know you and include you in their travel packages. By partnering with us, your property can benefit from increased visibility without spending a lot of time and effort. We do it for you: simply tell us what markets you are interested in entering, and we'll place you in front of the right customers, at the right time.
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Upon registration, you'll be assigned a personal Account Manager. They'll help you to manage market demand, distribute your rooms, and establish relationships with partners.
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For instance, if you aim to enter the Canadian market, you won't have to individually approach Canadian travel agencies. With Hotelbeds, you gain immediate access to over 66,000 travel distributors, streamlining the process and giving you greater control over distribution throughout the year.
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Reduced Cancellation Rates

Empty rooms mean less revenue, which is especially critical for small and independent hotels, since every booking counts. High cancellation rates can be frustrating for you.
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But don’t worry: we’ve got you covered here, too!
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Hotelbeds are proud to provide long-haul, high-value guests who rarely cancel last-minute. These guests often come from overseas, invest significant time and money on their trips, and are more likely to keep their bookings.&nbsp;
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Manage Your Property with Our Powerful Partner Extranet

Hotelbeds boasts one of the travel industry's most powerful extranets. This all-in-one hotel management tool offers real-time autonomy for various tasks:
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	Manage your rates, availability and bookings: View and change your availability across rate and room types. Also, quickly update your availability and prices across multiple rates and room types, all in one easy process.
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	Upload and update your hotel content: Get access to an intuitive content manager with a user-friendly interface to maximise the quality of your content.
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	View reports and get access to a global dashboard with a snapshot of today’s arrivals, bookings and cancellations, as well as competitor comparisons.
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	See finance information: Including the status of your invoices, Hotelbeds contracts, etc.
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	Find main points of contact with relevant departments to help you.
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Furthermore, the more details you provide about your property and rooms, the better the tool will perform and benefit you. For example, if you have sustainable initiatives, make sure you highlight them. Sustainable tourism is a current industry trend, and we want to help you communicate your efforts in this matter.
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In addition, integrating our partner extranet with your channel manager improves rate optimisation. You can project rates and availability for key campaigns several months or years in advance without additional tools. Hotelbeds is compatible with most channel manager options, including Cloudbeds, HiRUM, and RoomCloud.
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See how our Partner Extranet benefits hoteliers like you: 'I'm very happy with Hotelbeds Partner Extranet. Compared to other extranets I use, yours is a step ahead. There is a functionality that I find very easy to use, which is the tabulator for editing availability and prices. On other platforms, I can’t tabulate when I want to upload rates.' - Lucas Zori, owner of Hostal Aravaca Garden.

Better Data Management

Leveraging business data can seem challenging, but it's essential for making informed decisions. While larger hotels often have dedicated data analysts, smaller and independent properties may lack this resource.
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At Hotelbeds, we prioritise data and help you harness your data lake. We offer data forecasting to identify demand trends and customer origins quickly. By joining us, you'll be able to turn data into actionable insights from the first day.
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In conclusion, these are just a few of the benefits you'll enjoy once you join Hotelbeds. We've been a global leader in the traveltech industry for decades, with extensive knowledge of our dynamic sector and how small hoteliers can thrive. If you're ready to register for free and take advantage of our tailored services and products, designed to meet the needs of each type of hotel, you can register your property here.

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As a bonus, find below a free copy of our guide&nbsp;'Understanding Hotel Distribution Channels', where we unlock everything you need to know about distribution channels, their advantages, drawbacks, and considerations for defining your hotel's distribution strategy. Download it now!


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Hotel Distribution for Small Hotels: 4 Effective Methods To Try

It's undeniable that tourism plays a significant role in the global economy. In a world where travel is becoming increasingly accessible, statistics show that tourism will continue its strong growth in the coming decade. This power also comes with great responsibility, as it's one of the sectors with the most impact on the environment, society, and the economy.
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With this in mind, we celebrate World Tourism Day on September 27th. This is certainly an ideal day to reflect on the present and future of our industry, and the role we all play in creating a better world for tomorrow.
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This year, at Hotelbeds, we focus on sustainable tourism, a necessary discussion that will help us explore which actions we can implement to redefine our sector's future.
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As a hotelier, you undoubtedly play a vital role in this. That's why, throughout this article, we provide you with different recommendations on how to actively participate in sustainable tourism and lead the way.
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The Importance of Sustainability for Hoteliers

As we mentioned earlier, hoteliers are key players in the tourism industry. A clear example of this is when a destination becomes popular, leading hotel companies to establish themselves there and offer new accommodation options. This has a significant impact on that region in particular.
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That's why it's essential to consider how you implement your projects and initiatives, also from a sustainable perspective.
According to Booking.com's 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, at least 74% of travellers want travel companies, including hotels, to provide more sustainable choices. Additionally, 65% of respondents stated that they would feel better about paying for accommodation with a sustainable certification or label.
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Sustainable tourism and ethical hotel development are now more interconnected than ever, playing a crucial role in preserving local culture and socio-economic stability. This is why hotels are instrumental in educating guests about sustainable behaviours and adopting operational practices aligned with sustainability best practices.
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For instance, at Hotelbeds, we have seen growing interest and bookings from hotels that implement sustainable actions. Through our Sustainable&nbsp;Hotels Programme, we offer you a unique opportunity to showcase your sustainability initiatives, such as reducing plastic usage.
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Currently, there are over 38,000 properties certified as sustainable. We've also observed a significant 30% increase in bookings over the past 12 months, demonstrating the rising demand for sustainable accommodation. This represents a fantastic opportunity to position yourself prominently within our portfolio of more than 66,000 travel distributors.
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If you're already a Hotelbeds partner and are interested in the programme, you can easily join following the next steps:
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	Log&nbsp;into Hotelbeds Partner Extranet
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	Select&nbsp;'Hotel Info'
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	Click&nbsp;'About Hotel' and scroll&nbsp;to the 'Things to Keep in Mind' section
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	Check&nbsp;the 'Single-use Plastic Free' box
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If you're not yet registered with Hotelbeds, we’ve got you covered. You can register for free here and soon will have the opportunity to join the Sustainable Hotels Programme.
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Additionally, it isn't only guests who are becoming increasingly interested in hotels' sustainability initiatives. According to a report by HotelTechReport, investors concerned about this topic also take into account the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework when deciding whether to invest in a property.
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The ESG framework helps investors better understand how the hotel company protects or neglects nature, treats its employees and the local community, and adheres to ethical business practices. Specifically, the ESG framework revolves around three pillars:
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	Environmental: Initiatives related to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.
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	Social: Company policies regarding health and wellness, diversity and inclusion, and fair labour practices.
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	Governance: The company's ethical business practices, diversity of the board of directors, and adherence to laws and regulations.
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In conclusion, it's evident that committing to sustainable initiatives is no longer an option but essential to remain an attractive choice for both guests and investors.

Hotel Sustainability Best Practices You Can't Miss

As we've just discussed, it's vital to contribute to sustainable tourism. However, many hotels still struggle with how to put sustainability into practice. Hence, below you'll find a variety of options to adopt sustainable initiatives (or continue doing so).

Transport

Transport is one of the key elements to consider when promoting sustainable practices. It's imperative to recommend, whenever possible, public transport to reach your hotel.
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By using options such as trains or buses, it significantly reduces carbon emissions and decreases the number of vehicles on the road, thus improving air quality.
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In your communication channels, such as your website, you can provide detailed information about the different transport options available to reach your property. For example, you can include links to the national/public train company's website (e.g., Renfe in Spain or FS Italiane in Italy) to help potential guests find the most convenient routes to your hotel. The same applies to other modes of transport, such as the metro, intercity buses, or local bus services.
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Food Provision

Within the hotel, there are also many actions you can take to promote sustainability with your resources. To begin with, in our comprehensive article on plastic-free initiatives for hotels, you can explore many ideas for promoting plastic-free products' usage, such as reusable shampoo and gel dispensers, or eliminating plastic water bottles, among others.
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Beyond actions related to plastic use, there are other ideas that can make a significant difference to your property:
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	If you have a buffet-style restaurant, manage your resources optimally. Promote local and seasonal products in the hotel's restaurant. If you are noticing a great deal of food waste every day, consider making donations to local food banks, rather than throwing it away. This way, you can directly contribute to your local community.
	
	Another fantastic option that can be quite profitable is partnering with companies like Too Good To Go. This is an app that combats food waste in supermarkets, bakeries, and hotels, among other establishments. Hotel chains such as Radisson Hotel Group, NH Hotel Group, and ILUNION Hotels have already established alliances, giving surplus breakfast buffet food a second chance.
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	Another way to make a positive impact is by recommending local restaurants (instead of multinational chains) known for using local and seasonal products. It's an excellent opportunity for your guests to experience the region's products, discover what the region has to offer, and contribute to the economic development of the area.
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	You can also consider growing your own food and having an organic seasonal garden. For example, the TUI Blue Oceanis Beach hotel in Kos offers guests the opportunity to enjoy products grown on-site at Oceanis Farm. Since its establishment in 2012, the farm has expanded significantly and now provides high-quality food for the hotel's buffet.
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To reach as many potential guests as possible, it's crucial to effectively communicate the actions your property is taking. Make them visible on your website or in digital content created for social media or newsletters. This will let future guests know about your commitment to sustainable practices.


Promoting Sustainable Local Economic Development

Sustainable tourism also requires that you take into account the economic development of the local community where your property is located.
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Promoting sustainable actions should include efforts to ensure that tourism generates wealth for area residents. This can be achieved by:
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	Integrating the local population into your hotel activities, creating employment directly and indirectly.
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	Establishing collaborations with local agencies, hiring local guides and native agents.
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	Promoting&nbsp;staff training in your hotels to help them acquire new skills for the future, ensuring you have a more prepared and efficient team. These training sessions help create better job opportunities, as employees are taught exactly what they need to know to perform their tasks perfectly.
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	Seeking partnerships with other entrepreneurs who share social and environmental values. They promote projects that add value to both themselves and their surrounding communities.
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Several hotels have demonstrated commitment to these causes, such as the following:
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	Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts have announced a commitment to achieve gender parity in executive roles by 2023, with 25% of executive roles held by people of colour. It's also planned to have 3,000 properties owned by women and people of colour by 2025, according to Marriott.
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	As part of its RiseHY programme, Hyatt has committed to hiring 10,000 ’opportunity youth’ between the ages of 16 and 24 by 2025.
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	Sol y Mar Hoteles Group has signed an agreement with social startup Gravity Wave to remove nearly six tons of plastic from the Mediterranean. They will collect and recycle one kilogram of plastic from the sea for every booking made on their website.
	



Respect for Culture, Heritage, and the Environment

One of the major challenges in the industry is that it may lead to tourist 'massification', the loss of local identity and culture.
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Examples of this can be seen in cities such as Venice and Barcelona, where there is an excess of tourism almost all year round. As a result, authorities have implemented various policies to regulate the flow of tourists, especially in peak tourist seasons.
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As a hotelier, what can you do to raise awareness among your guests about the importance of respecting local cultures and heritage?
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	Whenever your front desk staff recommends places to guests, encourage them to mention less known but still interesting options. This is an effective way to ensure that certain overcrowded spots have fewer visitors, allowing the crowd to disperse more evenly throughout the territory.
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	Leverage the growing demand for ecotourism and experiences that allow travellers to connect with local traditions, crafts, music, art, and culinary practices. There's a rising trend of travellers seeking immersive encounters with local cultural heritage, contributing to the preservation of unique identities and traditions.
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	Encourage your guests to learn a few words in the local language. Language is part of a destination's heritage, and it's an excellent way for guests to immerse themselves in the culture they are visiting. For instance, you could provide small cards with basic words and FAQs in the local language to give to your guests during check-in. Beyond communication, learning how to greet and express simple things like 'thanks' in the local language shows a willingness to better understand the culture and people.
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	When recommending tourism companies for tours, tastings, or other activities, make sure they respect the area's natural and cultural heritage. This might include limiting the number of participants and emphasising the importance of conserving the environment.
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	Avoid promoting or maintaining agreements with companies that offer experiences involving shows with animals, such as shark diving tours or elephant rides. Such practices often involve animal exploitation.
	
	Instead, consider supporting ethical animal tourism, such as rehabilitation and rescue centres or sanctuaries. These organisations educate visitors and reinvest their revenue in further rehabilitation or rescues. Look for centres that aim to reintroduce animals into the wild, as this provides visitors with a valuable educational experience and supports ethical animal tourism.
	




Final Thoughts on Sustainable Initiatives for Your Hotel

We hope this article has shed some light on how to implement sustainable initiatives that contribute to a more conscious and responsible tourism industry.

Hoteliers have a significant opportunity – and challenge&nbsp;– to be at the forefront of this paradigm shift. There is a growing interest in the sustainable tourism movement among the younger generations. This indicates the direction that guests' needs will take in the future.

As you can see, there are many options for incorporating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. Numerous hotels are already making efforts to become more sustainable and ensure ethical impacts. However, it's worthwhile to remember that it's still okay not to meet all sustainability criteria 100%. What truly matters is your intention and focus on becoming more sustainable little by little.

You can better communicate your environmental initiatives, such as plastic-free practices, to potential customers by joining the Sustainable&nbsp;Hotels Programme. If you're already part of Hotelbeds, simply log into our Partner Extranet, select 'Hotel Info,' and tick the 'Single-use Plastic Free' box.

If you're not yet part of Hotelbeds, you can join by clicking here. You'll become visible to over 66,000 travel distributors. Register today!


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Sustainable Tourism: A Hotelier's Guide to Positive Impact 

Over the course of the year, occupancy rates in the travel and hospitality industry fluctuate constantly.&nbsp;

However, you don't have to accept reduced business just because it's low season. With strategic planning, you can significantly boost your success during the off-season, regardless of your hotel’s type and seasonality.&nbsp;

In this article, we provide you with several tips to overcome seasonal fluctuations and elevate your occupancy rates all year round. In addition, make sure you read until the end, where we offer you a free resource to help you improve your off-season performance.&nbsp;Keep reading!

Identify the Low Season Period

Your first step should be defining when your property is in low season. Depending on factors like weather, your geographical location, nearby attractions, the overall demand for a particular region, or other factors, the low or off-season can vary.

These factors significantly impact hotels' revenues. By keeping these patterns in mind, hotel managers can develop initiatives to mitigate their consequences.

So, how can you identify these fluctuations? Here are some ideas:


	
	Market research and trend analysis: Stay up-to-date with industry happenings to identify trends that might affect your occupancy.
	Additionally, you could get to know your guests even better by conducting surveys, for example, and find out what they look for when choosing a hotel.&nbsp;
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	Historical data analysis: Examine past occupancy rates to identify patterns and predict future trends.&nbsp;
	For instance, if you notice a consistent drop in certain months, such as October and November, you can anticipate low occupancy during those months. You can use this insight to develop a strategy aimed at increasing guest bookings during this period.
	


Once you've identified your low seasons, it's time to implement various tactics to boost your occupancy.&nbsp;

But don’t apply all these tips simultaneously. Start with techniques which align closely with your needs, and then expand to others. You understand your business' strengths and weaknesses, so we recommend you act accordingly.
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Introduce Progressive Pricing Strategy

Depending on the season, you should implement different pricing strategies. Here are some examples:


	
	During peak season, consider premium pricing. On the contrary, during the low or off-season, contemplate applying promotional pricing rates.
	
	
	Check which room types perform best during low occupancy periods. Analyse occupancy rates by room category and identify whether higher-tier room types are lagging behind in terms of conversions.
	
	
	Also, consider offering guest-friendly cancellation policies and attractive early booking rates during the off-season. This reassures potential guests and makes them more inclined to book.
	


Maintain these policies until you achieve a relatively high occupancy rate, and then evaluate whether to retain them. While there will always be a percentage of cancellations, as long as this remains low and your hotel's occupancy rate is healthy, you can continue with these policies.



Implement Special Occasion Packages

Creating packages has several benefits: Studies indicate that guests who purchase packages are less likely to cancel their bookings than those who only reserve a room. Additionally, there’s a growing interest in unique travel experiences.

These special packages can help attract guests during the low season. Consider creating service packages that can be enjoyed within the hotel. If possible, include at least one night's stay and offer a special price when combined with other services. Such packages can also encourage guests to extend their stay.

These packages can be tailored for special dates (such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas or New Year’s Eve) or even regular weekend getaways. They can include:


	
	Spa treatments
	
	
	Breakfast
	
	
	Early check-in or late check-out to maximise their stay
	
	
	Stand-ups or comedy shows at the hotel
	
	
	Monitored dance classes
	
	
	Beer and wine tasting
	
	
	Workshops for children
	
	
	Combined accommodation and restaurant offerings
	


Rethink Your Hotel's Target Audience

During the low season, focus on different market segments compared to those in the peak season. These alternative segments can present great opportunities to boost your occupancy rates. And some of these potential market segments to explore include:


	
	Millennials and Gen Z &amp; X: These groups tend to travel consistently throughout the year. Therefore, it might be beneficial to partner with tour operators to provide all-inclusive packages for young travellers from other countries.
	
	Students in some countries, such as Spain, typically take a trip during January, when the first quarter of college ends and the second one begins.&nbsp;
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	Wellness travellers: The trend of wellness travel is increasing, with many people seeking trips to improve their mental, physical and spiritual well-being, with yoga retreats or culinary wellness retreats.&nbsp;
	
	As a curiosity, most wellness travellers are women, and Forbes has compiled a list of popular wellness destinations to inspire you.
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	Baby boomers: Approaching senior citizens, for example, is an effective strategy in countries like Spain.&nbsp;Thanks to the national programme ‘Imserso’, senior travellers travel within their country and Europe.
	
	This is crucial for many hotels, which profit from these travellers during the off-season or low season, since Imserso trips are conducted then. In fact, this programme was created to help hotels in low season and provide them with a regular influx of guests.&nbsp;
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	Digital nomads: In our article on remote workers, we mentioned that there is an increasing trend for people to travel while working from anywhere. These travellers seek peaceful places to work. That's why you can consider creating a coworking space in your common areas with stable Wi-Fi and workspaces to attract them to your property.
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	Business travellers: If your property is centrally located or near transportation hubs, you should cater to business travellers. Offer special deals for business travellers, conference organisers, and group bookings.
	


These are examples of segments to target during the low season. Depending on each segment, you can create appealing offers to entice them.



Collaborate with Local Businesses or Citizens

Invest time in partnerships with local businesses (restaurants, attractions, shops or galleries) and the tourism agency to create collaborations. Promote each other's services and collaborate on new activities.

Some collaborative ideas include:


	
	Partnering with local companies to sell tickets for spas, theme parks, museums, and outdoor excursions. Consider commission sales agreements with wholesale suppliers.
	
	
	Collaborating with associations to host various activities at your hotel, such as congresses, sports races, dance competitions, and more.
	
	
	Attracting local residents to your hotel's amenities, such as restaurants, bars, terraces, wellness centres, gyms, and pools. Offer special deals or packages to entice locals to visit.
	


For example, terraces for after-work gatherings have become popular among local workers. Some hotels even offer special pool and restaurant packages during the summer, even if they aren’t located in tourist areas.
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Make the most of Hotelbeds

Certainly, Hotelbeds can help you increase your occupancy rate in low season easily.&nbsp;

We aren’t just another online travel agency (OTA) and don't compete with your direct booking channel. So, what exactly do Hotelbeds do?

We provide your property access to our portfolio of 71,000+ travel distributors, including over 64,000 travel agencies, 4,500 tour operators, 1,260 affiliates, airlines and other partners. These distributors create travel packages that include your hotel.

We ensure that travel agencies and wholesalers in relevant regions are aware of your property and include it in their travel packages.

You can forget about spending time and effort on visibility; we handle it for you. Simply let us know which markets you're interested in, and we'll connect you with agencies operating in those markets. Once everything is set, we'll assign you an Account Manager who will be your point of contact at Hotelbeds.

Your Account Manager will assist you in managing market demand, selling your rooms to customers in the markets of your interest, and giving you greater control over distribution throughout the year.

And in terms of boosting occupancy while in off-season, you only need to inform us, and we'll connect you with the travel distributors that best suit your needs.&nbsp;

For example, depending on your location, if you're a European hotel in winter, you might consider targeting long-haul travellers from the Middle East seeking cold destinations for their summer.

If you're still not part of Hotelbeds, register your property today for free.&nbsp;



Hotel marketing tactics

Take advantage of the low season to review and improve your marketing strategy. Utilise different digital marketing channels to increase your hotel's visibility and reach potential guests.


	
	Ensure your website works flawlessly, and address any guest complaints or difficulties related to the booking process or user experience.
	
	Also, update website images and add videos showcasing your property and amenities to ensure that your website features current photos of the property.
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	Continue to publish blog content consistently. Focus on topics relevant to your low or off-season, and create content related to your property's location or region.
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	Invest in digital advertising, including Facebook/Instagram Ads and Google Ads, to enhance your presence on social media and reach a broader audience. This can drive bookings during low-occupancy seasons.
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	Maintain an active presence on social media platforms. Encourage guests to share their experiences and images from their stay during peak seasons. Repurpose these images during the off-season. User-generated content can be highly persuasive.
	
	Promote your hotel's appeal during different seasons. For example, if your low season aligns with autumn, create posts showcasing your hotel's beauty during this time.
	
	Share information about local events, landmarks, and attractions in the area to provide reasons for guests to stay at your hotel. Highlight any recent renovations or improvements in your marketing materials.
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	Finally, implement email marketing tactics to engage past guests. Offer discounts, special packages, or personalised perks to encourage repeat bookings. Consider creating a loyalty scheme to reward guests who stay with you multiple times. Also, reach out to past guests to promote your hotel's tranquillity and charm during quieter times.
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We’re reaching the end of this article. We hope to have helped you come up with some new ideas to implement in your property.&nbsp;Don't forget to register today and start boosting your occupancy all year round!

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But that’s not all. As promised at the beginning, we have a present for you. Download this free checklist to have always at hand all these tips to improve occupancy in low season. And we've added more techniques for an extra dose of inspiration to get more bookings all year round. Get your copy now!

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How to Grow Your Hotel's Occupancy in Off-Season [+FREE Checklist]

Long-haul travel has always played a pivotal role in the hospitality sector, contributing significantly to international market growth.&nbsp;
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However, the landscape shifted dramatically during the pandemic, leading to an increase of domestic travel due to varying country restrictions.
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Consequently, long-haul travel has been temporarily overshadowed in recent years, but now it’s time to revitalise this relevant segment for the industry.&nbsp;
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In this article, we present practical tips to entice more long-haul travellers to your property and boost your revenue stream. Additionally, we delve into an optimal way for establishing a strong international presence. Eager to learn more about this lucrative segment? Keep reading!

Why The Long-haul Segment Is So Important for Hoteliers

International travellers are key to the success of the hospitality industry, but catering to their needs in recent years has been complex. The post-pandemic era significantly impacted various areas, with long-haul travel being notably affected.&nbsp;
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But why are these markets of particular relevance to the hospitality sector?&nbsp;
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	International trips are complex to plan: They require time and a good budget. That’s why clients usually book further in advance and allocate more resources to their time in destination. This directly increases hoteliers profitability: in fact, long-haul guests tend to have bigger budgets than domestic travellers.
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	Long-haul travellers stay for longer: This has a direct impact on reducing front desk costs and operational expenses such as laundry and housekeeping. In addition, having guests staying for more time amplifies opportunities for cross-selling ancillary services, including room upgrades and transportation options.&nbsp;
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	Long-haul clients cancel less: And that’s a great benefit from this segment. Plus, it’s crucial to be aware of cancellation policy expectations in overseas destinations.&nbsp;
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As stated in a report by Oxford Economics, the long-haul share is expected to exceed the pre-pandemic peak from 2027 onwards. In fact, this report highlights the relevance of long-haul visitors, which will have a stronger growth than what’s expected for short- and medium-haul trips.&nbsp;
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But each region is different and has its own challenges. For instance, in Europe and according to Luis Araujo, President of the European Travel Comission (ETC), it’s necessary to boost long-haul travel because there’s an increasing economic instability. Since long-haul visitors tend to spend more money, it is important to focus on reactivating this market and setting Europe as a global travel destination again.&nbsp;
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Consequently, dedicated efforts are imperative to facilitate the return of these travellers.&nbsp;



5 Ways To Enhance Hotel Reach to Long-Haul Travellers&nbsp;

Now that we’ve emphasised the strategic importance of the long-haul segment – and how the market is evolving after the pandemic –, let’s delve into actionable tactics to effectively attract long-haul travellers.&nbsp;
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	Craft tailored experiences: It’s essential to go extra mile to make international guests feel at ease. With travellers arriving from a very distant country, it’s essential that they don’t have a ‘cultural shock’.&nbsp;
	
	Tailored experiences addressing their unique preferences and needs are appreciated. Consider including services such as airport transfers, international TV channels, customised dining options, multilingual - and multicultural - staff, and curated city tours which&nbsp;highlight local cultural attractions.&nbsp;
	
	Related to this point, we’ve covered in recent articles the increasing relevance of sporting events tourism and film tourism, where we deliver practical and valuable tips to cater these travel trends. Capitalising on such trends&nbsp;could&nbsp;help you to&nbsp;boost the number of international travellers who come from around the world to visit a film location, specific competition, or any other topical driver for travel.
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	Participate in international trade shows and exhibitions: Not only it’s important to make your property visible to the final consumer, but also it’s crucial to build relationships with key stakeholders like travel agents, tour operators, and other industry professionals.&nbsp;
	
	Identify relevant trade shows and exhibitions focused on travel and tourism in the long-haul markets you aim to target. These events are unmissable opportunities for you to expand your network, learn from the industry’s latest trends and disruptive&nbsp;technologies, among many others.&nbsp;
	
	In this regard, we at Hotelbeds have hosted our own industry-leading event since 2009:&nbsp;the MarketHub brings together top industry players from over 46 markets worldwide, and also features insights and panels from key industry influencers and leaders. Learn more about our flagship events by visiting our dedicated MarketHub website.&nbsp;
	
	
	
	
	Cultivate partnerships with airlines and travel agencies: Collaboration with industry leaders is paramount to forge partnerships with major airlines and travel agencies operating in your targeted long-haul destinations.&nbsp;
	
	Foster collaborative marketing efforts and strategic alliances, which could include joint promotions, bundled packages, and exclusive discounts that can help attract travellers who are already planning to visit the destination.&nbsp;
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	Carry out digital marketing campaigns &amp; collaborations with personalities: Beyond the more ‘traditional’ options aforementioned, we can’t forget the digital realm and its huge influence.
	
	Consider investing in social media ads and Search Engine Marketing (SEM), like Google Ads or Bing Ads. In this way, you’ll exponentially&nbsp;increase the chances of being&nbsp;visible to your target audiences in long-haul destinations, as you will be fully in control to set up campaigns that reach the markets you want. Also, tailor your marketing messages and promotions to cater specifically to the preferences and cultural nuances of these markets.&nbsp;
	
	Additionally, do not underestimate the potential of influential travel industry personalities with a strong presence in your desired long-haul destinations. Map those important influencers and travel bloggers, and reach out to them to foster strategic collaborations as ‘brand ambassadors’.&nbsp;
	
	
	Join Hotelbeds’ exclusive programme for seamless long-haul market access: As TravelTech leaders, we offer an array of services to significantly grow your business.
	
	Specifically, we want to delve deeper into our Strategic Partner Agreement (SPA), an&nbsp;ideal opportunity for&nbsp;hotels willing to open to new markets.&nbsp;Keep reading!
	



What Can You Take From The SPA programme?

Our exclusive Strategic Partner Agreement caters to a select 5% of properties, enabling us to work closely with you to increase your bookings.&nbsp;
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In practice, our SPA programme offers unique benefits which will elevate your sales revenue while targeting long-haul markets. Here’s a glimpse of the main advantages for your property!

Reach high-value clients from long-haul markets

To begin with, we deliver your properties to high-value clients that come from long-haul markets. These customers spend more, stay for longer, cancel less and book further ahead. You’ll have access to over 66,000 travel distributors from 150+ source markets.
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Additionally, you won’t compete with OTAs like Booking.com nor Expedia to attract local travellers. With the help of our exclusive programme, you’ll get higher-value customers.&nbsp;
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Some of our strategic partners include British Airways, American Airlines, LoveHolidays, easyJet, TUI, The Lotus Group, Europlus Group, HaysTravel and Viajes El Corte Inglés.
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We highlight the quality of our network, as our high-value clients book early – 35% of bookings are made more than two months in advance. And 75% of our High Value Clients are from long-haul and intra-region source markets.&nbsp;
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Besides, thanks to our data analysis tools, we know that our clients book for an average&nbsp;5 night&nbsp;length of stay, and cancellation rates sit at just&nbsp;27%, compared to&nbsp;OTAs' 65.5%.&nbsp;
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Gain preferential exposure across our channels and Sales calls

Benefit from preferential exposure across our channels and priority positioning in Sales calls.
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Your properties will participate in marketing and promotional campaigns. Provided that certain conditions are met, you'll be featured on our exclusive, custom-built Star Collection microsite as well, which will give you access to items such as hotel promotion, prioritised ranking, training on emerging markets and loyalty points multipliers.&nbsp;
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You’ll also have the opportunity to opt into&nbsp;our Star Brochures resource, distributed among 60,000+ travel agents and their 100,000 travel bookers.&nbsp;
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And don’t forget that the SPA Programme will double your positioning on Hotelbeds’ algorithm, ultimately increasing your visibility.&nbsp;
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Embrace Comprehensive Data Analysis Support

Dealing with data is crucial nowadays, yet it can also be a bit intimidating sometimes. But we’re here to assist on this as well.&nbsp;
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Specifically, you’ll gain access to historical competitors and destination data analysis tools, which will allow you to identify opportunities, best practices and tips to increase your bookings.&nbsp;
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Besides, if you want to analyse pricing data for your market, we’ve got you covered! Our pricing tool ensures you maintain the most competitive rates across various channels.&nbsp;
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And last but not least, you’ll take advantage of our 360º Revenue Management tool that will help you increase revenues and drive demand.&nbsp;
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This is only a small part of what our SPA programme has in store. Wish to unlock all of our exclusive benefits and amplify your presence in long-haul markets? Reach out to your Hotelbeds Account Manager&nbsp;for further information.&nbsp;
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Haven’t joined Hotelbeds yet? Join us today and get access to our platform with over 66,000 travel distributors worldwide.&nbsp;


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How Hoteliers Can Tap Into Long-haul Markets [+ Our SPA Programme]

In the hotel industry, upselling is a strategic approach aimed at promoting upgrades on bookings or reservations. This entails encouraging guests to spend more on additional amenities and services at any point throughout the guest journey, encompassing pre-arrival, stay and post-stay phases.&nbsp;It’s well-known that these upselling techniques can significantly help hotels increase profits. But it’s also essential to have in mind the best practices and avoid potential pitfalls.&nbsp;In this article, we delve into the benefits of upselling for hotels, what to upsell in hotels, key guest types to consider, and examples of upselling tactics for hoteliers.&nbsp;Keep reading to discover more about our recommendations.Benefits of Upselling in Hotels: Why Is It Relevant for Your Property?&nbsp;In essence, by investing effort into applying these techniques within your daily operations, you’ll reap multiple rewards. Here are our top reasons why you should tap into them.&nbsp;Enhanced Understanding of GuestsEvery interaction with your clients starts with a dialogue, and each attempt to upsell pushes you to listen to your customer’s voice. Understanding your audience improves their experience and facilitates customer retention.Increased Customer’s SatisfactionUpselling serves as a great way for you to showcase your services and product range, offering more options to your customers. They might not be aware of upgrading options, or simply might have had other needs coming up since they made their booking.Boosted RevenueEffective upselling can give you extra revenue streams. Opting for the right distribution partner, such as Hotelbeds, can grant you access to international guests that are more likely to upgrade their booking as they tend to spend more in a destination.&nbsp;Hotel Upselling Ideas: Where You Should Put The Focus&nbsp;When you start implementing this technique, it’s very usual to get very creative and offer an extensive array of amenities or services for your upselling purposes.&nbsp;However, prior to delving into the upselling possibilities, it’s important to acknowledge that you should avoid giving guests too many options that end up overwhelming them.&nbsp;Our recommendation here is that you start by presenting classic options, such as breakfast, early check-in and late check-out. And then add a few deals tailored to that specific segments. A selection of 10–15 options would be ideal.&nbsp;Once said this, let’s see some of the most popular options for your upselling purposes.&nbsp;Room upgrades &amp; Rooms with special featuresBigger rooms, suites, or accommodations with panoramic views, terraces, saunas or kitchens.Stay extensions: Encourage guests to stay longer with discounts for a one- or two-night extension. This will help you sell additional rooms during off-peak seasons.&nbsp;Pet feesDry cleaning servicesSpecial occasion packages&nbsp;Baby bedsFood and beveragesStrawberries and champagneWine bottlesPremium minibar selectionsActivities &amp; TransportSpa treatmentsIn-room massageDog walking servicesParking facilitiesBicycle rentalsOff-property excursionsAirport shuttle servicesCheck-in and check-outEarly check-in: Guests arriving earlier than check-in time may be caught by surprise by your hotel and their rooms might not be ready. It would be a great opportunity for you to provide a room upgrade to a suite or simply a larger room as an alternative solution.Late checkout: This is important in order to facilitate the logistics of late departures, such as evening or late afternoon flights.Guest Categories to Consider In Your Upselling StrategiesFirst and foremost, it’s vital to know which segments of guests you’re attracting. This will give you insights on which type of amenities and services can be useful for each of these travellers. Some of the main guest categories to have in mind are as follows:Families with children: Consider offering connecting rooms and fun activities. This segment appreciates flexibility. Also, provide meal packages and family-friendly activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Couples: They may be willing to upgrade their experience with larger, more comfortable rooms, panoramic views, and other features that can enhance their stay.Romantic packages like couple’s massages, candlelight dinners, or a spa experiences are likely to be of interest.&nbsp;&nbsp;Business travellers: This segment has a great potential for upselling strategies as these guests are often less price-sensitive, and are looking to improve and smoothen their stay.Some interesting upsells for business travellers would be early check-in or airport transfer, flexible departure times, express laundry, parking... Ensure that they are comfortable and that they perceive your property as one that is convenient and provides prompt service.&nbsp;Digital nomads: Some high-valued offerings include well-equipped in-room workstations, a coworking space or a chance to upgrade to high-speed Wi-Fi. Discover further initiatives to cater for remote workers here.&nbsp;Solo female travellers: Given the rise in solo female travellers, consider offering secure transfer options with trusted providers, as well as other options that we explore in this article on solo female travel. &nbsp;5 Upselling Techniques for Hotels That Deliver ResultsNow that we have defined what services and products are a fit for upselling&nbsp;– and how to cater to some of the most lucrative guest types –, it’s time to deep dive into some of the most common techniques to drive upselling success.Start selling before your guest arrival: This is one of the best moments to upsell because the traveller is eager to buy extra/complementary services.&nbsp;You can send customised emails or WhatsApp messages with offers 2–3 days before arrival. For instance, consider sending a brochure with relevant information about the hotel, and include a section with add-ons to their primary booking, such as airport transfer, early check-in or room category upgrade.&nbsp;&nbsp;Partner with local businesses: Collaborate with local companies to provide tailored and enriching experiences. Offerings like private walking tours, boat trips, wine tastings and spa packages can enhance guest experiences.&nbsp;Check what popular activities are held close to your property, and reach these local businesses in order to establish a collaboration. A good example would be partnering with local wine farms to create a complete wine experience package for a minimum stay of two nights.&nbsp;Another great idea is to reach out to festivals or sporting events’ organisers. As you can read in these comprehensive articles on film tourism and sporting events tourism, there are plenty of appealing activities and proposals for your guests.&nbsp;Keep a look into data: To better understand which amenities and services were most popular in the past, it's imperative to collect this information. It will enable you to identify the trends of your property, and you may be able to prioritise some offers over others to increase your chances of selling.&nbsp;Focus on training your staff for front-desk upselling: Ensure all hotel staff are aligned, and know how and when to upsell.&nbsp;Train them to gauge guest moods and how to ask open questions to gather relevant information.The check-in might not be the best moment to try to upsell your products, as guests often arrive tired and want a smooth check-in process, without having to hear your offers. Instead, it’s better if you have sent your list of offers a couple of days before their arrival so that they can have a look at it and decide if there’s something appealing to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Present every upsell opportunity as an option: Pushing hard doesn’t always work, that’s why it’s crucial to showcase upgrade offers as choices. Customers can get annoyed by aggressive upselling techniques. Focus on offering solutions rather than increasing your profits.In addition, when offering a new deal, only mention the incremental price, not the full price. E.g: Instead of saying ‘For £260 a night you could upgrade to our Seaview Suite with a Continental breakfast included,’ say ‘Would you like to upgrade to our Seaview Suite and add our Continental breakfast? It’s available for an extra £35 per night.’And always try to reaffirm the primary purchase and then offer the upselling. For example, say that the room chosen is wonderful, but that they can have the superior one for a small add-on.&nbsp;&nbsp;By embracing these techniques, hotels can elevate guest experience while boosting their revenue. As mentioned, it’s essential to start by understanding your customers’ needs in order to cater to them with your best offerings.&nbsp;Remember that Hotelbeds offer access to high-value customers more likely to purchase add-ons. We expand your hotel’s visibility among international travellers, who usually have a larger budget and seek to enjoy their holidays fully. Join our network of 66,000+ B2B travel distributors today. Register your property for free and boost your visibility and occupancy rates!Already part of Hotelbeds? Log in to continue leveraging our campaigns and maximising your revenue.Lastly, don’t forget to download our free guide on how different channel distribution strategies can enhance your hotel’s performance. Click below and get it now!

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Upselling Techniques for Hotels to Boost Revenue in 2023

2023 is proving to be a great year for tourism, with several travel trends coming to the forefront.&nbsp;In our recent posts, we recommended catering to solo female travellers, as well as incorporating AI tech in the travel sector. Now, it's time to focus on another major travel trend that has gained popularity over the past few years.Film tourism, also known as screen tourism or set-jetting, refers to the phenomenon of people choosing holiday destinations based on locations seen in films or TV shows.&nbsp;As a hotelier, it's essential to understand this increasing trend, considering the abundance of films and TV shows filmed and broadcasted every year.Learn more about film tourism, how it benefits the travel sector, the main destinations for tourists, and how you can make the most of it. Keep reading!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A Major Trend: Understanding Film TourismWith countless destinations to choose from, it’s vital to make your property’s location stand out from the competition. One way to achieve this is to leverage it with the help of TV shows and films.TV shows and films can significantly raise the profile of the city or country where the story is set. This exposure can extend beyond the specific location, benefiting regions, hotels, theme parks, and other attractions associated with the show or film.&nbsp;Tourists often seek to identify with their idols, favourite scenes, or visit the exact spots where the cast filmed. Screen tourism offers a unique opportunity to experience the emotions and sensations lived while watching a film or TV show, making it a fantastic way to connect with the history and culture of a place, which is what happened with the popular TV show Outlander and Scotland.&nbsp;The rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO and Disney+ has made audiovisual content even more widely available to a global audience, contributing to the popularity of screen tourism. Locations featured in films can motivate tourists to visit these spots, transforming them into popular destinations.Benefits of Film Tourism for HoteliersFilm tourism serves as a powerful destination marketing tool. Visual content plays a crucial role in increasing visibility in front of millions of potential travellers.&nbsp;The great amount of content available through streaming platforms has led to a significant increase in people visiting places they've previously seen on screen.As a hotelier, capitalising on film tourism is a good strategy to achieve:Increased occupancy: Hotels in areas featured in popular films or TV programmes receive a higher influx of visitors eager to stay close to filming locations.&nbsp;Higher room rates: The popularity of a location due to film tourism can justify an increase in room rates, especially during peak seasons or when film-related events take place, such as the Cannes Film Festival (France), or the Oscars (Los Angeles, USA).&nbsp;Repeat business: Enthusiastic fans often return for multiple visits, or even recommend the accommodation to fellow fans, creating a loyal customer base. &nbsp;&nbsp;Year-round interest: Screen&nbsp;tourism tends to be evergreen, attracting fans throughout the year and maintaining a consistent stream of guests, even during off-peak seasons.&nbsp;Increased revenue from ancillary services: Tourists engaged in film tourism often spend on additional services, such as guided tours, merchandise, and themed events. Hotels can tap into these revenue streams by offering tailored packages and experiences. At the same time, you can benefit from partnerships with local tour operators, film and production companies. This can also help expand the hotel’s visibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;Enhanced reputation and unique selling point (USP): A strong connection to screen tourism sets hotels apart from competitors and elevates their reputation when associated with popular films or TV shows. A hotel can end up being recognised as a unique destination, like what happened with The Stanley Hotel from The Shining. &nbsp;8 Films And TV Shows That Have Boosted TourismOverall, New Zealand, the US, the UK, Spain, France, India, Japan and Iceland are some of the most popular destinations for film tourism. Have a look at which films and TV shows have contributed to the growth of tourists.&nbsp;Game of Thrones &amp; House of the DragonBoth TV shows are great examples of significant contributions to tourism in recent years.&nbsp;Their influence was huge, and many places benefited from it. A clear example can be found in Dubrovnik (Croatia), which is the real-life location of King’s Landing, frequently seen in the show. Another good example can be sunny Spain, which hosted many sets, such as&nbsp;Girona (Catalonia) or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Basque Country).&nbsp;Iceland also received a great influx of visitors. For example, bookings to this country increased by 166% in 2019 when the last season premiered.Bridgerton &amp; Queen CharlotteAs one of the most successful Netflix productions, the Bridgerton series has significantly boosted tourism in the UK – mostly in Bath and London.&nbsp;The popularity of the show has been so great that even the Tourist Board of Great Britain has published a dedicated article on its website to promote the Bridgerton filming locations.&nbsp;The Lord of the Rings &amp; The HobbitThis is one of the best examples of screen tourism directly influencing a country’s tourism.&nbsp;Despite the first of the films being released more than two decades ago, New Zealand keeps attracting screen tourism, making this an ‘evergreen’ source of income for the country. As a curiosity, these tourists (known as&nbsp;‘Tolkien tourists’)&nbsp;have a long-term impact that brings millions of dollars to New Zealand’s economy each year.Harry Potter filmsThey're another great example of how a country can take the opportunity to capitalise on a film series.&nbsp;Not only have the locations increased their visitor numbers exponentially – Alnwick Castle,&nbsp;home to Hogwarts, receives more than 800,000 visitors every year –, but they have also inspired dedicated theme parks like the ‘Studio Tour London’.&nbsp;On average, the filming locations experienced a 50% growth in tourism after their release.&nbsp;BraveheartFinally, we have this clear example of film tourism impact, which took the&nbsp;Wallace Monument in Scotland&nbsp;from 80,000 visitors per year to 180,000 after the film’s release.&nbsp;Tips for Hoteliers to Capitalise on Screen Tourism&nbsp;Regardless of the size of your property, there are various ways to take advantage of the increasing screen tourism trend. It’s all about creativity and thinking about how you can make the most of it!Contact and collaborate with film productions: Keep track of upcoming film or TV show productions in your area by getting in touch with the local film commission.Film commissions are public organisations that promote a specific destination as a filming location for audiovisual productions and promote film tourism. Many cities – &nbsp;and countries – have theirs, and they highly contribute to pitch their locations to be part of a film or TV show.Try to collaborate with the production teams and offer your property as a potential filming location, or provide accommodation for crew members. If you get to do it, you’ll gain fame, and you can even turn your hotel into another touristic destination in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;Contact Tourism Boards: Discover actions already implemented to promote film tourism in your area, and actively promote any filming locations near your property.&nbsp;For example, in Barcelona there’s the ‘Barcelona Movie Walks’ website with all the tours available related to famous films and TV shows filmed in the city.In Italy, many Tourism Boards promote screen tourism through their online channels, such as their blogs. You can reach them and ask to be mentioned in their articles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leverage social media: Share content related to film tourism on your hotel's social media platforms, engaging with your followers and being part of the conversation.&nbsp;Include, for example, behind-the-scenes facts about productions filmed in your area. It’s essential to communicate it through your social channels, so that you let people know what happened here and increase their interest in visiting the place.&nbsp;&nbsp;Offer themed rooms and packages: If a well-known film or TV series was filmed near your property, consider offering themed rooms and packages inspired by the production. You can decorate the rooms with props or posters related to the productions.As for the packages, you can include guided tours to nearby filming locations. An example could be the Studio London Tour - The Making of Harry Potter.&nbsp;&nbsp;Offer Guided Tours: If your property is close to multiple filming locations, consider offering guided tours exclusively for your guests to enhance their screen tourism experience.&nbsp;Celebrate film festivals: Actively participate in film festivals hosted in your city and promote your hotel's association with the film industry. Offer special discounts or packages during these events to attract attendees. Organise private transport to the venue for your guests and enhance their stay.&nbsp;Certainly, as screen tourism continues to shape the new tourism industry, it's essential to stay updated on the latest trends and cater to the needs of today's travellers.If you're already part of our extensive B2B network, don't forget to log in and take advantage of our continuous campaigns to maximise your revenue.&nbsp;If you're not yet part of Hotelbeds, join the world's largest network of 66,000+ B2B travel distributors today. Register your property for free and boost your visibility and occupancy rate!

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Film Tourism as a Destination Marketing Tool: Tips for Your Hotel

It’s no secret that big sporting events are synonymous with success for the hospitality industry. Sport tourism attracts more travellers to host cities, boosts spending, and has a positive impact on the local economy. &nbsp;France experienced this during the latest Women’s World Cup in 2019, where all nine host cities achieved an impressive 90% occupancy rate. With over 1.2 million attendees and&nbsp;40% foreign visitors, the event generated approximately EUR 248 million to France’s gross domestic product (GDP), greatly benefiting the hospitality sector.This year, it’s time for Australia and New Zealand to host the Women’s World Cup. In recent years, women's sports have taken their rightful place in the sports spotlight, and it’s expected that millions of people will attend this event.&nbsp;&nbsp;In light of the upcoming 9th Women's World Cup – which will take place between July 20th and August 20th –, and the overall importance of sports tourism for hoteliers, we have compiled a list of major sporting events in the next twelve months. Additionally, you will find suggestions on how to capitalise on each of them.Discover the main tournaments and events that will take place close to your property, and make the most of them!AUGUSTUS Open, Tennis, New York: Aug 28th-Sept 10thThe first event to be included in this list couldn't be any other than the US Open, which always takes place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Queens, New York.&nbsp;With 128 players competing in amazing matches, this is certainly the biggest and most famous tennis event in the country. It’s so popular that over 800,000 fans come each year, making the US Open the highest-attended annual sporting event in the world.&nbsp;The tournament generates more than $750 million per year in direct economic impact to New York City.Our recommendationsEvery year, the USTA sets up a kiosk for organisations to distribute information about restaurants, cultural sites, and destinations. Consider getting in touch with the USTA and proposing collaborations with them to feature your property as the ideal accommodation for visitors.Besides, since the event always occurs in the same place, it’s worthwhile to secure some tickets and create special packages for your guests.And don’t forget to promote local activities and tours, allowing visitors to explore more about Queens, like the ‘Fan Week’ prior to the tournament with practice matches, performances, and other free activities.&nbsp;SEPTEMBER&nbsp;Rugby World Cup, France: September 8th-October 28th&nbsp;The tournament will be played across nine French cities (Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, Saint-Étienne, Nice, Nantes, Toulouse), with the final taking place in the capital.&nbsp;With 20 national teams qualified, the Rugby World Cup is expected to be a major sporting event which draws in a significant number of supporters to the Gallic country.&nbsp;An example of the Rugby World Cup’s success can be seen in the 2019 edition held in Japan, which exceeded predictions and generated $6.1 billion for the host nation.A report also highlights that the average length of stay was 16 nights, with over 242,000 international visitors from 178 nations, and 60% of fans visiting Japan for the first time.&nbsp;Our recommendationsYou can offer packages for groups of friends travelling together to watch the matches, including discounts for longer stays.You could also consider airing the matches at the hotel, especially the semifinals and final. If that’s not possible, you can recommend the best places to watch them if your guests don’t have tickets. You’ll ensure a fantastic and unforgettable stay!&nbsp;Additionally, consider partnering with excursion companies to take tours in the different cities where the event will take place. You could even create an offering which includes transportation packages between these cities.&nbsp;Asian Games, Hangzhou, China: September 23rd-October 8thThe 19th edition of this international competition will be held this year in China. It’s the biggest multi-sport event in Asia, attracting athletes from 45 countries every four years, with over 450 matches.&nbsp;The Asian Games will take place in 44 venues, mostly in Hangzhou city and nearby areas, including Deqing, Jinhua, Ningbo, Shaoxing, and Wenzhou.&nbsp;To better understand its impact, let’s look at the results for Jakarta (Indonesia), the last host city. A survey revealed that during the 2018 games, tourists spent $244 million, and foreign tourists stayed an average of 13 days.&nbsp;Our recommendationsThese games are significant for Asian countries, so it’s worth capitalising on them. As they will be held in China, a country with an impressive culture and gastronomy, foreign travellers will expect to experience it during their stay.&nbsp;We encourage you to partner with local restaurants and tour companies to offer discounts on a complete cultural experience. Consider hosting themed dinners in your own restaurant to allow guests to enjoy Chinese culture without leaving the hotel. Also, providing big screens to watch the main events can enhance their experience.&nbsp;Invictus Games, multi sports, Düsseldorf: Sept 9th-16th&nbsp;Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is a very special multi-sport event which embodies diversity, inclusion, resilience, and pride. It aims to inspire recovery and rehabilitation for wounded servicemen and women worldwide.For the first time, the Games will be held in Germany, and it’s expected to be even more successful than the last edition in The Hague (The Netherlands), which attracted nearly 100,000 visitors in one week.&nbsp;Our recommendationsTake this opportunity to showcase the wonders of the German country and Düsseldorf. Highlight the city’s beauty and its best spots to immerse your guests in the national culture.&nbsp;Collaborate with local tourism boards to provide guests with information about other attractions, sightseeing tours, and cultural experiences. Offer packages that combine the sporting event with unique local activities, showcasing the city's broader offerings.FEBRUARY&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;NFL Super Bowl LVIII, Las Vegas, United States: February 11th&nbsp;The NFL Super Bowl LVIII, which will be held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas in 2024, is one of the most popular and profitable sporting events of the year.Hosting the Super Bowl is a significant opportunity for a city to gain worldwide recognition, and Las Vegas aims to further boost its already well-known status through this event.According to a report by the NFL, the Super Bowl influences the city’s future business more than any other event or convention in the United States. For example, the economic impact of the Super Bowl in 2023 generated around $600 million in revenue for Arizona, attracting over 100,000 visitors, 80%-90% of whom were foreign travellers.&nbsp;Notably, tickets for the Super Bowl are usually expensive, with the most expensive ticket in 2023 costing $6,200. Fans willing to pay such high prices are likely to have a generous budget, making them an attractive market for luxury hotels and upscale rooms.Positioning your property as a fantastic option for these travellers is essential, as hotel rooms during the Super Bowl weekend are sold at triple the average rate.Our recommendationsThis event is unique, so consider offering an immersive experience to your guests. For instance, why not incorporate motifs and symbols related to the Super Bowl in the hotel decor to build on the exciting atmosphere?Furthermore, providing Super Bowl guests with discounts, vouchers, points, or rewards for future hotel stays can incentivise them to become repeat customers.Consider hosting pre-event receptions or gatherings to connect guests who share a &nbsp;passion for sports, and encourage staff to wear sports-themed uniforms or badges.&nbsp;Also, have in mind offering special discounts for longer bookings, as well as providing convenient transportation options, which will be highly appreciated.Lastly, setting up a large screen for guests to watch the match will be crucial to offer the best experience possible.&nbsp;MAYMonaco Grand Prix: May 24th - 26thThe FIA Formula One World Championship is undoubtedly the highest class of international racing.The prestigious motorsport event generates millions of dollars from ticket sales, hospitality packages, sponsorship, and merchandise.&nbsp;The glamorous lifestyle associated with F1, renowned for its luxury and extravagance, makes Monaco’s Grand Prix one of the best locations to host a F1 race. Each year, many celebrities and wealthy individuals come together to indulge in a weekend of luxury. As an alternative, Singapore's F1 Grand Prix (with its ticket prices of around £1k) may appeal to affluent attendees from the APAC region, or even those just passing through. Pairing a decadent excursion like this with a night or two in a high-end hotel will certainly appeal to guests with finer taste - &nbsp;if you happen to own a hotel close to an event like this, consider how to capture their attention.Also, don't hesitate to check out our article on luxury travellers if you want to go deeper on the luxury travel segment.Our recommendationsTo capitalise on this opportunity, create exclusive packages&nbsp;that include accommodation, race tickets, and additional perks like access to rooftop viewing areas or after-race parties. Emphasise the luxury and excitement of experiencing the Grand Prix from your hotel.Offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the event venue, ensuring convenient transportation for attendees. Securing VIP access to the event can also attract high-end clientele.JUNEUEFA Champions League Final, London: June 1stDon’t miss out the UEFA Champions League Final, a must-attend event for every football lover. In 2024, this event will be held at the famous Wembley Stadium, a place that has hosted the match several times in the past.Apart from its sporting importance, the final brings significant tourism and economic benefits to the host city and its surroundings, making it a highly sought-after destination.&nbsp;Our recommendationsJust like with the Super Bowl, create special packages including tickets, transportation and local tours to enhance your guests’ experience in the city and encourage their spending.Also, set up screens at your hotel to broadcast the match while offering some drinks to create a fantastic atmosphere.&nbsp;JULYOlympic Games, Paris: July 26th - August 11thThe Olympic Games are the ultimate sporting event. Paris will host the next edition along with other 16 cities across metropolitan France and even one in Tahiti (French Polynesia), for the Olympic surfing competition.&nbsp;After an exceptional situation during the Tokyo 2020 Games, where no spectators were allowed, the next Olympics are expected to attract thousands of visitors. This will not only benefit the well-known capital of France, but also will give smaller, lesser-known cities the opportunity to shine and showcase their charm.Our recommendationsSince it’s one of the most international events, why don’t you bring this international atmosphere to your property? For example, you can develop sports-themed menus or offer dishes inspired by participating countries.&nbsp;Also, consider offering perks such as discounted room rates, event tickets, exclusive access to sports-related amenities, or themed merchandise.As the games will take place in various cities, partner with excursion companies to help your guests discover the wonders of each location.&nbsp;AUGUSTParalympic Games, Paris: August 28th - 8th September&nbsp;When the Olympic Games come to an end, the Paralympics will take over. With 549 events scheduled and including 22 sports, it will ensure&nbsp;high occupancy rates in France for almost one month and a half.Our recommendationsMaintain the same strategies we suggested doing for the Olympics, as both events are similar. It will help you make the most out of this significant sporting event.&nbsp;Final Tips to Keep in Mind About Sports TourismAs we approach the end of this article, here are some final suggestions to consider regarding sporting events. So far, we’ve covered major events - but it doesn’t stop there! Take a note of the following tips:&nbsp;Don’t overlook low-profile or second-tier events. People not only travel to watch sports but also to participate in them, opening a huge potential for sport tourism to a wider range of destinations.As a hotelier, stay informed about what’s happening in your city or region. Speak to local and regional authorities, or leisure centre managers to stay updated.&nbsp;Create accommodation and ticket packages, especially for smaller events.There is a great deal of interest in women's sports these days, so make sure you are aware of the events near your property and promote them through your marketing efforts.Finally, working with Hotelbeds will ensure you reach your desired audience. If you have already registered your property with Hotelbeds, access here and keep taking advantage of our multiple benefits.&nbsp;Still not part of our worldwide network? Access over 66,000 travel distributors by signing up today. Are you ready to be part of the game?&nbsp;Plus, don't forget to download our free guide on the main travel trends in 2023. Discover valuable tips and insights to better understand today's travel industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Capitalising on Sporting Events: A Winning Strategy for Hoteliers

While solitary travel has undeniably been on the rise for years, it’s becoming more and more evident that women are diving headfirst into traveling alone. The future of solo travel might well be female!Search interest in ‘solo female travel’ has increased six-fold during the lasts four years. Not only this, but 70% of hotel website visits are carried out by women as standard, and women make the overwhelming majority of bookings, whether that’s for themselves, families, friends or parents and colleagues. &nbsp;Women are the influencers that should matter to you as hoteliers.&nbsp;So, it makes sense that your services as hotel owners are delivering on what women want, especially when it comes to solo female travellers. &nbsp;We’ve explored several idea kick-starters you can use to ensure you’re meeting those demands and being as inclusive as possible when it comes to your accommodation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Understand What Solo Female Travellers Look For In Their Destinations&nbsp;A study carried out by Solo Female Travelers in 2020 found that traveling solo was a choice, not necessarily a ‘lifestyle’, with many respondents choosing to travel alone for the flexibility that it provided and the ability to adhere to their own schedule. 38% said it was to ‘challenge’ themselves.&nbsp;Within their chosen destination, many women said that cultural sightseeing, immersion, and nature and wildlife experiences are important for them during their stay – along with the eco-friendliness of businesses they support.&nbsp;However, 73% still said that safety was their main concern, and 42% of female travellers who hadn’t yet traveled solo cited this as the main reason they’d not made that leap yet.&nbsp;Some factors that might be of consideration for female travellers looking to set off alone:Whether the country or region is a major tourist destination.How good the tourism infrastructure is as a consequence.What the crime rate of the destination is.What online review sites, blogs, friends and family and social media groups say about the safety of the country or destination – many suggested that TV and online ads were not as trustworthy.How affordable the destination is for a solo trip – especially considering accommodation.The overall reputation of the country and how it treats women.&nbsp;It is important to consider these against your current facilities, location and offerings for this traveller type. How have you positioned yourself in the market for women travelling solo? How are your competitors conveying themselves to this segment, in a way that's different to you?It is worth being aware of what solo travel for women means, especially when travellers are in the crucial decision-making process and the smallest detail about how your hotel is presented could determine whether they book their stay with you or not.Cater For The Luxury Solo Female Traveller&nbsp;In the last several years, women taking solo trips within the luxury travel sector have increased significantly, and we think this is a prime opportunity to understand and accommodate, this important audience to boost your success as a travel agency and ensure you’re as inclusive as possible for today’s traveller.&nbsp;For example:&nbsp;Scott Dunn, a leading UK luxury tour operator, reported that they’d seen a dramatic uplift in solo bookings in the last three years, and that of those, 60% were women.&nbsp;Up Norway, a company that curates high-end excursions through Scandinavia, suggested that bookings from solo female travellers were up 40-50% compared to 2019.Bespoke tour operator Morocco by Design revealed that a full quarter of its bookings now came from women traveling alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not only are women looking to explore the world alone more frequently, but many solo female travellers are looking to travel within the luxury sector, with bespoke trips curated specifically for their preferences. &nbsp;The industry is starting to take note of this increase in demand for luxury solo travel, so it’s important that as hotel owners you are aware of the opportunities out there! &nbsp;From ‘Alonemoons’, offering solo travellers the deluxe experience a couple on their honeymoon might enjoy; women-only group travel; to tour operators and travel bookers offering amenities catering specifically to women traveling solo, there are many ways that the industry is providing opportunities when it comes to solo travel for women.&nbsp;Ensuring that your hotel is accessible and appeals to women travelling alone is a sure-fire way to begin capitalising on this growing audience and keep your hotel front of mind when tour operators are upselling their clients on these experiences. &nbsp;The first step is gaining maximum visibility to the right traveller at the right time! Over 66,000 travel providers all over the world have exclusive access to our portfolio, from which they can offer the very best accommodation to in-market travellers across even the most hard-to-reach markets thanks to our global network.This means that hotels who make it clear they acccommodate to women travelling alone are top-recommended in our AI-driven Booking Engine when travel sellers are booking this type of client!&nbsp;Gather Crucial Audience Insights &nbsp;&nbsp;There are numerous ways that you can gather more understanding of what existing and new customers want when considering booking solo trips, including:&nbsp;Existing Audience Research&nbsp;Send out an email to existing customers within this demographic – ask for honest opinions on their travel with you. Incentivise this with a small discount or offer that makes your existing customers feel like they’ve given you valuable feedback and received something in return. &nbsp;Create social posts for your social media platforms – whether you create a poll, a post inviting comments, or ask customers to get in touch via email, organic socials are a great way to see what your audience expects of you.&nbsp;Set up market research discussions – bring together a control group of women interested in traveling alone, or who have in the past, to evaluate your current facilities and destinations and offer in-market feedback.&nbsp;Competitor Research&nbsp;Review trusted blog websites – Solo Traveler World and Solo Female Travelers are examples of valuable, trusted platforms where insights, shared experiences and customer-centric recommendations are shared by women for women looking to travel solo. &nbsp;Keeping a close eye on platforms like this can provide interesting insights into how other hoteliers are catering for the growing audience of solo female travellers.&nbsp;Organic competitor research – identify your most direct competitors and scope out how their facilities compare to yours: what services are they offering that you aren’t? Have these competitors made specific accommodations that would attract more female solo travellers, and how might you incorporate these into your own business model? &nbsp;Review Relevant Travel Forums&nbsp;Considering that a study conducted by the aforementioned Solo Female Travelers found that 76% of women trust relevant solo female travel groups Facebook groups more than they trust the recommendations from friends and family (73%), reviewing such travel forums and social pages can be invaluable.&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid The Single Supplement&nbsp;In many cases, the single supplement can mean that solo travellers are still paying double occupancy, because many rooms, tours and cruise accommodations are packaged in a way that they are priced per person based on double occupancy.&nbsp;This charge is one of the main turn offs for solo travellers – especially considering that female millennials are considered the thriftiest – so if you want to cater for more solo travellers you need to start focusing on ways to avoid or reduce your single supplement.&nbsp;Here’s how:&nbsp;Consider absorbing some of the cost of a single room into the cost of a double room by amending this in your business model.&nbsp;Waiving the single supplement during the shoulder seasons (between peak and low) as standard – as solo travellers tend to be more flexible around when they travel – this would also be a great way to encourage customer loyalty!&nbsp;Consider waiving this single supplement charge on any unsold hotel rooms to encourage last minute bookings.&nbsp;Host ‘matching’ services, which brings together solo travellers who are happy to share a room for a section of their journey to work around this fee.&nbsp;How Maxiroom Can HelpOf course, one of the best ways that you as hotel owners can ensure you're aware of, and meeting the needs of this high-value segment is by working with a global distribution partner like HotelbedsAs our partner, you'll gain exclusive access to our intranet, Maxiroom, which offers you all the tools and resources you need to maximise your occupancy rates, including the option to create bespoke rates and fees that can be offered to travellers all around the globe on a more individual basis. &nbsp;Maxiroom also offers:A fully interactive calendar - to allow easier amendements to availability and rates across room types.An intuitive content manager - maximise the quality of your content with our user-friendly interface.&nbsp;The ability to make numerous updates at once - using our integrated update tool means you can quickly update your availability and prices across multiple rate and room types.A global dashboard - so you can easily review current&nbsp;arrivals, bookings and cancellations, as well as comparisons between your competitors.Sign up to gain access to this time-saving resource, and begin optimising your occupancy rates today.Log in to your account to begin optimising your occupancy rates today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consider How Your Services Reflect What Solo Female Travellers Want &nbsp;Understanding what solo female travellers want is the first step – evaluating this against your current facilities is the next. &nbsp;The key here is that you don’t have to only&nbsp;cater to&nbsp;women travelling solo, just make it clear you accommodate them. This means that you don’t have to restructure your business model or revamp your packages completely – unless you want to! &nbsp;Just make it obvious that you are aware of what women want when they travel and that you can deliver on this.&nbsp;Practical ways you can cater for solo travel for women:Consider implementing women-only floors – the Four Seasons Riyadh and the Dukes Hotel in London are already doing this!&nbsp;Som Dona in Mallorca has gone one step further and made this location women-only which has proved incredibly popular.&nbsp;Ensure that you have up to date information regarding your facilities on your website and any profiles with distribution partners (like our Booking Engine) – i.e., up-to-date CCTV coverage, information on women-only or inclusive timeslots in your leisure or spa facilities.&nbsp;Set up 24-hour receptionists and door security.&nbsp;Stage inclusive social events to encourage solo travellers to interact with like-minded people while away.&nbsp;Turn the lobby into happy hour, organise women-only or inclusive activities to help travellers feel part of a community and to combat loneliness. &nbsp;Add more transfer options with trusted providers for women travelling solo&nbsp;– especially after-dark airport transfers!&nbsp;With a connected community of other hoteliers, and access to over 66,000 travel sellers around the world, combined with a fresh approach to data intelligence, working with Hotelbeds is one of the best ways that you as hotel owners can reach your desired audience and curate the ideal experience for your guests.Why not consider signing up as one of our valuable partners today?Log in to your account to take your business even further.

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How Hotel Owners Can Effectively Target Solo Female Travellers

Sustainable travel has become a significant concern for individuals around the world. As hotel guests become increasingly aware of environmental issues, they expect the companies they support, including hotels, to prioritise sustainability in their operations.&nbsp;In light of Plastic-Free July, it is crucial for hoteliers to address the issue of single-use plastic and to commit to implementing plastic-free policies in their properties.&nbsp;This article aims to guide hoteliers interested in embracing sustainable practices and attracting environmentally-conscious guests. We will explore why guests are on the look-out for plastic-free hotels, how the hotel can benefit by making the change, practical tips to eliminate single-use plastics, and a successful case study from a leading hotel chain.We will also share how hoteliers can communicate their plastic-free initiative to a network of 55k travel distributors, using the ‘Single-use Plastic free’ filer in our Partner Extranet.&nbsp;Why Do Guests Prefer Plastic-Free Hotels?It’s no secret there has been a paradigm shift that has influenced the lifestyle of millions of people, affecting all areas of life - including travel and leisure.&nbsp;Sustainable travel has become a significant concern in today’s world, and there are many ways to support the cause. Focusing specifically on one of the main issues – &nbsp;single-plastic use –, we believe that hoteliers have a great potential to become a force for good.Guests believe it as well, and by paying attention to their concerns and catering to their needs, your hotel could benefit from improved positioning in front of eco-conscious travellers…and increase your room nights.●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;People are more aware of environmental issues and expect companies to share their feelings; this includes how hotels address sustainability within their operations. The way they do it influences the decision-making process when travellers book one property or another. For instance, 81% of travellers surveyed by Statista highlight that sustainable travel is important to them.&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Some statistics report that least 74%&nbsp;of travellers &nbsp;want travel companies to offer more sustainable choices. Meanwhile,&nbsp;65% state that they would feel better about paying for accommodation with a sustainable certification or label.&nbsp;Additionally, 56% of people consider it essential to reduce the usage of single-use plastic in their daily lives, which could extend into their behaviours when travelling, too.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;It is also vital to take into account that a company’s reputation could be at risk if there’s not a clear commitment to addressing plastic pollution and the damage single-use plastics can have. For this reason, it is important to take sustainability considerations seriously in order to do right by your guests, and for the planet.How Can Plastic-Free Initiatives Benefit Your Properties?Whether it’s individual boutiques or large hotel chains, implementing changes in your properties requires a lot of time and effort. But it will be worthwhile.&nbsp;Want to learn more about the advantages that your property could benefit from? Helping the planet should be incentive enough, but here are some pointers to keep in mind.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; As part of HBX Group, Hotelbeds’ 2023 Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) report states that there had been a 30% growth in travellers looking for both eco-friendly and plastic-free properties on our platform.&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;If your hotel takes steps towards becoming more sustainable – such as by reducing single-use plastic – it may be eligible to be included in our Sustainable Hotels Programme. In short, you’ll be more visible to our 55,000+ distributors and their customers who are seeking properties with eco-credentials. We’ll give you more details on its benefits and how to join later in this article.&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;In terms of competitive strategy, having a defined, valuable sustainability plan could enable your hotel to stand out from the competition. Attaining a hotel sustainability certification will &nbsp;help to better position your property and attract a wider range of traveller segments.&nbsp;&nbsp;●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Additionally, bear in mind that there’s an increasing number of regulations around this issue from many countries and regions around the world. Be sure to keep up-to-date with regulations and expectations on a country-by-country basis.&nbsp;However, do remember that these benefits will be limited if you don’t communicate your actions and let potential clients know your commitment to sustainable travel and no single-use plastic.&nbsp;As we mentioned in our article on the importance of going green for hoteliers, only one third of green hotels are communicating their sustainability efforts, such as implementing alternatives for single-use plastics. It's vital to communicate your policies on this matter so that you can attract people committed to this cause – an audience which is increasing day by day, awaiting the perfect offering.No matter what the size of your hotel, small actions can make a big change. Are you lacking in ideas? Keep reading, as we provide you with some valuable tips.&nbsp;Practical Steps for Hotels to Embrace SustainabilityThere are certain items that you can replace or reduce in your objective to become a plastic-free hotel.&nbsp;However, there’s one thing that you should take into account to help you reach your goal in the most seamless way possible: it’s necessary to educate your suppliers and employees to better understand how important this purpose is and how they can easily commit to it.For example, you could start by creating a working group where employees from the departments using single-use plastics participate. In this working group, it would be beneficial to identify all single-use plastics in your operations and try to propose alternatives.&nbsp;But it doesn’t stop there: it’s also important to chat with your suppliers and explain your aim to reduce plastic in your properties. They may be able to help you with the task by giving you ideas of which options they have available, such as multi-use items or products made of responsible materials.&nbsp;To help you get started, here are some examples of items to be replaced or eliminated in order to go plastic-free.&nbsp;6 Essential Tips for Eliminating Single-Use Plastics in Hotels1. Eliminate plastic bottles and offer glass or metal ones instead, which have to be refilled by the staff. If possible, consider installing water bottle filling stations for guests to use. Modern versions of these stations can refill a one-litre bottle in 10 seconds to minimise queues, whilst other stations cut off the water after 20 seconds to prevent wastage.&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Consider using bulk bathroom amenity dispensers. Offer shampoo and gel packaged in wall-mounted refillable dispensers, or consider providing these amenities only on demand. Switching to plastic-free hotel amenities, such as toiletries, is one of the easiest changes to implement, but is also a change which will be first recognised by your guests!&nbsp;3. Offer non-plastic slippers that are washed in-house and reused. Replace items such as stirrers, shoe shiners, razors, combs, sewing kits, and plastic packaging materials with sustainable alternatives, or remove them altogether.&nbsp;4. Use recyclable paper for wrapping bathroom amenities, reusable bathroom cups, reusable fabric laundry bags, and paper containers for takeaways, among others.&nbsp;&nbsp;5. Offer biodegradable rubbish bags that are more environmentally friendly alternatives. Make sure that they’re truly biodegradable.&nbsp;6. Choose tableware and cutlery made from durable, biodegradable materials. For example, cut down on plastic straws and replace them with ones made of bamboo.&nbsp;Additionally, there are consultancy firms which provide assistance on how to tackle the issue of single-use plastics. They can help you address this issue and know where you can cut single-use plastics and start using the aforementioned alternatives.&nbsp;Accor Hotels: A Successful Case Study In Going Plastic-FreeSome major hotel chains have already made a step forward in order to tackle this issue. One good example is Accor Hotels, which joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) in 2022 and have since announced two global partnerships with Green Key and Green Globe certifications.&nbsp;As previously mentioned, going plastic-free could be a challenging task. But here’s the proof that such an aim is both attainable and rewarding. In the following video, Jordane de Villaret Bentinck, VP of Sustainability Communications &amp; Change at Accor, explains the actions the chain has implemented so far and how they have been received by customers. &nbsp;Enhancing Plastic-Free Communications with Our Sustainable Hotels ProgrammeWe’re getting close to the end of this post, and we don’t want to finish it without helping you to communicate your plastic-free efforts.&nbsp;You’re aware of the importance of committing to the cause and which steps your hotel can start taking to become more sustainable. Whether you are starting to change or you have already successfully implemented actions, there’s one step left that is almost as important as taking action.&nbsp;It’s crucial that you communicate these changes to the world so that potential guests and investors are aware of your initiatives. By joining Hotelbeds’ Sustainable Hotels Programme, you can gain further visibility as an environmentally-conscious member of the travel industry, and can also begin to cater to a real demand by helping travel bookers to identify those properties committed to sustainabilityTo date, the Sustainable Hotels Programme portfolio contains over 38,000 properties certified as sustainable. As mentioned earlier, our 2023 ESG report revealed that those same properties had seen a 30% increase in bookings over 12 months, demonstrating that the demand for plastic-free properties is there - so, how can you ensure that your hotel is among those which are performing better than ever?Our Partner Extranet will be your ally: to gain a prime position in front of 71k travel advisors and their clients, mark your hotel as single-use plastic free by following these steps:●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Log into the Partner Extranet●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Select ‘Hotel Info’●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;After clicking ‘About Hotel’, scroll to the section titled ‘Things to Keep in Mind’●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Tick the ‘Single-use Plastic Free’ boxIf you have already registered your property with Hotelbeds, access here and select this filter now.&nbsp;Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be visible under the ‘Sustainable Hotels’ filter in our Booking Engine. But this won’t be the only benefit – you’ll also be eligible for relevant, sustainability-focused campaigns, in which we will push sustainable hotels to our clients.Still need to register your hotel with us? Click here: it’s easy, free, and in a short time, your property will be seen by worldwide network of 55,000 travel distributors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Plastic-Free Initiatives To Boost Hotel Profitability, And Why They Are Important 

With recently felt global inflation and looming climate worries, plus increasing competition in the travel sector, these are rapidly changing times for hoteliers. However, the sustainable tourism movement may offer something of an antidote to these unprecedented challenges.This article details the current sustainable travel landscape and ways you can maximise sustainable travel opportunities for your hotel business in 2023.&nbsp;Environmental, social, and governance initiatives will increase your revenue&nbsp;According to a recent report by HotelTechReport, hotels worldwide are beginning to recognize the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities, for investors, stakeholders, staff, and guests alike. These ESG initiatives take into account:&nbsp;Environmental considerations such as conservation of water, whether energy is being used efficiency, and reduction of wasteSocial considerations such as fair pay and labour conditions, diversity and inclusion policies, and investment in local businesses and communities&nbsp;Governance includes track record of board members, ethical business practices, and compliance with laws/regulationsAre you implementing ESG initiatives in your hotel business? Not only will these actions protect the planet, but a sustainability strategy will increase your revenue, as using and managing resources more effectively will result in cost savings. Additionally, if you can market your sustainability initiatives effectively, you will stand out from the competition and attract a wider range of traveller segments.&nbsp;As a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, the global authority in sustainable tourism and travel, Hotelbeds are committed to supporting travel trade client partners to maximise opportunities in this growing market. Our own ESG commitments include our Plastic Free Hotel scheme, where qualifying hotels can be seen by thousands of potential travel buyers, with more than 38,000 properties already taking advantage of our offerings.We’ve also made the Climate Change Pledge and achieved Carbon Neutral status for three years running. Read more about our ESG initiatives in our report here.&nbsp;The demand for sustainable properties is growing exponentially&nbsp;Hotelbeds has seen a 30% growth in travellers booking eco-friendly hotels through our Green Hotels programme over the past year. With the rising awareness of the environmental impacts of travel, known as ‘eco-guilt’, it is clear that more travellers are becoming concerned about the negative impact of their trip and are looking to mitigate this through sustainable travel; in fact, 85.6% of travellers are willing to pay more for a hotel with sustainable credentials (Operto).&nbsp;With the ground-breaking development of carbon positive hotels around the world, like Norway’s Six Senses Svart, it is clear that the demand for eco-conscious travel is certainly not going anywhere and investors are seeing the endless potential of the sustainable travel movement. This innovative project sees an entirely self-sustaining hotel which is off-grid and carbon neutral developed in conjunction with the natural environment and constructed with minimal disruption to the surrounding land and sea. More than just a hotel, Six Senses Svart combines environment, sustainability, technology, wellness, and mindfulness.&nbsp;As a hotelier, it is essential to ensure that you are catering to this growing demand for sustainable properties, both in the short- and long-term. Whether you have the resources to build the next Six Senses Svart, or are simply making switches like plastic-free toiletries, you can take advantage of the growing demand for sustainable hotels across traveller segments globally. &nbsp;53% of travellers want to travel more sustainably, but not enough hotels are marketing their offerings&nbsp;Whether it’s individual boutiques or large chains, more hotels are making sustainable choices, which is vital in the current economic and environmental climate.By listing your ESG initiatives on search engines and focusing your marketing efforts, whether it’s zero plastic, green energy, supporting local businesses, or simply providing recycling bins, you can attract more traveller segments who are primed to pay more. There is significant opportunity here since, according to a report by Booking.com, only one third of sustainable hotels are actively communicating their sustainability efforts.&nbsp;Attribute-based selling is an effective way to ensure sustainability-minded guests can find your business during their research. If your hotel has any eco-credentials, you can benefit from ‘green filters’ on search sites; travellers are increasingly searching for ‘eco’ hotels as part of their research, so ensuring your hotel is listed in the optimal way is guaranteed to increase your hotel’s occupancy.&nbsp;Think you qualify or want to learn more? See how other hotels across the globe are benefiting from our Green Hotels Programme and get seen by thousands of travel sellers here.&nbsp;Beat plastic pollutionThis year’s theme for World Environment Day, Beat Plastic Pollution, draws attention to one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time.Thankfully, travellers are increasingly looking for plastic-free offerings; in fact, Hotelbeds has seen an 84% increase in our plastic-free hotel portfolio, with 30% more customers seeking both an eco-friendly and plastic-free hotel in the past year.If you have a plastic-free hotel, this is a crucial opportunity to clearly gain visibility and increase your occupancy. Learn more here.&nbsp;Take advantage of rising interest in regenerative travel through high-margin ancillariesSome travellers are looking to create a net positive impact from their trip, known as regenerative travel. Could you leverage this upcoming trend and connect with any local businesses or charities to offer regenerative ancillaries? Or perhaps you could invest a portion of each booking into a local community group or environmental project.&nbsp;Hotelbeds offers hoteliers access to a network of over 66,000 hard-to-access B2B travel buyers such as tour operators, retail travel agents, airline websites, and loyalty schemes in over 190 source markets worldwide. These channels provide hotel partners with returning guests that book further in advance, cancel less, spend more in-destination and stay longer.Qualifying hotels can benefit from exposure to more than 66,000 client partners of Hotelbeds and Bedsonline – including travel agents, tour operators, airlines, and points redemption schemes – via a green filter that includes details of certifications and offer tags.The pivotal role hoteliers play in sustainable travelAs demand for sustainable travel continues to increase, hotels who are willing to adapt and pivot will certainly succeed. Environmentalism is not a passing trend, so ensure your travel business is primed to help sustainable travellers invest in your offerings and protect the planet for years to come.&nbsp;Hotelbeds: making travel a force for goodHere at Hotelbeds, we have already helped thousands of hoteliers increase their hotel’s occupancy. Whether you’re an individual hotel, chain, or cluster, we can help your sustainable hotel business thrive. Register your property&nbsp;here.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here at Hotelbeds, we have already helped thousands of hoteliers increase their hotel’s occupancy. Whether you’re an individual hotel, chain, or cluster, we can help your sustainable hotel business thrive. Log in to your account&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

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World Environment Day - The Importance of Going Green For Hoteliers

The recent economic and global challenges of the past few years have caused a shift in how businesses approach technology for the long term.According to a recent study by McKinsey &amp; Company, companies of all industries have increased the digitization of their customer and supply chain interactions, some by as much as three or four years, while the adoption of digitally enabled products has also accelerated, by up to seven years - and as much as ten years in Asia.This rapid acceleration of technology adoption is transforming the business landscape and presents new opportunities for growth and innovation.&nbsp;Across many industries, a narrative shift is taking place wherein technology is no longer solely recognized for its cost-saving capabilities, but as a crucial aspect of any business. The rise of technological solutions is not a new concept, but the increasing reliance on technology to meet customer demand and replace outdated communication methods is noteworthy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Of the changes to the adoption of digital processes, the largest are the most likely to be here for the long term, including:&nbsp;Changing customer demands or expectations - such as, for example, increased hygiene awareness and online communication/purchasingIncreasing migration of cloud-based assetsIncreasing use of advanced technologies within business operations - such as artificial intelligence, automation and analytics.In fact, 32% of attendees at our MarketHub Americas event suggested they were planning to embrace tech and AI above anything else this year, and 28% planned to innovate more.&nbsp;Within the context of the travel and hospitality industry, it is imperative for hotel owners to consider how they can effectively integrate advanced technology to enhance customer interactions. This raises the important question of how hotel owners can adapt to an ever-evolving digital landscape, and what innovative tools and strategies are already being utilised to optimise customer experiences in the hospitality sector.&nbsp;Smart Hotel Technology&nbsp;In response to the growing expectations of digital-savvy travellers, hotels are expanding their horizons by offering innovative facilities such as mobile check-in, smart room technology and partnering with new tech companies to cater to their everyday needs.&nbsp;To be considered a top-tier hotel, it is essential to provide guests with cutting-edge technology that enhances their experience. Smart hotels achieve this feat by enabling customers to control devices and services using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), or digital connectivity. Examples of such travel technology include voice control, energy efficiency controls, facial recognition, and automation.&nbsp;The implementation of smart hotel technology is a vital aspect of customer experience. By utilising AI machine learning to collect and process customer data during a stay, hotels can gain valuable insights into customer preferences and provide a more customised experience.&nbsp;What are some other real-life examples of travel technology partnerships or innovations within the hotel industry?Marriott International recently partnered with Groups360 to streamline the process of booking rooms, meeting spaces and events for its corporate guests.&nbsp;The Maho Group, offering hotels and resorts in the Caribbean, partnered with Cendyn to power its CRM, revenue management and business intelligence, offering personalised experiences to encourage customer loyalty by tracking individual guests’ preferences.&nbsp;IHG Hotel and Resorts recently partnered with PPDS to offer Chromecast in select locations, providing guests with the ability to stream content from their smart devices.&nbsp;DistrictHive offers its guests a ‘human recharding pod’, an ‘off-grid’ space where AI systems manage energy consumption and can change external stimuli like sounds or smells based on external conditions.&nbsp;Ascott’s Lyf One-North Singapore provides a co-living property for guests, where they can trade digital art and engage in virtual activities.&nbsp;Hilton has been working with Meta and SweetRush to create VR scenarios to train members of the team to deal with complex guest situations and provide a better experience for future guests.How Do We Encourage Tech Development at Hotelbeds?In order to enhance the traveller's experience and ensure a seamless process, we have forged a partnership with Wayra, an open innovation centre operating within the telecommunications firm Telefonica to create the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds.Designed to allow us to support upcoming tech startups, this collaboration means we can work&nbsp;together with startup partners to create customer-centric products, platforms, and services that have a significant impact in the travel industry. Our goal is to continuously innovate and improve the travel experience for our customers.&nbsp;A diverse and data-driven distribution strategy is crucial to enhancing exposure and relevance within the travel industry, particularly in the valuable B2B marketplace. At Hotelbeds, with our extensive network of over 54,000+ travel distributors worldwide, we are well-positioned to amplify the success of your hotel(s).&nbsp;Not only this, but our exclusive extranet is a hotel marketing solution that combines the benefits of our distribution channel with valuable digital tools to effectively manage availability, rates, content and more to maximise room occupancy.Sign up today to become one of our valuable hotel partners today!Log in to your Hotelbeds account today to begin maximising your distribution.Green TechnologyThe tourism sector, research has shown, is responsible for as much as 8% of global CO2 emissions, with around 2% of this directly produced by the hospitality industry. This, and recent insight from CBRE demonstrates the urgency around the need for hospitality and leisure infrastructures, businesses and establishments to reduce their carbon footprints in comparison to other real estate classifications. Hotel carbon emissions alone are shown to be 96kgCO2e/m².&nbsp;And although there has been tangible progress to reduce carbon footprints in order to meet the terms of the globally recognised Paris Agreement, there is still much work that can be done not only to ensure the development of their business, but to keep in line with the fact that sustainability is now, by necessity, a guiding principle of the travel industry.&nbsp;Here are just a few examples of sustainable technology which hotels around the world are adopting:&nbsp;Operational systems:&nbsp;such as Energy Management Systems (EMS), Guest Room Management Systems (GRMS), Property Management Systems (PMS), and Building Management Systems (BMS).&nbsp;Online check-in and automated ticket management for guest requestsDigitised communications and collaboration technology:&nbsp;for shareholders, corporate communications and even for guests, to reduce the carbon footprint that comes with printed or physical resources.Renewable sources of energy:&nbsp;solar or photovoltaic - to lower the impact of high-consumption services like air conditioning.Why Is Sustainable Technology Important?&nbsp;As previously highlighted in our traveller of tomorrow discussion, the Gen Z traveller profile is one of the most influential in the travel industry. This demographic is particularly vocal in their support of sustainable travel, with Millennials also ranking the ecological impact of transportation, accommodations, and activities as a significant factor in their booking decisions. Google Insights also reports that more than half of surveyed travellers consider environmental impact when making travel plans.&nbsp;And after all, the guests of the future will be Gen Z and Gen Alpha (the children of Millennial families); and as the 'voice of sustainability', these generations prioritise eco-friendly practices, making it critical for hotels to adapt in order to remain relevant and successful in the industry.&nbsp;As part of our recognition that providing sustainable travel opportunities to end travellers is so vital, at Hotelbeds we’ve worked to ensure that hotels that can be categorised as ‘sustainable’ can easily be found in our portfolio. This is true when travel providers are locating their clients' perfect hotel using our Booking Engine thanks to our ‘Sustainable Hotel’ filter, or browsing top-recommended hotels in our Star Brochures digital brochure.&nbsp;This is because we know that it’s critical that your properties are receiving not only maximum exposure, but that the defining qualities of these properties are highlighted to the right traveller at the right time in order to increase occupancy rate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sign up today to become one of our valuable hotel partners, and benefit from responsible, expert distribution as part of our global network.Recognition TechnologyRecent data indicates that incorporating self-service technology in hotels can increase guest satisfaction, with around 73% of travellers preferring to stay in hotels that offer such technology. From facial recognition to voice control and voice search, recognition technology offers valuable opportunities to implement self-service travel technology, and is one of the more accessible ways to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;Facial recognition technology however can also be used throughout the entire customer experiences to provide:&nbsp;Faster check-in and check-out.A more reliable payment system.Higher security - particularly helpful for travellers embarking on long-haul journeys or who want to ensure their details are protected in far-away countries.A dematerialised experience - reducing not only the need for wasteful resources like printed paperwork, but also a less stressful experience for travellers.&nbsp;The modernisation of previously manual or analog processes in order to streamline a customers’ experience also brings us to our next point.Customer-Centric Artificial Intelligence&nbsp;As the demand for travel continues to expand, and customers of all demographics are more expectant of digital processes in their daily lives, travel providers must dramatically rethink how they’re ensuring customer satisfaction.&nbsp;The integration of artificial intelligence into businesses has become more prevalent in recent years, though it has been in existence for quite some time. And while the use of machine learning and AI does present some logistical challenges, the potential of this type of tech cannot be ignored. It is essential, however, for the hospitality industry to strike a careful balance between the benefits of automation and the necessity of delivering personalised experiences.&nbsp;The most significant example of customer-focused AI when thinking about travel technology for the hospitality industry, is Chatbots. Using natural language processing (NLP) this technology accurately responds to and engages with users to streamline and enhance the customer experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;The benefits of integrating chatbots into customer service strategies are supported by research from Meta, indicating that approximately seven out of ten customers feel a greater connection to businesses that offer messaging options. In addition, 65% of consumers prefer contacting businesses via chat. These statistics emphasise the importance of utilising chatbots as a professional and effective means of enhancing customer satisfaction.&nbsp;From pre-booking enquiries to post-booking assistance, Chatbots offer:A direct channel of communication from customer to business, simplifying the way that customers used to contact travel providers in the past.&nbsp;Seamless customer service - when implemented correctly.The ability to gather crucial data - allowing businesses to learn about their customer needs to better meet them.&nbsp;Our CEO Nicolas Huss, suggests that technology like chatbots allows travel distributors to ‘provide an elevated personalised experience by remembering preferences and automatically implementing them each time an individual books their next trip.’Tech-Owned Hotels and Resorts&nbsp;Another noticeable way that the ownership of hotels and how this may impact the hospitality industry is the increasing instances of technology companies branching out into hotel ownership.&nbsp;For example, tech-company Heli, who have specialised in providing a booking platform and software to heli-skiing experience providers, purchased their own property in a move to expand into the industry in an all-new way.&nbsp;This expansion into the hospitality industry directly challenges existing hotel owners and hospitality providers, as established travel technology companies such as Heli are approaching the travel market with a high level of understanding about both sides of the market - what it takes to run a successful business, and also how to keep customers happy.&nbsp;&nbsp;What does this mean for hoteliers?Travel tech companies moving into the hotel ownership sphere will result in an increasing level of competition for existing hotel owners to ensure that they know what their guests want, and have the appropriate resources, facilities and internal tech solutions to provide this.Technology and Remote Working/Bleisure TravelAs we previously discussed in our article covering the best destinations for remote workers, the impact and influence of the remote worker on the travel landscape is significant, and does not seem to be dissipating. In fact, by 2022, the number of remote workers had grown to 35 million, with around 16% of companies around the world operating on a fully remote basis, and 76% respondents to a TravelPerk survey suggesting their company was hybrid.&nbsp;'Bleisure’ travellers are also an increasingly prominent segment, and the combination of business and leisure travel not only changes&nbsp;the needs that guests have during their stay, but also their search criteria during the booking process and businesses that lack the facilities or technology solutions to cater for this segment may find themselves at a disadvantage.&nbsp;&nbsp;This continual blurring of the line between business and leisure travel can cause several challenges for hotels, such as determining the travel motive for their guests, and changing travel behaviours which are leading to fewer ‘shoulder’ seasons throughout the year amongst other changes across the industry. This will have long-term impact on the considerations that hotel owners should be keeping top of mind when it comes to attracting, and retaining this segment.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are a few crucial technologies that hotel owners should consider implementing for remote and bleisure travellers:Secure, superfast WiFi - while this may seem obvious, the importance of reliable WiFi that will allow remote workers to conduct their business as usual is vital to attracting this type of traveller, and ensure positive word of mouth marketing as a result of their experiences.Access to tools like printers, desktop computers, and smart TVs - this supports a productive environment and ensures spaces are convenient for a wide range of needs.Cloud-based technologies - offering coworking or meeting spaces which offer online or cloud-based solutions ensures you’re meeting the variable needs of the remote worker.&nbsp;Nomad Stays is also looking to take their accommodation of remote workers even further, by offering a booking platform that focuses on the sense of community that this type of traveller is often looking for. This marketplace will provide travellers with ideas of where to buy relevant software to create meetups, coaching and training sessions, consultation services and more - and it’s a key example of how travel providers everywhere are beginning to change their business models to incorporate this high-value segment.Why is it important that hoteliers are accommodating remote workers?The notion of ‘hybrid hospitality’ encompasses the opportunity for hotels today, and how businesses utilising the spaces available in their hotels throughout the day and at different times can significantly uplift revenue generation. For example, by ‘stacking’ a co-working model onto the hotel real estate, a 24 hour window of revenue generation opens up, and several hotels found that by doing this it grew their revenue by 20%; just by offering remote workers space to conduct their business in.&nbsp;By offering a combination of spaces where their business travel and leisure travel needs meet, you’re offering the level of flexibility that today’s travellers are looking for.&nbsp;VR As A Hotel Marketing ToolVirtual Reality (VR) offers travel providers and travel sellers all over the world to build a sensory experience of a destination, attraction, or activity, which can then be used to complement or even replace traditional promotional tools much like printed travel brochures.&nbsp;However for hotels, VR offers a multitude of opportunities to increase occupancy rate, by emphasising the physical environment which is being sold to travellers. By engaging with VR experiences or materials, potential travellers can make a more informed judgement of a new destination, hotel or tourism experience. VR, when used as a hotel marketing tool, provides travellers the chance to more intrinsically understand what will be offered to them and therefore better influence the decision-making process.&nbsp;When guests can see themselves using the hotel facilities, or even relaxing in their room, the likelihood of them booking this hotel increases.&nbsp;Some real life examples of successful VR marketing include:&nbsp;Unveiled at Fitur 2023, Amadeus announced plans to offer virtual experiences and previews of trips for travellers to travel agencies with its ‘Triportation’ program. This innovative development will provide a mix of ‘VR, AI and metaverse’ to enhance the travel experience at critical moments in the booking journey.The use of a VR web portal (Bihor360) was used to successfully promote sustainable tourism in Romania, with positive effects on the awareness, protection and conservation of historical and cultural monuments.&nbsp;We predict that the use of virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) will continue to expand as travellers become increasingly familiar and reliant on this type of technology during the travel booking process. This includes utilising it to inspire them at the initial “dreaming” stage all the way through to their departure.&nbsp;So there you have it! These are just a few of the ways that travel technology is being integrated into the hospitality industry, whether that’s with a customer-centric approach, or with initiatives designed to improve the sustainability of hotel facilities, or even to train members of the hotel team to better serve their guests.&nbsp;&nbsp;At every level of the travel and hospitality industry technology is being recognised far and above its efficiency-increasing capabilities, and is becoming a crucial component of any business. At Hotelbeds, this integration of technology is something we hold as one of our central pillars, from the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds to the wealth of data we collect and use to offer our partners informed, market-relevant insights to improve their business.&nbsp;Sign up today to join the ranks of hotels around the world benefitting from our global network of travel distributors, responsible distribution and data-driven growth strategies.&nbsp;Log in today to begin maximising your exposure with our global network of travel distributors, and grow your revenue!&nbsp;

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How Hoteliers can Cater for Travel Trends: Travel Tech/AI 

Within any sphere of travel it’s important to understand where audiences are looking to go, what they want from their experience, and how their needs are changing.&nbsp;

To keep ahead of the curve, as hotel owners it’s important to re-evaluate what was once considered ‘luxury’ travel, as many of todays’ travellers are moving away from purely exclusive resorts and disconnected retreats. And despite the fact that many countries are experiencing financial crises, the demand for luxury travel is anticipated to be ‘higher than ever’ in the next five years.

What Luxury Travellers Want In 2023

Here are just a couple of key insights into what luxury travellers are looking for from their trips include:&nbsp;


	
	Clients want to ‘get under the skin’ of a destination&nbsp;
	
	
	An increasing focus on exploring hidden gems, activities, and neighbourhoods - what GlobeTrender calls ‘Gamma Destinations’
	


With this in mind, we take a closer look at some of the most notable current and upcoming trends within the luxury travel sphere, what opportunities these present for hotel owners, and how Hotelbeds are ideally positioned to offer hotels access to travellers within this segment.



More Conscious Luxury

Given that one of the prerequisites of luxury travel is a closer, ‘exclusive’ look at a destination of choice, there are many overlapping similarities between luxury travel and conscious travel. This intersect can be more clearly seen when we look at a few aspects of the ‘hierarchy of needs of the luxury traveller’:


	
	Indulgent Experience (meets/exceeds)
	
	
	Authentic Experience (cultural, not mass travel)
	


This narrative shift towards conscious travel, where authenticity is becoming more highly priced than ‘pan-global luxury’ is apparent across the travel industry as a whole, however with regards to luxury travel and what travellers are looking for from their experience, there are key considerations for the hospitality industry - particularly, the need for green initiatives.

Mostly, the importance of offering sustainable accommodation for consciously minded luxury travellers is never more apparent, in order to remain relevant within a market whose definition is rapidly changing.&nbsp;

As a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), at Hotelbeds we understand how critical it is not only for hotel owners to remain successful, but for the industry as a whole to shift towards conscious travel. Our Green Hotel Programme and Plastic-Free initiative are just two of the ways that we’re responding to the very real demand from environmentally conscious travellers, offering simple and effective tools for our travel trade clients to not only make green choices in how they’re selling experiences and hotels to end travellers, but to make positive change within the industry.

Sign up to connect with our network of thousands of travel distributors to help attract the right guest at the right time today.



The Re-Emergence of China&nbsp;

Even though it will take time for China to be fully reinstated into the world travel market, the growing wealth across the region is a promising sign for outbound travel growth. According to Oxford Economics, there is potential for outbound travel to reach 48% of 2019 levels in 2023, which means roughly 17 million additional Chinese travellers will be exploring both international and domestic travel markets.

The reopening of China's tourism industry presents a wonderful opportunity for the growth of luxury travel. With the affluent demographics of Asia showing a strong demand for this style of travel, we can expect a massive outbound source market to emerge in the next few years.

As a global travel partner with a vast network of travel distributors, as well as valuable ancillaries for end travellers to enrich their trips, we’re ideally positioned to not only increase the visibility of our partners’ hotel(s) through a non-competing distribution channel, but also to a group of guests who:&nbsp;


	
	Have longer lead-times than other distribution channels.
	
	
	Cancel less often - for example, the cancellation rate for European hotels during FY22 was 31% when booked through our distribution channel, compared to the 65.5% seen in OTA bookings.
	
	
	Largely belong to long-haul markets
	


We offer all our clients access to fast-growing travel segments even in the most hard-to-reach spaces, while our cloud-based technology platforms provide fast, simple access to a network of global travel products to curate your clients’ bespoke travel plans. Put simply, working with us at Hotelbeds puts you in the right position to access some of the most valuable travel segments out there.

Sign up today to become one of our dedicated hotelier partners.

Log in to your account today and begin managing your hotel offerings.

&nbsp;



Pay Attention To Generation Alpha&nbsp;

A recent study from Globetrender highlighted this trend, revealing that these families are not afraid to spend big and travel far. The study also predicted a substantial hike in family trips, estimating an increase of 185% between 2021 and 2022, which we anticipate will carry over far and beyond 2023. As we look ahead to the next few years, it is safe to assume that luxury travel will see a sharp and sustained increase, particularly among wealthy families.

And as a passive but young demographic, Gen Alpha is reliant on their Millennial parents to spend for them, which means:&nbsp;


	Millennial travellers will be looking to accommodate their children - an increasingly influential and young demographic accustomed to regular travel and the digital era
	Luxury travel and luxury familial experiences may change as a result - from the rise of parent-child bonding trips to the increase in long-haul adventure trips, the way that luxury families go on holiday is changing.


It's essential to recognize the changing face of the modern family and adapt your offerings accordingly. For instance, in the UK, many families are led by single parents, around 90% of which are women. So, it's vital to question your preconceived notions about family travel and make sure your offerings meet the diverse needs of today's travellers. But what is clear is that there is no better time to cater for the elite and their younger generations.



‘Premium’ Travel As One To Watch

‘Premium’ travel has many names, but this segment can mostly be identified by where travellers sit on the plane - namely, those at the front. And while the premium segment may not be quite the same as luxury, the motivations, needs and travel styles are in a similar vein, so travel distributors would be remiss to discredit the growing opportunity that premium travellers present. Travel analytics companies like Forward Keys, in fact, have outlined premium travel as one to watch.

Recent insights suggest that the premium travel segment is recovering much faster than the economy segment in relation to 2019 levels. Interestingly, premium travellers also:


	Travel more regularly than economy travellers
	Spend more than average once in their destination of choice
	Stay for longer durations in their chosen destinations each time&nbsp;


In fact, at the end of 2022, premium segment travellers in America had stayed 14% longer compared to 2019 levels, with particular growth within small groups and families.&nbsp;

What opportunities does this present for hoteliers?

This is a rapidly growing segment of travellers who are willing to spend more in-destination, stay longer, and travel more frequently than those in the economy segment. So this means that recovery, in terms of revenue, is happening faster than visitor numbers, which is great news for host destinations and also great news for hotel owners looking to make the most of a high-spend, high-frequency traveller.



The Rise of High-Impact Conservation

As suggested in our article detailing some of the top travel trends for 2023, high-impact conservation remains another exciting opportunity within the luxury travel segment.&nbsp;

Pelorus, a provider of luxury trips, noted that many high net-worth travellers are no longer impressed by the type of excess that ‘luxury travel’ used to once mean, and that luxury is becoming more about the privilege of contributing to preserving and protecting the world’s environments. From spending time with marine biologists to joining conservationist efforts in Africa, the ultra-wealthy are beginning to fund experiences that make a tangible difference to the climate crisis, and capitalising on this type of traveller could lead to a huge uplift in your success as a hotel owner.

Partnering with in-destination organisations who offer a deeper experience than more ‘tokenistic’ give back schemes can be a key step for hotel owners looking to capture the interest of high-net worth clients looking to make a real difference. It’s critical to ensure that any partnerships offer tangible, real value to local communities and environments, in order to attract the calibre of luxury traveller looking to make an actual difference during their experience.&nbsp;



Luxury Wellness Tourism

CNTraveller suggests that ‘mindful movement is the new buzzword’ when it comes to luxury wellness as one of the top travel trends for 2023 and beyond, and we’re inclined to agree - though mindful movement is certainly not new as a concept! From hypnotherapy and nutritional assessments to astrology, forest bathing or sound baths, the concept of holistic wellness as a mainstream driver for travel has deserved a place on the radar since 2022.&nbsp;

Marketing wellness experiences is therefore becoming a key factor in many luxury hotels’ strategies, and our Star Collection Programme offers the perfect platform to maximise visibility to the right guest, as part of our dedicated marketing solutions for hotels - available exclusively to our hotel partners!&nbsp;

In order to remain relevant and keep up with demand, many hotels and hotel chains around the world have had to increase their wellness offerings by incorporating innovative, attractive experiences and facilities into their properties. In fact, some hotels are taking this one step further, incorporating high-tech medicine into wellness regimes and pushing the boundaries of what ‘wellness’ means - from hotels offering traditional Chinese medicines featuring nutrigenomics (the relationship between between diet and genes); on-site assessments that curate bespoke stress-relieving activities; or even offering clients treatments believed to increase ‘health span’ including stem-cell therapy, DNA analysis and customised immune-boosting.

In fact, at Hotelbeds we have seen a significant increase in luxury bookings with many destinations experiencing growth exceeding 50% in the last couple of years as more travellers than ever prioritise mind and body wellness, and preventative care. This prompted an incredible opportunity to expand our portfolio with The Leading Hotels of the World Alliance, offering even greater access to the luxury travel segment and building our existing ability to connect luxury travellers with the right hotels and experiences.

Sign up to become a dedicated hotel partner today, and maximise your occupancy.

Log in to manage your properties and maximise your occupancy.


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