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Would you like to learn how to create a strong social media strategy for hotels and other properties? Leveraging the potential of this online marketing channel is essential to boost your property’s visibility and drive more direct bookings. &nbsp;&nbsp;
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In order to share with you our best tips and insights about social media specifically for hoteliers, we have put together this comprehensive guide. &nbsp;&nbsp;
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Whether you're a digital marketer responsible for your hotel's social media profiles, a property owner looking to manage your social presence, or a hotel employee taking on these responsibilities, this guide is tailored to your needs.&nbsp;
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And what will you find in this guide?&nbsp;
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	Key Goals of Implementing a Social Media Strategy for Hotels&nbsp;
	
	
	Main Social Media Platforms for Hotels&nbsp;
	
	
	Understanding Your Own Channels, Audience and Competitors&nbsp;
	
	
	The Importance of an Editorial Calendar and How to Create One&nbsp;
	
	
	What Types of Content Exist and 30+ Ideas to Inspire You&nbsp;
	
	
	Essential Tactics to Boost Your Social Media Presence&nbsp;
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Interested in having a look? Get your free copy now!&nbsp;


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[FREE Guide] How to Leverage Social Media Marketing for Hotels

Nowadays, there's no doubt that hotel distribution is a hot topic. Choosing the right partners can make a big difference in your strategy, and ultimately, your revenue. Therefore, it's important to know as much as possible about each of the available alternatives.&nbsp;When it comes to B2B distribution, many doubts may arise. But here we're to help you dispel myths and allow you to decide for yourself: is partnering with a B2B TravelTech distributor worth it?&nbsp;To shed some light on this topic, we've put together this 'fact vs. fiction' list. How accurate were your guesses? Take a look!&nbsp;Fiction: Direct Sales Alone Ensure Maximum VisibilityWhile direct bookings are crucial, they frequently require considerable marketing investments. One of the main benefits of B2B TravelTech is that it can successfully market your properties to a broader target audience, effortlessly putting your hotels in front of the right audience at the right time.&nbsp;Fact: B2B TravelTech Distributors offer cost-effective distribution channelsB2B TravelTech distribution allows hotel management companies to expand their reach to a broader, international audience, all for without huge out-of-pocket investments.&nbsp;Fiction: B2B TravelTech Distributors Compete with Direct ChannelsIt's a common misconception that B2B distributors compete with a hotel's direct sales channels. These partnerships are designed to complement, not compete with, a hotel's existing efforts. B2B distributors focus on selling to travel advisors and corporate clients, opening a new revenue stream.&nbsp;Fact: Expanding Your ReachPartnering with global B2B TravelTech distributors allows hotel management companies to expand their reach to a broader, international audience. This fact is supported by the increased exposure and bookings that a wider distribution network can bring. Working with us means that hotels will have access to our portfolio of 60,000+ travel distributors present in 190+ source markets. Whether the goal is to reach long-haul travelers or a domestic audience, we assist hoteliers in gaining access to these markets.&nbsp;Fiction: Responsible Distribution Is OptionalIn the ever-evolving travel landscape, responsible distribution isn't always optionally available. Failure to preserve responsible practices can harm your recognition and guest pride, emphasizing the significance of partnering with distributors who prioritize this.&nbsp;Fact: Responsible Distribution PracticesGlobal B2B Travel tech distributors are equipped to assist hotels in maintaining ethical distribution practices and meeting industry standards worldwide, adding a set of eyes to ensure responsible practices are maintained.&nbsp;Final Thoughts on What B2B TravelTech Distributors Have to OfferThe partnership between hotel management companies and worldwide B2B TravelTech distributors gives numerous benefits: from expanding attain and increasing bookings to preserving responsible distribution practices. The fiction surrounding competition with direct sales channels and the sufficiency of direct sales alone is dispelled through the statistics. Collaborating with B2B distributors can be a strategic pass that enhances your existing efforts and propels your hotel business to greater achievement and ROI.&nbsp;Before you leave, don’t forget to get your free copy of our guide ‘Understanding Hotel Distribution Channels’, which unlocks everything about distribution channels, their advantages, drawbacks, and considerations for defining the hotel's distribution strategy. Download it now!

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Fact vs. Fiction: Are B2B Distributors and Hotel Management Companies a Good Fit?

The web is full of interesting resources for hotel management, but navigating through the technicalities, and the specific language of the hotel industry can be tricky!&nbsp;With the goal to make life easier for every hotelier, we have decided to compile this list to give some guidance and facilitate the understanding of the key hotel terminology every professional in the business must know.&nbsp;Also, you'll find our free and visual glossary available at the bottom of this article. Get your copy now and share it with your staff!&nbsp;&nbsp;Average Daily Rate (ADR)Average Daily Rate (or ADR) is the average income generated by each booked room, on a daily basis.It’s an important performance metric for hotels, providing insights on the income generated, on average, by rooms booked.&nbsp;How to calculate ADR in hotel industry:&nbsp;Total amount of revenue generated by bookings / Total amount of rooms booked&nbsp;Example: If&nbsp;you have 90 rooms booked for a night,&nbsp;and each room's price is $100, then the income generated for that night will be $9,000 and the&nbsp;ADR will be = $100&nbsp;Average Length of Stay (ALOS)The Average Length of Stay (or ALOS) indicates how many days, on average, customers will stay in a hotel for a given period of time.B2B Hotel DistributionThe B2B Hotel Distribution allows travel providers to search and book inventory effortlessly, without establishing a pre-existing relationship with the hotel. Hotel rooms, services, and products are distributed to companies, not to the end consumer. Hotelbeds is a clear example of a key player within B2B Hotel Distribution, as we distribute directly to travel agencies and other wholesalers in the travel industry.&nbsp;BedbankA bedbank is the prime B2B wholesaler available to hoteliers. Bedbanks provide hotels easy access to hard-to-reach B2B distributors globally including retail travel agents, tour operators, airlines and affiliate programs. For hotel suppliers, such channels offer an opportunity to diversify their distribution strategy, reduce dependence on large OTAs and drive incremental growth.&nbsp;Best Available Rate (BAR)BAR is a pricing mechanism used in the hotel industry that offers the best rate for room bookings during a specific time period.&nbsp;BleisureBleisure is a term formed by merging the words ‘business’ and ‘leisure’. The term describes a recent travel trend in which a customer extends his business trip to enjoy a leisure stay and activities at the same location.&nbsp;Booking PaceThe booking pace, alternatively known as ‘pick-up pace’, it’s a metric that shows what’s the speed at which bookings are made for a specific date or period. Normally, it’s represented by an upward curve.&nbsp;Cancellation RateIt’s the ratio of cancelled reservations on total bookings for a given period.&nbsp;How to calculate it:&nbsp;(Number of cancelled bookings / Total number of bookings) x 100Shall not be confused with the ‘Cancellation fee’ - the pre-defined amount a hotel can retain in case of cancellations.&nbsp;Channel ManagerThe channel manager serves as a digital control panel that allows hoteliers to easily manage multiple sales channels. One of its main features is that synchronises your inventory and rates across all connected channels.&nbsp;By working with a channel manager, you avoid overbookings and rates disparity across all distribution channels. This system integrates seamlessly with your existing tech stack — for instance, Hotelbeds is 100% compatible with most channel manager options as we’ve agreements with 200+ of the most popular channel managers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Competitive Set, or COMP-SETThe term competitive set, or simply comp-set, refers to a group of hotels or hotel chains that can be seen as direct competitors of a specific hotel. In the hotel industry, the comp-set is often used by revenue managers to benchmark and compare a hotel’s rate against their competition.&nbsp;Cross-sellingCross-selling is the process of selling supplementary, ancillary services and products along with a hotel booking or reservation. Cross-selling techniques aim to increase the revenues by adding to the initial service with extra or complementary services (for example, a spa treatment or a car-rental service).&nbsp;Direct ChannelIn direct channel distribution (often referred to as dotcom or brand.com), bookings are made directly via the hotel’s own website, point-of-sale system, mobile app or affiliate websites. One of its main advantages is that there are no intermediaries between the hotelier and the guests, therefore no commissions to reduce profits. However, generating traffic to a hotel website can incur significant costs, which can diminish overall profits.&nbsp;Drive-in MarketThe term ‘drive-in market’ refers to the group of customers that are located within driving distance to your hotel. Usually, it includes those source markets that are considered domestic or local and neighbouring countries.&nbsp;Fly-in MarketFly-in market defines the customer base that requires a flight to reach the destination of your hotel. Usually, it includes those source markets that are considered international, non-domestic or long-haul.&nbsp;Force MajeureForce majeure is a contractual term that defines unforeseeable events preventing one of the parties to fulfil the terms of a contract.&nbsp;In other words: an unavoidable circumstance beyond the control of both parties of a contract, that frees one or both from liabilities and obligations.&nbsp;ForecastingForecasting is the process of gathering and analysing data that leads to making predictions about future events. It’s a crucial element of any revenue strategy in order to make decisions regarding pricing, and distribution, based on anticipated demand and performance.&nbsp;GOP - Gross Operating ProfitIt’s a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) extremely useful to measure the operational profitability of a hotel.&nbsp;&nbsp;How to calculate it: Gross Operating Profit = Total amount of profits - Total of related operating expenses&nbsp;Hotel ExtranetA hotel extranet is a controlled-access web platform provided by a distribution channel (Bedbank or OTA) which allows the hotelier to list its inventory and manage the property data such as availability, rates, images, descriptions, and special offers. For example, Hotelbeds’ Partner Portal is one of the most powerful extranets in the industry, allowing hoteliers to manage inventory, availability, rates, check invoices, sign up for webinars, among others.&nbsp;Hotel Market SegmentsMarket segments are groups of consumers that share common character traits. In the hotel industry, each segment can be defined by specific behaviours related habits (for example length of stay, cancellation rate, booking lead time) in order to facilitate the process of targeting your audience.&nbsp;Lead timeLead time is the time between a customer’s reservation or booking, and the actual check-in date.&nbsp;&nbsp;Long-haul markets or travellersThis term refers to travellers coming from overseas or distant markets. Travellers in this category usually book further in advance and allocate more resources to their time at the destination. They usually stay for a longer period of time and cancel less frequently. Therefore, it's important that hoteliers invest time and effort in enhancing their hotel reach to long-haul travellers. Here you can find some advice on how to tap into this segment.&nbsp;&nbsp;MetasearchMetasearch engines are websites or platforms that allow travellers to compare accommodation rates, flights, etc., across different sources, such as OTAs and airlines' websites.&nbsp;Net RateFrom the hotel perspective, to distribute net rates means that the hotel knows how much they will receive (net rate) but the decision on the mark-up and end price is on the third-party distributor. This end price may be contractually agreed between the parties. This rate distribution model is called ‘Merchant model’ and is the most common way to distribute via wholesalers.&nbsp;Non-Refundable Rate - NRFNon-Refundable Rate, or simply NRF, refers to hotel rates that don’t guarantee a refund in case of cancellations. These are commonly the lowest rates or promotions offered by a hotel across its distribution channels.&nbsp;Occupancy RateThe occupancy rate (or OCC) is the percentage of booked rooms on the total amount of available rooms. It’s one of the most important metrics to measure a hotel’s success, as it provides useful insights to forecast revenues and cash flow.&nbsp;How to calculate it:&nbsp;(Total number of booked rooms / Total amount of available rooms) x 100&nbsp;Example: In a hotel with 100 rooms, 80 of which are booked, the occupancy Rate is = 80%&nbsp;Online Travel Agency (OTA)Online Travel Agencies (or OTA) are online companies functioning as an intermediary between consumers and travel service providers through online portals or websites.&nbsp;Revenue ManagementRevenue Management is a process that starts with data analysis and helps to predict guest’s preferences and behaviour, to optimise your pricing and distribution strategy in order to boost revenues and profits.&nbsp;Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR)What's 'revPAR' meaning? RevPAR is a classic key performance indicator in our industry that measures the performances of a hotel within a specific period.&nbsp;How to calculate it:&nbsp;Average Daily Rate (ADR) x Occupancy RateExample: If your hotel is booked at 90% with an ADR of $100, your RevPAR will be = $90&nbsp;Income generated by bookings on a specific period / Available rooms in the same specific periodExample: In a night when 90 rooms are booked at the price of $100 each, the income generated for that night will be $9,000. If this hotel has a total of 100 rooms, the RevPAR will be 9000/100= $90&nbsp;Source Market&nbsp;Source market refers to the country or continent of origin of the guests of a hotel, or destination. Also known as feeder markets or countries. For example, at Hotelbeds, you have the opportunity to attract travellers from 190+ source markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;StaycationStaycation is a term formed by merging the word ‘stay’ and ‘vacation’. Staycation refers to a type of holiday in which travellers will spend their holiday in their own town, region or country rather than abroad.&nbsp;Sustainable TourismSustainable Tourism refers to sustainable practices in the tourism industry that take full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities. Discover in our comprehensive article how hoteliers and property owners can actively participate in sustainable tourism.&nbsp;&nbsp;UpsellingIt’s a technique that aims to sell upgrades on a purchase, a booking or a reservation, in order to encourage a guest to opt for superior service or a higher rate. E.g. Upgrade to a superior room. Learn more about our best upselling techniques for hotels.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yield ManagementIt’s a pricing strategy specifically designed to maximise revenues through inventory control and management. The aim of every Yield Management strategy is to sell a room reservation at the right price, at the right time, to the right customer.&nbsp;Download our ultimate hotel management glossary, and get a better understanding of the main hotel terms made simple. Get your copy of this free, visual resource now and share it with your staff!&nbsp;

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Key Hotel Terms Every Hotelier Should Learn

As hoteliers, you know that the foundation of your success lies in providing top-notch service and creating memorable experiences for your guests.&nbsp;But in today's digital age, it's equally important to manage your online presence effectively. This is where hotel reputation management comes into play.&nbsp;In this article, we'll explore how you can take control of your online reputation and leverage it to your advantage.&nbsp;Let's dive in and start creating a robust hotel management strategy!&nbsp;&nbsp;What is Hotel Reputation Management?To begin, let's explore the concept of 'hotel reputation management'. This term refers to the strategies and tools used to monitor hotel online brand perception. It allows hoteliers to oversee, respond to, and enhance the way their property, service, and brand are perceived in the digital landscape.&nbsp;Implementing initiatives to improve your hotel's reputation directly contributes to elevating visibility, attracting new and repeat bookings, and ensuring a consistent revenue stream.&nbsp;Within our industry, one of the most important reputation management techniques is online review management, which we'll delve into throughout this article. Learn more about creating an effective hotel reputation strategy with a focus on leveraging reviews and addressing them.Why Are Reviews Vital in the Hospitality Industry?Before we dive into the details, it's worth mentioning some key findings from a TripAdvisor study regarding the importance of reviews and how to handle them.&nbsp;This study revealed that 79% of surveyed users preferred accommodations with higher ratings when comparing two identical options. Additionally, at least 81% of travellers always or frequently read reviews before booking accommodations.&nbsp;These insights are especially encouraging for small and independent hotels, as they serve as a reminder of how your property can shine without the support of a well-known hotel chain. By encouraging guests to leave reviews about your property and implementing an structured procedure for handling them, you can make a significant difference.&nbsp;While you may not have full control over what people say about your hotel online, it doesn't mean you can't shape the narrative. There are various tactics to help you stay informed about what's being said about your property online and turn these comments into opportunities that align with your interests. Keep reading and discover some of the main techniques we recommend.&nbsp;1. Streamline Your Approach with Automated Feedback SurveysRather than simply receiving and handling reviews, actively ask your guests for feedback via automated messages containing a customer satisfaction survey.&nbsp;&nbsp;Guests tend to be more open about their experiences when directly invited to provide feedback. This approach allows you to gather honest input, which you can then share on your website or social media profiles —with the guest's permission.&nbsp;What's even more relevant is that by implementing this initiative, you have the opportunity to address any unsatisfactory experiences before they lead to negative online reviews.&nbsp;2. Monitor Your Online ReputationNow, it's time to discover what your guests say about their stays at your property. Begin by identifying the key websites and platforms where guests can leave comments about your hotel. These typically include Google Reviews, TripAdvisor and Booking.com (if your guests have booked through an OTA), among others.&nbsp;Additionally, it's beneficial to search your property's name on Google to identify other websites featuring your hotel, beyond the commonly known platforms. This will provide a clearer picture of the online landscape you should monitor.&nbsp;Without a doubt, Google is one of the first places your clients turn to when seeking guest reviews. Keep an eye on these reviews and respond promptly as they appear. Google reviews significantly influence users' decisions to visit your website and eventually book.&nbsp;Moreover, did you know you can set up alerts for new reviews? This is crucial for addressing reviews as soon as they're posted, especially the negative ones. There are free tools to assist you with this task. For example, Google Alerts allows you to monitor mentions of your brand or company. It tracks keywords and provides email summaries of search activity around specific terms. Simply go to Google Alerts and enter your name.&nbsp;There are also reputation management tools that streamline your monitoring process. Here are some useful tools to help you in this task, with some being free and others requiring a small fee:&nbsp;Review response tools like Reputology allow you to monitor and respond to online reviews from a single dashboard.&nbsp;Review collectors such as Swell automatically reach out to your guests with customisable invitations to leave a review on a platform of your choice.&nbsp;Listening tools like Mention help track online discussions about your hotel happening on various platforms.&nbsp;Consider adding a reviews module to your website so that users can easily access and read about others' experiences. You can synchronise it with the latest reviews from Google, TripAdvisor, and other platforms, or manually select which ones to display.Besides, creating a dedicated landing page for guest testimonials and reviews can significantly enhance your website's trustworthiness and SEO.&nbsp;3. Regularly Respond to All ReviewsIn the TripAdvisor report mentioned above, 65% of users prefer hotels that respond to reviews, and 85% are more impressed by hotels after reading a manager's thoughtful response to a negative comment.&nbsp;The way reviews are handled provides valuable insights into how much a business cares about its guests' feedback. Apart from the quality of your responses, the timing of your responses matters.&nbsp;Maintaining a consistent approach and providing regular responses is a significant part of managing your hotel's online reputation. Timely responses help you address problems promptly, such as maintenance issues or guest concerns.&nbsp;Additionally, it offers the opportunity to turn negative feedback into a positive one. Guests appreciate it when companies take their complaints seriously, and addressing their concerns quickly can lead to satisfied guests who may even revise their negative comments.&nbsp;Therefore, allocate a few minutes each day or week to review these platforms and see what your clients say about your property.&nbsp;&nbsp;4. Streamline Your Responses with TemplatesConsider creating templates for responses to both positive and negative reviews. Often, there's a tendency to prioritise negative comments while neglecting positive ones. However, it's equally important to acknowledge and express gratitude for positive comments, as it shows appreciation.&nbsp;You or your staff can keep these templates accessible in your management system or in the cloud for quick reference. Nevertheless, it's worthwhile to customise the template for each guest's feedback to demonstrate that you've read and appreciate their specific comments. Using the same response for multiple reviews can seem impersonal and insincere.&nbsp;Here are some recommendations to help you structure your hotel review responses.&nbsp;For all cases:&nbsp;Express appreciation for the guest's feedback.&nbsp;Use courteous and professional language.&nbsp;Address the guest by their username/name, rather than using a generic 'Dear guest'.&nbsp;For positive reviews:&nbsp;Reiterate the compliment the guest gave, reinforcing why the hotel is an excellent choice for other readers.&nbsp;Encourage the guest to return and stay at the hotel again.&nbsp;For negative reviews:&nbsp;Offer solutions to address guest complaints and offer genuine apologies.&nbsp;Address each concern with respect and without a passive-aggressive tone.&nbsp;Reiterate one key point from the review for the benefit of other readers.&nbsp;Acknowledge where the guest's experience fell short and explain the steps taken or planned to prevent a similar situation in the future.&nbsp;Remember, avoid getting defensive. It appears unprofessional and unwelcoming to see rude or defensive replies from business owners or managers. While some reviews may be unfair or biased, constructive criticism can often be found within them. Use these as valuable learning lessons to enhance your service and team.&nbsp;5. Ensure a Consistent Brand ToneIt's crucial to maintain a consistent tone when responding to reviews, which can be challenging when multiple individuals are involved in the process. To avoid inconsistencies, designate specific individuals to handle online reviews. Train them with your brand's tone of voice and provide guidelines for escalating issues to the appropriate department when necessary.&nbsp;6. Enhance Your Online VisibilityYour hotel's content should appear prominently in search results when potential guests search for your hotel on Google or other search engines. Achieving high rankings in search results enhances your website's visibility and allows you to make a strong first impression on potential guests.&nbsp;To secure these top positions, consider investing resources in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to boost your direct channel. Ensure that your website's information is up-to-date and compelling, encouraging users to book.&nbsp;SEO is a powerful tool for reputation management and one of the most effective online marketing techniques. For more insights into other relevant online marketing channels, explore our comprehensive article on hotel marketing solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;7. Develop a Social Media Strategy for Reputation ManagementIn addition to monitoring reviews on various websites and platforms, it's essential to pay attention to what guests and potential clients say about you on your social media profiles.Alongside implementing a content strategy and designating individuals to manage your social media presence—enhancing brand visibility and enabling direct communication with your followers—, it's equally important to track the comments left on your posts.Similar to managing reviews, allocate a specific daily time slot for addressing social media comments, and establish a process for escalating requests to the appropriate team if needed. Always respond in a timely and professional manner. This approach builds trust with your guests and improves your online reputation.&nbsp;Ultimately, the best online reputation management strategies can't compensate for poor service. Reputation management should begin with delivering top-notch service. The better your service, the easier it becomes to maintain a positive brand perception online, ultimately boosting your occupancy and revenue.At Hotelbeds, we're also here to assist you in maximising your occupancy rate and getting access to over 60,000 travel distributors worldwide. Below, you'll find a free copy of our guide, 'Understanding Hotel Distribution Channels',&nbsp;which unlocks everything you need to know about distribution channels, their advantages, drawbacks, and considerations for defining your hotel's distribution strategy. Download it now!&nbsp;

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Hotel Reputation Management: 7 Tips for A Good Online Review Strategy

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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;So, read on to discover why improving your distribution strategy is crucial and how Hotelbeds can be your game-changing partner.&nbsp;Why Small Hoteliers Need to Improve Their Distribution StrategyUndoubtedly, 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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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!&nbsp;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 PartnersBuilding 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.&nbsp;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?&nbsp;Hotelbeds can help you to address this issue.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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 60,000 travel distributors, streamlining the process and giving you greater control over distribution throughout the year.&nbsp;Reduced Cancellation RatesEmpty 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.&nbsp;But don’t worry: we’ve got you covered here, too!&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Manage Your Property with Our Powerful Partner ExtranetHotelbeds boasts one of the travel industry's most powerful extranets. This all-in-one hotel management tool offers real-time autonomy for various tasks:&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;View reports and get access to a global dashboard with a snapshot of today’s arrivals, bookings and cancellations, as well as competitor comparisons.&nbsp;See finance information: Including the status of your invoices, Hotelbeds contracts, etc.&nbsp;Find main points of contact with relevant departments to help you.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;See how our Partner Portal 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 ManagementLeveraging 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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;The Importance of Sustainability for HoteliersAs 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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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 60,000 travel distributors.&nbsp;If you're already a Hotelbeds partner and are interested in the programme, you can easily join following the next steps:&nbsp;Log&nbsp;into Hotelbeds Partner Portal&nbsp;Select&nbsp;'Hotel Info'&nbsp;Click&nbsp;'About Hotel' and scroll&nbsp;to the 'Things to Keep in Mind' section&nbsp;Check&nbsp;the 'Single-use Plastic Free' box&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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:&nbsp;Environmental: Initiatives related to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.&nbsp;Social: Company policies regarding health and wellness, diversity and inclusion, and fair labour practices.&nbsp;Governance: The company's ethical business practices, diversity of the board of directors, and adherence to laws and regulations.&nbsp;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 MissAs 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).TransportTransport 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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Food ProvisionWithin 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.&nbsp;Beyond actions related to plastic use, there are other ideas that can make a significant difference to your property:&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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 DevelopmentSustainable tourism also requires that you take into account the economic development of the local community where your property is located.&nbsp;Promoting sustainable actions should include efforts to ensure that tourism generates wealth for area residents. This can be achieved by:&nbsp;Integrating the local population into your hotel activities, creating employment directly and indirectly.&nbsp;Establishing collaborations with local agencies, hiring local guides and native agents.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Seeking partnerships with other entrepreneurs who share social and environmental values. They promote projects that add value to both themselves and their surrounding communities.&nbsp;Several hotels have demonstrated commitment to these causes, such as the following:&nbsp;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.&nbsp;As part of its RiseHY programme, Hyatt has committed to hiring 10,000 ’opportunity youth’ between the ages of 16 and 24 by 2025.&nbsp;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 EnvironmentOne of the major challenges in the industry is that it may lead to tourist 'massification', the loss of local identity and culture.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;As a hotelier, what can you do to raise awareness among your guests about the importance of respecting local cultures and heritage?&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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 HotelWe 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 Portal, 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 60,000 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;
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
&nbsp;

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;
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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;
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
&nbsp;

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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	
	
	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.
	&nbsp;
	


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!

&nbsp;

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!

&nbsp;


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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;&nbsp;However, the landscape shifted dramatically during the pandemic, leading to an increase of domestic travel due to varying country restrictions.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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 HoteliersInternational 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;&nbsp;But why are these markets of particular relevance to the hospitality sector?&nbsp;&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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 marketsTo 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 60,000 travel distributors from 190+ source markets.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Some of our strategic partners include British Airways, American Airlines, LoveHolidays, easyJet, TUI, The Lotus Group, Europlus Group, HaysTravel and Viajes El Corte Inglés.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Gain preferential exposure across our channels and Sales callsBenefit from preferential exposure across our channels and priority positioning in Sales calls.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;And don’t forget that the SPA Programme will double your positioning on Hotelbeds’ algorithm, ultimately increasing your visibility.&nbsp;&nbsp;Embrace Comprehensive Data Analysis SupportDealing 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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Haven’t joined Hotelbeds yet? Join us today and get access to our platform with over 60,000 travel distributors worldwide.&nbsp;

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

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;&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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;Discover the main tournaments and events that will take place close to your property, and make the most of them!&nbsp;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;&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;&nbsp;The tournament generates more than $750 million per year in direct economic impact to New York City.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Besides, since the event always occurs in the same place, it’s worthwhile to secure some tickets and create special packages for your guests.&nbsp;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;&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;&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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Our recommendationsYou can offer packages for groups of friends travelling together to watch the matches, including discounts for longer stays.&nbsp;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;&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;&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;&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;&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;&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;&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;&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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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?&nbsp;Furthermore, providing Super Bowl guests with discounts, vouchers, points, or rewards for future hotel stays can incentivise them to become repeat customers.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Also, have in mind offering special discounts for longer bookings, as well as providing convenient transportation options, which will be highly appreciated.&nbsp;Lastly, setting up a large screen for guests to watch the match will be crucial to offer the best experience possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;MAYMonaco Grand Prix: May 24th - 26thThe FIA Formula One World Championship is undoubtedly the highest class of international racing.&nbsp;The prestigious motorsport event generates millions of dollars from ticket sales, hospitality packages, sponsorship, and merchandise.&nbsp;&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.&nbsp;Also, don't hesitate to check out our article on luxury travellers if you want to go deeper on the luxury travel segment.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;Also, set up screens at your hotel to broadcast the match while offering some drinks to create a fantastic atmosphere.&nbsp;&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;&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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Also, consider offering perks such as discounted room rates, event tickets, exclusive access to sports-related amenities, or themed merchandise.&nbsp;As the games will take place in various cities, partner with excursion companies to help your guests discover the wonders of each location.&nbsp;&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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Create accommodation and ticket packages, especially for smaller events.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Still not part of our worldwide network? Access over 60,000 travel distributors by signing up today. Are you ready to be part of the game?&nbsp;&nbsp;Plus, don't forget to download our free guide on the main travel trends in 2025. 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;&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;&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 60k travel distributors, using the ‘Single-use Plastic free’ filer in our Partner Portal.&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;&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.&nbsp;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; &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;&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;&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;&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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;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;&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;&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;&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;&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;&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;&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 sustainability&nbsp;To 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?&nbsp;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; &nbsp;Log into the Partner Portal●&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;&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.&nbsp;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 60,000 travel distributors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

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/purchasing&nbsp;Increasing migration of cloud-based assets&nbsp;Increasing use of advanced technologies within business operations - such as artificial intelligence, automation and analytics.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Online check-in and automated ticket management for guest requests&nbsp;Digitised 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.&nbsp;Renewable sources of energy:&nbsp;solar or photovoltaic - to lower the impact of high-consumption services like air conditioning.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;A more reliable payment system.&nbsp;Higher security - particularly helpful for travellers embarking on long-haul journeys or who want to ensure their details are protected in far-away countries.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&nbsp;Seamless customer service - when implemented correctly.&nbsp;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.’&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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;&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.&nbsp;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!

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