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From the most popular destinations and prevalent travel trends in 2024, to the factors influencing traveller choices, we're here to prepare you for a year of successful bookings.&nbsp;

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Here’s what you can expect in our guide to trending travel in 2024:

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	The latest health and wellness travel preferences.&nbsp;
	Why ‘set-jetting’ and ‘retailtainment’ are some of the upcoming Experience Tourism trends you should pay attention to.&nbsp;
	How travel technology continues to shape the industry, from VR and AR to booking automations.&nbsp;
	What tomorrow’s luxury traveller is looking for.&nbsp;
	How Generation Alpha is driving the shape of modern familial travel.&nbsp;


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[REPORT] A Guide To 2024 Travel Trends For Travel Providers

After 2023 being pivotal in the travel industry’s recovery, 2024 is set to bring accelerated changes in many aspects of the travel and hospitality sphere. &nbsp;
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To ensure that your strategies align with the latest trends, it’s imperative to stay informed about what’s currently happening in the sector. &nbsp;
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With this report, you’ll gain an overview of the key travel trends impacting guests behaviours, innovative hospitality services and emerging technologies in 2024. In addition, we'll provide you with some tips to cater to the different trends. &nbsp;
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Ready to discover the main travel trends and what’s in store for hotels in 2024? Download your free copy now!&nbsp;


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[REPORT] Main Travel Trends for 2024: What’s in Store for Hotels? 

The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and hotel amenities are no exception. Every year, new trends and guest preferences emerge, and hoteliers will need to consider them in order to deliver an exceptional experience.&nbsp;
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In 2024, some hotel amenity trends are expected to come up and others to consolidate. With these premiums or extras, you’ll provide a memorable experience and your guests will be more likely to leave positive feedback about their stay.
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Since there are unlimited types of amenities to share in your property, it’s essential to determine which ones will better cater to the needs of your guests. Their form will depend on what demographics you target, what your guests are asking for, your budget, your brand, and the competition within the local market.&nbsp;
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In this article, we propose a comprehensive hotel amenities list with the best ideas depending on the type of traveller you aim to reach. Keep reading!
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What Are the Best Amenities for Your Property?&nbsp;

Before delving into the best hotel amenities, you should invest some time in defining which are the right hotel amenities for your type of property and the target you aim at.&nbsp;
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The first step is to ask yourself what best defines your hotel and which guests you want to attract. List out the defining qualities of your property and make sure your amenities align with them. Is your property renowned for being convenient for business travellers, family-friendly, or a unique tourist attraction? Consider all these traits when defining your amenities.&nbsp;
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In addition, don’t forget to give guests plenty of information about your amenities beforehand so they know what they’re paying for. Provide guests with great photographs of amenities, facilities and each room type, as well as an explanation of their features. It's more likely that guests will pay for extra amenities if you provide them with more information, since they can better understand the benefits.
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Once you have this in mind, it’s time to go through our proposals for the best hotel amenities in 2024. You’ll find ideas that will suit different types of travellers and hotel budgets. Let’s see what you can’t miss out this year to create the most unforgettable experience for your guests!
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Best Hotel VIP Amenities for Luxury Travellers

When it comes to catering to this luxury segment, the main thing to consider is that these guests will expect your staff to attend to every need. There are many luxury amenities that hotels may offer, but here are a few that will set them apart from the rest.
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	Personalise welcome baskets or gifts in their rooms based on the information you know about your guests (e.g. where they’re from, who they’re coming with, etc).
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	Another good idea for your welcome kits is to leverage local products and flavours to provide a wonderful first impression, such as local chocolates, wines, fruits, soaps, or lotions.&nbsp;
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	Offer a pillow menu, allowing guests to choose the best pillow depending on their preferences.
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	Provide room purification to ensure guests with allergies feel comfortable.
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	Replace the mini-bar with a cocktail bar. Matcha kits are also very trendy these days, so you can offer them.
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	Conduct workshops about different topics, such as how to cook a special or local dish in the hotel’s restaurant, learn how to create floral arrangements such as the ones in your lobby, or create a guided tour in case you are located in a historic building.&nbsp;
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	Put a tablet in every room for room service to make it as easy as possible for guests to make requests.
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	Organise private or VIP shopping experiences with local vendors.&nbsp;
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	Offer a remote control to manage all the room functions such as bed height, lights, heating, etc.
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Main Sustainable Hotel Amenities for A Conscious Traveller

One of the major trends that is expected to continue to grow in 2024 is sustainability. Increasingly, guests are looking for sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodation options, and this extends to hotel amenities.&nbsp;Conscious travellers in 2024 will seek out amenities such as:
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	Offer bulk bathroom amenity dispensers. Consider providing shampoo and gel packaged in wall-mounted refillable dispensers, or even only on demand. You can even choose solid solutions like shampoo and conditioner bars that can eliminate the need for plastic bottles altogether.
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	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.
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	Offer biodegradable rubbish bags that are more environmentally friendly alternatives. Make sure that they’re truly biodegradable.
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	Include local and seasonal products in the hotel's restaurant.&nbsp;
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	Provide free or low-cost bikes to promote eco-friendly transportation.
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	Provide recyclable paper for wrapping bathroom amenities, reusable bathroom cups, reusable fabric laundry bags, and paper containers for takeaways, among others.&nbsp;
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Interested in how sustainable principles can be applied to your property? Make sure to check out our comprehensive article on practical tips to become a sustainable hotel.&nbsp;



Best Hotel Amenities for Business Travellers and Remote Workers

The corporate segment is incredibly lucrative, and you may be very interested in attracting this type of traveller to your hotel.&nbsp;

Also, related to this, the trend of remote working is still on the rise, so having hotel amenities especially focused on workers can be a great attraction for your hotel.&nbsp;
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Some of the extras you should consider including in your offering in 2024 are the following:
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	Comfortable desks and lighting in the room.
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	Workspaces available throughout the hotel, including at least one meeting room.
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	High speed Wi-Fi, power outlets and USB ports.&nbsp;
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	Free parking, free airport shuttle and transport services.
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	Early check-in and flexible departure times.
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	Express laundry services and available steam irons.
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	If you want to attract international guests, consider providing universal sockets.
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	The possibility to make free local and international calls.
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Unmissable Hotel Amenities for Families on Holiday in 2024

What will make families' stays exponentially better in 2024? Here are some fantastic ideas to ensure an unforgettable experience both for adults and children.
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	Consider offering connecting rooms, and include baby cradles.
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	Provide pet-friendly facilities. Families are increasingly taking their pets with them on holiday, and more hotels are offering pet-friendly rooms. Because of this, this segment will really appreciate if your property caters to pets. Consider placing dog water stations on your property, offering dog beds, etc. Some high-end hotels, such as Hilton, offer dog menus.
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	Offer free bike rental, pool or snow toys, stashes of puzzles or games. Also, playgrounds and games rooms for children will be highly appreciated.&nbsp;
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	Include entertainment shows, such as clowns, theatre, and live concerts. And even streaming services for kids.
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Main Hotel Amenities for Wellness Travellers

Another strong trend in the hospitality industry is, without a doubt, wellness travel.&nbsp;When looking for a relaxing getaway, amenities are very important, since they contribute directly to the overall experience of guests.

If you’re looking to cater to this segment of wellness travellers in the most excellent way possible, make sure to consider the following hotel amenities for wellness:
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	A spa is a must-have for hotels aiming to attract this type of traveller. The spa should include several pools, jacuzzi, saunas, among others. You can also offer free swimwear or at a reduced price.&nbsp;
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	Offer special packages including massages and other health treatments. If you don’t have the staff to provide this service in-house, consider establishing partnerships with local companies or freelancers.
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	Sound proofing measures, so any outside noise is eliminated.
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	Also, make sure to provide some of the best hotel bath amenities as welcome gifts, including items such as essential oils, body lotions and organic shampoos.
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	Nail art has become a major trend in recent years, and it will continue to grow in 2024. You may want to hire a nail technician to provide this much-requested service in your property as part of your wellness team.
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	Partner with a health and wellness platform to create on-demand workouts and guided meditation to in-room televisions.
	



2024 is set to be a fantastic year for travel. By knowing the best hotel amenities for your guests, you’ll be a step ahead of your competitors. We hope you now have more ideas that will help you offer an unforgettable stay in your property.&nbsp;
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Remember that with our platform, you can leverage not only the guest experience, but also your visibility among high-value clients.

If you’re already registered in Hotelbeds, log in to our hotel extranet now.
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If you haven’t joined us yet and want to get access to our network of 66,000+ travel distributors, register your property here and boost your revenue this 2024.
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2024's Best Hotel Amenities Based on Traveller Types

Technology is becoming an increasingly prevalent part of the booking process - think automated booking tools, online booking platforms and mobile apps. In fact, 83% of Gen Z and 86% of Millennials suggest that booking on their phone is critical during their decision-making process, embracing what is accessible and at their fingertips.
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Similarly, access to a comprehensive travel offering - products and services which work for the customer both during the booking process, and during the experience itself - is critical. Here at Hotelbeds, we equip you with the right tools, and the right products, to cater to your clients' needs.

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How Hotelbeds Works To Take Your Business Further&nbsp;

It’s our mission to connect and empower the world of travel, and indeed the travel distributor themself: by combining intelligent TravelTech solutions with the power of our people, we connect global travel players to a wealth of products suited to any traveller type.
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Additionally, we constantly strive to ensure that our TravelTech solutions are specifically designed to meet and exceed our partners’ needs, no matter their place in the vast travel ecosystem. &nbsp;
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Sign up today to become one of our valuable partners, and join our ever-growing network of travel distributors.

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Insights from real-time data&nbsp;

Owing to our vast data lake, our partners benefit from a wealth of market-specific insights, helping them to make intelligent choices and to capitalise on real-time demand. Meanwhile our intelligent cloud-based platforms enable our partners to work at speed – crucial, in an industry as fast-paced and demanding as the travel sector.&nbsp;
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With around 4bn searches per day, 29 algorithms and a 91% accuracy rate, our data intelligence serves as a catalyst for travel providers aiming to unlock their full potential. &nbsp;

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An Intelligent Booking Platform &nbsp;

Of course, as travel distributors you’re more than familiar with the processes of ensuring that your clients have a wide range of products to choose from during their decision-making journey. &nbsp;
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It’s critical that all travel providers are equipped with an intuitive travel booking platform which can make each transaction as smooth as possible. From its seamless search functionality to easy booking management, our powerful Booking Engine is the strongest tool in your artillery, helping you to work at speed and to offer amazing experiences to your customers.&nbsp;
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Combining our vast data lake with a user-friendly interface, our Booking Engine is informed by billions of searches, real market data, and six million intelligent algorithms – allowing you to effectively compete in the marketplace.

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Easily refine searches to find our exclusive and differentiated properties, offers and rate types, alongside thousands of travel products and services. Additionally, the platform’s in-built cross-selling functionality can further streamline the booking process – and can also help you to earn more.

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Sign up today to access our powerful booking platform, with in-built cross-selling functionalities, self-service tools and more!

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A Leading Product Portfolio In The Travel Industry&nbsp;

It's our mission to provide our partners, and the end-traveller, with as much choice as possible.&nbsp;
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As industry leaders, we have curated a powerful network of service providers, granting our partners access to a wide product offering which enables them to generate demand and to capitalise on opportunity.
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Our Booking Engine offers easy access to thousands of hotels and ancillary products, ranging from transfers to experiences, tickets and car rental, among others.

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Whether your clients are seeking a truly immersive experience in their destination of choice, the perfect hotel to rest and relax in after a long day of sightseeing, a transfer to make getting from A-B even easier, or even car hire to better explore their chosen destination, it’s our mission to connect travel providers to the products, services and experience you need in order to offer every traveller their ideal getaway. &nbsp;

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And with over 200,000 hotels in 170+ destinations worldwide, combined with 16,000+ experiences and thousands of travel products available exclusively to our clients, it’s no surprise that travel providers all over the globe are already trusting us to empower and connect them in the world of travel.&nbsp;

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And we’re not done yet …&nbsp;

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TravelTech Solutions Across The Ecosystem&nbsp;

The world of travel is forging ahead, further into the realm of innovation and connectivity. This is why we offer TravelTech solutions across the industry, to travel providers connected to end travellers and other players at any stage of the journey.

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Our TravelTech solutions are comprehensive and far-reaching to cater to the needs of travel providers across the industry.

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Our leading API suite&nbsp;- including Content API, Booking API and Cache API - is&nbsp;developed by our integration experts, designed to enhance developer experience and make the booking process faster and more intuitive, and&nbsp;enables you to successfully cater to travellers’ increasing desire for a smoother booking process, with less ‘shopping around’ and a less disjointed experience overall. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While our&nbsp;hotel extranet&nbsp;serves to streamline booking and management processes for hotel owners no matter the size of their establishment(s), and bring them in closer contact with travel distributors using Hotelbeds platforms and services.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile,&nbsp;Insights,&nbsp;our&nbsp;live data intelligence tool, allows travel providers across the ecosystem to capitalise on demand as a result of AI-powered market opportunities for accelerated growth.

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This connective power makes us at Hotelbeds the ideal travel partner for providers looking to expand their reach, capitalise on demand, and enhance their offerings to capture valuable clients even from hard-to-reach segments.&nbsp;

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Whether you need to manage the complete booking process, obtain hotel contents as you need them, or get the ‘full picture’ of all our hotels, there’s an solution to suit your needs at Hotelbeds.

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Sign up today to take your business one step further, and offer comprehensive travel with Hotelbeds.&nbsp;

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How To Offer Comprehensive Travel with Hotelbeds in 2024

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

There’s change on the horizon here at Hotelbeds: as part of our commitment to being the best partner for you, we have levelled-up your user experience by implementing a series of updates to our Booking Engine.

Change doesn’t have to be scary…

In fact, quite the contrary. Rather than interfering with the way you work, it is now easier than ever for you to navigate your way around the Booking Engine. In short, you’ll find the same set of features that you already know and love, refreshed for a better user experience.

Here’s everything you need to know…



Our Powerful Platform, Optimised for Any Screen

Whether on the move or stationed at your desk, our powerful Booking Engine is designed to work seamlessly on any screen – including on mobile.

So, no matter where you go, you can still focus on creating extra-ordinary experiences for your clients!



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Streamlined Search Functionality

Juggling tasks can sometimes be a hassle – but with our new search functionality, you can easily navigate between tabs within the same session. This allows you to conduct several searches at once, without ever having to leave the screen!

You can discover new destinations, explore a wide portfolio of products, or craft multiple itineraries with ease – more still, you can even cross-sell items during the booking flow, or straight from the cart! With these new changes, you will be able to create broad itineraries tailored to your clients’ taste, with hotels, mobility options and a plethora of experiences available to ‘add to cart’.

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Efficient Comparisons Between Accommodations

Speaking of creating the perfect experience for your clients, another new feature we’re excited to share is our interactive map. This brand-new addition to our Booking Engine allows you to visualise a property’s location, including its proximity to popular sights. So, no matter where your client is headed next, they can rest assured that a good nights’ rest is only a stone’s throw away.

To enable easy comparison between accommodation options, we’ve also made it possible for you to see hotel details in a list format next to the map. This enables you to see, at a glance, which property is most suited to their needs – so in addition to location, you can quickly determine their preference based on star rating, price and special features, among other qualities.

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Easier Booking Management

Finally, managing your bookings via our improved interface could not be simpler: access full details (such as client name, check-in date, itinerary and booking reference) at any time in ‘Modify My Booking’. You can even make changes or cancellations without hassle, thanks to clearly-marked buttons and navigation.

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New Changes to Our Booking Engine!

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New Year's Eve is widely celebrated across various cultures worldwide. It is a time for both traditional and modern celebrations, symbolising new beginnings. Whether it is a time-honored event rooted in customs or a recently embraced opportunity, New Year's Eve offers travellers from all backgrounds the chance to immerse themselves in new experiences and cultures, creating memorable moments as they welcome the new year.&nbsp;

Of course, given the multitude of possibilities and the sheer volume of amazing destinations to celebrate New Year’s Even in, you and your clients may need a little inspiration. This is where we come in.&nbsp;

We have compiled a comprehensive list of some of the most unmissable destinations, each tailored to cater to different types of travellers and taking into account the latest travel trends and behaviors exhibited by travellers this year.&nbsp;

So regardless of whether your clients are seeking an all-out party or something a little more cultural, we’ve got the perfect inspiration for you to curate their ideal getaway to welcome in the new year.&nbsp;

Don’t forget you can explore over 200,000 hotels in must-visit destinations like our recommendations below in our Booking Engine! What’s more, there are thousands of experiences, tours and transfer options available, empowering you with the ability to offer comprehensive, end-to-end trips for your clients.&nbsp;

Sign up today to access our vast global portfolio, and start booking an exciting end-of-year getaway for your clients.&nbsp;

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Budget-Friendly New Year's Eve Destinations

Prague &nbsp;

Prague is a versatile destination, appealing to a variety of audiences ranging from families and couples to party-seekers and solo travellers. One of its notable advantages is its affordability compared to many other European cities. With a wide range of experiences to offer, Prague ensures accessibility to all travellers, making it a more budget-friendly option than other stunning European destinations.&nbsp;

To fully experience the festivities and immerse yourself in the cultural atmosphere of Prague, we recommend heading towards the picturesque river banks near Charles Bridge. This iconic landmark serves as a gathering point for both locals and tourists, creating a relaxed environment to enjoy the evening! For those seeking a livelier atmosphere, the bustling Old Town Square or vibrant Wenceslas Square provide ample opportunities to party and dance the night away.&nbsp;

Edinburgh&nbsp;

What to do: For budget-conscious travellers, Edinburgh's renowned Hogmanay celebration is a must-see. The city itself hosts a free, three days of live music and street parties from December 30th to January 1st, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere which truly brings the city to life. Additionally, the Edinburhg Hogmanay Street Party is usually reasonably priced, and attracts around 30,000 people to the streets of Edinburgh with its promise of firework displays, DJ sets, street food and fairground rides.&nbsp;

The fireworks display, which can be enjoyed from various locations across the city, eliminates the need for reservations (particularly for budget-conscious travellers!). While many bars and pubs in the area also hold Hogmanay celebrations, it is advisable to secure a reservation in advance to beat the crowds.&nbsp;

Want to book your clients a fund-friendly escape this new year? Sign up today&nbsp;to access our booking platform and get started.&nbsp;

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Luxurious New Year's Eve Travel Locations

Sydney&nbsp;

What to do: Celebrate new year before almost anyone else! &nbsp;

Sydney's easterly time zone allows it to be one of the first cities to celebrate New Year's Eve, making it a highly anticipated event. Over a million people gather around the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House, either on boats in the harbour or along the shore, to witness the spectacular light displays and breathtaking fireworks.&nbsp;

What’s more, as the celebrations take place during the enticing Australian summer, the warmer temperatures are a great perk for travellers heading over from some of the Northern-hemisphere destinations which have descended into winter’s chill.&nbsp;

Las Vegas&nbsp;

Las Vegas, being one of the premier party destinations in the world, is a perfect choice for a luxurious New Year's Eve celebration. Visitors can expect a plethora of opportunities, available for a price, of course! But there are countless experiences which are more than worth the investment, considering that on New Year’s Eve especially, Las Vegas is THE place to be for travellers who adore bright lights, dazzling venues, casinos, vibrant nightclubs, luxurious hotels and much more. And fireworks, of course!&nbsp;

What to do: For travellers seeking vibrant nightlife and endless entertainment, the captivating Las Vegas Strip is the ideal destination. With its renowned restaurants serving exquisite cuisine, iconic hotels, and extravagant parties, the Strip promises an unforgettable experience that justifies every penny spent. Alternatively, those yearning for the nostalgic charm of 'Old Vegas' can find it on Fremont Street. Here, live music, no-frills fun, and a genuine Vegas atmosphere await, with an array of bars and nightclubs catering to diverse preferences.&nbsp;

Dubai&nbsp;

Dubai, with its breathtaking natural desert landscapes and reputation for opulence, is undoubtedly one of the premier luxury destinations for celebrating New Year's Eve. &nbsp;

What to do: To fully immerse your clients in the festivities, there are numerous spots throughout the city where the magnificent firework displays can be witnessed, which light up the sky as the clock strikes 12. One popular gathering spot is the waterfront of the Dubai Fountain, where visitors and residents alike can marvel at the mesmerizing light and music show.&nbsp;

For the best uninterrupted view of the Downtown fireworks, head to Burj Plaza! There’s even dining opportunities for what might just be the best example of ‘dinner and a show’ in the world … &nbsp;&nbsp;

Discover more unmissable opportunities for your clients with our luxurious accommodation options in must-visit destinations like these in our Booking Engine.&nbsp;

Sign up now to access our global portfolio of accommodation and experiences in these must-visit destinations.

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Perfect New Year's Eve Travel Plans For Party Goers&nbsp;

Madrid&nbsp;

What to do: For a truly memorable experience, Puerta del Sol is the place to be, as its lively party is broadcast nationwide. But to truly embrace the Spanish New Year customs, travellers can participate in the local tradition of eating 12 grapes, one by one, as the Puerta del Sol bell rings in the new year. One for each month of the year, this represents good luck and well wishes for the year to come. And, if visitors fancy another go, just wait until 1am when the bell will toll again to mark midnight in the Canary Islands.&nbsp;

New York&nbsp;

While it’s certainly no surprise that New York city has made the list for party-seeking travellers, this exciting and diverse city is so popular for good reason.&nbsp;

What to do: In New York, there is no shortage of activities, parties, and entertainment to ring in the new year. From the iconic ball drop in Times Square to the fireworks display in Central Park, Prospect Park, or South Street Seaport, there is a wide range of atmospheric parties and celebrations that cater to everyone's preferences. New Year's Eve in New York is an experience like no other, with an abundance of options for travellers to enjoy.&nbsp;

Berlin&nbsp;

Well known for its arts and music scene, Berlin appeals to thousands of visitors each year; and while Berlin is a great spot for a party all year round, New Year’s Eve in Germany’s party city is a particularly big deal.&nbsp;

What to do: For those seeking a memorable way to ring in the new year, a highly recommended option is the free festival and fireworks extravaganza at the iconic Brandenburg Gate. Held annually on Silvester, or New Year's Eve, this event is renowned as one of the largest open-air celebrations of its kind worldwide. With its vibrant atmosphere and stunning pyrotechnic display, this is a must-attend party for revelers from all corners of the globe. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dance the night away and welcome the new year with style and grandeur.&nbsp;

In addition, the nightlife in Berlin extends well into the early hours of New Year’s Day, providing ample opportunities for partygoers to prolong their festive celebrations. Plus, Berlin's renowned Christmas Markets remain open until the beginning of January, making it an ideal destination for a multi-day visit!&nbsp;

Goa&nbsp;

Goa, widely recognised as the ultimate party destination in India, offers a diverse range of options for adventurous visitors seeking an exhilarating and accessible experience to celebrate the new year. With its multitude of events, Goa has something to offer to a wide spectrum of people, from intimate couples seeking a romantic celebration to energetic parties brimming with like-minded revelers.&nbsp;

What to do: Clients can celebrate amidst the stunning beaches and partake in the exciting beach parties, complete with bonfires, barbeques, music, dancing, and fireworks. Additionally, cruise parties are a popular choice, allowing clients to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of New Year's on the water in Goa.&nbsp;

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Cultural Experiences For New Year's Eve

Chiang Mai &nbsp;

What to do: Chiang Mai is a wonderful destination to visit at any time of year, but the traditional celebrations that occur on New Year's Eve make it truly remarkable. On December 31st, a large gathering of locals and visitors release paper lanterns into the sky, symbolizing luck and good fortune. This breathtaking display is the perfect way to kick off the new year.&nbsp;

Rather than the Loy Krathong or Yee Peng floating lantern festival, the paper lanterns released to celebrate New Year’s Eve are released at Tae Phae Gate, one of the prime locations for this event in Chiang Mai. Along with live performances, music, food stalls, fireworks, and a countdown, it offers an ideal setting for a magnificent New Year celebration in this bustling destination. Though traffic is blocked off from Tae Phae Gate, this area gets crowded so it’s worth heading up well before the celebrations start.&nbsp;

Many temples also offer midnight meditation sessions on New Year’s Eve, which makes for an unforgettable experience for travellers looking for an authentic, traditional way to welcome in the new year.&nbsp;

Vienna&nbsp;

Well-known as one of the cultural capitals of the European world, Vienna is another perfect destination for travellers looking to add another layer of richness to their New Year’s Eve celebrations.&nbsp;

What to do: One of the highlights of the city's calendar is the Silvesterpfad, or 'New Year's Eve Trail', which takes place in the Old Town. This festive event offers a variety of parties, an abundance of street food, and lively music to enhance the evening. At the stroke of midnight, the resonating sound of Pummerin, the renowned bell of St. Stephen's Cathedral, reverberates throughout the city. This momentous occasion holds great significance, as the bell only chimes on special, commemorative events. Following local tradition, it is customary to exchange marzipan pigs as symbols of good luck to welcome the arrival of the new year!&nbsp;

Bangkok&nbsp;

What to do: Head to Central World Square, the highlight of the city on New Year's Eve where people from all walks of life gather to celebrate this new beginning. Fireworks released at midnight can be see all over the city from here, and the square itself offers exciting bars and clubs which come to life after midnight. To see the city from a new angle, a lavish dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River is a perfect choice!&nbsp;

Tokyo&nbsp;

What to do: To make the most of their visit, we recommend clients stop by Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo's renowned temples to immerse themselvess in the wonder and beauty of this culturally significant landmark. Another option is to explore Zoji-ji Temple, a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. Here, travellers can enjoy a captivating ritual as a monk rings a temple bell 108 times, symbolising the arrival of the new year. &nbsp;

Book your clients their best New Year’s Eve celebration yet with our vast global portfolio, including 300,000 hotels and accommodation options to suit every need, as well as ancillary products like transfers to make their experience as seamless as possible.&nbsp;

Sign up now to get exclusive access to incentivising rates and opportunities for your clients.

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Family-Fun New Year's Eve Travel Ideas

Reykjavik &nbsp;

While this winter-wonderland destination doesn’t have an ‘official’ fireworks display, as has become customary for many celebrations around the world, this doesn’t stop the Icelandic capital from having one of the world’s most spectacular pyro-technic displays each New Year! &nbsp;&nbsp;

What to do: Our recommended activity involves the collaboration of the city's residents, who gather to acquire fireworks from ICE-SAR, Iceland's Search and Rescue, and ignite them at the stroke of midnight. This not only serves as a remarkable means of supporting a vital institution, but also offers a truly breathtaking experience for everyone witnessing the display, and a memorable start to the new year! &nbsp;

Bratislava&nbsp;

While this stunning location might not be the first to come to mind when thinking about family-friendly New Year’s Eve experiences, it’s a gorgeous city which can be readily accessed, and offers great value for money in-destination.&nbsp;

What to do: In Bratislava's mediaeval Old Town, starting from around lunchtime on December 31st, a vibrant street party takes place, offering a variety of events and celebrations suitable for all ages. Participants can engage in traditional activities, enjoy music and dancing, and witness a spectacular firework display over the Danube. Additionally, there is a unique tradition of using rehtackas, wooden noisemakers, to symbolically drive away any negative energies from the previous year.&nbsp;

London&nbsp;

What to do: Simple, but effective, London offers a truly remarkable fireworks display which illuminates the iconic city skyline at the stroke of midnight. Vast crowds gather along the banks of the Thames, occupying most the space available along the roads and bridges, to witness the display which creates a lively and atmospheric evening! As the clock ticks towards midnight, Big Ben begins a countdown to mark the arrival of the new year, and then spectacular fireworks are set off around the London Eye. Due to its popularity, we recommend you advise clients to book as soon as possible! &nbsp;

Disney Resorts&nbsp;

Of course, what families wouldn’t want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the ‘happiest place on earth’? &nbsp;

From Disneyland Paris to Disney World Resort in Orlando and Disneyland Tokyo, these destinations are highly sought after for their family-oriented festivities. As a result, it is highly recommended to make bookings well in advance to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience, thus avoiding any potential disappointment.&nbsp;

What to do: The Disney experience offers specifically catered events for children, making it one of the most magical gifts for children during this time of year. At Disney World in Orlando for example, all four theme parks stay open until midnight or later, with many of their famous rides still accessible. Additionally, there are thrilling dance parties and impressive fireworks displays to enjoy. Elsewhere, the Magic Kingdom also run special early performances for those who can’t make it until midnight, and Epcot offers great shows and dining experiences for all! &nbsp;&nbsp;

So, what about planning 2024 New Year’s Eve now? &nbsp;&nbsp;

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If you have any ideas for your clients' perfect celebration, we invite you to explore our wide range of hotels, tours, experiences, and more on our advanced Booking Engine.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
If you're interested in booking but haven't yet partnered with us, we encourage you to sign up now to expand your portfolio and create unforgettable experiences for your clients this year.&nbsp;


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The Best Places To Celebrate New Year’s Eve

As the year winds down, there's one night that stands out on every hotelier's calendar – New Year's Eve.&nbsp;This is a golden opportunity for your hotel to turn this celebration into a revenue-generating event.&nbsp;In this article, we delve into the significance of New Year's Eve for hotels, offering insights on how to craft unforgettable experiences for your guests. From themed packages to irresistible dinners and marketing tips, we've got your New Year's Eve covered.Why is This Night Special for Hoteliers?While the Christmas season already brings joy and an increase in bookings, New Year's Eve stands out as a key night for creating memorable experiences and boosting revenue. This event attracts not only hotel guests but also individuals seeking an unforgettable way to bid farewell to the year.Guests often extend their stay for 2 or 3 nights, choosing the convenience of enjoying the festivities without the hassle of preparing meals. Renowned chefs, gala dinners, fireworks, and open bars are just a few reasons why more people opt to spend New Year's Eve in a hotel, seeking a unique experience.Celebrating in a hotel provides ample space for large family gatherings or groups of friends, enhancing the sense of community and festivity.What Can You Do To Make the Most of It?Special Offers for New Year's EveBy strategically designing offers that cater to different preferences, hoteliers can maximise bookings and create a diverse and vibrant New Year's Eve celebration at their establishments. Check out some ideas for creating the most attractive packages.Early Bird Specials: Create a sense of urgency and entice early bookings by offering special discounts for guests who confirm their New Year's Eve dinner reservations well in advance. This not only ensures a committed guest base but also provides an initial boost to bookings.Exclusive Access Passes: Introduce exclusive access passes that include premium benefits such as a reserved table in a prime location, priority service, and free champagne. This caters to guests seeking a VIP experience and adds a touch of luxury to the celebration.Group Discounts: Encourage group bookings by offering attractive discounts for larger parties. This is especially appealing for families and friends planning to celebrate New Year's Eve together, providing an incentive to choose your hotel.Flexible Seating Options: Cater to different preferences by offering flexible seating options. Allow guests to choose between intimate private tables, communal dining for a social atmosphere, or even outdoor dining options.&nbsp;Hotel New Year's Eve PackagesApart from offering special promotions for this event, you should consider crafting original, enticing packages to attract more bookings. Themed packages can serve well for this purpose, and here you can get some ideas.Classic New Year's Eve Package: One-night accommodation, gourmet dinner at the hotel's restaurant, access to the New Year's Eve countdown party, a midnight champagne toast, and late check-out on New Year's Day.VIP Luxury Package: Including a luxurious suite, private dinner in-room or at the hotel's restaurant, exclusive VIP party access and a free champagne bottle, and spa treatments and a couples' massage on New Year's Day.Family Fun Package: Create family-friendly packages with special children's menus and entertainment suitable for all ages. This ensures that families feel welcome and comfortable celebrating New Year's Eve at your hotel. Also, provide them with the option to book connecting rooms.Adventure and Outdoor Package: If the weather is good and your property has the facilities, you can offer accommodations in cosy cabins or glamping tents, and a special outdoor New Year's Eve dinner.Themed Party Package: Specially designed for groups of friends, you can offer a themed New Year's Eve party with costumes (e.g., The Great Gatsby, a masquerade ball), live entertainment and special cocktails, and themed brunch or breakfast the following day.Wellness and Detox Package: Following this travel trend, you can cater to travellers looking for a relaxing farewell to 2023 by offering yoga sessions, a detox-focused dinner for New Year's Eve, spa access, and guided nature walks on New Year's Day.Leverage add-ons like spa services, champagne in-room, and late check-out for additional revenue. Utilise the Christmas season to sell restaurant and spa services, targeting guests who have already booked for the holiday season.Ideas For New Year’s Eve Dinner at Your HotelIn order to increase bookings for the dinner, you can go the extra mile and come up with original proposals.For example, you can create a ‘global feast experience’ by offering a New Year's Eve dinner with a selection of dishes from around the world. Also, a fusion-themed menu can be innovative and exceed your clients' expectations, such as an Italian-Japanese fusion menu, which is trendy nowadays.Another good idea would be to embrace the ‘farm-to-table’ concept for this special dinner by featuring locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. You could collaborate with nearby farmers to create a sustainable and environmentally conscious dining experience.Creating a 'photocall' is always a fantastic way to encourage guests to share their pictures with friends on social media. This way, you'll get free visibility about your event and reach potential guests interested in your hotel and facilities. Provide wigs, masks and other festive accessories for your attendees. And don't forget to include some branding in the photocall space, like your hotel name or a specific hashtag you create for the event.Also, why not choose a specific theme for the dinner party? Themes such as a masquerade ball, a black etiquette party, a tropical New Year's Eve party, or an all-white party can take your New Year's Eve dinner to the next level and make it unforgettable due to its originality. If you decide to implement this idea, don't forget to decorate the dining room accordingly. By doing so, you'll stand out from the competition and attract both tourists and locals to your hotel.When it comes to decor, remember that ambiance is crucial to the success of the event. Partner with a local decoration business for original decor ideas, establishing a collaboration for future events.Finally, consider hiring a photographer to capture professional photos of the event. This will provide you with valuable visual content for social media and other online channels, such as your website, emails, etc.How to Promote Your NYE’s EventThe first step in planning your event is deciding what it will look like and what it will include. The next step is to promote the event and reach as many potential attendees as possible. Here are some ideas for promoting your event both online and offline.On Social Media:Build anticipation: Use various content formats to create excitement and interest in your upcoming event. Regarding content formats, consider creating carousels with images explaining what the event is about and the price, a single image with all the info, short videos for Reels/Stories/TikTok where you show a recap video from last year and a member of your team explains what the current event will look like.You can also generate excitement and urgency by launching flash sales or limited-time discounts exclusively on social media platforms.Influencer Outreach: Collaborate with influencers to reach both local and international targets. Ask them to tell what the event is all about and what makes your property special in order to entice visitors. You can offer this person free access to the event and a free stay in exchange.&nbsp;Leverage User-Generated Content: Create a special New year's hashtag related to your event and encourage your attendees to use it and tag you. Afterwards, share their posts through stories and save them in a new 'Highlights' folder under the name ‘NYE 2023’. In preparation for New Year 2024, you can always revisit this folder and reshare some posts to build anticipation.Other online and offline channels:Email Marketing: Send promotional emails with early bird discounts to your database.Website promotion: Update your website with a dedicated section or banner explaining the event and what it includes. See how Marriott promotes its New Year's Eve dinner in Palma de Mallorca.Offline promotion: Print flyers, create short local radio ads, and billboards to reach a wider audience.Encourage Guest Testimonials and ReviewsSeek feedback after the event through a variety of channels, such as email, WhatsApp, Google or TripAdvisor reviews.In case you contact them directly through email or WhatsApp, you could take the opportunity to send them a survey. Positive testimonials build trust and credibility, attracting new guests for next year's celebration.Throughout this article, we've explored why New Year's Eve is a great opportunity for hoteliers to not just celebrate, but also increase revenue streams. From crafting themed packages that entice guests to curating unforgettable New Year's Eve dinners and leveraging smart marketing strategies, we've shared insights to ensure your hotel shines amidst the festivities.&nbsp;Additionally, Hotelbeds and our portfolio of 66,000+ partners can help you gain exposure to those travel distributors seeking special New Year's Eve offerings.If you already work with us, update your details for this special night on our Hotel Extranet.If you are not yet a member, register your property now, and in a matter of days, you'll be able to access our extensive network.Finally, before you leave, here's a valuable resource awaiting you at the end – our guide to 'Understanding Hotel Distribution'. In the ever-evolving hospitality industry landscape, mastering the art of distribution is key. As you prepare for an unforgettable New Year's Eve, ensure you also have the knowledge to navigate the dynamic world of hotel distribution. Get it for free now!

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

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.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?To shed some light on this topic, we've put together this 'fact vs. fiction' list. How accurate were your guesses? Take a look!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.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.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.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 66,000+ 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.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.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.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.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!

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.

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;


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.

How to calculate ADR in hotel industry:

Total amount of revenue generated by bookings / Total amount of rooms booked

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


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 Distribution

The 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.


Bedbank

A 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.


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.


Bleisure

Bleisure 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.


Booking Pace

The 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.




Cancellation Rate

It’s the ratio of cancelled reservations on total bookings for a given period.

How to calculate it:

(Number of cancelled bookings / Total number of bookings) x 100
Shall not be confused with the ‘Cancellation fee’ - the pre-defined amount a hotel can retain in case of cancellations.


Channel Manager

The 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.

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;


Competitive Set, or COMP-SET

The 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.


Cross-selling

Cross-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).




Direct Channel

In 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.


Drive-in Market

The 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.


Fly-in Market

Fly-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.


Force Majeure

Force majeure is a contractual term that defines unforeseeable events preventing one of the parties to fulfil the terms of a contract.

In other words: an unavoidable circumstance beyond the control of both parties of a contract, that frees one or both from liabilities and obligations.


Forecasting

Forecasting 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.


GOP - Gross Operating Profit

It’s a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) extremely useful to measure the operational profitability of a hotel.&nbsp;

How to calculate it: Gross Operating Profit = Total amount of profits - Total of related operating expenses


Hotel Extranet

A 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 Extranet 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.


Hotel Market Segments

Market 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.


Lead time

Lead time is the time between a customer’s reservation or booking, and the actual check-in date.&nbsp;


Long-haul markets or travellers

This 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;




Metasearch

Metasearch engines are websites or platforms that allow travellers to compare accommodation rates, flights, etc., across different sources, such as OTAs and airlines' websites.


Net Rate

From 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.


Non-Refundable Rate - NRF

Non-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.


Occupancy Rate

The 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.

How to calculate it:

(Total number of booked rooms / Total amount of available rooms) x 100

Example: In a hotel with 100 rooms, 80 of which are booked, the occupancy Rate is = 80%


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.


Revenue Management

Revenue 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.


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.

How to calculate it:


	
	Average Daily Rate (ADR) x Occupancy Rate
	Example: If your hotel is booked at 90% with an ADR of $100, your RevPAR will be = $90
	
	
	Income generated by bookings on a specific period / Available rooms in the same specific period
	Example: 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
	



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;


Staycation

Staycation 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.


Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable 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;




Upselling

It’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;


Yield Management

It’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.

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!

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Key Hotel Terms Every Hotelier Should Learn


The festive season is right around the corner, which can only mean one thing: Black Friday is set to return with a bang.

As the most significant commercial event of the year approaches, it is crucial to establish your own strategy for the occasion. Whether you need travel marketing tips or assistance in securing the best travel deals for your clients, we are here to support you in making Black Friday 2023 a resounding success.



Why do I need to prepare for Black Friday?

Of course, you don’t need to do anything – but by not taking any action, you may run the risk of being overshadowed by competitors who recognize the benefits that Black Friday can bring.

In 2022, according to UNWTO, over 900 million tourists travelled internationally during this time. This significant number of travellers highlights why events like Black Friday are so important to travel providers, and the sheer scale of increased demand they present, waiting for you to capitalise on. This is especially true as travellers continue to become increasingly money-aware, and financially savvy; as Black Friday offers them a key chance to secure bookings for the trips and experiences they may have been bookmarking for later all year.

In light of the continuously evolving patterns of traveller and consumer behaviours, as exemplified by the growing overlap between peak seasons and shoulder seasons, the rising popularity of bleisure travel, and shifting preferences regarding duration of stay, it is imperative for you as travel providers to stay well-informed about travellers' needs, and adeptly tailor your offerings to meet their needs.

What are the benefits of Black Friday, you ask?&nbsp;

Despite the recent inflation concerns worldwide, specifically in European countries, there seems to be a consistent high spending intent for Black Friday and the associated Cyber Week. This presents a valuable opportunity to leverage the demand throughout the sales period, extending beyond just Black Friday. For instance, a study conducted by Sojern in 2022 revealed that travellers in the US and Canada spent more on Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday, while Europe and South America experienced higher booking rates on Black Friday.

Additionally, while there was an increase in demand for trips 90+ days in advance, the demand for the 'instant gratification' of a trip booked with a shorter lead time was equally just as favoured by travellers - so both styles of travel should be accommodated in your travel marketing efforts.

Over at The Hotels Network, results from a recent survey indicated a significant increase in traffic to their clients’ booking engines over Black Friday with a rise of 19%, and an impressive spike of 73% in booking conversions. This suggests that customers who are actively engaged may be waiting until the last moment to finalise their bookings; and implies that timely and market-specific offers have a higher chance of securing a sale, possibly due to a fear of missing out on these special deals.

In short, taking part isn’t a necessity, but it’s something you should certainly consider – especially when getting involved can be as simple as following the steps we’ve laid out below!



Step one: the best offers + the best destinations = bookings secured! (suggested timeline: around 4 weeks before Black Friday)

When it comes to Black Friday, the best place to start is at the end of the process: what is it that your customers are hoping to book with you?

An invaluable tool is Insights, our award-winning search and marketing tool. Offering tailored recommendations based on real-time market data, bookings made by the thousands of agents working with us, and historical search data, Insights provides accurate opportunities which help boost your sales.

When using Insights, you might notice that some hotels are labelled with discounts. These are ideal options for your Black Friday campaign, so be sure to save them to your favourites for later.&nbsp;

Additionally, you’ll be able to search for more discounted room nights by logging into our time-saving Booking Engine!

Did you know?: our upcoming Black Friday campaign is set to be bigger and better than ever – so make sure you’ve got a reminder set for November 20th, when our 2023 campaign goes live.

Not one of our valuable clients yet? Sign up today to take advantage of our exclusive deals during this high-demand sales period, and capture all those bookings you might otherwise miss out on.

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Step two: identify your most valuable sales channel (suggested timeframe: 3 weeks before Black Friday)

With the high level of competition during this time, it is essential to identify your most valuable sales channel, especially if you operate online. By doing so, you will be in a strong position to attract customers who are seeking the best Black Friday travel deals, whether they choose to purchase through your online platform or physical locations, if applicable.

Previously, online purchases have tended to outweigh in-store buying during the Black Friday sales period, but controversially in the US last year, more than 122 million people visited brick-and-mortar stores - an increase of 17% compared to 2021. This increase in in-store sales is positive for independent or local businesses, and those relying on in-store footfall, as it suggests that more travellers are looking for the in-person experience afforded to them from in-store purchases.&nbsp;

Of course, in today's digital age, it is undeniable that online travel booking offers unparalleled convenience. With the internet providing lightning-fast comparisons and a seemingly endless array of options, it has become a cornerstone of the travel industry. Moreover, the competitive online landscape during events like Black Friday demands a well-executed online travel marketing strategy. As travel providers, it is crucial to not only navigate but also excel in this environment, ensuring that your message rises above the noise and resonates with potential customers.

While the online space is certainly one of the most important places to be when it comes to Black Friday marketing, the key to succeeding ultimately lies in your ability to cut through the noise regardless of how or where you sell.&nbsp;
Discover our tips below to elevate your strategy:

If you operate in-store only:

It might take a little extra effort to put your best face forward, but there are certainly ways to appeal to customers (whether they exist or are yet to be acquired).

Enhance your social media presence by increasing the frequency of your online posts. You can even use Insights' market-specific suggestions to determine the trending destinations in your market and incorporate this knowledge into your engaging social media content.

Even if you’re not advertising Black Friday just yet, social media apps such as Facebook and Instagram are great channels for you to showcase your knowledge and build hype about the most exciting destinations. In order to attract the attention of potential customers, it may be beneficial to make some improvements to your store. One idea is to print out visually appealing flyers featuring popular destinations and hotels and display them on your storefront.&nbsp;

Top tip: you can create customised flyers using Insights, with the Custom Flyer Tool, for personalised marketing materials in just a few clicks!

If you operate online only:

Social media plays a crucial role in the success of websites, just like it does for brick-and-mortar businesses. After all, website traffic doesn’t generate itself! Utilise our search and travel marketing tool, Insights, to pinpoint the latest trending destinations and showcase them on your Instagram page. Additionally, if you have a blog, share travel advice and captivating anecdotes to captivate your audience. Lastly, take the time to interact with other users by exploring travel hashtags and participating in conversations centred around popular destinations.

Another top tip for increasing your online reach is to secure some glowing reviews. Make sure that you’re set up on Google or Trustpilot (or, at the very least, have a feedback page on your website/are willing to share examples of feedback on your social media pages), then reach out to clients who you know had a fantastic experience of booking with you. Even if their trip was a little while ago, their fond memories might inspire them to re-live the moment and share it with you - as well as with your next potential customer.

If you have the best of both worlds:

You’re in the best possible position. Consider a blend of our tips above to put your business on the map, just in time for Black Friday!



Step three: tease your campaign (suggested timeframe: 2 weeks before Black Friday)

Once you’ve determined which channel will earn you your bookings this Black Friday, the next step is to let your customers know that great deals will be theirs to secure very, very soon.

Where applicable for your particular business as travel providers, be sure to pick up the phone and start connecting with your leads; by initiating this contact a few weeks prior to Black Friday, you can generate excitement among your clients about the possibility of a trip. Moreover, this approach allows them ample time to set aside funds or contemplate their next destination.

Another way to tease Black Friday is – you guessed it – to utilise your social media channels. Take inspiration from companies inside and outside of your industry to see how they’ve advertised Black Friday ahead of time: from deliberately subtle campaigns to an up-front and unavoidable approach, there are numerous ways to inform your followers and potential customers are about upcoming discounts. If you have a website, consider adding a countdown banner to generate excitement and anticipation among your audience.

Finally, a solid email marketing strategy will make sure that your customers are primed and ready for the big occasion. Craft subject lines to pique their curiosity and remind them to mark their calendars for the big day.

Top tip: why not offer some early Black Friday deals? By browsing&nbsp;the promotions&nbsp;in our Booking Engine, you can cherry-pick hotels on discount in a particular destination.&nbsp;

Or, by using Insights, you can identify which destinations are trending and the hotels on offer right now. Make the most of these deals and start driving your Black Friday sales early!



Step four: push those offers! (suggested timeframe: Black Friday-Cyber Monday)

You’ve already put in the work to market your Black Friday offers ahead of the occasion, but now is not the time to slow down – you still need to secure those sales!

During the Black Friday period, it is highly likely that your customers will be entirely money-driven, and seeking the best deals. Whether they have discovered your offerings through your exceptional social media presence, found your website via Google, or are already familiar with your brand and promotions, it is crucial to ensure that these potential bookings are locked down. So, make sure you know your offers inside out – one of the best ways to do this is by exploring the&nbsp;promotions in&nbsp;our Booking Engine to see the most valuable opportunities for your business.

Want to gain access to these exclusive offers? Simply sign up today to become one of our clients, and supercharge your sales this Black Friday period.

In order to effectively reach clients who may not be aware of Black Friday, it is essential to promptly inform them of your limited-time offers. This can be achieved by prominently featuring banners on your website, or by personally asking clients if they are interested in booking their trip today. By creating a sense of urgency surrounding your Black Friday deals, you can significantly increase sales and drive customer engagement. Thus, it is crucial to establish and enforce these guidelines for your business.

Referring once again to online bookings, it is possible that ‘cart abandonment’ will apply to some bookings: this is where a client will browse offers and get as far as the check-out page, before deciding not to proceed with the booking and closing out of the browser. Ensure that you have an email strategy or web pop-up in place to capture this type of client, with a reminder that prices can and do rise quickly – especially over Black Friday – and that the best time to secure a deal is now.

Did you know?: According to some statistics, cart abandonment email reminders have an open rate of 45% - a huge percentage of potential travellers you could be tempting back in.



Step five: Travel Tuesday is your time to shine (suggested timeframe: Monday 27th/Tuesday 28th November)

Fortunately, the fatigue of over-commercialism has not had a major impact on the travel industry when it comes to the Black Friday sales period, given the predictability of the deals and the ubiquitous offerings out there. In fact, statistics indicate that the Tuesday following Black Friday continues to be a significant success for companies that offer discounted rates on accommodations and flights.

Known as Travel Tuesday (or ‘Travel Deal Tuesday to some), this event has become a prime time for would-be travellers to secure their dream escape. In fact, past Travel Tuesdays have been known to offer twice the number of deals than advertised over Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined; according to Hopper, 2022’s Travel Tuesday recorded around 68 deals per second – 50% more than usual.

Even if you’re not offering extra or heavier discounts over Travel Tuesday, the number of travellers looking for a deal is likely to increase – so be sure to capture their imagination by sharing the hotels we have on offer between November 20th – 29th!

Ready to take on this all-important sales period? Log in to your account now&nbsp;to discover our amazing portfolio of hotels and ancillaries, and keep a look out for our upcoming Black Friday offers!

Ready to take on this all-important sales period? Sign up now to discover our amazing portfolio of hotels and ancillaries, and keep a look out for our upcoming Black Friday offers!


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How Travel Providers Should Prepare For Black Friday

About Hostal Aravaca Garden

Opened in 2008, Hostal Aravaca Garden is a hostel located in a residential area outside Madrid. This 25-room property was founded by Lucas Zori, who is also its director.
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Since the opening, Zori has observed an increased level of occupancy and improved margins, compared to other properties he worked in before.
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The previous experiences he had in both large hotels and smaller properties made him an expert in the hospitality and travel industry. Among other key tactics, he defined guests' segmentation, increased discounts, implemented campaigns and offers for various audiences, and rewarded agencies to get more bookings.&nbsp;
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As a result of his expertise in travel and partnering with key industry players, like Hotelbeds, Hostal Aravaca Garden maintains 100% average occupancy all year long.&nbsp;

Hostal Aravaca Garden's partnership with Hotelbeds

As a former Hotelbeds client, Zori knew that we were the ideal partner for this new project - a smaller, independent hostel.

As Zori points out, our strength with agencies was a major factor in this partnership. Through our direct distribution to travel agencies, tour operators, and other B2B partners, Hotelbeds is able to provide his hostel with access to an extensive network of travel companies around the world. He didn't want to be dependent on only one OTA, which was cannibalising his sales and restricting his options. Zori wanted to experiment with new strategies and distribution channels for his property.
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Additionally, he noticed that South American markets had been booking at a higher level after the pandemic. Using guest segmentation, the hostel has been able to bring over 70% of its bookings through Hotelbeds from countries such as Colombia, Honduras, Peru, and many others. When it comes to segmentation, Zori states that Hotelbeds is a top seller: 'Some months, you generate more revenue than any other distribution channel.'

Our Partner Extranet, one of Hotelbeds’ main strengths&nbsp;

Through the partnership with Hotelbeds, Zori also has access to one of the most powerful partner extranets in the industry. After all the years Lucas Zori has worked with us to maximise occupancy of several properties - and now his own as well - he highlights Hotelbeds Partner Extranet&nbsp;as a crucial tool in his daily operations.
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'I'm very happy with your 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.’
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In short, MaxiRoom is our hotel management tool that gives you full autonomy to manage your property. With MaxiRoom, you can manage your inventory, availability, rates, upload and update your hotel content, access the bookings list and your Hotelbeds contracts, check the status of your invoices, sign up for webinars, and more. All from a single platform.
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Why work with Hotelbeds?

Until now, we have highlighted some of the main reasons Lucas Zori decided to continue working with us in his own property, after a long and successful career in travel.&nbsp;
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But, what’s in store for you? Joining us today will provide you with the following benefits:&nbsp;
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	You'll have access to our portfolio of 66,000+ travel distributors. You’ll find over 60,000 travel agencies and 4,500 tour operators, plus 1,260 more partners, including airlines, affiliates, and other businesses.
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	You'll have global reach and are present in 190+ source markets. Whether you're interested in reaching long-haul travellers or a domestic audience, we assist you in gaining access to these markets.
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	We won't compete with your direct channel. Hotelbeds distribute directly to travel agencies and other wholesalers in the travel industry. We ensure that they get to know you and include you in their travel packages.
	
	Forget about spending time and effort gaining visibility. We do it for you; simply tell us what markets you want to enter, and we'll connect you with agencies that operate in the market. &nbsp;
	
	Interested in joining us? Register your property here and start boosting your occupancy!
	

