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… and why is it a good idea?&nbsp;

‘Hyperlocal’ was recently lauded by Phocuswire as the ‘new global’ for the travel industry, when it comes to curating experiences for travellers and the act of using informed data to do so. Hyperlocalisation refers to the use of big data and research analytics to engage with consumers in a highly specific, segmented basis, usually informed by factors such as regional preferences, demographics, and personal interests.&nbsp;

When the recommendations reflect an authentic understanding of neighbourhoods and what they offer, we call them ‘hyperlocal.’

Commonly used as marketing strategy to offer personalised marketing to customer segments as a way of increasing the likelihood of securing bookings, hyperlocalisation is something that the travel industry should be moving towards and inhabiting as a strategy as well, considering the benefits that this strategy offers to travel providers and sellers, but also bearing in mind the recent shift in consumer preferences for more meaningful cultural experiences.

As well as ‘discovering their own back garden’ as it were, many travellers are making more thoughtful decisions when it comes to where they’ll go and what they’ll do when they arrive at their destination of choice. A desire for connection at a deeper level with local communities, as a base, is calling for recommendations from travel providers that take into consideration the fact that travellers are increasingly prioritising minimising the harmful impact of their journey on the planet, local communities and themselves.

Therefore, hyperlocalising is a beneficial way of ensuring that as travel providers, you’re offering insightful recommendations that are informed by market data as well as macro and micro economic factors, and environmentalism.&nbsp;



Why Going Hyperlocal Can Be Beneficial&nbsp;

More and more people are expecting hyperlocalisation as standard.&nbsp;

Data from a Google study suggests that online searches without ‘near me’ or location qualifiers (such as postcodes or city names) have grown 150% faster than searches which include these things. Users now more readily expect Google, and therefore other sources of information and recommendations, to automatically take into consideration their location when serving them results.

What does this mean?

Geo-location tracking is something that internet users expect as a standard, in order to serve accurate and relevant recommendations whenever they’re needed. This indicates a massive shift not only in attitudes towards real-time geolocation tracking, but also the relevance and real-time accuracy of the recommendations that customers expect. This relates, therefore, to the accuracy of recommendations they receive when booking travel.&nbsp;

Travel is deeply personal, and for many it has been a chance to create genuine connection to a destination of choice; this is now more true than ever as travellers seek localised experiences, authentic connection with businesses, and informed recommendations from their travel providers.

So, what shape might hyperlocal recommendations take?&nbsp;

What Hyperlocalisation Looks Like For Travel Providers



Machine Learning, Customer Data and AI

Rapidly advancing technology such as machine learning, and real-time insights driven by AI algorithms can be used to personalise the booking process and make recommendations based on traveller preferences, and booking behaviours in a providers’ market.

This approach can not only help to streamline the booking process - for clients and providers alike - but it also improves customer satisfaction. For instance, travel companies can use machine learning algorithms to suggest local activities and restaurants based on a traveller’s past preferences.&nbsp;

Customer data is the driving force in an unprecedented level of customer service, when we think about the hyper-localisation of the marketing industry in particular. Across industries, gathering relevant customer data has been at the forefront of most challenges that marketers in general, not just travel marketers, have faced. Now, with the advancement of technology like AI, and machine learning platforms, this brings a turning point that can allow for the collection, analysis and utilisation of customer data even easier.

Of course, it’s important to remember that the advancement of technology like AI can only go so far - and has only gone so far. The benefits of AI is dependent on the people who shape this technology in the first place. We’ve recently seen first hand that platforms like ChatGPT can bring rise to questions and doubts regarding the legality, and morality of its use. AI is still dependent on the input of human knowledge.

So in this sense, travel experts working in the market, communicating with other sellers and the end traveller are still very much in the driving seat when it comes to how we move forward with providing even more individualised recommendations for travellers.

However, using intuitive booking platforms powered by effective algorithms can ensure that you’re getting the best of both worlds with efficiently ranked hotels influenced by customers’ preferences and specific requirements, and simultaneous access to a vast portfolio of accommodation which allows you to better meet traveller needs from the start.

In fact, our Hotelbeds Booking Engine offers you exclusive access to 300,000 properties across 195 countries worldwide!

Our&nbsp;Booking Engine is an intuitive, powerful booking platform which also:


	Accommodates the creation of complex itineraries
	Supports built-in cross-selling and up-selling
	Offers online assistance no matter the need&nbsp;


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It only takes a few moments to sign up as one of our valuable clients, to get exclusive access to a vast global portfolio of accommodation that meets every travellers’ needs.

It only takes a few moments to log in to access our global portfolio, to get exclusive access to a vast array of&nbsp; accommodation that meets every travellers’ needs.

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Doing so is a sure-fire way of opening up those valuable conversations that help you get insight into their specific preferences, so you can provide their perfect trip.

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Personalisation Is Key

Of course, the importance of personalisation can never be overstated, especially when it comes to really understanding what customers want in order to offer truly hyperlocal recommendations.

Doing extensive research and using big data have become an unspoken part of hyperlocal marketing, as customers become more and more demanding. A recent study by WeTravel found that personalisation was the name of the game when it comes to customer expectations, with around 85% of tour operator respondents suggesting that this demand had led them to offer customisation options and add ons onto their tours.

This notion of personalisation is equally important when you’re considering your offerings, how you’re meeting the needs of your customers, and also your online presence and the content or products that you’re recommending via social media.&nbsp;

Why? Because product recommendations can be put in place in real-time, on many different communication channels all at once to offer personalised recommendations using omni channel marketing. This is one of the key benefits of hyperlocalisation - the act of being at the forefront of a customers’ mind when they search for activities or inspiration in a local area.&nbsp;

Utilising big data, past customer data and current trends can inform your marketing decisions to help strategise in a way that ensures you are the travel provider offering relevant, unique and up to date content to travellers at the moment when they are most likely to be influenced by it.

Regardless of whether it is e-mail messages or visuals on a website, your product recommendations to existing or new customers should always be unique and up to date with what your audience’s expectations are at the time. This means you need to be able to control which recommendations a customer sees or is served, based on their past behaviours - utilising advanced data touchpoints to tailor your online marketing to do so is a must in this digital era, when customer loyalty depends so much on personalisation from the start.



Locally Owned Tours and Experiences As The Next Big Thing

At the heart of it, hyperlocalisation is as much about exploring that which is within, or near to, a travellers’ familiar area as it is getting into the ‘nitty gritty’ of a destination abroad.

So, with this in mind, it’s important to consider how as travel providers you’re also able to accommodate domestic experiences, with a particular focus on businesses and suppliers which are locally owned.

A recent study suggests that around 68% of global travellers plan to stay more within their own region in the coming months, and 35% have suggested that they plan to take more weekend trips - which indicates an increasing need for hyperlocal travel experiences.

One way to offer hyperlocal recommendations - while also minimising negative impact on the local communities, which is key for many travellers today - is to focus on experiences, tours, transfers and hotels which are locally owned that resonate with the specific prferences and tastes of your travellers. Not only does this boost the local economy in the area, but it also offers travellers a chance to meaningfully connect with the people in their destination of choice.

A key instance of focusing on locally run tours and experiences is that of tour operator Destinate Travel, which gives visitors to South Africa the chance to learn and share skills from locals across this vast region.&nbsp;

With a focus on ‘connecting travellers to the places, experiences and people that will guarantee holidays of a lifetime’, this is a key business model that is excelling within today’s era of conscious travel, and effortlessly incorporates the idea of hyperlocal travel.&nbsp;



Staycations and Workcations Are Here To ‘Stay’

Feeding into the idea of the importance of locally owned businesses and ‘staycations’, many hotels and travel companies began promoting this type of travel after the massive impact of the pandemic on customer behaviours and the preference to stay closer to home. And although international travel is in demand again, these behaviours are still very much prevalent within the travel industry.&nbsp;

Whether a traveller is simply looking to explore their home region in more depth, or is perhaps embarking on a workcation, within their own home town or region, many travellers are more likely to have access to a personal bank of knowledge about the area, where to go, safety information, and personal associations which will inform their choices.&nbsp;

But this does not mean that there will not be consistent demand to learn more about even the places they are familiar with, supported by the fact that domestic travel has remained popular even after global borders opened and international travel was more readily available.&nbsp;

In this sense, it’s important that travel providers are able to offer emotionally resonant personalisation to travellers, and with this a unique chance for a traveller to connect more deeply with a region they may or may not already know and love.

By using technology that offers real-time safety data, as an example, and combining this with a powerful Booking Engine can supplement recommendations made to travellers with data-rich insights at a granular level. This is where peak customer satisfaction lives!&nbsp;

Explore the benefits of our exclusive Booking Engine today by signing up as one of our clients, and begin accessing an expansive global network of properties that form perfect base points from which your clients can explore their chosen destination.

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How Hotels Are Going Hyperlocal

It’s beneficial to understand how hotels, whether global chains or boutiques, are accommodating to the shift in traveller preference for locally-focused recommendations.&nbsp;

In other areas of the travel industry, hotels should consider what data-led, human-informed hyperlocal insights can do for them as providers. Real-time safety data is invaluable for everything from concierge recommendations to pricing models and elasticity.

In this case, as with any recommendations that are offered to travellers, the depth of offering and the sincerity of the experience are key. Douglas McHugh, of London’s Bankside Hotel suggests that ‘guests want to feel a connection to the area in which they are staying, but not in a contrived way.’&nbsp;

This is important to remember when providing recommendations for travellers, even if these are part of a wider portfolio offered during self-booking processes. Tailoring the booking process to each customer is vital, to boost the chances of travellers securing those bookings with you, and not another provider who is offering more tailored experiences to their specific requirements.

From partnering with neighbourhood gyms or wellness coaches, offering exhibition spaces for local artists to display their work, to using local insider knowledge to influence bar, restaurant and experience recommendations to guests, or even having hotel designs that reflect the culture of the surrounding area, hotels are diving deep into the understanding that travellers want their stay to be more connected to the local area than ever and are finding innovative ways of incorporating that into their every day business structure.

There’s no reason that, as travel providers, you can’t do the same!&nbsp;



How Tourism Can Utilise Microdata&nbsp;

In today’s digital age, technology has reached a point where through the use of mobiles, wearable tech and other devices, there is a far greater degree of hyperlocality that can be identified than ever before. The use of this data to inform and inspire travellers with refined, location-specific data that has crucial details about the local communities and safety, for example, is something that can change the game of travel completely. Travel providers, car rentals, hotels, and the tourism industry at large can harness this technological power.

Apps like Google maps offer more hyperlocalised, real-time data than ever, and if the tourism industry and technology firms across the world worked in tandem, then travellers can be reliably encouraged to explore beyond their closest, most familiar destinations - incentivising and supporting the growth of local communities in a way that is sustainable, and far-reaching.&nbsp;

The combination of advanced data and the expertise of travel providers is where peak customer satisfaction lives; because after all, algorithms don’t consider the uniquely specific needs of a four-person family planning their trip to the same destination as a solo traveller. This is where travel providers and your use of customer data and localised data from geo-location apps like Google maps, can create customer experiences that go beyond what they could receive if they planned their trip alone, and it’s where the key value of travel experts lies!&nbsp;

Of course, it’s important that you’re supported by a vast global network of properties to offer your travellers - which is exactly what we offer at Hotelbeds!

Our clients get exclusive access to 300,000 properties in trending destinations worldwide, in an intuitive, powerful platform that is designed to:


	Streamline the booking process for travel provider and customer alike
	Ensure that you're able to offer the very best opportunities for your clients - based on what's trending, customer ratings, and what has the most growth potential for you.


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Sign up today to become our client, and let us scale your success.

Log in to your Hotelbeds account today, and start scaling your success.&nbsp;
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What Does 'Hyperlocal' Mean For Travel Providers? 

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


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

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

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Upselling Techniques for Hotels to Boost Revenue in 2023


The phenomenon known as "set-jetting" has become a popular trend in the travel industry, with many travellers increasingly drawn to visiting the locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows. The allure of experiencing these on-screen settings in person is heightened by the captivating storylines and intriguing drama associated with them, and film tourism has become a key marketing strategy for many travel providers around the world, to capitalise on demand for locations as a result of what's on screen, therefore maximising sales for these on-trend destinations.

Film tourism, as this form of cultural tourism inspired by the influence of film is known, has a significant impact on travel destinations. It not only shapes the way people choose their destinations and travel experiences but also influences their interactions with the places they visit, what they expect when they arrive, and their engagement with the destination and local communities, infrastructure itself.

So, what are the benefits of accommodating this type of travel as travel providers, and where are some of the best destinations to consider for this fast-growing, valuable audience?



Why Should Travel Providers Pay Attention to Film Culture and Film Tourism?

Film culture itself is undeniably impactful on today’s generations, with a proven influence over how people think, their social cognition, behavior, and even their values.&nbsp;

Furthermore, film-inspired culture extends beyond entertainment and film-induced products encompass more than just consumer goods. As a rapidly expanding and significant tourism trend, film-induced tourism fosters connections between individuals, characters, locations, stories, and ultimately, tourists themselves - making it a highly successful travel trend due to&nbsp;its ability to offer unique experiences and immerse individuals in different cultures in a way that other travel types may not.

By providing opportunities to witness and relive exciting moments through entertainment, this form of tourism has gained immense popularity as a current trend in the industry - which makes film tourists an opportune audience for travel providers looking to maximise sales and tap into an engaged, dynamic and responsive segment in today's ever-changing market.



What Are The Benefits of Cultural Tourism For Travel Providers?

Cultural tourism is a significant catalyst for economic expansion, and film and television are among the most influential consumable products when it comes to tourism itself, and the decision-making factors that potential travellers are exposed to. Alongside other decision-making, consumable factors like being exposure to local cuisine, souvenirs, and even word-of-mouth marketing, the mediums of film and tv play a pivotal role in promoting destinations and shaping the preferences and expectations of today's consumers and travellers.

It cannot be denied that the impact of films, series, and streaming platforms on today's traveller is significant, and that therefore, the potenital influence of&nbsp;combining destination marketing and film or tv can be enormous.

But what does this mean for travel providers?

Films and tv productions can be a powerful way to elevate a destination’s profile, its tourism offerings both for domestic and international travellers, and can even help showcase a country’s natural assets.

For host destinations, culture tourism can help grow local economies, and for travel providers, utilising film tourism can be a hugely impactful way of informing, inspiring and influencing where travellers go.

An excellent illustration of the influence of film can be seen in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Despite being released in 2001, it is estimated that approximately 72% of current and prospective international tourists visiting New Zealand at present have watched at least one film from this famous trilogy. While, naturally, it’s impossible to say whether this was the sole factor in these travellers’ destination choices, it is nonetheless a significant motivator to consider. Similarly, in the UK, the filming of worldwide successes like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey in the past decade has resulted in a surge of tourism which remains profitable to this day.

For travel providers, it is important to recognise that travellers who are interested in film tourism demonstrate a high level of engagement with their selected location. This presents a unique opportunity for you to promote customised itineraries and highlight the destination in a way that may be overlooked, or considered unncessary by other travellers. Many film tourists won't be satisifed with a superficial look at their destination of choice! They want detail, and this is a critical factor to keep in mind when curating a clients' ideal trip.

Additionally, it is worth noting that film tourists are highly committed. For instance, let's look again at the example of the Lord of the Rings film franchise - tourism in New Zealand experienced a significant increase of approximately 50% within the ten years after the series concluded.

This data implies that individuals who are drawn to the more specialised elements of screen tourism possess a longstanding fascination with these particular destinations. Consequently, they can be considered a dependable target audience&nbsp;when it comes to the potential success of film-inspired destination marketing and effectively capitalising on demand.



Use The Booking Engine To Promote Popular On-Screen Destinations

Of course, it is important to consider that many screen tourists seek specific details and are often unsatisfied with a regular visit to a single filming location. Often, travellers who visit a location from a film or TV production are curious about the specific filming locations. They have a deep knowledge of the product, in this case, the film or TV show itself, and are enthusiastic about exploring this interest further.

Therefore, as travel providers you need to be equipped with a portfolio of activities that ensure that visitors to a location are encouraged to stay longer, and spend more. In many cases, guided tours can be one of the best ways to enrich a visitors’ stay!&nbsp;

Fortunately, our Hotelbeds portfolio offers a vast array of hotels perfectly suited to all preferences where film tourists can rest, relax and refresh themselves for all the exploring they will do. We offer&nbsp;over 300,000 hotels in 195 destinations worldwide,&nbsp;in some of the most popular on-screen locations that your clients will love!

Combine this with the perfect in-destination activity, and even global transfer coverage for seamless navigation and enjoyment once your clients reach their location, and you've got all you need to craft the ultimate experience for travellers.

Not only this, but using our exclusive Booking Engine offers travel providers:


	AI-powered insights influenced by real-time market data for tailored recommendations, every time.
	Time-saving search filters to really narrow down what your customers want.
	Integrated cross-selling features to seamlessly add in hotels, experiences and transfers, for efficient customer service!


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This means that not only can you offer your customers a trip in a destination that really captivates them, but you can also enhance their experience with one-of-a-kind experiences, and a perfect hotel at the end of each day!&nbsp;

Sign up today to start maximising your performance and bookings.

Log into your account to start scaling your bookings!&nbsp;

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So with that in mind, we deep-dive into some of the most must-visit ‘TV tourism’ destinations:

Recent On-Screen Destinations For Film Tourism Lovers

Here are just a few key destination recommendations to get your customers from in front of the screen, to behind it.
Don’t forget to take a moment to explore our portfolio, which offers&nbsp;exclusive access to over 300,000 hotels in over 195 worldwide destinations, including many of these inspiring locations from some of the best recent films, TV and streaming hits.&nbsp;



THE USA

New York

New York, being one of the most frequently filmed cities in the world, offers an array of on-screen destinations that cater to the taste of TV and film enthusiasts worldwide. From timeless movie classics to recent blockbusters, this city serves as a hub for captivating locations. Some of the iconic spots that have graced the screen countless times include Central Park, East Village, Grand Central Terminal, the Flatiron Building, Times Square, and Washington State Park.

Plus, with a wide array of stunning New York city hotels in our exclusive portfolio, we're in the perfect position to help your clients find their perfect accommodation while they explore the sights!

Alberta &amp; Calgary, Canada - The Last Of Us

HBO's The Last Of Us, one of the biggest shows of 2023, serves as a prime illustration of the significant impact that film can have on the tourism and consumer industries. This production, the largest ever filmed in Alberta and one of the biggest in Canada, has unquestionably contributed to the rise in Canada's popularity as a sought-after destination, and this trend is expected to continue as the excitement surrounding the show continues.

Key highlights include Calgary as the real-life location of the ‘Boston Quarantine Zone’, Fort Macleod’s Main Street, Downtown Calgary, and the Alberta town of Canmore as the on-screen survivor camp in ‘Jackson.’ The best way to visit these locations is for travellers to rent a car, to truly experience the wilderness of Alberta and Calgary’s landscapes and cities.



EUROPE&nbsp;

Budapest, Hungary - Shadow and Bone

Budapest and Keszthely, located in Hungary, served as the primary shooting locations for the highly acclaimed Netflix fantasy series&nbsp;Shadow and Bone. Fans of the series will undoubtedly recognise iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle, The Lion's Court, the Hungarian National Gallery, and the city's Main Square. Hungary has also been the filming location for other beloved fantasy shows like Moon Knight and The Witcher, solidifying it as a dream destination for fantasy enthusiasts.

Spain and Croatia - House of the Dragon

Cáceres and Trujillo in Spain are prominently showcased in House of the Dragon as the iconic setting of 'King's Landing', and can be conveniently accessed by car from Madrid. Additionally, Croatia's capital Dubrovnik also served as the backdrop for some of the most stunning on-screen shots of 'King's Landing' in both House of the Dragon and its predecessor Game of Thrones. This captivating city is also recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking an authentic dive into European history and an ideal basepoint for travellers keen to explore this on-screen destination.

Sicily, Italy - The White Lotus

The majority of filming for Netflix's The White Lotus took place in Sicily, specifically in Taormina, Noto, Palermo, and Cefalù. By visiting these on-screen locations, your customers will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of southern Italy firsthand. Additionally, Taormina, which is just a couple of hours away from Sicily, can be offered as an exquisite additional destination for fans seeking to relive the enchantment of The White Lotus in a beach town with a rich history tracing back to Ancient Greece!

Bath, The UK - Bridgerton

Netflix's Bridgerton undeniably captivated millions of fans worldwide, and as one of the UK's most popular destinations, just as Downtown Abbey did before it as a similar Victorian-era serial drama hit. And as one of the UK’s most popular cities, Bath already attracts a significant number of tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the charming ambiance of this historic city. Notable on-screen landmarks featured in the series include the Holburne Museum and the Royal Crescent, which offer a glimpse into Bath at its most iconic.

But for a quintessential stay, we recommend a stay in luxurious Bath, or even nearby London, for the best of the rolling green hillsides and delightful cobbled city streets that the Somerset area has to offer ccombined with the glitz and glam of the UK's much-loved capital.



JAPAN

Tokyo - Alice in Borderland

Japan is not only the setting for beloved classics like Godzilla, but it has also captivated audiences with recent adaptations of popular manga such as Alice in Borderland. In addition, Japan has been showcased as one of the top destinations to visit in the world by National Geographic and Lonely Planet! Which means that now is the perfect opportunity to encourage your clients to explore all that Japan has to offer.
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While the tourist-hotspot of Tokyo has more than enough to entertain travellers for months, let alone days or weeks, Tokyo is also perfectly positioned as a transport hub to many of Japan’s other must-visit locations like Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Mount Fuji! This makes it the ideal place for travellers to make the most of this stunning country.



NEW ZEALAND

Hauraki, Piha and Fiordland National Park - The Rings of Power

Travellers looking to be taken ‘into the wild’ and dive into the heart of the land behind The Lord of the Rings: The&nbsp;Rings of Power&nbsp;can venture to Fiordland National Park, the largest national park in New Zealand, or enjoy the picturesque black sand beaches of Piha, to truly feel like they’ve been transported to Middle-Earth.

But of course, one does not simply recommend New Zealand without showcasing The Shire! This idyllic locationfrom the ever-iconic original&nbsp;Lord of the Rings trilogy&nbsp;in the Waikato region is so popular that travellers can take a hobbit tour and immerse themselves in the life of a Middle-Earth Shire citizen for the day.


Sign up today to discover our Booking Engine today and begin tailoring your clients’ next experience to their perfect on-screen destination!&nbsp;

Log in to your account today and begin tailoring your clients’ next experience to their perfect on-screen destination!&nbsp;
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'Set-Jetting': The Benefits of Cultural Tourism For Travel Providers

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

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

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

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Capitalising on Sporting Events: A Winning Strategy for Hoteliers

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How To Capitalise on Global Sporting Events

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

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While solo travel has undeniably been on the rise for years, it’s evident that more women than ever are diving headfirst into solo ventures. The future of solo travel might well be female!

With the majority readership of large publications like Solo Traveler World being women, online searches for ‘solo women travel’ increasing by a staggering 230% in 2019, and popular social media platforms like Pinterest logging a 350% increase in pinned articles about female solo travel, it’s evident that more women than ever are travelling alone.

So with that in mind, we dive into how travel providers like you can ensure you’re meeting and exceeding the needs of women travelling solo - and why you should want to capture this growing audience of high-value customers!

Understand the Unique Characteristics of Solo Travel For Women



It’s important that you understand the challenges, sensitivities and experiences of female solo travel and this traveller type, so that you can better cater for this valuable segment.

Some factors that many women travelling solo consider when booking or planning a trip are:


	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;

These are important factors to consider when promoting destinations to solo travellers, and even more so for women travelling alone; and are equally crucial for when you are building an idea of destinations that you would recommend from your portfolio in future consultations.

Use Our Digital Star Brochure



Our Star Brochure is a fully online, interactive travel brochure designed to make the lives of travel providers all over the world easier and more enriched when it comes to offering exactly what your customers want.

The ‘best for solo travellers’ icon highlights a wealth of hotels and accommodation around the world that are ideally suited for solo travellers of any kind. Spread across global hotspot destinations, this handy icon means it is easier than ever to pick out the properties - whether that’s affordable hotel rooms or luxury resorts - that perfectly meet the needs of solo female travellers during the booking process.

What does this mean for women travelling solo? They feel supported. Accommodated. And delivering a bespoke service is one of the most important things to today’s consumer across all industries, not just travel, with 71% of customers expecting personalised service!

Simply put, if you’re not ensuring your products can cater for bespoke communication for the travel segment you’re trying to secure bookings from, it’s not going to work.&nbsp;

What’s more, with our customisation tool as part of the Star Brochure, you can create travel brochures tailored on a client-by-client basis for an even more personalised experience! Create your very own female-focused content or use our own inspiring articles and Q&amp;A sections, highlight the best angles of those ‘best for solo travellers’ hotels, and secure even more bookings from this key segment!

While our game-changing Star Brochure is available for you to browse, the customization feature is exclusive to our clients - so sign up today to start making the most of this invaluable tool and grab those bookings!&nbsp;

Make Dedicated Information Easily Accessible&nbsp;



Create hubs on your website with relevant information about how your services can be tailored to female solo travel.

Whether this is FAQs, or dedicated pages in your service collections, make sure you list which hotels, tour operators and destinations are recommended for women travelling solo and why.

Don't forget to offer unique fee/payment information upfront - be clear on your fees, refund, and cancellation policies for solo travellers! Especially when it comes to unique fees like single supplements and cancellations if plans change.

This is critical when you consider that it takes the average consumer around 50 milliseconds (that’s 0.05 seconds!) while looking at a website to form an opinion not only about your brand but about whether they want what you’re offering.&nbsp;

One of the best ways to do this is a design technique called progressive disclosure - essentially, you’re streamlining important content into a user-friendly format which improves navigation and allows the user to discover more information about your brand and offerings without being bombarded all at once. And consider that once they’re on your site, the average user spends around 5 seconds reading written content.

So, ensuring that your prospective audience understands, quickly, that you can offer the services or experiences they’re after is key.

Cater For The Luxury Solo Female Traveller



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.

For example:


	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.
	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 travelling alone.


&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 travel providers you’re 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 travelling solo, there are many ways that the industry is providing opportunities when it comes to solo travel for women.

Consider how you can accommodate this type of traveller; what changes would have to be made to the partnerships you have with tour operators, or indeed to your tours themselves if you’re organising them for the end client?

Plus, when you work with a travel partner like Hotelbeds, you’re immediately boosting your visibility to this growing audience.

Tour operators, you’re opening up a whole new avenue of distribution for your experiences; while travel providers, you’re accessing a massive, ever-growing portfolio of over 16,000 experiences and 300,000 hotels in trending destinations worldwide!&nbsp;

This allows you as travel providers to capitalise on reaching and catering for the right audience, with the right resources you need.&nbsp;

Sign up today to start boosting your bookings from the valuable solo female travel segment!

Log in to your account to start maximising your sales from this valuable market!

&nbsp;

How The Compass Can Help&nbsp;

And so, keeping up with industry trends in your market is more important than ever, as more and more women seek out solo trips. You can do this easily with our destination and marketing tool The Compass for travel providers!

Designed to offer market-specific insights, gathered from thousands of daily searches and booking data from our users, The Compass allows you as a travel provider to see what’s being booked in your market and when.&nbsp;

What’s more, you’ll receive tailored opportunity alerts when your competitors are booking destinations or accommodation you haven’t taken advantage of yet - which means you never lose out on an opportunity again.

This time-saving, sales-boosting tool is exclusive to our partners, so sign up today to start scaling your success with The Compass!

&nbsp;

Offer Women-Only Group Travel



Quite often, travelling solo can be daunting, and for many the idea of venturing on a long-haul journey even to their dream destination is overwhelming no matter who is embarking on the journey. This is where group travel can be so valuable, especially to solo female travellers.&nbsp;

While some women travelling solo won’t necessarily feel the need to travel in a women-only group, for some travellers this will significantly decrease any concerns or doubts around travelling alone amongst a group.

Many tour operators around the world have already begun introducing women-only tours to great success - for instance, the tour company Trafalgar introduced women-only tours in early 2022, and suggested that 61% of bookings came from women travelling alone.

So, there’s never a better time to make sure you’re filling your portfolio with tours and experiences offered by tour operators and travel providers catering to this valuable segment, in order to meet the needs of the female solo traveller, and therefore boost your bookings.

Our ever-growing portfolio is the perfect place to start, with tours and experiences uniquely designed for solo travellers and access to thousands of travel sellers worldwide!

Do Your Research



In ‘standard’ communication narratives, the solo female traveller is not usually the focus. Many decision-makers in travel, including travel agencies, cannot relate to the challenges of women travelling solo.

This presents a significant opportunity for savvy travel providers to get to know this audience better and offer products and destinations that cater for their demands and challenges.

By doing so, you’ll position yourselves as the ones to beat for this particular audience.
Competitor and market research is an invaluable practice no matter the age, experience, or reputation of your travel agency, and even more so if you’re interdependent!

And considering that successful female-focused travel organisations like the Solo Female Travelers Club are already offering consultations for businesses to reevaluate their offerings in light of the growing demand from female travellers going it alone, it’s important that you’re viewing your offerings through the lens of a solo female traveller and consider where any opportunities for improvement might be.

Here are just a few ways you can do your research, and therefore identify any gaps in your business or offerings:

Read trusted insights

Our Client Resources page is packed full of regularly updated insights, inspired and influenced by global travel trends, and driven by our very own wealth of industry data gathered from thousands of bookings from travel providers all over the world. Check back regularly for insightful and inspiring content for travel agencies!

But as we mentioned before, Solo Traveler World and Solo Female Travelers Club are examples of valuable platforms with high social-proof attached to them where insights, shared experiences and customer-centric recommendations are shared by women for women looking to travel solo. Keeping a close eye on platforms like this can provide interesting insights into how other travel providers are catering for the growing audience of solitary female travellers.

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 this segment, and how might you incorporate these into your own business model in a way that makes you stand out?&nbsp;

Utilise customer feedback

Getting insights from past or existing customers about their experiences with you is invaluable, and is one of the best ways that you can highlight any shortcomings with how your agency handles female solo travellers, and accommodates this type of traveller needs. Ensuring you’re GDPR compliant, of course!&nbsp;

&nbsp;
So there you have it! This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to catering for solo female travel, and it’s especially important that if as a travel agency you’re going to accommodate this type of traveller specifically, you really dedicate time to understanding the unique needs and preferences of women travelling alone.

But one of the best ways to start is by working with a travel partner dedicated to connecting the world of travel, no matter the audience or segment! At Hotelbeds, our global network and portfolio allows you to attract and keep your ideal audience, even in hard to reach markets.&nbsp;

Sign up today today to get started!&nbsp;

Log into your account today to get started!&nbsp;
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How Travel Providers Can Effectively Target Solo Female Travellers

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

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

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

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World Environment Day - The Importance of Going Green For Hoteliers

With more travellers prioritising sustainability as part of their plans than ever before, it’s vital that travel distributors can cater to the changing demands for eco-conscious travel. Up to 50% of travellers feel there aren’t enough sustainable options being actively promoted or available, carving a significant opportunity for distributors to offer eco-friendly travel products.


Demand for sustainable travel is on the rise


The demand for sustainable travel options is undoubtable, and is only expected to grow. According to the World Economic Forum, sustainable travel is now a priority for four out of five travellers globally, with 71% committed to travelling more sustainably. Travel distributors are perfectly placed to get ahead of the competition and offer sustainable travel options for conscious travellers, and would be wise to do so, since the sustainable travel market predicted to grow by $335.93 billion by 2027 (Global Sustainable Tourism Market 2023-2027).&nbsp;

As leaders in the global TravelTech space, Hotelbeds are experts in sustainable travel and have already helped thousands of travel providers to better offer sustainable travel options to their clients. If you’re ready to maximise the potential of this growing market, keep reading.

How to maximise the potential of the growing sustainable travel market




1.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Expand your sustainable property portfolio

Hotels worldwide are investing and developing their sustainability practices in line with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles to appeal to customers and stakeholders alike. This poses significant opportunities for travel distributors to advertise eco-friendly hotels and green incentives. Prospective travellers are proven to be doing more research and due diligence on sustainability before booking, so it’s absolutely vital to be promoting these credentials, particularly since, according to Avantio:
-&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;40% of travellers want booking sites to clearly show sustainable properties&nbsp;
-&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;37% of travellers want a filter option to show sustainable accommodation more easily

Ready to expand your sustainable property portfolio? You can access over 38,000 sustainable hotels with ease via Hotelbed’s ‘Green Hotel’ filter on our Booking Engine. In the past year, the programme has seen a 30% growth in travellers choosing eco-friendly hotels. Join the B2B travel partners already taking advantage of the Green Hotels Programme by clicking&nbsp;here.&nbsp;

Beat plastic pollution

This year’s theme for World Environment Day is Beat Plastic Pollution, drawing attention to one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. Thankfully, the travel industry can play a part in the solution by catering to the increasing demand for plastic-free. In fact, Hotelbeds has seen an 84% increase in our plastic-free hotel portfolio, with 30% more customers seeking both an eco-friendly and plastic-free hotel in the past year. This is a fantastic opportunity for travel distributors to clearly advertise products which meet this criteria. Learn more here.&nbsp;

2.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Maximise high-margin products through sustainable ancillaries&nbsp;



Are you maximising the potential of high-margin ancillary products? For example, nature-based packages are predicted to account for 57% of travel packages globally, according to Euromonitor. This demonstrates the increasing demand and opportunity for sustainable ancillaries, from off-grid retreats to immersive experiences, which you can easily add to your offerings for sustainable travellers to choose from.

Hotelbeds can help travel distribution partners to offer sustainable ancillaries: in fact, our mobility and experiences portfolio countains 16,000 activities overall, giving plenty of choice to your clients.

EMERGING TREND: REGENERATIVE TRAVEL

Sustainability is about protecting both people and the planet. Offering tours which are experience-rich and help improve communities and/or natural spaces, known as regenerative philosophy, will become essential to appeal to the traveller of tomorrow. With competition higher than ever before, plus more choice and greater traveller independence, it’s vital to offer unique, values-based experiences which sustainable travellers can’t refuse.&nbsp;

3.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Broaden your customer base with options for all budgets



It is widely accepted that sustainable travel comes with a price premium, although those willing to pay varies across customer segments. Although some segments (like luxury travel and high-impact conservation) are seeing a boom, the global economic landscape is certainly impacting some travel behaviours. With inflation considered a primary issue impacting travel plans in the next 12 months, it’s vital to vary your offerings to suit budgets across traveller types. For example, whether a beach holiday or city break, emerging destinations are a fantastic opportunity to capture cost-conscious travellers who want to spend less, support local economies, and have authentic experiences. &nbsp; &nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Access our Star Brochure to get ahead of the competition with key emerging destinations for 2023 for a range of traveller types.&nbsp;

4.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Increase your credibility to increase customer loyalty&nbsp;


Travellers are more discerning than ever about greenwashing in tourism, the marketing of products or companies which claim to be sustainable without any evidence to support these claims. In fact, the World Economic Forum reported one of the main barriers for sustainable travellers is concern around the claims which travel companies make about the sustainability of their products.

By working with credible partners and offering packages and services which are proven or certified to be sustainable (like the Hotelbeds Green Hotels Programme), with transparency and good reporting, you will gain valuable customer loyalty and see travellers return to you for years to come, all the more important in an increasingly competitive market with travellers exercising more independence than ever before.


The important role travel distributors play in sustainable travel

Travel distributors play a crucial role in protecting the planet through sustainable offerings. As the demand increases for sustainable travel, with more people understanding that eco-friendly doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing luxury or comfort; travel distributors can certainly benefit from, and even lead the way in, these changing ideas around sustainable travel. After all, environmentalism is definitely not going anywhere, so make sure your travel business is primed and ready to help sustainable travellers protect and enjoy the planet for years to come.&nbsp;

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Ready to start selling sustainable experiences? Log in now.

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Ready to start selling sustainable experiences? Register now!
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