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

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


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The Best Places To Celebrate New Year’s Eve

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

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

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

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Key Hotel Terms Every Hotelier Should Learn

About Hostal Aravaca GardenOpened in 2008, Hostal Aravaca Garden is a hostel located in a residential area outside Madrid. This 25-room property was founded by Lucas Zori, who is also its director.&nbsp;Since the opening, Zori has observed an increased level of occupancy and improved margins, compared to other properties he worked in before.&nbsp;The previous experiences he had in both large hotels and smaller properties made him an expert in the hospitality and travel industry. Among other key tactics, he defined guests' segmentation, increased discounts, implemented campaigns and offers for various audiences, and rewarded agencies to get more bookings.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a result of his expertise in travel and partnering with key industry players, like Hotelbeds, Hostal Aravaca Garden maintains 100% average occupancy all year long.&nbsp;Hostal Aravaca Garden's partnership with HotelbedsAs a former Hotelbeds client, Zori knew that we were the ideal partner for this new project - a smaller, independent hostel.As Zori points out, our strength with agencies was a major factor in this partnership. Through our direct distribution to travel agencies, tour operators, and other B2B partners, Hotelbeds is able to provide his hostel with access to an extensive network of travel companies around the world. He didn't want to be dependent on only one OTA, which was cannibalising his sales and restricting his options. Zori wanted to experiment with new strategies and distribution channels for his property.&nbsp;Additionally, he noticed that South American markets had been booking at a higher level after the pandemic. Using guest segmentation, the hostel has been able to bring over 70% of its bookings through Hotelbeds from countries such as Colombia, Honduras, Peru, and many others. When it comes to segmentation, Zori states that Hotelbeds is a top seller: 'Some months, you generate more revenue than any other distribution channel.'Our Partner Extranet, one of Hotelbeds’ main strengths&nbsp;Through the partnership with Hotelbeds, Zori also has access to one of the most powerful partner extranets in the industry. After all the years Lucas Zori has worked with us to maximise occupancy of several properties - and now his own as well - he highlights Hotelbeds Partner Extranet&nbsp;as a crucial tool in his daily operations.&nbsp;'I'm very happy with your Partner Extranet. Compared to other extranets I use, yours is a step ahead. There is a functionality that I find very easy to use, which is the tabulator for editing availability and prices. On other platforms, I can’t tabulate when I want to upload rates.’&nbsp;&nbsp;In short, MaxiRoom is our hotel management tool that gives you full autonomy to manage your property. With MaxiRoom, you can manage your inventory, availability, rates, upload and update your hotel content, access the bookings list and your Hotelbeds contracts, check the status of your invoices, sign up for webinars, and more. All from a single platform.&nbsp;Why work with Hotelbeds?Until now, we have highlighted some of the main reasons Lucas Zori decided to continue working with us in his own property, after a long and successful career in travel.&nbsp;&nbsp;But, what’s in store for you? Joining us today will provide you with the following benefits:&nbsp;&nbsp;You'll have access to our portfolio of 60,000+ travel distributors. You’ll find over 50,000 travel agencies and 3,500 tour operators, plus more partners, including airlines, affiliates, and other businesses.&nbsp;You'll have global reach and are present in 190+ source markets. Whether you're interested in reaching long-haul travellers or a domestic audience, we assist you in gaining access to these markets.&nbsp;We won't compete with your direct channel. Hotelbeds distribute directly to travel agencies and other wholesalers in the travel industry. We ensure that they get to know you and include you in their travel packages.Forget about spending time and effort gaining visibility. We do it for you; simply tell us what markets you want to enter, and we'll connect you with agencies that operate in the market. &nbsp;Interested in joining us? Register your property here and start boosting your occupancy!

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Behind the Scenes: Hostal Aravaca Garden - A Success Story


It's no secret that the language used in the hospitality industry can be tricky sometimes. To help you better understand the main terminology, we've compiled this free, visual glossary for you.

In this resource, you'll find the main concepts explained&nbsp;simply. Also, we've included links to relevant resources to expand your knowledge on specific topics.&nbsp;

Get your copy now!
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[FREE GLOSSARY] The Main Hotel Terms Made Simple

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

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


Halloween season is undoubtedly one of the busiest travel periods of the year, as it brings a special charm to various destinations, both old and new. Whether your clients prefer a relaxing getaway or an exciting city adventure, there is a perfect destination for everyone to enjoy the festivities. From traditional celebrations to unique and thrilling experiences, destinations worldwide embrace the spirit of Halloween in their own remarkable ways.

Explore our suggestions below for some inspiring and thrilling destinations which are ideal for a seasonal getaway. We’ve outlined which destinations we think are perfect for key traveller types - which we cover in our article about key traveller types you should know - but it’s equally true that these destinations are ideal no matter who your clients are, for their cultural variety, attractive seasonal offerings and opportunities for any Halloween-lovers.

You can also access our vast portfolio of accommodation in our Booking Engine, which facilitates seamless booking from A-B, even if your clients want complex itineraries to make the most of this busy time of year, as a result of its integrated cross-selling functionality, and over 300,000 hotels to suit your clients every need this season.

If you’re not already signed up to join us at Hotelbeds, sign up today to access our vast global portfolio, offered exclusively to our Hotelbeds clients.&nbsp;

Log in today to access our global portfolio, and ensure you are capitalising on demand this Halloween.



The Experience Traveller

For travellers seeking a Halloween trip which is in keeping with the more traditional theme of Halloween as its known, with its legendary tales of ghouls, ghosts and much more, then these destinations offer perfect options to explore:

Transylvania&nbsp;

Travellers can be immersed in an unforgettable journey to the captivating landscape of Transylvania, Romania, where the infamous legend of Dracula unfolds. Treat them to a thrilling tour of the renowned Bran Castle, heralded as 'Dracula's Castle', where history and folklore intertwine to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Other notable destinations in Romania include the historic town of Sighișoara, recognised by UNESCO, as it is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who is said to have inspired the legend of Dracula. Additionally, the haunted forest of Hoia Baciu is a popular destination for those seeking ghostly encounters and reports of UFO sightings. For travellers looking to enjoy a lively nightlife, Bucharest offers extravagant costume parties that are sure to create a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can dance until dawn.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a multitude of opportunities for encountering the paranormal, whether it be through visiting the Edinburgh dungeons and exploring the intricate underground passages, or embarking on a ghost tour of the city - it’s a location with many facets and subcultures to enjoy!

A Ghost Bus experience is an exceptional opportunity to fully appreciate the city's grandeur while gaining a comprehensive understanding of its dark and eerie history. Additionally, for those who are interested in delving into the deeper roots of the holiday, the Samhuinn Fire Festival, held annually on Carlton Hill on October 31st, is a captivating ancient Celtic celebration that signifies the transition from summer to winter through a mesmerising display of flames.

Sleepy Hollow

Located just 35 miles north of the bustling New York City, Sleepy Hollow offers the perfect destination for Halloween enthusiasts. This legendary town, made famous by Washington Irving's iconic story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," can be easily accessed by a quick train ride from Grand Central Station. With attractions like the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze and evening productions of the famed ghost story itself, Sleepy Hollow promises an unforgettable Halloween experience.

Salem

Halloween is an incredibly significant event, and it would be remiss not to mention one of the most historically renowned locations associated with it. With a variety of captivating activities, from grand parades and musical events to hauntingly good marketplaces and witchy city tours, Salem offers an immersive experience for those seeking to indulge in all things Halloween. Additionally, there are numerous free events available, including pumpkin-decorating, seances, and even pet costume competitions.

Halloween in Salem is a month-long celebration, true to the Halloween spirit. Visitors are highly encouraged to embrace the festivities by dressing up in their best or most frightful costumes. Both locals and guests should fully engage in the 'spirit' of the event and showcase their most elaborate and haunting appearances.

Mexico

Of course, how could we not mention the spectacular and world-renowned celebrations that occur in Mexico around Halloween?&nbsp;

While there are some familiar traditions that occur on October 31st, such as parties, pumpkin carving, and trick or treating, Mexico's most significant celebration, the internationally recognised Dia de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, occurs on November 1st and 2nd.

It is imperative to bear in mind that this event is not a Halloween celebration, but rather a significant cultural event that acknowledges and commemorates the spirits of the departed as they briefly return from the afterlife. From the vibrantly adorned streets and vibrant costumes to the enchanting music and delectable cuisine, not to mention the local customs that vary from region to region, this is a time of joyful remembrance and celebration for the deceased.

Visitors have a multitude of opportunities to participate in this cultural event, with various forms and locations to choose from. A common and traditional way to celebrate is by attending cemeteries and adorning the graves of loved ones and friends with vibrant marigolds (cempazúchitl). Additionally, the town of Mixquic offers an unmissable experience, boasting centuries-old traditions for celebrating Dios de Los Muertos. In this pre-Hispanic town, the main event is the Alumbrada - the illumination of graveyards with thousands of candles.

Additionally, one of the most famously haunted locations in Mexico is the&nbsp;Isla de las Munecas, the&nbsp;Island of the Dolls, a chinampa of the Laguna de Tequila located in the channels of Xochimilco, south of the center of&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;City. With a tragic past attached to it, this location has drawn many visitors over the years, seeking to determine whether the dolls are indeed haunted by the spirit of the little girl said to have motivated the creation of this island.

Our portfolio offers a vast array of accommodation to suit all traveller types, and is only accessible to our valuable clients.&nbsp;Sign up today&nbsp;to access a wealth of properties to cater to any traveller need.

Our portfolio offers a vast array of accommodation to suit all traveller types, and is only accessible to our valuable clients. Log in to access a wealth of properties to cater to any traveller need.



The Conscious Traveller&nbsp;

For conscientious travellers who wish to engage with local communities or enjoy a tranquil, nature-oriented getaway, we have curated a selection of ideal destinations.&nbsp;

Slovakia

Orava Castle, situated by the banks of the Orava River in Slovakia, is renowned for its role as the eerie setting in the classic vampire film Nosferatu. Exploring the castle through a guided tour is the perfect opportunity to appreciate its rich history with its 154 rooms and approximately 660 stairs. For those who have a passion for horror and want to indulge in the world of ghosts and vampire legends, while also minimising the impact on the environment, this destination is ideal. In addition, Slovakia presents numerous breathtaking hiking trails and beautiful towns and villages to discover, such as Bratislava and Košice as well as&nbsp;the High Tatras mountains.

Belgium

Consider offering your clients a seasonal hike in the stunning Hoge Kempen National Park;&nbsp;a&nbsp;nature reserve offering breathtaking heathlands, woodlands, and unique landscapes. Additionally, during Halloween, the park organises a one-of-a-kind Halloween hike, allowing guests to explore its deep, mystical depths and trails.

The Caves of Han in Han-sur-Lesse provide an authentic and unique experience for travellers who seek to embrace the natural world. As night falls, visitors have the opportunity to explore the extensive network of underground tunnels, immersing themselves in the mysterious atmosphere and discovering the essence of 'Hanlloween'.

In addition, Belgium can be easily reached by train from various locations in mainland Europe and the UK, making it an ideal destination for environmentally conscious travellers located in Europe in particular, who are seeking a memorable Halloween experience.



The City-Loving Traveller

Japan

Halloween has become a significant event in Japan, despite its relatively recent adoption by the culture. It is now one of the biggest events in the calendar. Unlike other countries, Halloween in Japan does not include traditional activities like trick or treating. However, this provides Halloween-lovers with a unique opportunity to fully embrace the terrifying, cute, and eccentric aspects of this celebration.

During Halloween in Japan, the focus is on showcasing creativity through costumes. It is very common for visitors to witness events such as zombie runs, flash mobs, and street parties, which add to the vibrant atmosphere as the city immerses itself in paranormal celebration.

Roppongi Hills and Shibuya in Tokyo are known for hosting some of the most vibrant and lively street parties and celebrations. The energetic atmosphere at Shibuya Crossing and Center Gai attracts a large crowd, and the festivities continue well into the early hours. In Ikebukuro, a prominent center for Japan's anime culture, the costumes revolve around manga and anime characters, adding a unique twist to the celebrations. Additionally, party trains are a common sight in Japan, especially in its bustling cities, adding to the excitement of the festivities.

Paris

Paris, renowned for its elegant luxury and rich artistic culture, also boasts a more macabre side and is known in particular for its vast cemeteries serving as the final resting places for cultural figures such as Oscar Wilde, Frédéric Chopin, and Edith Piaf.

A fantastic way to celebrate Halloween would be to visit the Paris Catacombs. With approximately six million intricately arranged skeletons creating a chilling labyrinth beneath the city, this location offers an exhilarating and historically significant experience for the holiday. Père Lachaise Cemetery is also widely regarded as the most haunted cemetery in Paris, and for those seeking a truly terrifying encounter, Le Manoir de Paris is considered the city's most haunted house, featuring themed rooms and immersive encounters with actors.

For a more family-friendly and enjoyable experience with beloved characters, Disneyland Paris is a highly sought-after destination during this season. Each year, the park transforms into a festive wonderland and hosts spectacular parades that cater to all ages. Make sure not to miss out on thrilling attractions like the Tower of Terror and the Phantom Manor! Due to high demand, tickets for Disneyland during Halloween sell out quickly, so we strongly advise visitors to book well in advance to ensure they can experience the magic.

New Orleans

Travellers to New Orleans will undoubtedly be delighted by the abundance of Halloween parties. However, this culturally and historically significant destination also provides an exceptional chance to delve into its more macabre traditions. We highly recommend that you encourage your clients to take advantage of the opportunity to visit unique museums such as the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, the Museum of Death, or Bloody Mary's Haunted Museum. Furthermore, they can deepen their understanding of the city's dark past by participating in a guided tour.

The Mortuary is a must, as a historic 150-year-old Victorian mansion that has been transformed into a haunted house. Additionally, travellers should witness the incredible Krewe of Boo Halloween Parade, featuring captivating marching bands and performers along an impressive 4.8km route.&nbsp;

London

For luxury travellers seeking a metropolis teeming with eerie and petrifying tales of the past, look no further than the hauntingly spectacular city of London! With its array of macabre attractions and vibrant festivities, London caters to the desires of your urban-loving clientele.

In addition to the numerous parties and celebrations that cater to Halloween enthusiasts throughout the night, there are also alternative options such as the renowned Ghost Bus Tour and the opportunity to delve into London's gruesome past at the London Dungeons. Haunted and mysterious walking tours, visits to historically haunted pubs, and explorations of iconic landmarks like Hampton Court Palace and the Tower of London provide insights into their dark and illustrious histories; Hyde Park, while tranquil on the surface, also offers London’s largest pet cemetery for a more macabre sight-seeing activity. There are countless opportunities in the UK’s capital!

Our clients have exclusive access to our global portfolio, wherein accommodation, experiences, transfers and more are available to discerning travellers across the globe.&nbsp;Sign up today&nbsp;to expand your offering to this valuable segment of travellers.



The Luxury Traveller

New York City

During Halloween New York City becomes a vibrant hub of glittering parties, ghoulish extravaganzas, and enchanting night-time celebrations, creating the perfect opportunity to indulge as the veil between worlds grows thin and mystery fills the air. From the renowned Greenwich Village Parade, attracting large celebratory crowds, to strolling through the streets of the Upper East Side adorned with breathtaking, over-the-top decorations, the city is a feast for the senses at this time of year.

Orlando

For a thrilling and unforgettable experience, Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights is a must for travellers of any age group.. This event offers your clients the opportunity to confront their deepest fears as iconic movie sets are transformed into horrifying mazes and scare zones. With each park offering unique and age-appropriate events, there's something for everyone to enjoy during the Halloween season.

Disney World and Universal Studios&nbsp;are widely recognised as some of the most popular Halloween destinations in the world, and undoubtedly warrant a generous budget to fully immerse visitors in its lavish and themed offerings. They are an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking a luxurious, family-friendly experience that pulls out all the stops. It is crucial to advise clients to secure their bookings well in advance, as Halloween 2024 will arrive sooner than they think…

Aspen

Located in the picturesque mountains of Colorado, Aspen offers a Halloween experience that belies its small size, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a luxurious but seasonal getaway. Families can partake in a delightful trick-or-treat event at the local firehouse, while those seeking a more exclusive affair can celebrate all night at the private Caribou Club, which opens its doors to all guests only on this special occasion. Naturally, costumes are a must!&nbsp;

For those who enjoy traditional Halloween activities, a ghoulish walking tour followed by a meal at one of Aspen's exceptional dining establishments is a fantastic option for celebrating the holiday!


Did you know that we run promotions throughout the year, that allow our clients to maximise the opportunities that come along with seasonal events like Halloween? Offering incentivising prices to travel during these busy periods is one of the best ways to capitalise on demand, and ensure you’re not losing potential customers to your competition.&nbsp;

The best way to access these deals is to sign up today and become one of our valued clients.

Not only will you receive timely, personalised campaign recommendations based on your market, but also a vast global portfolio with thousands of hotels and ancillary products designed to help you curate your clients’ best trip yet.

Log in today to access thousands of hotels and ancillary products to curate your customers’ most spine-chilling Halloween yet.
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The Best Halloween Destinations for Key Traveller Types

Small and independent hotels may operate differently from larger chains, but that doesn't mean they can't thrive in today's competitive travel landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this article, we'll explore how small hoteliers can enhance their business by becoming part of our TravelTech ecosystem at Hotelbeds. Whether you're already familiar with our offerings or just getting started, we're here to show you how we can support your growth.&nbsp;&nbsp;So, read on to discover why improving your distribution strategy is crucial and how Hotelbeds can be your game-changing partner.&nbsp;Why Small Hoteliers Need to Improve Their Distribution StrategyUndoubtedly, one of the biggest challenges for small hotels is to become visible to potential guests and to compete with large chains, which typically have strong brand positioning. However, this doesn't mean you can't carve out a niche for yourself if you're a small or independent hotelier.&nbsp;A typical strategy is to reduce your prices to become more attractive. In the long run, however, this isn't the best initiative to implement. It's also possible that you rely on a single distribution channel, such as an OTA (Online Travel Agency), but this isn't recommended either. Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket.&nbsp;The key is to combine technology with marketing tactics, and to think outside the box. In this article, we'll cover how you can benefit from expanding your distribution channels&nbsp;by joining Hotelbeds.&nbsp;Hotelbeds can be a game-changing partner for your small or independent property. Even if you lack an expansive sales team, channel managers, or marketing teams, we provide tech solutions to maximise your visibility, reach and revenue in the markets you're interested in. Want to learn more? Keep reading!&nbsp;How Can Small and Independent Hotels Maximise Their Distribution Strategy?Joining Hotelbeds offers many benefits. Discover some of them below.&nbsp;Access to 66,000+ Potential PartnersBuilding strategic partnerships with other industry players is crucial for your business. Expanding your network can enhance your property's visibility and distribution. This network can include tourism boards, travel agencies, airlines, tour operators, and more.&nbsp;However, building these relationships can be time-consuming, especially for small hoteliers. Then, how can you boost your visibility to stand out from competitors like large chains?&nbsp;Hotelbeds can help you to address this issue.&nbsp;One of the main advantages of working with us, is that you don’t need to work individually with every player. We ensure that travel agencies and other wholesalers in relevant regions get to know you and include you in their travel packages. By partnering with us, your property can benefit from increased visibility without spending a lot of time and effort. We do it for you: simply tell us what markets you are interested in entering, and we'll place you in front of the right customers, at the right time.&nbsp;Upon registration, you'll be assigned a personal Account Manager. They'll help you to manage market demand, distribute your rooms, and establish relationships with partners.&nbsp;For instance, if you aim to enter the Canadian market, you won't have to individually approach Canadian travel agencies. With Hotelbeds, you gain immediate access to over 60,000 travel distributors, streamlining the process and giving you greater control over distribution throughout the year.&nbsp;Reduced Cancellation RatesEmpty rooms mean less revenue, which is especially critical for small and independent hotels, since every booking counts. High cancellation rates can be frustrating for you.&nbsp;But don’t worry: we’ve got you covered here, too!&nbsp;Hotelbeds are proud to provide long-haul, high-value guests who rarely cancel last-minute. These guests often come from overseas, invest significant time and money on their trips, and are more likely to keep their bookings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Manage Your Property with Our Powerful Partner ExtranetHotelbeds boasts one of the travel industry's most powerful extranets. This all-in-one hotel management tool offers real-time autonomy for various tasks:&nbsp;Manage your rates, availability and bookings: View and change your availability across rate and room types. Also, quickly update your availability and prices across multiple rates and room types, all in one easy process.&nbsp;Upload and update your hotel content: Get access to an intuitive content manager with a user-friendly interface to maximise the quality of your content.&nbsp;View reports and get access to a global dashboard with a snapshot of today’s arrivals, bookings and cancellations, as well as competitor comparisons.&nbsp;See finance information: Including the status of your invoices, Hotelbeds contracts, etc.&nbsp;Find main points of contact with relevant departments to help you.&nbsp;Furthermore, the more details you provide about your property and rooms, the better the tool will perform and benefit you. For example, if you have sustainable initiatives, make sure you highlight them. Sustainable tourism is a current industry trend, and we want to help you communicate your efforts in this matter.&nbsp;In addition, integrating our partner extranet with your channel manager improves rate optimisation. You can project rates and availability for key campaigns several months or years in advance without additional tools. Hotelbeds is compatible with most channel manager options, including Cloudbeds, HiRUM, and RoomCloud.&nbsp;See how our Partner Portal benefits hoteliers like you: 'I'm very happy with Hotelbeds Partner Extranet. Compared to other extranets I use, yours is a step ahead. There is a functionality that I find very easy to use, which is the tabulator for editing availability and prices. On other platforms, I can’t tabulate when I want to upload rates.' - Lucas Zori, owner of Hostal Aravaca Garden.Better Data ManagementLeveraging business data can seem challenging, but it's essential for making informed decisions. While larger hotels often have dedicated data analysts, smaller and independent properties may lack this resource.&nbsp;At Hotelbeds, we prioritise data and help you harness your data lake. We offer data forecasting to identify demand trends and customer origins quickly. By joining us, you'll be able to turn data into actionable insights from the first day.&nbsp;In conclusion, these are just a few of the benefits you'll enjoy once you join Hotelbeds. We've been a global leader in the traveltech industry for decades, with extensive knowledge of our dynamic sector and how small hoteliers can thrive. If you're ready to register for free and take advantage of our tailored services and products, designed to meet the needs of each type of hotel, you can register your property here.&nbsp;As a bonus, find below a free copy of our guide&nbsp;'Understanding Hotel Distribution Channels', where we unlock everything you need to know about distribution channels, their advantages, drawbacks, and considerations for defining your hotel's distribution strategy. Download it now!

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Hotel Distribution for Small Hotels: 4 Effective Methods To Try

With this visual checklist, you'll discover how to increase your property's occupancy rate - even in low or off-season! From strategic pricing to hosting events and hotel marketing techniques, you will learn practical techniques.

Get your free checklist now, and stop worrying about low bookings. From now on, you'll have a wider range of tactics to choose from.&nbsp;


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[CHECKLIST] 10 Proven Ways to Boost Your Hotel Occupancy in Low Season

This article was originally published to align with World Tourism Day, but the discussion around how tourism impacts people around the world, the planet, and the prosperity of the industry as a whole is critical to engage with on an ongoing basis.&nbsp;When we think about travel, and the travel industry as a whole, it’s evident that the notion of ‘being a force for good’ - allowing travel to thrive without compromising people or places - has become an increasing priority. This point is coming ever-clearer into focus as traveller profiles evolve, and as we look to the future.&nbsp;This World Tourism Day, it’s even more apparent that we need to continue to be responsible. To hold in high regard the impact of travel on people and the planet, and the prosperity that comes when these factors align.&nbsp;&nbsp;In fact, ‘people, prosperity and planet’ is one of the key themes of this year’s World Tourism Day; and the United Nations World Travel Organisation (UNWTO), alongside worldwide travel players, identify that travel must continue to offer opportunities for the people involved in tourism, while also continually being in accordance with the pressing sustainability goals which will allow travel and tourism to remain in existence.&nbsp;But what is World Tourism Day, and why is it a great stepping stone for thought-leadership when it comes to travel?&nbsp;World Tourism Day is an annual event in the travel calendar, where we - as travel players - think about the impact of tourism as a whole on the world: in social, cultural, environmental and economic ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;This year, we’re thinking about what happens when travel is the force for good that facilitates many ways of travelling, and industry-wide considerations and structures, that are beneficial for the people involved at every stage, the prosperity of the industry in the long run, and the planet itself as the most important factor in this equation. Though there are countless ways the travel industry can achieve this, we think there are a number of key considerations that lend themselves to the themes for this World Tourism Day for 'people, prosperity, planet'.&nbsp;Striking A Balance With AI&nbsp;In a world where generative AI is making the headlines multiple times a week for as many reasons as there are days in said week, and carving all-new routes and paths for the travel industry to push forwards deeper into tech-focused solutions for travel sellers and end travelers alike, we think it’s important not to lose sight of the people involved in the travel process.&nbsp;It’s suggested that a staggering 71% of customers expect personalised service&nbsp;and therefore personalised interactions as standard when engaging with a business, which is certainly not a figure to take lightly. With 75% customers frustrated if they aren’t offered personalised service, and 76% suggesting that receiving personalised service is a key factor in their consideration of a business, this arguably proves that human-centric communication for customers is still critical to building a positive relationship between seller and consumer.&nbsp;&nbsp;For instance, the 2023 consumer research survey from the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) discovered that 50% of travellers are now more likely to use a travel agent since the pandemic. While this was previously as a result of needing more information regarding changing safety protocols during COVID-19, it is now also an example of the increasing importance of this type of human-centric customer-business relationship to consumers.&nbsp;However, catering to tech and AI, as one of the biggest trends in travel, is undoubtedly key for businesses who don’t want to be left behind.&nbsp;&nbsp;Human-centric solutions have always been at the forefront of our business model, but it’s certainly not to suggest that TravelTech is not the way forward: with the implementation of vast metaverses available to citizens and travelers, such as the Japanese metaverse economic zone; the use of generative AI at nearly every step of the pre- and post-booking stages; the incorporation of virtual reality during the travel decision-making process seen in examples such as Hotelverse; and even autonomous taxis arriving onto the transportation scene and disrupting the traditional transfer business.&nbsp;&nbsp;Technology, especially within the travel industry, is forging ahead into unprecedented areas, and it’s vital that businesses at every point in the travel ecosystem are keeping up with the resulting customer expectations that increasing implementation of technology will bring.&nbsp;&nbsp;From cloud-based tech solutions and intelligent algorithms that make our booking platforms that much more intuitive, to our TravelTech Lab initiative which collaborates with the most innovative TravelTech startups to push the industry further, it’s our mission at Hotelbeds to strike a firm balance between the power of TravelTech and the connections that being a technology-forward organisation brings, but also with the significant power of keeping things grounded in human-focused connection.&nbsp;We do this by combining the importance of offering locally-owned tours and experiences as part of our vast global portfolio, with the practice of curating and maintaining knowledgeable sourcing teams on the ground in trending destinations worldwide. This is just one of the many ways that we’re striking a balance with human-centric approach and the increasing implementation of AI and other game-changing types of traveltech.&nbsp;Learn more about the TravelTech Lab by Hotelbeds here!&nbsp;&nbsp;Why Do We Ask AI ‘What Is The Future of Travel?’The argument could also feasibly be made that Artificial Intelligence is as beneficial as the people who create it, and the human input that platforms like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Bard and Microsoft’s Bing Chat receive. So in this case, the people involved in the travel industry are still the drivers here; still the ones who don’t need to rely on asking non-sentient machines what the future of travel is.&nbsp;&nbsp;We know where the future of travel is taking us - it’s into a landscape where we can protect our planet with sustainable practices, ensure that economies in destinations who rely on tourism thrive as a result of tourism that gives back, and where we as travel players need to lead the way by decarbonising operations.&nbsp;To get there, it’s important that we use human initiative combined with the use of innovative TravelTech that builds better, faster connections between travel distributors and the final traveller, and between travel distributors themselves. Focusing on the people at each stage of the travel industry is just as critical as understanding how technology can help travel distributors better meet and serve the needs of travellers themselves.&nbsp;There are undeniable benefits of TravelTech: virtual reality tours pre-booking and in-destination, augmented reality overlaid onto real-life destinations to offer increasingly engaged cultural experiences, better customer service thanks to AI platforms and customer-facing generative AI. But there are also the very real implications of using real-life customer data in a way that can cause friction - seen as an example recently with the use of facial recognition by an airline during the booking process, designed to discourage the use of online travel agents and third party booking platforms, and the subsequent questions of data security this raised.&nbsp;So here is where alignment becomes key: human-centric industry practices, which focus on the people (whether that is the end traveller, the local economies, or the individual travel distributors at every stage of the chain), facilitated by innovative travel technology which furthers the implementation of sustainability as the core principle in the industry.&nbsp;Sign up today to become&nbsp;one of our valuable clients, and join a global network of travel distributors facilitating a landscape where travel is a force for good.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sustainable Travel For All&nbsp;We’ve all seen the recent incidents where our planet continues to change before our eyes as a result of climate change - wildfires, crumbling coastlines, drought, flooding, vibrant species disappearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Naturally, the arrival of groundbreaking green technology is of course, a game-changer in this sphere, especially when as much as 8% of global CO2 emissions are produced nowadays by activities in the tourism sector - transportation, construction, catering, services, land promotion activities, etc. Green technology such as&nbsp;operational systems which control energy management; online check-in, digitised communications technology, renewable sources of energy, and artificial intelligence solutions that reduce food waste in the hospitality industry.&nbsp;Of course, there is no one solution that will alter the course of climate change. But by ensuring that sustainability is the main pillar from which travel opportunities are created in line with, it's a key way that we can continue travel being a force for good not just for the planet, but for the people all over the world.&nbsp;Sustainability, then, needs to champion things like:Renewable energy A focus on public transport such as trains, to reduce tourism’s impact on carbon emissionsSustainable aviation fuelsPlastic-free initiatives in hotels, accommodation, and travel hopitality around the world to reduce plastic wasteA reduction in the harmful impacts of cruise ship pollution by focusing on greener practices to minimise the significant damage that this industry does to the planet&nbsp;However, sustainable travellers are understandably choosy with where they put their money. Support will only come for travel programmes and experiences that are authentically engaged with not only a more eco-conscious way of travelling, but the local communities and ecosystems in their destination of choice.&nbsp;We also have previously explored the importance of plastic-free initiatives to today’s traveller, insights into how this can become part of every travel distributors’ strategy and offering and why this is so important.&nbsp;For instance, our time-saving booking platform allows travel distributors to easily filter for ‘Sustainable Hotels’, in order to more easily identify the listings that have been categorised as eco-friendly, plastic-free or renewable!&nbsp;&nbsp;Sign up today to become one of many travel distributors working to promote a more sustainable travel industry!&nbsp;&nbsp;Tourism That Benefits Local CommunitiesIntrinsic to the idea of travel as a force for good is the understanding that sustainable travel doesn’t just mean renewable energy, carbon neutral practices or reducing plastic waste.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintaining a stable, successful economy is also a large part of what we mean by sustainable travel, which is more important than ever as we consider that travellers are seeking to ‘get off the beaten path’, as this will begin to place demand on local economies that may not yet be equipped to handle higher levels of tourism.&nbsp;Sustainable travel as a method is an essential factor in ensuring that local economies around the world continue to thrive off tourism, rather than facing the challenges that come with issues like ‘overtourism’ and ‘undertourism’.&nbsp;Of these, ‘overtourism’ is a significant challenge faced by many local economies around the world - especially as tourist arrivals reached 80% of pre-COVID levels in the first quarter of 2023, with an estimated 235m tourists travelling internationally during that time.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is most negatively impactful in destinations that were not initially designed for tourism, such as Venice, Barcelona, Bali, Greece, Rome, Amsterdam, Thailand and many more ‘hotspots’, and where an excess of people puts massive strain on the natural environments, the local economy and the people living there.&nbsp;Alternatively, the opposite is also true, where ‘undertourism’ can be seen in destinations that have a higher capacity for tourism but are seeing low demand - especially post-pandemic. When travellers visit lesser-known or lesser-frequented destinations, this brings in huge revenue and opportunity for growth for the local communities, and working with local tourist boards to promote destinations that would benefit from increased exposure and tourism levels, can help to ensure you’re facilitating travel that benefits the destinations in question, rather than creating strain or negatively impacting the local communities there. This is one of the most important ways that travel can, and must, become more sustainable for all involved - not just the end traveller.&nbsp;&nbsp;With regards to sustainable, ethical travel, here is where the work of organisations like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is so important - and where travel players just like us at Hotelbeds can lead the way in terms of our collaboration with GSTC as we continue working closely with tourism enterprises in destinations to actively adopt recognised GSTC standards and promote sustainable tourism as part of our relationships with these stakeholders.&nbsp;Discover more about our Environmental, Social and Governance commitments here.&nbsp;Another key way to create a culture of sustainable travel, for the communities in destinations themselves, is by advocating the benefits of out of season travel, or ‘shoulder’ seasons as a travel distributor. Travellers are also more engaged with slow travel and authentic experiences, and visiting destinations that are equipped and welcoming of higher levels of tourism, or visiting a destination during quieter times in the year, allows travellers to get a more in-depth look at their destination of choice, satisfying the growing need the industry is seeing in travellers for deeper connection when they travel.&nbsp;Experience Tourism And AuthenticityAround 43% of global travellers are willing to spend more on trips that have a reduced impact on the environment. The sustainable traveller is not just one of the most important in the market today, considering the necessity of sustainability as a pillar within the industry, but they’re also high spending.&nbsp;This, of course, is a massive incentive for travel distributors to actively accommodate and appeal to sustainable travellers because a higher spending segment means more opportunities to boost revenue during the booking process.&nbsp;&nbsp;But catering to more ethical travel is key not only for the potential revenue that it will bring travel sellers, but also for the way that this brings local communities to the forefront of the experience tourism sector, just as they should be.&nbsp;Many businesses are incorporating an intrinsically human element to their offerings, working with local citizens in communities supported by tourism to create authentic experiences for visitors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some tour providers, for instance, work with local hosts to offer genuine connection to travellers, inviting guests to share a meal with their hosts and learn about their culture and share their own in the process. By working closely with local communities, the money generated by tourism stays within the community where it is most needed. This therefore reduces the common occurrence of tourism ‘leakage’, where the money generated by tourism doesn’t stay within the local economy but is funneled away from the area.&nbsp;Ethical tourism which benefits local communities is a sustainable model, creating an ecosystem designed to support and benefit local communities and cultural practices, furthering the stability of the local economies and ensuring that these are destinations we can continue to explore and enjoy for years to come.&nbsp;Our Impact At HotelbedsOf course, we wouldn’t want to talk about the importance of sustainable practices within the industry that positively impact both the people involved at every stage of the travel ecosystem, and the planet itself, without taking a lead on initiatives that help to do just that.&nbsp;As part of our ongoing dedication to demonstrate by action our own alignment with the GSTC’s recognised standards, and to our own environmental, social and governmental (ESG) commitments, we wanted to outline a few key ways that we are supporting our clients and partners in their aims, operating with transparency and inspire other like minded organisations to take up the mantle:6,855 Volunteer Hours - contributed by 701 employees€5,000 Raised – for Syrian and Turkish earthquake relief efforts25 Pallets of Clothing – collected for victims of the earthquake600 Room Nights – set aside to house 180 displaced Ukrainian citizens37,918 Properties – in our growing Sustainable Hotels portfolioHybrid Vehicles – offered in more global cities by the end of 20232,583 Cultural Tours – available in our Booking Engine1,480 Nature and Wildlife Activities – to encourage engagement with the natural worldSafari, Reforestation and Sanctuary Experiences – available for our clients to bookPurposeful Pause – space for employees to discuss important topics, such as financial well-beingHealth Month – promoting employee wellbeing via yoga sessions, meditation and more&nbsp;There is always more to be done, but our mission is to ensure that our actions continue to have positive impacts on the world of travel, the people involved, and the ecosystems that we want to ensure that we and the travellers of tomorrow can continue to explore.&nbsp;Sign up today to become our client and take your business even further into a forward-thinking ecosystem of travel distributors!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Why Human-Centric Tourism Is So Important For The Travel Industry

It's undeniable that tourism plays a significant role in the global economy. In a world where travel is becoming increasingly accessible, statistics show that tourism will continue its strong growth in the coming decade. This power also comes with great responsibility, as it's one of the sectors with the most impact on the environment, society, and the economy.&nbsp;With this in mind, we celebrate World Tourism Day on September 27th. This is certainly an ideal day to reflect on the present and future of our industry, and the role we all play in creating a better world for tomorrow.&nbsp;This year, at Hotelbeds, we focus on sustainable tourism, a necessary discussion that will help us explore which actions we can implement to redefine our sector's future.&nbsp;As a hotelier, you undoubtedly play a vital role in this. That's why, throughout this article, we provide you with different recommendations on how to actively participate in sustainable tourism and lead the way.&nbsp;The Importance of Sustainability for HoteliersAs we mentioned earlier, hoteliers are key players in the tourism industry. A clear example of this is when a destination becomes popular, leading hotel companies to establish themselves there and offer new accommodation options. This has a significant impact on that region in particular.&nbsp;That's why it's essential to consider how you implement your projects and initiatives, also from a sustainable perspective.According to Booking.com's 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, at least 74% of travellers want travel companies, including hotels, to provide more sustainable choices. Additionally, 65% of respondents stated that they would feel better about paying for accommodation with a sustainable certification or label.&nbsp;Sustainable tourism and ethical hotel development are now more interconnected than ever, playing a crucial role in preserving local culture and socio-economic stability. This is why hotels are instrumental in educating guests about sustainable behaviours and adopting operational practices aligned with sustainability best practices.&nbsp;For instance, at Hotelbeds, we have seen growing interest and bookings from hotels that implement sustainable actions. Through our Sustainable&nbsp;Hotels Programme, we offer you a unique opportunity to showcase your sustainability initiatives, such as reducing plastic usage.&nbsp;Currently, there are over 38,000 properties certified as sustainable. We've also observed a significant 30% increase in bookings over the past 12 months, demonstrating the rising demand for sustainable accommodation. This represents a fantastic opportunity to position yourself prominently within our portfolio of more than 60,000 travel distributors.&nbsp;If you're already a Hotelbeds partner and are interested in the programme, you can easily join following the next steps:&nbsp;Log&nbsp;into Hotelbeds Partner Portal&nbsp;Select&nbsp;'Hotel Info'&nbsp;Click&nbsp;'About Hotel' and scroll&nbsp;to the 'Things to Keep in Mind' section&nbsp;Check&nbsp;the 'Single-use Plastic Free' box&nbsp;If you're not yet registered with Hotelbeds, we’ve got you covered. You can register for free here and soon will have the opportunity to join the Sustainable Hotels Programme.&nbsp;Additionally, it isn't only guests who are becoming increasingly interested in hotels' sustainability initiatives. According to a report by HotelTechReport, investors concerned about this topic also take into account the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework when deciding whether to invest in a property.&nbsp;The ESG framework helps investors better understand how the hotel company protects or neglects nature, treats its employees and the local community, and adheres to ethical business practices. Specifically, the ESG framework revolves around three pillars:&nbsp;Environmental: Initiatives related to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.&nbsp;Social: Company policies regarding health and wellness, diversity and inclusion, and fair labour practices.&nbsp;Governance: The company's ethical business practices, diversity of the board of directors, and adherence to laws and regulations.&nbsp;In conclusion, it's evident that committing to sustainable initiatives is no longer an option but essential to remain an attractive choice for both guests and investors.Hotel Sustainability Best Practices You Can't MissAs we've just discussed, it's vital to contribute to sustainable tourism. However, many hotels still struggle with how to put sustainability into practice. Hence, below you'll find a variety of options to adopt sustainable initiatives (or continue doing so).TransportTransport is one of the key elements to consider when promoting sustainable practices. It's imperative to recommend, whenever possible, public transport to reach your hotel.&nbsp;By using options such as trains or buses, it significantly reduces carbon emissions and decreases the number of vehicles on the road, thus improving air quality.&nbsp;In your communication channels, such as your website, you can provide detailed information about the different transport options available to reach your property. For example, you can include links to the national/public train company's website (e.g., Renfe in Spain or FS Italiane in Italy) to help potential guests find the most convenient routes to your hotel. The same applies to other modes of transport, such as the metro, intercity buses, or local bus services.&nbsp;Food ProvisionWithin the hotel, there are also many actions you can take to promote sustainability with your resources. To begin with, in our comprehensive article on plastic-free initiatives for hotels, you can explore many ideas for promoting plastic-free products' usage, such as reusable shampoo and gel dispensers, or eliminating plastic water bottles, among others.&nbsp;Beyond actions related to plastic use, there are other ideas that can make a significant difference to your property:&nbsp;If you have a buffet-style restaurant, manage your resources optimally. Promote local and seasonal products in the hotel's restaurant. If you are noticing a great deal of food waste every day, consider making donations to local food banks, rather than throwing it away. This way, you can directly contribute to your local community.Another fantastic option that can be quite profitable is partnering with companies like Too Good To Go. This is an app that combats food waste in supermarkets, bakeries, and hotels, among other establishments. Hotel chains such as Radisson Hotel Group, NH Hotel Group, and ILUNION Hotels have already established alliances, giving surplus breakfast buffet food a second chance.&nbsp;Another way to make a positive impact is by recommending local restaurants (instead of multinational chains) known for using local and seasonal products. It's an excellent opportunity for your guests to experience the region's products, discover what the region has to offer, and contribute to the economic development of the area.&nbsp;You can also consider growing your own food and having an organic seasonal garden. For example, the TUI Blue Oceanis Beach hotel in Kos offers guests the opportunity to enjoy products grown on-site at Oceanis Farm. Since its establishment in 2012, the farm has expanded significantly and now provides high-quality food for the hotel's buffet.&nbsp;To reach as many potential guests as possible, it's crucial to effectively communicate the actions your property is taking. Make them visible on your website or in digital content created for social media or newsletters. This will let future guests know about your commitment to sustainable practices.Promoting Sustainable Local Economic DevelopmentSustainable tourism also requires that you take into account the economic development of the local community where your property is located.&nbsp;Promoting sustainable actions should include efforts to ensure that tourism generates wealth for area residents. This can be achieved by:&nbsp;Integrating the local population into your hotel activities, creating employment directly and indirectly.&nbsp;Establishing collaborations with local agencies, hiring local guides and native agents.&nbsp;Promoting&nbsp;staff training in your hotels to help them acquire new skills for the future, ensuring you have a more prepared and efficient team. These training sessions help create better job opportunities, as employees are taught exactly what they need to know to perform their tasks perfectly.&nbsp;Seeking partnerships with other entrepreneurs who share social and environmental values. They promote projects that add value to both themselves and their surrounding communities.&nbsp;Several hotels have demonstrated commitment to these causes, such as the following:&nbsp;Marriott Hotels &amp; Resorts have announced a commitment to achieve gender parity in executive roles by 2023, with 25% of executive roles held by people of colour. It's also planned to have 3,000 properties owned by women and people of colour by 2025, according to Marriott.&nbsp;As part of its RiseHY programme, Hyatt has committed to hiring 10,000 ’opportunity youth’ between the ages of 16 and 24 by 2025.&nbsp;Sol y Mar Hoteles Group has signed an agreement with social startup Gravity Wave to remove nearly six tons of plastic from the Mediterranean. They will collect and recycle one kilogram of plastic from the sea for every booking made on their website.Respect for Culture, Heritage, and the EnvironmentOne of the major challenges in the industry is that it may lead to tourist 'massification', the loss of local identity and culture.&nbsp;Examples of this can be seen in cities such as Venice and Barcelona, where there is an excess of tourism almost all year round. As a result, authorities have implemented various policies to regulate the flow of tourists, especially in peak tourist seasons.&nbsp;As a hotelier, what can you do to raise awareness among your guests about the importance of respecting local cultures and heritage?&nbsp;Whenever your front desk staff recommends places to guests, encourage them to mention less known but still interesting options. This is an effective way to ensure that certain overcrowded spots have fewer visitors, allowing the crowd to disperse more evenly throughout the territory.&nbsp;Leverage the growing demand for ecotourism and experiences that allow travellers to connect with local traditions, crafts, music, art, and culinary practices. There's a rising trend of travellers seeking immersive encounters with local cultural heritage, contributing to the preservation of unique identities and traditions.&nbsp;Encourage your guests to learn a few words in the local language. Language is part of a destination's heritage, and it's an excellent way for guests to immerse themselves in the culture they are visiting. For instance, you could provide small cards with basic words and FAQs in the local language to give to your guests during check-in. Beyond communication, learning how to greet and express simple things like 'thanks' in the local language shows a willingness to better understand the culture and people.&nbsp;When recommending tourism companies for tours, tastings, or other activities, make sure they respect the area's natural and cultural heritage. This might include limiting the number of participants and emphasising the importance of conserving the environment.&nbsp;Avoid promoting or maintaining agreements with companies that offer experiences involving shows with animals, such as shark diving tours or elephant rides. Such practices often involve animal exploitation.Instead, consider supporting ethical animal tourism, such as rehabilitation and rescue centres or sanctuaries. These organisations educate visitors and reinvest their revenue in further rehabilitation or rescues. Look for centres that aim to reintroduce animals into the wild, as this provides visitors with a valuable educational experience and supports ethical animal tourism.Final Thoughts on Sustainable Initiatives for Your HotelWe hope this article has shed some light on how to implement sustainable initiatives that contribute to a more conscious and responsible tourism industry.Hoteliers have a significant opportunity – and challenge&nbsp;– to be at the forefront of this paradigm shift. There is a growing interest in the sustainable tourism movement among the younger generations. This indicates the direction that guests' needs will take in the future.As you can see, there are many options for incorporating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. Numerous hotels are already making efforts to become more sustainable and ensure ethical impacts. However, it's worthwhile to remember that it's still okay not to meet all sustainability criteria 100%. What truly matters is your intention and focus on becoming more sustainable little by little.You can better communicate your environmental initiatives, such as plastic-free practices, to potential customers by joining the Sustainable&nbsp;Hotels Programme. If you're already part of Hotelbeds, simply log into our Partner Portal, select 'Hotel Info,' and tick the 'Single-use Plastic Free' box.If you're not yet part of Hotelbeds, you can join by clicking here. You'll become visible to over 60,000 travel distributors. Register today!