Hotels That Increase Orders and Enhance the Guest Experience- Image Credit Castle
Turn resort features into a dynamic edge. Apart from being perks, amenities also shape the host knowledge, foster loyalty, and convert first-time visitors to repeat customers. IntroductionA tourist’s search for the best hotel typically involves scrolling through endless possibilities before making a decision. With so many options available, what makes a hotel stand out? It’s the thought-provoking details that are more frequently than certainly an added benefit to ease, convenience, or guest feel valued. Today’s guests expect more than just a fresh place and a comfortable sleep. They seek out personalization, flawless support, and experiences. The right amenities convert an ordinary be into something extraordinary, leading to better reviews, stronger host commitment and increased bookings. Features control tourist accommodation choicesFrom store stays to international chains, travelers have an abundance of options. amenities frequently determine the size when making a final option. If a motel fails to offer the benefits customers prioritize, it risks being overlooked in favor of competition. A long-term approach is required for tactical luxury planning. When you fit the correct amenities with the right audience on the appropriate channels, you don’t really get bookings— you create relationships, decrease marketing costs and gain broader visibility. Smart hotels go beyond speculation, using information on tourist populations, booking trends and fidelity behaviors to fine-tune their offerings and be ahead of shifting expectations. For instance, a hotel might list certain amenities on its website rather than on online travel agency ( OTA ) platforms to encourage direct reservations and avoid paying OTA commissions. Another resort that sees most of its tickets through OTAs may show high-value amenities on those systems to increase visibility and conversions. Hotels can customize their products by adjusting customers ‘ preferences and booking patterns. VIP customers might receive advanced in-room benefits via email promotions, while public commitment members gain access to unique experiences through social media campaigns. A attentive approach to services keeps experience engaging and creates repeat bookings. Differentiating your lodge to make it stand outAmenities do more than just add advantage; they help make your hotel wonderful. Whether it’s snack at shut or a top cocktail hour, intelligent perks create experiences that stay with guests long after check. In a packed industry, yet one striking luxury can help you stand out from the competition and get more orders. Understand what your competitors is doingEvery resort has its own method for attracting visitors, and facilities play a major role in that setting. To distinguish yourself, begin by analyzing market insight — data that reveals what your competitors offer, how they’re performing, and what travelers in your area benefit most. Ask yourself: &# 13,
Do your competitors capitalize on their location, or are their amenities more generic? &# 13,
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How do their amenities impact their market position, and are they consistently winning more bookings? &# 13,
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What market gaps could your hotel fill? &# 13,
No single amenity works for every hotel. Consider in-room fireplaces versus waterfront massages: a benefit that draws ski resort visitors may not be as valuable as a beachside retreat. The key isn’t just adding more amenities — it’s ensuring they deliver real value based on guest expectations. The guests want more than just amenities for the sake of having them; they also want more meaningful amenities. A gym only stands out if it meets the fitness habits of its guests. Valet service is a major perk in a busy urban area, but in a quiet suburb with ample parking, it’s unlikely to move the needle. By utilizing market data, you can focus on the things that set your hotel apart from the rest. If your competitors offer standard amenities without clear differentiation, you have a unique opportunity to introduce standout benefits. If they emphasize curated experiences, it might be time to reconsider your approach and highlight your unique value proposition. Cater to the needs of your ideal guestBefore adjusting your amenities, start by defining your business goals — whether it’s increasing revenue by 30 %, attracting a new type of traveler, or enhancing the overall guest experience. Once your goal is clear, compare your current clientele to your ideal guests to identify amenities that will bridge the gap. Consider adding amenities that make their stay easier, for instance, if your hotel currently accepts a diverse mix of travelers but you want to appeal to more young families. On-site childcare, kid-friendly dining options or dedicated play areas can be compelling incentives for parents trying to balance relaxation with family responsibilities. All amenities must have financial jargon. Popular perks like late check-outs or dog walking can attract guests, but if they strain resources, they may do more harm than good. Many hotel operators find success by offering amenities with strategic restrictions to manage demand while still providing value. For instance: &# 13,
Room upgrades exclusively for guests staying five nights or more &# 13,
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Complimentary childcare for families who book a designated package&# 13,
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Free airport shuttle service for those who made reservations directly through the hotel’s website &# 13,
Just keep in mind that too many restrictions can backfire if they create confusion or frustration. Clear communication with both the guests and the staff ensures that restrictions enhance the experience rather than make it more difficult. New amenities should be treated as an experiment, with expiration dates, phased rollouts, or seasonal availability to test their impact. As you introduce new offerings, track guest responses and demand to determine what resonates most. This method allows you to modify your amenities over time to ensure they have a long-lasting effect. Tried and true amenitiesClassic amenities have stood the test of time, becoming major factors in a traveler’s decision to book. Popular amenities aren’t always necessary, though. Guests value perks that make their stay easier or more enjoyable, but the right offerings will depend on who your guests are and what they need. Flexible check-in and check-outFlexible check-in and check-out times have become increasingly rare, with many hotels pushing back check-in and moving up check-out, limiting the time guests have to enjoy their stay. Although having flexibility presents operational challenges for front desk and housekeeping teams, it’s a valuable benefit for travelers who have long-haul flights or early meetings. If your competitors don’t offer this perk and you have the resources to manage it, this can be a key differentiator that drives booking and guest satisfaction. Fitness and wellness centers range from basic weight-lifting facilities to sophisticated wellness facilities. While they naturally attract dedicated fitness enthusiasts, they can also intrigue travelers looking to stay active or try something new on vacation. Wellness amenities give guests an opportunity to relieve stress, maintain their routines and enhance their overall stay. Leveling up your current facilities can help position your hotel as a destination for health-conscious travelers, whether it be a fully equipped gym, yoga classes, or spa-adjacent recovery spaces. Pools and hot tubsPools and hot tubs are universally appealing — kids splash around, couples unwind, and senior travelers have a low-impact way to stay active. Whether your property has an Olympic-sized pool or a more modest facility, tailoring the experience to your ideal guest can increase its worth. For example, you might staff a lifeguard for families with young children or offer complimentary water aerobic classes to attract older guests. Thoughtful programming and well-maintained facilities can turn this standard amenity into a key selling point. SpasOn-site spas typically offer relaxing massages, facials, or other treatments that promote well-being to wealthy guests looking to get away from the daily grind. More than just a luxury, a well-executed spa experience can leave a lasting impression, making travelers more likely to return. A spa can make a regular stay into a rejuvenating experience, making it powerful. When thoughtfully integrated, it reinforces your brand as a destination for relaxation and indulgence. However, before committing, ensure your guest demographics and pricing strategy can support a profitable spa operation. Airport shuttle servicesA free or low-cost airport shuttle is a high-value convenience for weary travelers who arrive in a foreign city. Instead of navigating public transportation or arranging a car, guests can simply look for your hotel’s name on the side of a waiting vehicle. Shattle services not just provide convenience; they also positively enhance the guest experience. A seamless airport pick-up sets the tone for the stay ahead, while a smooth departure leaves a lasting final impression. This thoughtful service increases the likelihood that guests will rebook when returning to the destination — or choose another property within your brand’s portfolio. Expanding shuttle services to include well-known local attractions, business districts, or convention centers can enhance your hotel’s appeal and add value to guests. Self-service experiencesWith 75 % of millennials and Gen Z travelers preferring hotels with self-service options, features like self-check-in, mobile apps and automated service kiosks are becoming increasingly valuable. Without waiting in line or calling the front desk, guests can do tasks on their own schedule, such as checking in, ordering room service, or accessing hotel amenities. Self-service technology streamlines operations, letting staff focus on high-value interactions like guest inquiries, special requests and problem resolution. Automation improves efficiency but shouldn’t replace meaningful face-to-face service. Family-friendly amenities for families Make travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone by accommodating both children and parents. While general conveniences like flexible check-in/check-out and airport shuttles are helpful, hotels that truly prioritize family experiences can carve out a competitive niche. On-site childcare A game-changer can be found for hotels that already draw families because of their location, room layouts, or pool amenities. Giving parents dedicated time to relax while their children enjoy supervised activities adds immense value to their stay. Since childcare requires an operational investment, hoteliers can start small before committing to full-time services. Establishing group events like storytime, craft shows, or movie nights can test demand and draw in families to your offerings. To build trust and encourage participation, carefully vet staff and provide parents with clear guidelines on supervision, schedules and age requirements. Kids zones With designated kid zones, parents are immediately notified that your hotel welcomes families. Depending on your available space and budget, these can range from a splash pad or toddler wading pool to a playground or game room. Larger properties may only need to convert an underutilized area into a simple play space with swings or slides. Consider naming specific areas of the pool, such as a roped-off shallow section, for children and families if space is limited. Activities for the whole family Family-friendly activities appeal to travelers looking to spend quality time together. Your hotel’s offerings for movie nights under the stars, putt-putt golf, scavenger hunts, or all-ages fitness classes can set it apart. As with childcare, you may want to test interest with pop-up events before making a long-term investment. Renting an inflatable movie screen for weekly outdoor films or setting up a temporary putt-putt course can gauge demand while creating memorable experiences for guests. Amenities for pet lovers As younger travelers are more likely to choose pets over their parents, pet-friendly amenities have grown to be a popular addition to hotels. In fact, 22 % of pet owners took their cat or dog on three or more flights last year, citing the high cost of animal care and their reluctance to leave their pets alone. Any service that makes their pets happy can pique repeat customers, much like family-friendly perks. Pet-friendly welcome A thoughtful welcome can set the tone for a pet owner’s stay. Small touches — like a cushion at the foot of the bed, fresh food and water dishes, or even a welcome chew toy — make pets ( and their humans ) feel at home. However, consistency is important here. If you provide food and water dishes, consider replenishing them daily to meet guest needs and expectations. Pets ‘ stress can be made difficult, frequently leading to accidents and restlessness while traveling. A designated pet relief area provides a safe, convenient space for owners to take care of their pets ‘ needs while keeping hotel grounds clean. Whether you cater to small dogs or welcome pets of all sizes, a thoughtfully-placed relief area can make a significant impact — whether it’s a simple patch of artificial turf or a fully enclosed dog park. If your hotel permits cats, think about placing litter boxes in rooms with pets or hidden away in common areas. Pet washing stations For outdoor-loving pets and their owners, a pet washing station is a small but valuable amenity. A convenient way to wash off their pets before returning to their rooms is appreciated by guests after a beach day, hiking trip, or muddy walk. This feature encourages more adventurous travel plans since guests won’t have to worry about cleaning up messes later. A pet-washing station doesn’t need to be an elaborate grooming facility. A simple awning for shade, a non-slip surface, and a pet-friendly nozzle on an outdoor hose can make all the difference. Dog walkers and pet-sittingRoutine is essential for pets, and travel often disrupts their schedules. Offering dog walking or pet sitting services can ease owners ‘ worries while enhancing their stay. To offer these services, hoteliers may need to hire trained staff, obtain liability insurance, or convert a space into a pet daycare. Some hotels choose to limit services based on pet size or breed, such as restricting dog walking to pets under 25 pounds to ensure manageable staffing. A well-run pet program can result in longer stays for guests, higher satisfaction, and repeat business, especially for those who might otherwise be reluctant to bring their pets along. Business travel amenities Work-related trips demand thoughtful amenities that cater to professionals. A junior associate who is attending their first conference, of course, will have different requirements than a well-versed CEO closing a multi-million dollar deal. Regardless of who you cater to, the right amenities can position your hotel as a go-to destination for business travelers. Business centers Business centers provide essential resources like printing stations, staplers, scanners and office software ( e. g., Microsoft Word ). Consider converting a portion of your lobby or another common area to provide these amenities if you don’t have a dedicated space for a full business center. A well-equipped business center can make all the difference in the middle of a hectic work trip. Have these resources at hand if an executive needs to print important documents or print last-minute handouts eliminates stress. Reliable Wi-Fi and ergonomic workspaces further encourage repeat business from corporate travelers and companies. Private meeting rooms Private meeting rooms offer professionals a distraction-free space for calls, presentations or in-person discussions. These rooms offer a quiet setting for sensitive discussions or high-stakes negotiations, in contrast to open workspaces in business centers. Many hotels integrate private meeting rooms into their business center, but it’s important to distinguish the two. Having designated spaces can draw business travelers, whether they need a space for a virtual sales pitch, an emergency strategy session, or a one-on-one meeting. Conference space Conference rooms appeal to both travelers and local businesses that need event space, providing an extra revenue stream through corporate and networking functions. If business travelers are part of your target audience, a well-designed conference space can set you apart from competitors while bringing in high-value bookings. You can adapt to a variety of business needs by converting underutilized areas or creating flexible event spaces that can scale based on group sizes. Additionally, offering event packages that include catering, AV support, and business concierge services can further position your hotel as a top choice for corporate gatherings. Luxury travel amenitiesLuxury travel has increased in recent years, making many hoteliers spend a lot of money on upscale amenities. As a result, traveler expectations have risen, and standard luxury offerings no longer feel special. Luxury travelers expect more than just high-thread-count sheets or designer furniture— they crave exclusive, one-of-a-kind experiences. Well-curated luxury amenities can increase your property’s appeal to wealthy travelers while generating more revenue if your property already has a fantastic location. Bespoke welcome gifts Luxury guests pay a premium for their stay, and in return, they expect a higher level of service. Beyond typical hospitality, personalized welcome gifts increase the worth of their investment and set the stage for an exceptional experience. Thoughtful, customized touches create a sense of exclusivity while strengthening your hotel’s reputation as a premier destination. To tailor bespoke gifts effectively, staff can use guest data — both new and historical — to craft experiences that resonate. For instance, when a traveler books, you might inquire whether they are celebrating a special occasion and have their gift customised accordingly. If a couple regularly visits an area for the local coffee scene, a curated selection of high-end coffee beans and a handwritten note could be the perfect welcome. These simple gestures can help build up guest connections, whether it’s a kid-friendly birthday basket, locally produced artisanal treats, or a celebratory bottle of champagne. High-end dining High-end dining plays a significant role in attracting luxury travelers, with many choosing hotels based on signature restaurants, exclusive menus, and premium service. These guests expect more than just a meal — they seek a curated dining experience that aligns with their refined taste. using seasonal menus and local ingredients while providing impeccable service. If exclusivity is the goal, limiting reservations, offering private dining experiences or prioritizing hotel guests for peak dining times can create a sense of prestige that enhances guest satisfaction and your hotel’s reputation. Unique hotel amenities Make guests ‘ stays more memorable and special by giving them the ability to surprise and delight them. The best part? Standing out doesn’t have to mean overspending. Thoughtful, inventive touches, whether simple or extravagant, can enhance the guest experience. For budget-conscious hotels, small but unexpected perks like board games at turndown or a themed welcome drink can add charm without adding significant costs. More opulent properties might opt for extravagant offerings like champagne sabering, in-room mixology kits, or cooking lessons with renowned chefs. Setting up these amenities requires coordination across departments. Consulting with your finance team ensures the investment aligns with your budget, while marketing and operations teams can help position the offering effectively. If you introduce expensive or niche products, you may need to modify your marketing plan to draw in the appropriate audience and explain the value. Themed experiencesThemed experiences transport guests beyond the typical hotel stay, immersing them in a setting that feels extraordinary and unique. Some themes are innately related to location, such as a Monopoly-inspired bar in Atlantic City or a Pixar-themed hotel close to Disney. Even without a location-based hook, a creative theme can help you distinguish your property. A hotel near an IMAX theater might embrace an action-movie motif, while a boutique inn could cater to book lovers by theming each room after a literary classic. Executing themed experiences call for meticulous attention to detail. This could mean redesigning common areas, introducing themed staff uniforms or offering immersive packages. Cohesion is the key; everything from the decor to the amenities should be a part of the experience. Final thoughtsAmenities play a bigger role in the guest experience — and ultimately bookings — than many hoteliers realize. However, rolling out new perks or incentives without a clear strategy can lead to wasted resources. The secret lies in delivering the right amenities to the right guests through the appropriate channels, not just offering high-end amenities. To make the most of your amenity strategy: &# 13,
Use Channel Manager to accurately display the amenities you offer across 200+ channels ( including your own site ) using Channel Manager. &# 13,
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Understand your audience: segment your guests based on demographics, online behavior ( such as booking through an OTA versus a hotel website ), and travel preferences. Identify which amenities will attract your ideal travelers and drive loyalty. &# 13,
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Take a data-driven approach: Avoid guesswork when introducing new amenities — track their impact, test variations and refine your offerings based on performance. &# 13,
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Use Pricing Manager to constantly optimize room rates in your market place. With the latest AI insights, even the smallest hotels can better estimate the value of their rooms the same way conglomerates do. &# 13,
If you’re ready to improve the amenities at your hotel, gut feeling only gets you so far. A platform like Lighthouse provides real-time data to help you understand why travelers book with you or, perhaps more importantly, why they choose a competitor. Lighthouse, a guide for independent hotels, helps you analyze booking patterns, analyze key performance indicators, and evaluate the impact of your offerings. With data-driven insights, you can confidently introduce better amenities, optimize existing ones and maximize your return on investment — without relying on trial and error. About LighthouseLighthouse ( formerly OTA Insight ) is the leading commercial platform for the travel &, hospitality industry. By providing actionable market insights, business intelligence, and pricing tools that increase revenue growth, we transform complexity into confidence. We continually innovate to deliver the best platform for hospitality professionals to price more effectively, measure performance more efficiently, and understand the market in new ways. The only solution that offers real-time hotel and short-term rental data in a single platform, Lighthouse is trusted by over 65, 000 hotels in 185 countries. We strive to deliver the best possible experience with unmatched customer service. We consider our clients as true partners- their success is our success. This article first appeared on Lighthouse.
