In the ever-evolving world of Airbnb, hosts continually seek new ways to enhance their guests’ experiences and stand out. Providing exceptional hospitality goes beyond offering a clean space and basic amenities; it’s about creating memorable stays that leave your guests feeling pampered and pleasantly surprised.
In this blog post, we will explore unique Airbnb guest services and unexpected perks you can offer to elevate your Airbnb game, setting you apart from other hosts while boosting guest satisfaction.
The Airbnb Experience
Guests expect a unique and personalised experience beyond traditional hotel amenities, such as access to local experiences and in-house amenities. Here is an analysis of what they expect:
Quick Recap Of What Guests Typically Expect From An Airbnb Stay
In recent years, Airbnb guest services have set a new standard for accommodations in the hospitality industry. This has led guests to expect a unique travel experience that maintains high levels of comfort, quality, and value for money compared to traditional hotels.
For example, families planning a vacation prioritise staying in an Airbnb property equipped with child-friendly features such as safety gates or high-chairs to ensure a hassle-free trip.
In the business arena, business travellers appreciate properties that offer quiet workspaces along with fast internet connections to remain productive during their stay. These amenities are hard to find in traditional hotels, and thus, they increase the demand for Airbnb.
The Changing Landscape Of Airbnb – How Customer Expectations Are Evolving
The landscape of Airbnb has undergone significant change since its inception, responding to the evolving expectations of guests who seek more than just a place to stay. As a result, hosts must stay ahead of these expectations to efficiently cater to these dynamic preferences and increase their customer base.
To evolve effectively hosts consistently revise their offering per the seasons, holidays, or type of guests they want to attract.
Unique And Surprising Services
As an Airbnb host, thinking outside the box and offering services to make your guests feel welcome and create a memorable stay is essential. Here are a few unique, surprising services you can provide to your Airbnb guests:
Local Experiences
Local experiences are a great way to achieve uniqueness by allowing visitors an authentic glimpse into the community they’re visiting. In addition, you can collaborate with local businesses as a host to create memorable guest experiences.
Offering Personalised Tours
Personalised tours comprise activities created and hosted by the host. These activities can be anything from cooking classes, guided hikes, or bike rides that take your guests away from the hustle of touristy areas and show them a more authentic side of life in the area.
Providing Local Event Information
Providing information on local events is a great way to support your local community while offering something special to your guests. Information about upcoming concerts, plays, art shows, or other cultural activities in the area can be invaluable for visitors looking for an immersive experience.
In-house Amenities
In-house amenities are a great way to add value and surprise your guests. You can provide small snacks, coffee, tea, or spa products. Here are some ideas for in-house amenities that are sure to please:
Premium Entertainment Packages
Every guest desires a classy time snuggling up on the couch with freshly popped popcorn while watching their favourite show or playing games together after dinner. That’s why providing access to popular streaming services, such as Netflix or Disney+, and offering an impressive selection of movies and fun is essential.
Fitness and Wellness Packages
Airbnb hosts looking to go the extra mile for their guests can offer fitness and wellness packages to help them stay healthy and relaxed during their travels. These packages can include complimentary yoga classes, access to a nearby gym or spa, or even in-room workout equipment like resistance bands or yoga mats.
Pet-friendly Services And Amenities
Offering pet-friendly services and amenities is becoming increasingly crucial for Airbnb hosts. In fact, in 2019, pets allowed were among the top five amenities in demand, alongside pools, wifi, kitchens, and air conditioning.
By making your Airbnb listing pet-friendly, you can attract more guests who travel with their furry companions and increase revenue. However, providing clear instructions on where pets are allowed within the property is essential. You can also ask for a pet fee to cover any risks of damage.
Personalised Services
Personalised attention can go a long way in making guests feel special and appreciated. Check out some essential personalised packages you should offer:
Customised Welcome Packages
Welcome snacks, a personalised card, and a recommendation book filled with local hotspots can be simple yet effective ways to show that you care for your guests. You could also surprise the guests by filling their room with thoughtful goodies such as artisanal soaps or locally-made snacks.
Personal Chefs Or Cooking Classes
If you have a culinary background, offering personal chef services or cooking classes is a great way to show off your skills and make the guest’s stay more luxurious and enjoyable. For an even better experience, you could also create unique dishes with locally-sourced ingredients.
Professional Photography Services
Offering professional photography services is a great way to pamper your guests and help them create special memories of their stay. You can provide local photographers specialising in landscape, family, or couple photography. This is a desirable option for couples on honeymoons or anniversaries.
The Benefits Of Offering Additional Services
Offering additional services can provide numerous benefits for hosts, including:
Increased Guest Satisfaction
When guests feel their hosts have provided a comfortable and enjoyable stay, they are likelier to leave positive reviews and recommend the property to others.
Positive Reviews and Increased Bookings
With so much competition in the accommodation marketplace, it’s more critical than ever for hosts to go above and beyond traditional hospitality offerings. Personalised experiences tailored to guests’ interests and preferences can differentiate one listing from another and showcase diversity while increasing bookings.
Potential for Increased Revenue From Add-on Services
By diversifying their service offerings with value-added amenities like pet-friendly services or professional photography packages, hosts create opportunities for expanded product offerings that generate ancillary revenue.
Challenges and Considerations
Here are some Airbnb challenges and considerations:
Balancing Cost And Benefit
Offering surprising services to Airbnb guests can be a great way to differentiate your listing and stand out from the competition. However, it is essential to balance the cost of providing additional assistance with their potential benefits.
Managing Guest Expectations
Managing guest expectations can be daunting as different individuals have different preferences. For instance, when allowing pets as part of your services, some guests unfamiliar with or allergic to certain pets may consider this a limitation.
Legal and Insurance Considerations
Hosts must consider liability coverage, subleasing regulations, home-sharing risks, guest safety, legal liabilities, and ethical considerations such as property damage.
Conclusion
Offering unique and surprising services is an excellent way for Airbnb guest services to stand out and elevate their hospitality. By providing local experiences, in-house amenities, personalised packages, and pet-friendly services, hosts can create value for guests while increasing revenue.
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