What to Include in Your Hotel Welcome Guide

Author: Kaydee

Published: 2/10/2024

Updated: 4/14/2024

In the world of travel, your guest's experiences are the most important thing. A simple way you can improve these experiences is by creating a hotel welcome guide. When done right, this guide acts more than an information source. It can be the key that unlocks a load of benefits for guests as well as hosts. From the very moment a guest opens your hotel welcome guide, it sends an important message. That they are valued and their experience is personalised. This first impression is the thing that will set you apart from your competitors. It enables you to engage with your guests throughout their stay. More importantly, it increases the chance that they'll choose to stay at your hotel once again. But what should you include? Read on to find out.

Start with a ‘thank you’ note

As a small hotel owner, you want to let every guest know that you are grateful for each stay. You want them to feel like part of your extended family. Expressing your thanks is a key part of this guide. It is a genuine acknowledgement that their choice to stay with you is appreciated. This personalised approach makes each guest feel special. It also helps you to form an unbreakable bond between them and your hotel. A connection that your competitors can't touch.

Your thank you note should feel as though it was written especially for the guest. It could include details about their stay or something simple like their name. You can also include details about your hotel's story, and why you have the hotel. Most importantly, you want to thank them for booking to stay with you. In the end, you might end up with something like this:

“We want to start by saying a heartfelt thank you for choosing to stay with us. It means the world to us that you've chosen us, and we are dedicated to making your stay comfortable and memorable.

We believe that a guest is more than just a visitor. You are a part of our extended family and your presence adds a special warmth to our humble abode. We hope you find our cosy rooms, warm hospitality, and attention to detail as inviting as we do.

Our team has poured their hearts into creating a space that feels like a home away from home. We hope you'll feel the care and thoughtfulness that went into every nook and cranny during your stay.

If there's anything we can do to make your stay even more enjoyable, please don't hesitate to let us know. We're here to make sure your time with us is nothing short of wonderful.

Once again, thank you for being a part of our story. We're looking forward to making lasting memories with you.”

Include your local area’s must-see attractions

After you've thanked the guest your hotel welcome guide can be a personal tour guide. Showcasing the must-see attractions awaiting your guests. You understand the value of providing more than a place to stay. You want to provide a memorable experience. You can share things like which museums to visit and where to go for scenic walks. By doing so, you let your guests discover the true culture and community. Think of it as more than a list of recommendations. It's a personalised schedule for creating lasting memories. It ensures that your guests leave feeling rested, with a new love for the local area. You may also want to include hidden gems or give special mentions to places where you can offer guests a discount.

Add your emergency contact details

Whilst including things to do as a nice touch, you also need to include important information. From check-in/check-out times to emergency and support contact numbers. This section acts as a help desk for your guests. You will know that a well-informed guest is a happy guest. This lets guests know that you're easy to reach, and will tell them everything they need to know about their stay. This is especially important because guests want to feel taken care of. You are not only showing them that you welcome communication, but that you encourage it. You are also sending them a message that their well-being is your top priority. It allows your guests to focus on enjoying their stay without any worries.

Don’t forget your upsells

Creating a hotel welcome guide also offers the opportunity for upselling. You can let guests know about exclusive services to enhance the guest experience. Offer premium choices, from private spa access to unique dining and exciting excursions. This should be different to regular services. It's an attempt to enhance your guest's stay, encouraging them to customise their stay. These offerings show your dedication to creating lasting memories for valued guests.

Summary

Your hotel welcome guide is the first impression a guest has. It will set the expectations for their stay, so use this to your advantage. Think of it as a tool that can help you create the amazing experiences you dream of. The ones that linger in a guest's heart long after they've checked out. Every detail contributes to an exceptional guest experience. Here's to setting the stage for memorable stays and creating connections that last a lifetime.