Why You Need Localized Special Offers on Your Hotel Website

Localized special offers contribute to the local experience of your hotel website. This is something the OTAs, and even your Brand.com, cannot replicate. They simply don’t know your property, your community, or your city better than you do. These local elements are all part of your hotel’s story, which can be used on your hotel website to connect with travel shoppers. Localized special offers are part of this story; they demonstrate that you are in touch with what’s going on in your local community.

Value is in the Eye of the Beholder

Before we dive into how to create localized special offers, let’s clear something up: a special offer doesn’t have to be fixated on price.

The reality is, every travel shopper has a different set of needs and wants, and price isn’t always the determining factor in their booking decision. What travel shoppers really want is value, especially from budget and mid-scale hotels. “Value” could mean a discounted rate to one person, or something else entirely to another. For example, someone could find value in a complimentary drink on arrival, faster Wi-Fi, later check-out, a free upgrade, or first pick of the best rooms.

How to Create Localized Special Offers

1. Local Events

Consider what events draw people to your area and create targeted special offers around them. Travel shoppers attending these events will be researching accommodation options, so it’s helpful to have some targeted content (and offers) around them to whet their appetite.

The Comfort Suites Alamo/River Walk has identified some unique events that bring people to town. It offers a Trinity University discount for parents visiting San Antonio to attend their children’s graduation ceremonies! This special offer is something that won’t be found on Choice.com, it must be booked through their vanity website.

2. Local Business Partnerships

Partnering with local businesses can be another great way to develop localized special offers.

Some tourist attractions offer pre-purchased admission tickets, which you can combine with a room rate to create a custom package. You might also consider working with a local restaurant or salon to develop a special offer specifically for your guests. Better yet, think of ways to bring these local businesses into your hotel. Are you an airport hotel that attracts tired and weary travelers? Partner with a local massage therapist to upsell a relaxing in-room massage. Don’t have an onsite cafe or restaurant? Partner with a local bakery to offer your guests a delicious afternoon tea in the lobby.

3. On-site Amenities

Don’t overlook the power of your own amenities too, like your restaurant, spa, or carpark. While these amenities might normally attract a fee, you can use them to create more value. Are you located within walking distance to a major conference center? Offer free on-site parking for your guests. Does your hotel attract young families? Throw in a free breakfast for the kids.

Promote Your Special Offers

Whatever your special offers are, make sure you promote them on your website and social media pages. The more travel shoppers can see your special offers, the more likely they are to remember them and return to your website when ready to book. Make it clear that these local special offers will not be found anywhere else online and must be booked direct.

In summary, accommodation is a big expense when planning a trip, and travel shoppers want to feel like they’re getting the best value. Localized special offers can help you stand out in your local market and drive more direct bookings. When developing local offers, consider what events bring visitors to town and develop offers related to them. You can also partner with local businesses and attractions to create custom packages. And don’t forget about your own amenities; use them to target specific guests. Call out your localized special offers everywhere on your website, and make it clear that they can only be booked exclusively through you.

Your hotel website is your digital storefront; the place people come to for more information about your property. Capture their attention by creating a localized experience on your hotel website; one that includes localized special offers that deliver value.

Want more tips for how to build a high-converting hotel website that drives direct bookings? Download our Look Book for Hoteliers.