As we transition into the winter months here in South Africa, we understand the challenges that come with maintaining optimal occupancy levels. However, fear not! With strategic online marketing efforts, you can attract guests even during the slower winter season. Here are some best practices to boost occupancy at your guest house:
- Leverage Social Media: Engage with your audience on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Showcase cozy winter aesthetics, highlight special winter packages, and share local winter activities or events to entice potential guests.
- Offer Special Packages: Create enticing packages tailored to winter travellers. Bundle accommodation with activities like guided winter hikes, wildlife safaris, or wine tours to showcase the beauty of the season. Consider partnering with local businesses to offer exclusive discounts on winter activities.
- Optimize Your Website: Ensure your website is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Highlight winter amenities such as fireplaces, hot tubs, or heated pools. Incorporate targeted keywords related to winter getaways and local attractions for better search engine visibility.
- Email Marketing Campaigns: Send out targeted email campaigns to your subscriber list promoting winter specials, discounts, and packages. Personalize your messages based on guests’ preferences and past bookings to increase engagement and conversions.
- Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with travel influencers or local bloggers who can promote your guest house to their followers. Offer them complimentary stays in exchange for authentic reviews and social media exposure, which can significantly expand your reach.
- Offer Winter Promotions: Create enticing winter promotions such as “Stay 3 Nights, Pay for 2” or “Winter Weekend Getaway Packages.” Bundle accommodation with additional perks like complimentary breakfast, spa treatments, or guided tours to add value for guests.
- Engage with Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Ensure your guest house is listed on popular OTAs like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia. Optimize your listings with high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and competitive pricing to attract potential guests browsing these platforms.
- Implement Retargeting Ads: Utilize retargeting ads on platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads to reconnect with users who have previously visited your website. Remind them of your winter offers and encourage them to book their stay with enticing visuals and compelling messaging.
- Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with nearby attractions, restaurants, or tour operators to create joint promotions or packages. Cross-promote each other’s businesses to tap into each other’s customer base and enhance the overall guest experience.
- Prioritize Guest Reviews: Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google My Business, and Yelp. Positive reviews act as social proof and can significantly influence potential guests’ booking decisions.
- Stay Active in Online Communities: Join relevant online forums, travel groups, and local community pages where travelers discuss their experiences and seek recommendations. Participate in conversations, answer questions, and subtly promote your guest house when appropriate.
By implementing these online marketing strategies, you can effectively boost occupancy at your guest house during the slower winter months. Embrace the season’s charm, highlight your unique offerings, and leverage the power of digital marketing to attract guests seeking memorable winter getaways.
Wishing you a prosperous winter season ahead!
For more info and assistance, please pop us a mail at info@tourismmarketing.co.za or WhatsApp Jacques on 084 706 2020 or Anika on 084 690 6526