Blog posts of '2018' 'March'

The hospitality industry is changing rapidly, due in part to the rise of sites that offer alternative accommodations. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to attract more customers and appeal to a changing market. Adapting to the increase in competition means not only attracting new guests, but encouraging them to return. One extremely important way to invite visitors is to have an attractive, guest-friendly website that is easy to navigate. Most clients prefer to book hotels online, so make sure they are able to make reservations. If you want to venture beyond the ordinary, include a virtual tour so potential visitors get an idea of what to expect on their visit. A consistently updated blog can also drive more traffic to the site. Mention local events and attractions to entice visitors to the area, or share some travel tips. You could also offer complimentary stays to other travel bloggers, who will likely write a detailed article about their stay. Once you have an attractive website, you need to make sure you are active on social media. Include attractive pictures on your hotel slipcovers, and invite guests to share pictures and posts as well. You can also set up ads on Facebook to bring more attention to your hotel. Build relationships with local tourist boards so that you can not only promote new events, but have the organizers promote your hotel in return. You can also invite businesses to use your space to host conferences and special events. In addition to social media, you need to monitor sites such as Yelp and TripAdvisor. Reply to reviews as frequently as possible, especially negative reviews. Tactful, respectful responses to negative reviews show that you genuinely care about your business and customers, and give you an opportunity to highlight your strengths. You can also encourage customers to write more reviews by asking them at check out or leaving a business card with a friendly reminder. Another way to gain reviews and attract more customers is by creating mailing lists. Not only does this allow you send out polite requests for reviews, but it also enables you to start a loyalty program. In general, customers enrolled in loyalty programs return twice as often, so offer incentives based on visits or amount spent. You can also advertise upcoming events that may appeal to prior customers. If you are short on local events and attractions, consider hosting some of your own. Host art shows, poetry readings, or other events that appeal to broader audiences. These are especially good ideas for weekdays, as they tend to be popular with retirees and college students. You can also create special packages and programs, including some that tie in with newsworthy events like the Royal Wedding or the World Cup. Finally, try to find ways to offer things that cannot be found at homestyle lodgings. Provide guest experiences like happy hours or yoga classes. Package them together with other services that you offer and advertise them on your site. Doing so may encourage guests to try something new, and most importantly, entice new visitors to your hotel.

RVs are a great way to explore the open road while keeping a home base. In order to do that, you need to ensure your RV provides essential comforts that make it feel like your own. There are a number of things you can easily do to make it more welcoming. First, think about some of those things you really appreciate having in your home. For example, consider some of the appliances you use the most and try to find ones specifically designed for an RV. You might be surprised to find that there are even washer-dryer combos that make doing laundry a little bit easier. In addition to appliances, consider bringing along some of your favorite dishes and plates to make meals feel more familiar. Because an RV is a smaller space, it is essential to keep it well organized in order to stay comfortable. There are plenty of clever ways to effectively organize your RV, such as using magnets to keep things stored underneath your cabinets or adding pullout drawers to furniture. You can also use magazine files and hangers to effectively utilize space. Houseplants are another great way to make your RV feel more like home. Not only are they attractive, but they also improve the overall air quality. There are also plenty of fresh herbs that grow well indoors, allowing you to have your own small garden in your RV. Keep them in small containers above your sink and add to them to meals for a delicious fresh taste. An important way to improve the appearance of your RV is through color. You can choose to paint the walls, add furniture slipcovers, or just add pops of bright color through curtains, rugs, and pillows. You could even assign certain colors or patterns to certain areas to help designate little “rooms.” In addition to colors and patterns, you may choose to decorate your RV using a particular theme. Western or nautical themes help emphasize the adventurous lifestyle of an RV owner, although there are many other options you can choose. Pick something that accompanies your personality and your particular journey. Another way to improve the ambiance of your home is through lighting. LED lights are softer and more energy efficient than fluorescent lights. You can also consider flameless candles as a safer alternative to wax candles. Photographs are essential to making anyplace feel like home. Display pictures of family, friends, and even favorite places in prominent spots. Choose creative ways to display them, like using clothes pins to hang them from twine. You can also display children’s artwork or postcards to add a personalized touch to your décor. Even though the purpose of the RV is to give you a sense of home, you should also preserve memorable souvenirs from your trips. Find a good place to display your mementos and remind you of all your adventures. The combination of home and travel will help create the welcoming environment you desire.

Spending hours out on the water can be a relaxing way to enjoy the day. However, too much time on the water can wear out your legs and back, and the time outside can lead to sunburn. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to make your ride more comfortable and minimize problems afterward. Some of them also help protect your boat and increase its value over time. First of all, try to ensure that your boat will provide as smooth a ride as possible. Avoid excessive pounding by installing trim tabs, which help the boat get on plane and correct listing. Trim tabs also reduce fuel consumption and improve visibility, contributing to a more efficient and enjoyable ride. Water reflects UV rays, increasing your chances of sunburn. Make sure you wear sunglasses and sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF. Another option if you are planning to spend long hours out in the sun is a bimini top. It will protect you from the harsh rays, especially when the sun is most intense. It can even provide some shelter from rain if you are stationary. Seating is another important consideration for your boat, especially since simply standing and maintaining balance on a boat can tire your muscles. Plus, the weather can wear out existing seats and their bases, so make sure both are in good condition. Boat cushion covers can help protect the material for as long as possible. Be sure to invest in good quality upholstery or durable material, as the water and weather can damage older ones. If you want to add more temporary seating, there are even more options to consider. Portable loungers and bean bags provide a nice alternative, while padded chairs and benches can add to the overall comfort of your boat without taking up too much space when not in use. You can also add cushions to a cooler to combine comfort with functionality. Another way to stay comfortable is to invest in marine carpeting or anti-fatigue mats, which can reduce the shock of a big wave. Not only are these easier for standing for long periods of time, but they can also help prevent slipping and falling. Modern marine carpets are durable, prevent mold and mildew, and enhance the general appearance of your boat. To prevent further back or knee pain, be sure to invest in a good pair of boat shoes. Choose shoes with good traction and cushioning. Most importantly, make sure they keep your feet dry. Finally, a major consideration for comfort onboard comes from adapting to our modern world and giving yourself some peace of mind. A house battery or compact portable generator can be useful, especially if you are bringing along any electronic devices, like stereos. If you are planning to bring phones, make sure you also have a portable charger. Try to find one that is solar powered to avoid feeling too lost at sea. Summer days were meant for spending long hours on the water. Make sure it is a restful and easy experience by ensuring your comfort onboard first.