How technology can enhance guest experiences

Transcription

1 How technology can enhance guest experiences

2 Introduction In a world that is becoming increasingly automated, it comes as no surprise that vacationers are looking for the same level of convenience from their vacation rentals. Technology is becoming a key differentiator as consumers look for the added touches of luxury that will make their stay just that little bit better. So, how can you integrate technology into your vacation home in a way that will benefit you, as well as enhance vacationers stay? We ve put together a guide to help you boost your uptake, feedback and most importantly, guest satisfaction. From the absolute basics, right through to the bonus perks that guests will appreciate, there s so much you can do with tech to enhance guest experiences. 2

3 Cover the basics Ensure guests have a safe and comfortable stay at your vacation home with a few simple pieces of technology that will make all the difference. Motion sensor lights are a great way to reassure vacationers who may be returning to the property late in the day, or during gloomy weather. Rural properties will particularly benefit from these, as it will help them feel secure as well as protecting your vacation home when vacant. A home security system goes hand in hand with motion sensor lights as an increased security measure, particularly during quieter periods of the year. Many of these systems integrate into existing home hubs, making it simple for guests to use, as well as allowing you to keep an eye on the property remotely via your smartphone or tablet you can even get systems that can act as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Fitting a home security system can also reduce your house insurance premiums, so it s worth it from a financial perspective too. As well as commonly expected appliances a dishwasher is also an important item to include if space allows. This will make your guests stay feel easy and will prevent them from getting wrinkly fingers too. 60% of burglaries occur at homes with inactive alarm systems so make sure you leave instructions for guests 1 3

4 The Internet of Things Connecting smart devices over Wi-Fi isn t ground-breaking, but with all sorts of appliances built using smart technology becoming available, your vacation home can virtually run itself. Having a central automated home hub such as a Nest, Hive or Echo means that you and your guests have control of the property either through voice control or an app. These hubs can control lighting; heating and your guests will even be able to switch the kettle from the comfort of their bed for a morning coffee. Small touches like this will make their vacation experience feel like a real treat and will encourage them to leave positive feedback and recommendations, which in turn means you could increase your rental price. Being able to control the heating remotely means that you can keep an eye on energy bills and ensure that you re not paying to air condition/heat an empty house especially when turning the heating down just one degree can save $106 per year 3. 52% of owners have their primary smart speaker in the living room 2 Some smart thermostats can save homeowners 23% on the cost of heating and cooling combined 4. 4

5 Creating the right atmosphere Although guests will most likely want to get out and explore the local area, they will want to spend time in your property too. Providing technology that s more for fun than function can help them to create the right mood and enhance their stay. Installing the right lighting is not only a mood-setter, but can actually save you money. With a 50% reduction in dimming levels cutting energy consumption by 40% 5,you ll benefit from lower electricity bills in the long run. What s more, you can hook these up to a timer that will act as an extra security measure if your property is vacant. Vacationers are looking for added luxuries that they don t have at home, so creating an outdoor space with a hot tub that can be used all year round will prove popular. Studies show that properties with a hot tub earn around $9,111 more than the average rental income each year 6. It s estimated that around 90% of Wi-Fi speakers in 2022 will be intelligent home speakers such as Sonos, Echo and the Apple HomePod 7, so although they re a luxury item now, they ll soon become an expectation for vacation homes around the globe. 5

6 Behind the scenes Not all tech needs to be guest-facing, yet can still benefit you and your guests. Water sensors link up to your automated home hub and alert you if there are any leaks that need attention. Wi-Fi is also a necessity, and there are few things that are more frustrating than a weak signal. If your property suffers from poor Wi- Fi then you will need to invest in a booster. This will help if you re trying to create an automated home, as appliances will need to use it too. Rural properties are common victims of this issue so make sure your guests can stay connected to the outside world during their trip. Instead of giving them the code, consider installing a branded webpage for log in. You ll be able to capture data and add them to your newsletter list, or ask them to check into your vacation home on Facebook for their friends to see think of it as virtual word of mouth. 6

7 Supporting you and your property Using our knowledge of the market, we act as a guide so you can create the perfect vacation rental for your guests. By using technology, you can enhance their stay and make sure that they have a positive experience that will encourage them to rebook, or tell their friends. When you join us, you ll not only benefit from an innovative booking system, but you ll also be able to highlight the features of your home, including smart technology or hot tubs, as well as exposure of your positive feedback. So, if you re ready to take your business to the next level with new innovations, then it s time to register your property with Booking.com now. Join.Booking.com