2020 has been a tough year for all of us. The year 2021 has increased our hopes with the news of the vaccine. The recent research by #Expedia, one of the largest OTA (Online Travel Agency) in the world, is important for all players in the industry in terms of revealing the changing guest behavior and demands. The research was conducted in 8 different international markets with 16,000 survey participants. It has exciting results and recommendations. I think the first and perhaps the most important result is that the guests said that a holiday in 2021 will make them happier than a new smartphone :) As a matter of fact, the activity experienced in the last month in our country is the most important indicator of this.
So what do guests want?
They prefer a trip close to their home...preferably they want to visit places that are within driving distance
They want longer stays and are willing to spend more for it !
They want to be able to visualize their accommodation before their eyes. To quote the report: "Last year's uncertainty means guests are hungry for information that will help them anticipate their travels and book with confidence. Conscious guests want detailed hotel information and all the necessary information before booking a stay, from photos of hotel amenities to cancellation and cleaning policies."
Photos have always been an important part of the search and booking process, but in 2021 guests said it was essential to their decision.
Most guests (91%) said photos are very important when booking accommodation, and 88% said it's important to see photos of hotel properties before booking.
This is not surprising given the growing awareness among guests and their desire for extended stays. Photos bring your hotel to life and guests want to know that throughout their stay, the hotel will suit their and their family's needs.
Guests view an average of 9 photos before making a decision about a hotel. According to the research results, the most important photos should include:
Guest Room photos
Bathroom photos
Photos of basic hotel property such as Pool / Lobby
Hotel exterior photo
Food service at the hotel and photos of the food
Photos of services offered in the room
Photos of the surrounding area
Photos of places to see nearby
In fact, a research has clearly revealed the truth that we all know. Guests want photos that look clear, interesting, descriptive, intriguing and best describe your hotel.
Delayed holiday demands may not be enough to cover past losses this year, but well-prepared hotels will make a difference in the coming period. The fastest and most effective way to make this difference is to introduce your hotel with the photographs that best describe you.
