Top Tips for Creating a Unique Guest Experience: How to Make Your B&B Stand Out in a Competitive Market
Running a successful B&B in New Zealand isn’t just about offering a comfy bed and breakfast; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience that sets your property apart. Whether your B&B is nestled in a popular tourist spot or in a quiet, off-the-beaten-path location, standing out in a competitive market requires a personal touch and attention to detail. Here are six top tips to help you create a unique guest experience that will leave lasting impressions and encourage return visits.
1. Personalise the Guest Experience
A simple yet powerful way to stand out is by personalising the guest experience. Before your guests arrive, gather information about their preferences, such as dietary requirements, interests, or any special occasions they may be celebrating. We chatted about this during the Roadshow and the importance of getting guest emails before arrival.
Thoughtful touches like a handwritten welcome note, a favourite local treat, or recommendations tailored to their interests can make guests feel valued. Personalisation goes a long way in creating a lasting connection, making guests feel more like friends than customers.
2. Offer Unique Local Experiences
Today’s travellers are looking for more than just a place to stay—they want to experience the authentic flavour of the local area. Partner with local businesses, artisans, or guides to offer exclusive experiences, like a private wine tasting, a guided bush walk, or a hands-on workshop with a local artist. These kinds of activities enrich your guests’ stay and promote the unique charm of your region. It’s also a great way to support local businesses and build a network within your community.
3. Create a Distinctive Theme or Style
A well-defined theme or style can instantly set your B&B apart. Over the years, I fine tuned my ‘look’ to reflect the vibe I wanted to create. Whether you focus on a rustic Kiwi bach vibe, a contemporary eco-lodge or a boutique luxury retreat, your B&B’s aesthetic should align with your target audience. Carry this theme through in your décor, branding, website, and amenities. This creates a cohesive and immersive experience that guests will remember. Just ensure your theme is not only attractive but also enhances comfort and practicality.
4. Provide Unexpected Extras
To stand out from the crowd, go beyond the basics by offering thoughtful extras that delight your guests. Consider providing premium, locally sourced toiletries, complimentary gourmet snacks, or surprising your guests with a bottle of wine from a nearby vineyard. If providing these types of optional extras, your room rate should reflect your offering. In cooler months, offer cosy features like hot water bottles, blankets, or hot chocolate kits to create a snug atmosphere. These small but memorable touches can make your B&B feel like a special retreat that people want to return to.
5. Emphasise Sustainability
Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly on the lookout for accommodation that aligns with their values. Highlighting your commitment to sustainability can give your B&B a unique edge. Serve organic, locally sourced breakfasts, reduce single-use plastics, and implement energy-saving practices. You could even engage your guests by offering eco-friendly activities or explaining your sustainable efforts on your website and in your compendium. Showcasing these practices on your website and in your B&B helps attract guests who care about making a positive impact.
6. Deliver Exceptional Kiwi Hospitality
Good old-fashioned Kiwi hospitality is at the heart of a successful B&B. Make sure that every interaction with your guests, from booking to check-out, is warm, welcoming, and professional. Respond quickly to enquiries, greet guests with a friendly smile, and be attentive to their needs throughout their stay. Go the extra mile by anticipating what guests might need before they ask, like suggesting a local spot for dinner or providing an umbrella on a rainy day. Exceptional hospitality is often what turns a great stay into a memorable one, and it can be the key reason guests choose your B&B over others.
Final Thoughts
In New Zealand’s competitive accommodation market, crafting a unique guest experience is crucial for your B&B’s success. By focusing on personalisation, offering exclusive local experiences, curating a distinctive theme, adding thoughtful extras, embracing sustainability, and delivering exceptional Kiwi hospitality, you’ll create an experience your guests won’t forget. The goal is to offer something special that resonates with your guests, making your B&B a place they’ll want to return to and recommend to others.