Vacations offer some of the best chances to get out and see the world. Some people stay at hotels, motels, or resorts to escape their busy lives. Still, bed and breakfasts (B&B) offer some of the greatest lodging experiences to-date. They’re comfortable, quaint, and offer a local experience not found in commercial hotels. For business owners, knowing how to efficiently run a bed and breakfast will ensure greater success and higher revenue through guest-centric strategies.
Keep Rooms Clean
Keeping rooms clean and organized will ensure strong customer satisfaction. The more care put into your rooms, the better your customers will feel about the stay. To do that, you want to properly furnish all the rooms. You must regularly maintain electricity, plumbing, and HVAC systems to ensure they remain in working order. Rooms should also have all the necessary accommodations. While every room should have a bed, you can further accessorize it with paintings or local trinkets, such as toys, books, or other novelties that accentuate the location.
Update Your Website
Although your bed and breakfast might reside in a historic location or adhere to certain styles or tastes, you should have a modern and updated website. Some important parts to a well-designed website include an online reservation system and a list of your rooms and amenities. Additionally, add an “About” page that details your history and story and a “Contact” page so customers have a way to ask questions or receive further information.
Have a Modern POS System
It goes without saying that your point-of-sale system should be up-to-date as well. Payment processing is crucial for any business, especially the lodging industry. While POS systems typically just process check-outs, there’s a lot more you can do. B&B owners can use modern hotel POS systems for guest management, accounting, and a ledger system. You can manage reservations, guest data, room tabs, length of stay, and even include a loyalty program for returning customers. With this, you can track other important features such as inventory and finances without needing a separate system.
Offer a Local Taste and Feel
People stay at bed and breakfasts for their beautiful and unique atmosphere. They provide a lodging experience that commercial hotels cannot. The best way to keep customers coming back is to provide the best local taste and feel of the area. It is likely your guests are from out of town and not familiar with the local cuisine or culture. Be a proper host and serve a local dish that will highlight the experience. Also, be sure to decorate your B&B with decorations and style appropriate to the location. Either way, guests will feel welcome and satisfied with their new experience.
