How can you create a personalized itinerary for hotel guests?

1 Know your guests

The first step to creating a personalized itinerary is to know your guests. You can use various sources of information, such as booking details, online reviews, social media, surveys, or direct communication, to learn more about their background, purpose of travel, expectations, and preferences. For example, you can find out if they are traveling for business or leisure, if they have any special requests or needs, if they like cultural, historical, or natural attractions, if they prefer fine dining or local cuisine, and so on. The more you know about your guests, the better you can tailor your recommendations to their profile.

2 Offer options

The second step to creating a personalized itinerary is to offer options. You don't want to overwhelm your guests with too many choices, but you also don't want to limit them to a fixed or generic plan. You can use your knowledge of your guests and your destination to suggest a range of activities, attractions, restaurants, and events that match their interests, goals, and budget. You can also provide different levels of detail, such as a brief overview, a detailed description, or a map with directions, depending on how much guidance your guests need or want. You can also include alternative or backup options in case of changes in weather, availability, or mood.

3 Be flexible

The third step to creating a personalized itinerary is to be flexible. You want to respect your guests' autonomy and preferences, and allow them to modify, add, or skip any part of the itinerary as they wish. You can do this by providing clear and easy ways to contact you or your staff, such as phone, email, chat, or app, and by being responsive and helpful in case of any questions, requests, or issues. You can also follow up with your guests during or after their stay, and ask for their feedback, suggestions, or testimonials. This way, you can show your appreciation, improve your service, and build a lasting relationship with your guests.

4 Add value

The fourth step to creating a personalized itinerary is to add value. You want to surprise and delight your guests with some extra touches that make their stay more enjoyable, memorable, and unique. You can do this by offering discounts, upgrades, freebies, or exclusive access to some of the activities, attractions, restaurants, or events that you recommend. You can also provide some personalized gifts, such as a welcome basket, a souvenir, a handwritten note, or a photo album, that reflect their interests, tastes, or experiences. You can also partner with local businesses, organizations, or influencers to create special offers, packages, or experiences that showcase the best of your destination.

6 Be creative

The sixth and final step to creating a personalized itinerary is to be creative. You want to stand out from the crowd and offer something different, original, and memorable to your guests. You can do this by thinking outside the box and finding ways to showcase your destination's unique features, culture, history, or personality. You can also create themed itineraries, such as a romantic, adventurous, or family-friendly one, that cater to specific segments or occasions. You can also involve your guests in the creation process, and ask them to share their ideas, preferences, or feedback, and to co-create their own itinerary with you.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?