Question 1

How do I increase direct hotel bookings?

Accepted Answer

Optimize your website for booking conversion, offer best-rate guarantees, build an email list for direct marketing, invest in SEO for destination keywords, use remarketing to reach past visitors, and leverage your Google Business Profile. Direct bookings save OTA commission fees (15-25%).

Question 2

How do I compete with OTAs like Booking.com and Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can't beat OTAs at their game, but you can capture direct bookings. Offer exclusive perks for direct bookers (room upgrades, late checkout). Build loyalty programs. Invest in brand awareness. Use Google Hotel Ads. Focus on longer-tail keywords and local experiences OTAs don't target.

Question 3

How important are hotel reviews for bookings?

Accepted Answer

Critically important. 96% of travelers read reviews before booking. Review score directly impacts booking rates and pricing power. Respond to all reviews (especially negative ones professionally). Use review feedback to improve operations. Aim for consistent 4.5+ ratings across platforms.

Question 4

What marketing works for event venues?

Accepted Answer

SEO for event-specific keywords (wedding venues, corporate events), high-quality photo/video showcasing your space, wedding directories and venue listing sites, Google Ads for high-intent searches, social media (especially Instagram and Pinterest for weddings), and referral relationships with event planners.

Question 5

How do I market my hotel for corporate events?

Accepted Answer

Target business keywords (conference venues, corporate retreat, meeting space). Create detailed meeting space pages with capacities and amenities. Build relationships with corporate travel planners. Offer site visit incentives. Use LinkedIn advertising. Attend industry events and join CVBs (Convention & Visitors Bureaus).

Hotels & Hospitality