Looking For Hotel & Resort Marketing Ideas?
In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of hotel and resort marketing, it’s more crucial than ever to stand out from the competition. Travelers, equipped with a plethora of online resources, are no longer just guests; they are discerning curators of their own experiences, making decisions based on appealing visuals, enticing deals, authentic reviews, and personalized services. As a hospitality business, the challenge lies in not only catching their attention but also retaining it. Welcome to our comprehensive guide: “250+ Unconventional Strategies to Revamp Your Hotel or Resort Marketing“, where we delve into the labyrinth of hospitality marketing, illuminating some of the most effective, groundbreaking strategies to transform your business and increase your bookings.
At Bowman Web Services LLC, we’ve made it our mission to guide hotels and resorts through the complexities of digital marketing. We specialize in tailoring unique, effective marketing strategies, emphasizing your establishment’s individual charm and improving your online visibility. We believe that every hotel or resort has a captivating story to tell, and our goal is to help you share that story in a way that truly resonates with your prospective guests. Our approach ranges from harnessing the power of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to enhance your online reach, to designing user-friendly, visually appealing websites, and leveraging social media channels to foster an engaged, loyal community of patrons.
This guide is not merely a list of strategies; it is a roadmap to marketing success, curated by our expert team. Whether you’re a sprawling resort looking to broaden your global reach, or a boutique hotel seeking to attract a niche market, our 250+ marketing tips are designed to drive revenue growth and create meaningful connections with your guests. The future of hospitality marketing awaits – let us navigate it together.
250+ Unconventional Strategies to Revamp Your Hotel or Resort Marketing:
- Personalized Email Marketing: Send tailored emails to subscribers, promoting special offers and upcoming events.
- Social Media Contests: Run contests on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
- Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers to showcase your resort or hotel on their platforms.
- Virtual Tours: Create interactive virtual tours of your property, highlighting amenities and rooms.
- Promote Seasonal Packages: Offer and market special packages based on the season or upcoming holidays.
- Loyalty Programs: Reward frequent guests with discounts or perks.
- Website SEO: Optimize your website for search engines to attract more visitors.
- Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with nearby attractions, restaurants, or businesses to offer package deals.
- Social Media Advertising: Use targeted ads on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
- Sponsor Local Events: Sponsor events in your area to get your name out there.
- User-Generated Content: Encourage guests to share their experiences online and use their content in your marketing.
- Webinars: Host webinars or virtual events related to the hospitality industry.
- Online Reviews Management: Monitor and respond to online reviews.
- Destination Marketing: Promote your location as well as your resort or hotel.
- Local SEO: Ensure you show up in local search results.
- Collaborative Giveaways: Collaborate with other businesses for giveaways.
- Referral Programs: Reward guests who refer friends or family.
- Video Marketing: Use video to showcase your property and amenities.
- Blog Posts: Write about your hotel, staff, local events, and things to do.
- Partnerships with Travel Agencies: Work with travel agencies to promote your property.
- Press Releases: Regularly send out press releases about updates, events, or awards.
- Newsletter: Send regular newsletters to guests who have opted in.
- Wellness Packages: Market wellness packages that include spa treatments, yoga sessions, etc.
- Airport Advertising: Advertise in local airports.
- Billboard Advertising: Invest in billboards in strategic locations.
- Branded Merchandise: Sell or give away merchandise with your brand.
- Affiliate Marketing: Start an affiliate program.
- Target Business Travelers: Create special packages or rates for business travelers.
- Family Packages: Offer special deals for families.
- Green Initiatives: Market your eco-friendly practices.
- Themed Events: Host themed events or parties.
- Train Staff in Upselling: Train your staff to upsell amenities or services.
- Outdoor Advertising: Use ads on buses or other public transport.
- Promote Unique Features: Have a unique feature or service? Make sure you promote it!
- Guest Blogging: Write for other blogs or allow guest posts on yours.
- Use Chatbots: Use chatbots to answer common guest questions.
- Host Weddings: Offer wedding packages and promote your venue as a wedding location.
- Create a Mobile App: Offer easy booking and information access through a mobile app.
- Podcast Advertising: Advertise on relevant podcasts.
- QR Codes: Use QR codes for easy access to menus, events, or tours.
- Radio Advertising: Don’t forget about traditional forms of advertising like radio!
- Food and Beverage Packages: Offer special food and drink packages or promotions.
- Upgrade Offers: Encourage guests to upgrade their room or package.
- Staycation Packages: Market to locals looking for a staycation.
- Special Interest Packages: Packages tailored for hobbies like photography, bird watching, etc.
- Co-Branding: Collaborate with a well-known brand for a unique offer or event.
- Photography Contest: Hold a photo contest for guests with a theme related to your resort or hotel.
- Offer Cooking Classes: Market cooking classes featuring local cuisine.
- Digital Signage: Use digital signage for promotions, events, and information.
- Post-Covid Safety Measures: Promote your safety and sanitation measures to reassure guests
- Pet-Friendly Packages: If you’re a pet-friendly hotel, offer special packages for guests with pets.
- Pop-Up Events: Host pop-up events featuring local artists, chefs, etc.
- Retargeting Ads: Use retargeting ads to attract guests who’ve shown interest before.
- Live Music Nights: Host live music events at your resort or hotel.
- Use a Booking Abandonment Strategy: Remind users who didn’t complete their reservation with emails or ads.
- Health and Fitness Retreats: Promote health and fitness retreats for health-conscious travelers.
- Wi-Fi Advertising: Use the login page of your Wi-Fi to advertise offers and services.
- Offer Personal Concierge Service: Market a personal concierge service for an elevated guest experience.
- 360-Degree Photography: Use 360-degree photography to showcase your property.
- LinkedIn Marketing: Target corporate groups and business travelers on LinkedIn.
- Local Community Involvement: Participate in local community events or charities.
- Interactive Display Ads: Use interactive display ads to engage potential guests.
- In-Room Surprises: Market the potential of receiving surprises in-room.
- Reward Direct Bookings: Encourage direct bookings by offering a discount or perk.
- Web Chat Support: Offer real-time assistance to potential guests on your website.
- Celebration Packages: Offer packages for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.
- Host Conferences or Seminars: Attract business travelers by hosting relevant events.
- Language-Specific Marketing: Create marketing materials in different languages.
- Partnership with Airline Companies: Collaborate with airlines for package deals or miles redemption.
- Email Reminders for Repeat Booking: Remind previous guests to book again.
- Market Children’s Activities: If you’re a family-friendly resort, highlight your kids’ activities.
- TV Advertising: Use TV commercials to reach a wider audience.
- Partnership with Local Schools or Universities: Offer discounts for their staff, students, or events.
- Host Charity Events: This gives a positive image and attracts guests.
- Print Advertising in Relevant Publications: Target lifestyle, travel, or business magazines.
- Google Ads: Use targeted Google ads for keywords related to hotels and travel.
- Host Art Exhibitions: Collaborate with local artists to host exhibits.
- Offer a Loyalty App: Make earning and redeeming rewards easier with an app.
- Promote on OTAs (Online Travel Agents): Utilize platforms like Booking.com and Expedia.
- Collaborate with Event Planners: Connect with local event planners to host events at your venue.
- Pinterest Marketing: Use this platform to showcase your amenities, recipes, events, etc.
- Market Business Facilities: If you have meeting rooms or business centers, market these to corporate clients.
- Yoga Retreats: Offer yoga retreats or wellness weekends.
- Package Deals with Car Rentals: Collaborate with car rental services for package deals.
- Use Beacon Technology: Send personalized messages or offers to guests’ smartphones based on their location in your hotel.
- Offer Room Customization: Allow guests to choose room decor or amenities for a personal touch.
- Promote Eco-Tourism: If your resort is eco-friendly, promote its sustainable aspects.
- Travel Blogger Collaborations: Invite travel bloggers to experience your hotel and write about it.
- Email Newsletters with Personal Stories: Connect with your audience on a personal level, share stories about your hotel, staff, etc.
- Hotel Branded Products in Rooms: Promote your brand with products like toiletries, notepads, etc.
- Instagram Story Highlights: Highlight amenities, rooms, events, and more on your Instagram profile.
- Pre-Arrival Emails: Send guests useful information and upsell offers before their stay.
- Sustainability Certifications: Get certified by recognized environmental bodies and advertise this.
- Promote Local Cuisine: Emphasize the uniqueness of your location by promoting local cuisine.
- Offer Airport Transfers: Provide and market airport transfer services.
- TikTok Marketing: Use the power of TikTok to reach younger audiences.
- Cultural Activities: Offer and promote cultural activities, such as local craft classes or historical tours.
- Offer All-Inclusive Packages: These are attractive for guests as they can better control their budget.
- Use of Drones for Stunning Photography/Videography: Capture and share unique views of your property.
- Promote Accessibility Features: If your hotel is accessible, highlight these features.
- Create a Branded Hashtag: Encourage guests to use it when sharing their experiences on social media.
- Digital Room Key: Promote the convenience of using a smartphone as a room key.
- Offer Group Discounts: Promote special rates for large groups or events.
- Showcase Staff Profiles: Highlight your staff on your social media or blog to give a personal touch.
- Promote On-Site Activities: Such as fitness classes, wine tastings, kids’ activities, etc.
- Collaborate with Local Tour Guides: Promote tours and earn a commission for referrals.
- Highlight Safety Features: Particularly important in the post-Covid era.
- Late Check-Out or Early Check-In: Offer these perks to improve guest experience.
- Partner with Concerts or Festivals: Offer packages including tickets to local events.
- Offer Expert Advice: Share local travel tips and advice on your blog.
- Promote Guest Photos: With permission, share guest photos on your social media.
- Highlight Your Heritage: If your hotel has a rich history or unique story, share it.
- Use an Online Chat Service: Offer immediate online assistance to website visitors.
- Create Themed Rooms or Suites: Such as romance-themed, movie-themed, etc.
- Collaborate with Wedding Planners: Offer wedding packages and promotions.
- Offer Seasonal Menus: Collaborate with local farms for fresh, seasonal dishes.
- Use Pinterest Boards: Create boards for different themes, like weddings, local attractions, etc.
- Run Flash Sales: Limited time offers can create a sense of urgency.
- Promote Experiences Over Amenities: Market the unique experiences guests can have at your hotel.
- Honeymoon Packages: Offer special packages for newlyweds.
- SMS Marketing: Send offers or updates via SMS to guests who’ve opted in.
- Use Analytics: Analyze guest behavior to target your marketing more effectively.
- Run a Podcast: On travel, local attractions, hospitality, etc.
- Host a Local Market: Invite local artisans and food producers to sell at your property.
- Market Special Dietary Options: Such as vegan, gluten-free, etc.
- Surprise Gifts for Loyal Customers: A surprise gift can create a memorable experience.
- Start a YouTube Channel: Share videos of your property, local area, behind-the-scenes, etc.
- Celebrate Hotel Anniversary: Run special promotions or events for your hotel’s anniversary.
- Promote Quiet Spaces: Market your hotel as a peaceful getaway.
- Use Snapchat Geofilters: Custom filters can be used when guests are at your property.
- Offer Free Bicycle Rental: Promote this eco-friendly mode of local transportation.
- Virtual Reality Experiences: Show your property through VR.
- Use a Booking Countdown: Show limited availability to encourage quick bookings.
- Augmented Reality: Use AR for virtual decor, interactive maps, etc.
- Conduct Webinars: Educate people about hospitality or local tourism.
- Special Discounts for Seniors: Attract older travelers with special rates.
- Use a Quiz or Survey: Engage guests on social media, offer a prize for participation.
- Promote your Hotel’s Architecture: If your hotel is architecturally interesting, feature it in your marketing.
- Guided Meditation Sessions: Offer these wellness activities to guests.
- Offer Room Service from Local Restaurants: Partner with local businesses for unique in-room dining.
- Use Remarketing Campaigns: Remind visitors of their interest in your hotel.
- Offer a Hotel Credit Card: Offer rewards and points for spending.
- Offer Long-Stay Discounts: Encourage guests to stay longer with special rates.
- Offer Special Rates for Social Media Followers: Encourage following and engagement on social media.
- Create a Branded Spotify Playlist: Share a music playlist that captures the vibe of your hotel.
- Offer a Shuttle Service: To/from local attractions or shopping districts.
- Host Film Screenings: Show movies in a common area or theater, if available.
- Post-Stay Surveys: Ask for feedback and show guests you value their opinion.
- DIY Classes or Workshops: Such as cocktail making, local crafts, etc.
- Create a Guest Loyalty Club: Offer exclusive perks to members.
- Implement a Live Chat Service: This can help to answer potential guests’ questions in real-time.
- Experiential Packages: Offer packages that include unique local experiences.
- Multilingual Staff: Promote the fact that your staff can communicate with guests in their native language.
- Use Testimonials: Highlight the voices of satisfied customers.
- Pinterest Ads: Use promoted pins to reach a wider audience.
- Co-marketing with Non-competing Brands: Combine efforts with related businesses to create compelling offers.
- Offer Discounts to Returning Guests: Encourage repeat business with special offers.
- Use a Chatbot: Implement a chatbot on your website to answer frequently asked questions.
- Festive Decorations and Events: Highlight seasonal decorations and related events at your property.
- Use Local Art: Display and promote local artwork in your hotel.
- Repackage Existing Offers: Freshen up your marketing by repackaging your current offers.
- Highlight Local Partnerships: Promote your partnerships with local businesses or services.
- Babysitting Services: If you offer childcare services, be sure to market this to families.
- Create a Mobile Check-In System: Promote this convenient feature for tech-savvy guests.
- Offer a Discount for Extended Stays: Encourage longer stays with reduced rates.
- Run Promotions on Slow Days: Offer special deals during the week or off-season to increase occupancy.
- Run a Referral Campaign: Encourage guests to refer friends and family with incentives.
- Highlight Unique Features: Showcase any unique features your property might have, like a rooftop pool or a historic building.
- Offer Free Upgrades: Surprise and delight guests with unexpected room upgrades.
- Use Weather-Based Advertising: Use local weather conditions to promote your hotel (“Escape the cold with our cozy winter package!”).
- Highlight Celebrity Visits: If any celebrities have stayed at your property, mention this (with their permission).
- Solicit Feedback: Actively ask for feedback and make visible improvements based on it.
- Cross-Promote on Similar Business Websites: Partner with businesses in the same industry but not in direct competition.
- Create Infographics: Use visually appealing infographics to share information about your hotel.
- Offer a Virtual Concierge: Use technology to provide concierge services to guests.
- Highlight Your Hotel’s Instagrammability: Market the photo-worthy spots in your hotel.
- Email Marketing with Personalized Offers: Send personalized deals based on guests’ previous bookings.
- Custom Branded Hotel App: Develop a mobile app where guests can make bookings, check-in, request services, etc.
- Develop Themed Packages: Create packages around specific themes like romance, adventure, wellness, etc.
- Feature Your Hotel in a Film or TV Series: Invite film crews to use your hotel as a location.
- Start a Refill Not Landfill Initiative: Reduce waste by refilling toiletries, and market your eco-initiative.
- Holiday-Specific Packages: Create packages around holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc.
- Collaborate with Local Non-profits: Show your commitment to the local community.
- Highlight Awards and Recognitions: Promote any awards or recognitions your hotel has received.
- Leverage User-Generated Content: Share guests’ photos (with permission) on your social media.
- Have a Strong PR Strategy: Leverage media outlets to share your story and offers.
- Offer Last-Minute Deals: Fill empty rooms with last-minute deals.
- Collaborate with Lifestyle Brands: Cross-promote your offerings with relevant lifestyle brands.
- Promote Meeting Spaces: If you have meeting or event spaces, market these to businesses and event planners.
- Send Post-Stay Thank You Notes: This can help build a relationship with your guests.
- Host Business Networking Events: Attract business travelers and locals.
- Use Schema Markup for SEO: Improve your website’s search engine visibility.
- Create an Affiliate Program: Encourage others to promote your hotel in exchange for a commission.
- Host Cooking Classes with Your Chef: Market to guests interested in the local cuisine.
- Blogger Outreach: Invite bloggers to stay at your hotel in exchange for a review.
- Create City Guides: Create guides of local attractions, restaurants, etc.
- Promote the Local Economy: Show how staying at your hotel supports the local economy.
- Use QR Codes for Contactless Services: Promote contactless services for health and safety.
- Promote Your COVID-19 Policies and Measures: Reassure guests of their safety when staying at your hotel.
- Set Up a Photo Booth: A fun, interactive way for guests to create memories.
- Offer Child Care Services: Let parents enjoy some alone time.
- Outdoor Activities: Promote activities like hiking, fishing, or horseback riding.
- Setup a Live Webcam: Of a beautiful view or attraction near your property.
- Complimentary Airport Shuttle: Promote this free and convenient service.
- Highlight Your Green Initiatives: Promote your commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
- Use Influencer Marketing: Collaborate with influencers to reach a wider audience.
- Provide Cooking Lessons with Local Chefs: Offer guests a unique culinary experience.
- Implement a Point System: Reward repeat guests with points that can be used for perks.
- Create Customized Itineraries: Offer personalized itineraries based on guests’ interests.
- Promote Pet-Friendly Services: If you allow pets, make sure potential guests are aware.
- Host Webinars or Online Classes: On travel tips, cooking, yoga, etc.
- Interactive Hotel Map: A fun, visual way for guests to see what you offer.
- Use Google Ads: Use targeted ads to reach potential guests.
- Host Art Shows: Partner with local artists to display and sell their work.
- Market Your Unique Amenities: Such as a rooftop bar, infinity pool, or private beach.
- Offer a Members-Only Club: For repeat guests, with exclusive benefits.
- Develop a Branded Mobile App: For bookings, check-in/out, room service, etc.
- Use a CRM System: Personalize guest experience and marketing campaigns.
- Create a Guest Loyalty Program: Offer incentives for repeat stays.
- Video Testimonials: Collect and share video testimonials from satisfied guests.
- Highlight Your Resort’s Views: If your resort has a great view, use it in your marketing.
- Host a Digital Detox Retreat: Market to those looking for a break from technology.
- Cater to Remote Workers: Offer day rates for people who want a change of scenery.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Network and share business-focused content.
- Create a Google My Business Account: Increase your local search visibility.
- Promote Holiday-Specific Packages: Create enticing offers around holidays.
- Host a Local Charity Event: Promote goodwill and attract local media.
- Offer Deals on Booking Sites: Use sites like Expedia or Booking.com to attract new guests.
- Host Live Entertainment: Such as music nights, comedy shows, or cultural performances.
- Market Off-Season Activities: Encourage bookings during your off-peak season.
- Create a Virtual Tour: Let potential guests explore your property online.
- Set Up a Blog: Share behind-the-scenes content, travel tips, local guides, etc.
- Collaborate with a Local College: Offer internships or host college events.
- Develop a Mobile App for On-Demand Services: Room service, housekeeping requests, etc.
- Use Facebook Dynamic Ads: Target ads based on user behavior.
- Offer Eco-friendly Amenities: Market your commitment to reducing environmental impact.
- Promote Weekend Getaway Packages: Encourage short, local trips.
- Partner with a Local Spa: Offer packages that include spa treatments.
- Install a Virtual Reality Booth: Let guests explore local attractions virtually.
- Promote Fitness Amenities: Highlight your gym, yoga classes, or wellness programs.
- Offer Special Rates for Extended Stays: Encourage long-term stays.
- Create a Facebook Group for Past Guests: A space for guests to share memories and interact.
- Launch a PPC Campaign: Use pay-per-click advertising to increase visibility.
- Promote Your Bar or Restaurant: Even to non-guests, to increase foot traffic.
- Provide Local Tasting Experiences: Like wine, cheese, or local delicacies.
- Host Themed Nights: Such as a local cuisine night, game night, or movie night.
- Create a Signature Scent: Make your hotel memorable with a unique scent.
- Highlight Free Inclusions: Such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or parking.
- Host a Contest or Giveaway: Encourage social media engagement and collect user-generated content.
- Create a Podcast: Discuss travel tips, interview local experts, and talk about experiences your hotel offers.
- Add a Booking Chatbot to Your Website: Helps with customer service and capturing leads.
- Host Virtual Events: Reach your audience globally and let them experience your hotel without being there.
- Create a Hashtag Campaign: Encourage guests to use your unique hashtag when posting about your hotel on social media.
- Collaborate with Travel Agencies: They can help recommend your hotel to potential customers.
- Offer Incentives for Early Bookings: Encourage guests to book well in advance by offering them discounts.
- Implement Targeted Retargeting Campaigns: Remind potential guests about your hotel after they leave your website.
- Collaborate with Airlines for Package Deals: Providing flights and accommodation in one package can make travel planning easier for guests.
- Offer Exclusive Packages for Special Occasions: Packages for anniversaries, birthdays, or honeymoons can attract guests looking to celebrate.
- Leverage Snapchat Geofilters: Custom filters can be used by guests to share their experience at your hotel.
- Utilize Facebook’s Custom Audiences: Tailor your marketing to specific segments of your audience.
- Offer a “Work from Hotel” Package: Cater to remote workers looking for a change of scenery.
- Promote Your Business Center: Attract business travelers who need workspace and meeting rooms.
- Offer a “Staycation” Package: Encourage locals to have a relaxing getaway without leaving town.
- Highlight Employee Stories: Show the human side of your hotel by sharing your employees’ stories.
- Collaborate with Local Events/Festivals: Offer packages or deals around these events to attract attendees.
- Host a Fitness Retreat: Partner with fitness instructors to offer health and wellness retreats.
- Run Ads in Local Print Media: Reach out to local audiences who read newspapers or magazines.
- Offer Bicycle Rentals: An eco-friendly amenity that lets guests explore the local area.
- Feature a Guest of the Week: Show your appreciation for guests and create engaging content.
- Collaborate with Local Fitness Centers: Offer special gym packages or yoga classes.
- Use AR/VR in Your Marketing: Let potential guests virtually explore your property.
- Run a “Refer a Friend” Program: Encourage guests to refer their friends in exchange for discounts or other perks.
- Offer Military or Senior Discounts: Show appreciation for these groups and attract them with special rates.
- Create an E-book or Travel Guide: Give potential guests helpful information about your local area.
- Highlight Your Hotel’s History: If your hotel has an interesting history, share it!
- Offer Seasonal Menu Items: Use fresh, local ingredients and market your seasonal offerings.
- Showcase Your Hotel’s Design: If your hotel has a unique or trendy design, use this in your marketing.
- Run Social Media Contests: Encourage guests to share their photos or experiences for a chance to win a prize.
- Create a Rewards Program for Local Businesses: Encourage local businesses to refer their customers to your hotel.
- Collaborate with Local Universities: Offer special rates for visiting parents or alumni.
- Promote Accessibility Features: Make sure guests with disabilities know about the accommodations you provide.
- Implement a 360-Degree Virtual Tour: Let guests explore your hotel from their own home.
- Use Schema Markup for SEO: Help search engines understand your website’s content better.
- Promote Your On-site Shops or Boutiques: Attract shoppers as well as hotel guests.
- Offer Discounts for Direct Bookings: Encourage guests to book directly with your hotel.
- Implement a Social Wall on Your Website: Display social media posts from guests in real-time.
- Offer Packages for Remote Workers: Include amenities like dedicated workspace, Wi-Fi, and coffee.
- Create a Loyalty Program for Corporate Clients: Encourage businesses to book their traveling employees at your hotel.
- Partner with a Local Photographer: Offer photoshoot packages to guests.
- Create a Web Series: Share interesting stories about your hotel or local area.
- Create a Kids Club or Family Packages: Cater to families traveling with children.
- Offer Welcome Gifts: Small gifts upon arrival can make a big impression.
- Host Pop-up Events: Collaborate with local brands or artists for pop-up shops or exhibitions.
- Create a Loyalty Program for Event Planners: Encourage repeat business for events.
- Leverage Voice Search SEO: Optimize your website for voice search.
- Create Branded Merchandise: Create merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, or hats that guests can buy as souvenirs.
- Use Billboards in Key Locations: Traditional outdoor advertising can still be effective.
- Use Social Proof in Your Marketing: Showcase testimonials and reviews from satisfied guests.
- Collaborate with Local Transport Providers: Offer guests easy and convenient ways to get around.