Your hotel’s homepage is like your digital front desk. It’s where potential guests make their first impression of your brand, and just like walking into a hotel lobby, they expect it to be welcoming, easy to navigate, and maybe even a little impressive.
So, what exactly does your homepage need to charm your guests from the get-go?
Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that’ll make your hotel homepage a winner—and yes, we’ll sprinkle in some fun stuff like personalised notifications!
1. A Slick and User-Friendly Design
Think of your homepage like a stylish, well-organised lobby. You want it to look great and be super easy to move through. The goal here is simple: make sure your guests find exactly what they need without any digital detours.
- Easy Navigation: Guests should feel like they know their way around your website right from the start. Categories like “Rooms,” “Amenities,” and “Special Offers” should be as easy to spot as the elevators in a hotel lobby.
- Mobile-Friendly: Most travellers book from their phones these days, so your homepage should look just as sleek on a smartphone as it does on a laptop. No pinching, no zooming, just smooth scrolling.
2. A ‘Book Now’ Button That’s Impossible to Miss
This is the MVP of your homepage. Your booking system needs to be front and centre, practically waving at your guests, inviting them to click. It should be easy to use and—let’s be honest—tempting to press.
- Date Picker & Guest Selector: A clear date selection tool (no guessing, please!) and an easy way for guests to tell you how many people are coming.
- Real-Time Availability: The faster your system can show availability and prices, the better. No one likes waiting, especially when they’re this close to booking.
- Special Deals: If you’ve got deals, flaunt them! Offer up any discounts or promotions right there in the booking process—it’s like offering a welcome drink as they check in!
3. Drop-Dead Gorgeous Visuals
First impressions are everything, right? Your homepage should dazzle with stunning photos or a video that instantly makes people want to be there. Whether it’s the gorgeous ocean view from your hotel, the chic décor, or the rooftop bar at sunset, show off what makes your hotel a must-visit.
- Hero Image or Video: Feature one jaw-dropping image or a short video that highlights your hotel’s vibe. Make them dream of lounging by the pool or sipping cocktails at your swanky bar.
- Interactive Galleries: Give potential guests a little sneak peek into the rooms, spa, or restaurant through photo galleries or virtual tours. Let them mentally check in before they actually do!
- Pro Photography Only: Your cousin with an iPhone? Nope. Hire a pro to make sure your hotel looks as inviting online as it does in person.
4. Irresistible Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Think of CTAs as your digital concierge, guiding your guests to the next step with a big, welcoming smile. These should be attention-grabbing but not pushy, like a friendly nudge in the right direction.
- “Book Now!” or “Check Availability”: These are the classics. They’re clear, simple, and get straight to the point.
- “Unlock Exclusive Deals”: Because who can resist a little mystery and the promise of savings?
Make sure they stand out by using bright buttons or bold text. Guests shouldn’t have to squint to figure out where to click next.
5. Personalised Notifications: Your Secret Weapon
Here’s where things get cool. Imagine having the ability to whisper in a guest’s ear (digitally, of course) and offer exactly what they’re looking for. Enter personalised notifications. With a little help from clever tech, you can serve up offers and info tailored to each visitor’s preferences or location.
- Location-Based Offers: Noticed your guest is browsing from London? Pop up an offer for a complimentary airport transfer or a last-minute weekend deal. Make them feel like it’s just for them!
- Behavioural Prompts: If someone is about to leave the website without making a reservation, why not send a little nudge offering a discount on a massage? It’s like the digital version of whispering, “Psst, you’ll love this…”
- Time-Sensitive Pop-Ups: Has your visitor been browsing for a third time without booking? Flash them a pop-up offering 10% off if they book in the next hour. Urgency works!
6. Glowing Guest Reviews and Testimonials
Let’s be real: travellers trust other travellers. Featuring glowing reviews is like showing off the best kind of word-of-mouth recommendations. It gives potential guests that reassuring nudge that they’re making the right choice.
- Featured Testimonial Section: Pick a couple of standout reviews and feature them on your homepage. Bonus points for including names or even photos to make it more personal.
- Link to Full Reviews: Include a link to your TripAdvisor or Google reviews so guests can dive in and do their homework. Confidence, right?
- User-Generated Content: Got guests tagging your hotel on Instagram with drool-worthy holiday pics? Feature those snaps directly on your homepage—it’s like free marketing that screams authenticity!
7. Highlight Special Offers and Deals
People love a good deal. Give them a reason to hit that “Book Now” button by featuring your best offers front and centre.
- Seasonal Promos: Highlight anything relevant to the time of year—whether it’s a summer getaway package or a cosy winter deal.
- Exclusive Packages: Got a spa, dinner, and overnight stay package that’s to die for? Showcase it here!
Just make sure these deals stay fresh—stale offers are like week-old pastries… unappetising.
8. Easy-to-Find Contact Information
When guests have questions, don’t make them dig for answers. Your contact details should be as easy to find as the hotel’s lobby restrooms.
- Click-to-Call Phone Number: On mobile, your phone number should be clickable so guests can dial you with a tap.
- Live Chat Feature: Nothing says “We’ve got your back” like live chat. If you can offer it, you’ll instantly reduce frustration and boost bookings.
- Map & Directions: Embed a map so guests know exactly where you are. Bonus points for including local landmarks or attractions nearby.
9. Social Media Integration
Don’t forget to show off your social media game! Guests love seeing real-time updates, events, or behind-the-scenes action.
- Instagram Feeds: Integrate your Instagram feed to show off stunning photos, guest experiences, and hotel events. It’s like saying, “Hey, look how much fun people are having here!”
- Social Share Buttons: Make it easy for visitors to share your pages, deals, or blog posts. One share from a happy guest could bring in more potential bookings.
10. Local Area Guide and Things to Do
Travellers want to know what’s going on around town, not just what’s inside the hotel. Offering local tips makes your hotel look like a thoughtful host that’s in-the-know.
- Nearby Attractions: Showcase popular local spots like beaches, parks, or entertainment venues.
- Local Insider Tips: Include recommendations from the hotel staff. After all, locals know best, and sharing hidden gems adds a personal touch.
Final Thoughts
Your hotel homepage is your chance to roll out the virtual red carpet. With the right mix of dazzling visuals, easy navigation, personalised notifications, and irresistible offers, you’ll not only attract visitors—you’ll convert them into happy guests. By thinking like a guest and offering what they need (sometimes even before they know they need it), you’ll make your website an experience in itself.
Userguest can help you level up with personalised notifications that are tailored to each guest’s preferences, driving more bookings and engagement. We offer a free demo and a 30-day free trial so you can see the magic in action!