Whether you’re a first-timer eager for a glimpse of Times Square’s dazzling lights or a regular visitor looking to live like a local in a quieter neighbourhood, finding the right hotel can make or break your trip. Luckily, there are plenty of options to suit every kind of traveler. From old-world addresses that are practically a part of the city’s identity to trendy new openings and Covid-related closures, here are 14 of NYC’s best hotels.
Good reviews boost visibility, increase bookings, attract organic traffic and further improve your Google search ranking. But, if you want to get the most out of your hotel’s positive feedback, it’s important to craft and implement a strategy that highlights the aspects of your property that truly set it apart.
Here are some of the best ways to maximize the impact of your positive reviews:
1. Use Review Samples:
A good place to start is by reviewing a selection of your current positive feedback. This will help you identify common themes and sentiments, which you can then translate into templates for your team to use when responding. These templates can be based around specific topics, such as staff commendation, room satisfaction, amenities appreciation, dining experiences and location convenience. You can also personalize your templates by referencing key details from the guest’s review, such as their name and a brief summary of the interaction.
2. Encourage Your Guests to Share Their Experience:
The easiest way to encourage your happiest customers to write a review is by asking them directly. Include a link to your Google review page in the final checkout email, along with a simple request that they share their feedback (see an example below). Alternatively, you can send guests a direct message post-stay with a link to leave a review. This is an effective method to encourage your guests to provide feedback, as it’s more relevant and timely compared to other forms of communication.
3. Offer Discount Rates:
Lastly, don’t be afraid to contact hotels and ask for discounts. They will often match or even beat the lowest online rates, especially if you’re a member of a rewards program like AARP or AAA. Plus, booking direct usually means that you can earn loyalty points and status for your stay.
4. Be Convenient:
Choosing the right hotel should be convenient for your destination. That’s why it pays to do your research and look for a hotel that is close to the top attractions you’re planning on visiting. You’ll save on transport costs and make it easier to get from one end of your stay to the other without wasting time.
5. Offer Loyalty Programs:
When it comes to hotels, loyalty programs can be a game-changer when it comes to getting the most out of your vacation. If you’re a frequent traveler, consider joining a hotel’s loyalty program to get the most bang for your buck. It can give you access to free nights, discounted rates and special events. Just be sure to read the fine print and terms and conditions before committing to a hotel’s loyalty program, as some may require minimum stays or exclude certain types of rooms from their loyalty offerings.