How To Get Your Hostel Featured On Lonelyplanet
Introduction
Welcome to the world of hostels! If you’re a hostel owner or manager, you know how important it is to stand out in the crowded hospitality industry. One surefire way to boost your hostel’s visibility and attract globetrotting travelers is to get featured on Lonely Planet. Being recognized by Lonely Planet can elevate your hostel’s reputation, increase bookings, and bring in a steady stream of adventurous guests.
Lonely Planet is one of the most trusted and influential travel companies in the world, providing travelers with comprehensive guides, recommendations, and insights. Getting your hostel featured on Lonely Planet can put your establishment in front of millions of travel enthusiasts, positioning it as a must-visit destination.
In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and strategies to increase your chances of getting your hostel featured on Lonely Planet. From creating an outstanding hostel experience to optimizing your online presence, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step.
Research and Preparation
Before you embark on the journey to get your hostel featured on Lonely Planet, it’s important to do your research and make necessary preparations. This will ensure that your hostel meets the criteria and stands a better chance of being listed.
Start by studying Lonely Planet’s guidelines and criteria for featuring hostels. Understand what they look for in terms of location, facilities, cleanliness, and overall guest experience. This will help you tailor your hostel to meet their expectations.
Next, conduct a thorough audit of your hostel. Look for areas that can be improved or enhanced to make it more appealing to travelers. Consider factors such as cleanliness, comfort, amenities, and unique features that set your hostel apart from others.
Consider the type of traveler that Lonely Planet caters to. Are they budget travelers, adventure seekers, or digital nomads? Understanding your target audience will help tailor your hostel’s offerings to their needs and preferences.
Take a critical look at your online presence. Lonely Planet often explores websites and online platforms to gather information about hostels. Ensure that your website is user-friendly, visually appealing, and provides all the necessary details about your hostel. Optimize your website for search engines by incorporating relevant keywords and meta tags.
Reach out to past guests and ask for feedback or reviews. Positive reviews from satisfied guests can greatly enhance your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet. If there are any negative reviews, address the concerns and make improvements to prevent them from recurring.
Lastly, prepare high-quality and visually appealing photos of your hostel’s rooms, common areas, and unique features. Professional photographs can make a significant impact on Lonely Planet’s decision-making process and entice potential guests to choose your hostel.
Create an Outstanding Hostel Experience
To get your hostel featured on Lonely Planet, it’s crucial to provide an exceptional guest experience. A memorable and enjoyable stay will not only impress your guests but also increase the likelihood of positive reviews and recommendations.
Start by ensuring that your hostel is clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Pay attention to details such as comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and well-equipped common areas. Invest in quality linens, towels, and amenities that will enhance your guests’ comfort.
Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere by fostering a sense of community among your guests. Organize social events, such as game nights or group outings, where travelers can connect and share their experiences. Consider offering communal spaces where guests can relax, socialize, and interact with each other.
Train your staff to provide excellent customer service. Friendly and knowledgeable staff members can make a significant difference in guests’ experiences. Encourage your team to go above and beyond to help guests with their travel plans, provide local recommendations, and address any concerns promptly.
Offer value-added services and amenities that cater to the needs of travelers. This could include free Wi-Fi, lockers for secure storage, laundry facilities, a fully equipped kitchen, or even bike rentals. Consider what amenities are most important to your target audience and strive to exceed their expectations.
Provide information and resources about the local area. Create city guides, maps, and recommendations for nearby attractions, restaurants, and transportation options. Help your guests make the most of their stay by providing insider tips and local insights.
Encourage a positive and respectful environment in your hostel. Implement policies that promote quiet hours, cleanliness, and consideration for fellow guests. A hostel that fosters a sense of mutual respect and a peaceful atmosphere will attract discerning travelers.
Lastly, invest in sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly practices. Travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and are more likely to choose accommodations that align with their values. Consider implementing recycling programs, energy-efficient measures, and promoting responsible travel practices.
Standout Features and Amenities
To make your hostel irresistible to travelers and increase your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet, it’s important to offer standout features and amenities that set your establishment apart from others.
Consider the unique selling points of your location and incorporate them into your hostel’s offerings. If you’re situated in a scenic area, create outdoor spaces such as rooftop terraces or garden courtyards where guests can relax and enjoy the view. If you’re in a vibrant city, consider hosting cultural events or partnering with local artists to bring a taste of the local culture to your hostel.
Invest in comfortable and creatively-themed dormitory and private rooms. Incorporate unique designs, such as bunk beds with privacy curtains, individual reading lights, or themed decorations that reflect the local culture or natural surroundings.
Offer a variety of room types to cater to different travel preferences. This might include female-only dorms, family rooms, or private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Providing diverse accommodation options will attract a wider range of travelers.
Consider adding value-added amenities that make your hostel a convenient and enjoyable place to stay. This could include a free breakfast buffet or communal dinners, where guests can socialize over a shared meal. Offer free tea and coffee throughout the day, and perhaps even a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival.
Take advantage of technology to enhance the guest experience. Provide free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hostel, including in common areas and rooms. Install charging stations for guests to conveniently charge their devices. Consider implementing keyless entry systems for added security and convenience.
Create spaces for work and relaxation. Designate a comfortable and well-equipped lounge area where guests can work remotely, read a book, or simply unwind. Consider providing a quiet study room or a designated space for yoga and meditation.
Don’t forget the little details that make a big difference. Provide secure lockers where guests can store their valuables. Install ample power outlets and USB ports near beds for easy charging. Ensure well-lit common areas and hallways for safety and convenience.
Remember, it’s not just about the physical amenities, but also about the experience you create for your guests. Foster a friendly and inclusive atmosphere where travelers feel welcome and can easily connect with fellow adventurers.
By offering standout features and thoughtful amenities, you’ll make your hostel an attractive destination for travelers and increase your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet.
Engage with Guests and Encourage Reviews
Engaging with your guests and encouraging them to leave reviews is not only important for improving your hostel’s reputation but also for increasing your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can significantly enhance your hostel’s visibility and credibility.
Start by fostering a personal connection with your guests. Greet them warmly upon check-in, engage in friendly conversations, and show a genuine interest in their travel experiences. This personal touch will leave a lasting impression and encourage guests to share their positive experiences.
During their stay, be readily available to assist guests with any questions or concerns they may have. Provide helpful information about the local area, including recommendations for sightseeing, dining, and transportation. Going the extra mile to ensure your guests have a memorable experience will increase the likelihood of positive reviews.
Encourage guests to leave reviews by making it easy and convenient for them. Place review cards or tablets in common areas where guests can easily share their feedback. Consider offering incentives, such as a small discount on their next stay or a free drink at the hostel bar, for leaving a review.
Utilize social media platforms to engage with your guests and encourage them to share their experiences. Create captivating content, including photos, videos, and stories that showcase the unique features and experiences of your hostel. Encourage guests to tag your hostel in their posts and use relevant hashtags.
Respond promptly and professionally to both positive and negative reviews. Thank guests for their feedback and address any concerns or issues raised. Demonstrating that you value customer feedback and take guest satisfaction seriously will improve your hostel’s reputation and show potential guests that their experience is important to you.
Consider implementing a guest loyalty program or referral program. Reward guests who frequently stay at your hostel or refer friends to your establishment. These incentives can encourage guests to become brand ambassadors and share their positive experiences with others.
Showcase guest reviews on your website and social media platforms. Share testimonials and highlight specific experiences that guests have had at your hostel. Potential guests will be more inclined to book a stay knowing that others have had great experiences.
Finally, consider reaching out to past guests and requesting that they leave a review specifically on Lonely Planet. Let them know that their feedback can help showcase your hostel to a global audience and potentially influence other travelers’ decisions.
By engaging with your guests, providing exceptional experiences, and actively encouraging reviews, you’ll not only enhance your hostel’s reputation but also increase your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet.
Social Media Presence and Online Promotion
In today’s digital age, having a strong social media presence and utilizing online promotion techniques is essential for getting your hostel featured on Lonely Planet. Social media platforms provide a powerful way to reach and engage with a wide audience of travelers.
Start by creating profiles on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Use consistent branding and showcase captivating visuals that reflect the unique features and experiences of your hostel.
Regularly post high-quality content that highlights the best aspects of your hostel. Share photos of your rooms, common areas, and amenities. Feature guest testimonials and reviews. Create engaging videos that showcase the local area and unique activities available to guests.
Interact with your followers and engage in conversations with potential guests. Respond to comments, answer questions, and provide helpful information. Use social media as a platform to showcase your hospitality and provide a glimpse into the experience guests can expect at your hostel.
Run social media contests or giveaways to generate buzz and attract new followers. Encourage users to like, share, and tag their friends for a chance to win a free night’s stay or other prizes. This increases your reach and exposes your hostel to a wider audience.
Collaborate with popular travel bloggers or influencers who have a strong presence on social media. Invite them to stay at your hostel and showcase their experiences through their channels. Having influential voices recommend your hostel can significantly increase your chances of getting featured on Lonely Planet.
Optimize your website for search engines by incorporating relevant keywords, meta tags, and alt tags for your images. This will improve your website’s visibility in search engine results and increase organic traffic to your site.
Utilize online travel directories and booking platforms to promote your hostel. Ensure that your listing is complete with accurate information, high-quality photos, and positive guest reviews. Encourage guests to leave reviews on these platforms, as positive ratings can increase your chances of being recognized by Lonely Planet.
Explore partnerships with local businesses, such as tour operators or transportation services. Cross-promote each other’s offerings by sharing links or offering special discounts or packages exclusive to your guests. Collaborating with other tourism-related businesses can help increase your visibility and attract more guests.
Consider running targeted online advertising campaigns to reach specific segments of travelers. Use platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads to create custom audience profiles based on demographics, interests, and travel preferences.
Monitor and analyze your social media and website analytics to evaluate the success of your online promotion efforts. Look for trends and patterns to determine which strategies are most effective in driving engagement and bookings.
By maintaining a strong social media presence and actively promoting your hostel online, you’ll increase your chances of getting featured on Lonely Planet and attract a larger audience of travelers.
Collaborate with Local Tourist Boards and Travel Agencies
Collaborating with local tourist boards and travel agencies can be a valuable strategy to get your hostel featured on Lonely Planet. These organizations have extensive knowledge of the local tourism industry and can help promote your hostel to a wider audience.
Begin by reaching out to the local tourist board or tourism office in your area. Introduce your hostel and express your interest in collaborating with them to promote tourism in the region. Offer to provide them with information about your hostel and the unique experiences you offer to their visitors.
Consider participating in local tourism events, trade shows, or fairs where you can showcase your hostel. These events provide an opportunity to network with representatives from the tourist board and travel agencies. Display eye-catching visuals and provide brochures or business cards to leave a lasting impression.
Collaborate with travel agencies that specialize in your destination or cater to your target audience. Offer special packages or discounts exclusive to their customers. By partnering with reputable travel agencies, you can tap into their existing customer base and gain exposure to potential guests who are already interested in visiting your area.
Host familiarization trips or site visits for travel agents and tour operators. Invite them to experience your hostel firsthand and provide them with a memorable stay. By giving them a taste of the unique features and experiences your hostel offers, they will be more likely to recommend it to their clients.
Offer incentives for travel agents or tour operators to promote your hostel. This could include commission-based partnerships or referral bonuses. Provide them with high-quality promotional materials and information that they can easily share with their clients.
Collaborate with local attractions, restaurants, or transportation services to create value-added packages or offers. By bundling experiences together, you can create more attractive and appealing options for tourists. This can also lead to cross-promotion, where other businesses recommend your hostel to their customers.
Participate in cooperative marketing campaigns with local tourism partners. This can include joint advertising, content creation, or social media collaborations. By pooling your resources and reaching a shared target audience, you can amplify your marketing efforts and gain greater visibility.
Consider offering educational or cultural experiences in collaboration with local organizations. This could include hosting workshops, language classes, or cultural exchange events. These collaborations can add value to the guest experience and differentiate your hostel from others.
Lastly, actively engage with local tourism-related social media accounts and online travel communities. Share their content, comment on their posts, and build relationships with them. By building a strong network within the local tourism industry, you increase your chances of gaining exposure and being recommended by influential voices.
By collaborating with local tourist boards and travel agencies, you can expand your reach, tap into existing networks, and increase your chances of getting featured on Lonely Planet.
Contact Lonely Planet and Submit Your Hostel
After you have prepared your hostel and implemented various strategies to enhance its visibility and guest experience, it’s time to contact Lonely Planet and submit your hostel for consideration to be featured. Follow these steps to increase your chances of catching their attention:
1. Research Lonely Planet’s guidelines and criteria for featuring hostels. Ensure that your hostel meets their standards in terms of location, facilities, cleanliness, and overall guest experience.
2. Visit the Lonely Planet website and navigate to their “Contact” or “Contributor” page. Look for information on how to submit hostels or accommodations for consideration.
3. Craft a compelling and personalized email introducing your hostel to the Lonely Planet team. Highlight the unique features, amenities, and experiences your hostel offers. Be concise and persuasive, focusing on why your hostel deserves to be featured.
4. Attach high-quality photos of your hostel’s rooms, facilities, and common areas. Visuals play a crucial role in capturing the attention of the Lonely Planet editors and potential travelers.
5. Include relevant guest reviews, testimonials, and any press coverage or awards your hostel has received. This will add credibility to your submission and showcase the positive experiences previous guests have had.
6. Mention any collaborations or partnerships your hostel has with local tourist boards or travel agencies. This demonstrates that your hostel is actively engaged in the local tourism industry and has established relationships with reputable organizations.
7. Showcase your hostel’s online presence, including your website, social media accounts, and positive online reviews. This gives Lonely Planet an insight into your hostel’s popularity and positive reputation among travelers.
8. Express your willingness to provide additional information or host a Lonely Planet representative for a site visit. This demonstrates your commitment and enthusiasm to be featured.
9. Double-check your email for any spelling or grammatical errors before hitting the send button. A professional and error-free email will leave a better impression on the Lonely Planet team.
10. Be patient and make follow-ups if necessary. It may take some time for the Lonely Planet team to review and consider your submission. If you don’t receive a response after a reasonable amount of time, politely follow up to inquire about the status of your submission.
Remember, getting featured on Lonely Planet is highly competitive, and not all submissions will be accepted. However, by following these steps and presenting your hostel in the best possible light, you increase your chances of catching the attention of the Lonely Planet team and securing a coveted feature.
Conclusion
Getting your hostel featured on Lonely Planet is a fantastic opportunity to increase your hostel’s visibility, attract more guests, and elevate your reputation in the travel industry. While the process may seem daunting, with careful research, preparation, and implementation of strategies, you can greatly improve your chances of success.
Start by conducting thorough research and understanding Lonely Planet’s criteria for featuring hostels. Use this knowledge to enhance your hostel’s offerings and create an outstanding guest experience. From standout features and amenities to engaging with guests and encouraging reviews, every aspect plays a vital role in making your hostel an attractive destination.
Utilize the power of social media and online promotion to reach and engage with a wider audience. Collaborate with local tourist boards, travel agencies, and businesses to expand your reach and tap into existing networks. By building relationships and making your presence known within the tourism industry, you increase your chances of being recommended to Lonely Planet.
When the time comes, craft a compelling email and submit your hostel to Lonely Planet for consideration. Showcase the unique features, amenities, and experiences your hostel offers, and don’t forget to include high-quality visuals and guest testimonials that demonstrate your hostel’s appeal.
While not every submission will be accepted, by following these strategies and presenting your hostel in the best possible light, you greatly increase your chances of catching the attention of the Lonely Planet team and securing a feature.
Remember to stay patient and proactive throughout the process. Continuously monitor and improve your hostel’s offerings, engage with your guests, and maintain a strong online presence. This will not only increase your chances of being featured on Lonely Planet but also contribute to the long-term success and growth of your hostel.
So, take the first step today and embark on the journey to get your hostel featured on Lonely Planet. Position your hostel as a must-visit destination and open the doors to a world of opportunities.
