A repeat guest is the biggest compliment a host can receive. When someone chooses to stay again, it means they felt comfortable, safe, respected, and cared for. For small boutique hosts and homestays, repeat guests are not just good for the heart — they are also good for business.
Repeat guests save time, reduce marketing efforts, and help build long-term stability. They bring trust, love, and better reviews. Here are some simple ways to encourage guests to return again and again.
1. Make Guests Feel Seen
Most people remember how you made them feel. A small gesture can create a strong emotional connection.
Examples:
- “How was your journey?” (before check-in)
- “Hope you reached safely!” (after checkout)
- “Let me know if you need help finding food.”
Guests don’t forget kindness.
2. Create a Calm and Clean Experience
Cleanliness and comfort decide if a guest will return. A peaceful, hygienic stay is more powerful than fancy decor.
Pay attention to:
- Fresh bedsheets
- Soft towels
- Good fragrance
- Quiet environment
Comfort builds loyalty.
3. Be Easy to Talk To
Guests appreciate quick and warm communication. Not over-friendly or pushy — just available and polite.
Small example:
“If there’s anything you need, feel free to message me — happy to help.”
It makes the guest feel safe and supported.
4. Give A Gentle Goodbye
Goodbyes stay in memory. A nice farewell makes guests feel valued.
Examples:
- “You were wonderful guests, thank you for staying.”
- “Wishing you a beautiful journey ahead.”
- “Hope to host you again someday!”
Hospitality is in the heart, not just in the room.
5. Offer a Small Return Benefit
Guests love to feel special. A tiny benefit can encourage a second stay.
Suggestions:
- 5% repeat discount
- Free late checkout (if available)
- Room upgrade (if empty)
It doesn’t hurt your earnings — it increases them. Best way to do this is have a booking website and offer coupons and discount to them. If you are interested do reach out here.
6. Share Your Direct Booking Information
Once guests trust you, they often prefer to book directly instead of paying commission to online platforms.
Just say:
“If you ever visit again, you can book directly with us — easy process and better rates.”
No hard selling, just simple sharing.
7. Ask for Genuine Feedback
Guests appreciate when hosts care about improvement.
Example:
“Was there anything we could do better for next time?”
This shows humility and care.
8. Keep Your Property Consistent
When guests return, they expect the same comfort as before.
Consistency means:
- Same style
- Same vibe
- Same quality
Consistency builds trust.
9. Stay Connected But Not Noisy
A soft connection is stronger than a hard follow-up.
Ways to stay connected:
- WhatsApp status (showing rooms, weather, decor)
- Instagram photos
- Occasional festival greetings
No spam, no pressure — just presence.
10. Make Their First Stay Truly Good
Repeat bookings don’t start with marketing — they start with service. If the first stay is pleasant, peaceful, and respectful, the second stay becomes natural.
Important truth: Guests return for comfort, not discounts.
Final Thoughts
Repeat guests are not earned through money — they are earned through care, simplicity, and good hospitality. Boutique hosts and homestays have a big advantage here because they offer human warmth that big hotels cannot.
You worked so hard to create a beautiful space — let guests return to it again and again.
