Back in the early days of Airbnb, hosting was all about providing a local experience for your guests. Those were also the days when most rentals consisted of a pull-out couch or spare bedroom — and while most guests wouldn’t want to curl up on a sofa now, many would appreciate a local’s perspective.
Creating a local guide for your Airbnb guests will set your property apart from the rest, and could help take your guests’ stay from good to unforgettable. There are so many ways to get creative and have fun with this! Below you’ll find our top tips for getting started.
Why Local Guides Make a Difference
Think about it from your guests’ perspective.
They’ve likely scoured countless travel blogs and reviews, but nothing beats getting the scoop straight from a local (like you!). A well-crafted guide will save them precious vacation time by eliminating the need to research things to do, from grocery stores to hidden gems.
Imagine how helpful it would be if you showed up in a place you’ve never visited and there was a handy guide waiting there for you. Additionally, getting the word out about your favorite spots in town will inevitably help support your local businesses — all thanks to your guide. It’s a win-win!
The benefits extend far beyond just happy guests. All hosts know how important it is to stay on top of guest communication and requests, but sometimes it can get overwhelming (especially if you have multiple properties). Well, what if instead of having to field questions about the nearest pharmacy or the best place to grab a burger, you could simply refer them to your guide? It’s so much easier!
And for hosts who are just getting started, guests who feel well-informed and cared for are more likely to leave positive reviews. This can lead to more bookings and solidify your Superhost status.
Building your Guide
Now that you know why you should make a guide, let’s cover what to include in it.
Start with:
- Contact information for emergency services
- Public transportation options (including schedules if possible)
- Location of nearby grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies
This basic yet essential information ensures your guests have everything they need to feel comfortable and prepared.
Next up, the fun stuff. Curate a list of “Things to Do” and split it up into different interests. Are there any must-see historical sites or museums they shouldn’t miss? Do you have family-friendly recs like parks, zoos, or playgrounds? For nature enthusiasts, suggest some hiking trails, bike paths, or nearby beaches. And don’t forget culture lovers! Point them toward art galleries, live music venues, or theaters.
Foodies will appreciate advice on local restaurants, so make sure to include a variety of options across different cuisines and budgets. Try to mention information on the vibe of the restaurant as well — is it a romantic French bistro, or a lively sports bar? Don’t forget to suggest cafes or coffee shops for breakfast as well as things to do for night owls. If your area has a vibrant nightlife scene, include recommendations on your favorite bars. You should also add a section for delivery options for those nights your guests want to stay in and relax.
Include a section called “Hidden Gems” where you share your personal favorites that only a true local would know about. A bookstore with a cozy spot to read, farmer’s markets for fresh local produce, or unique viewpoints to admire the sunrise or sunset are just a few ideas. These “insider” tips add a very personal touch and will make your guide stand out from other, more generic options you can find online.
Tips for Creating Your Guide
As you start to draft your guide, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Keep things short and sweet: Bulleted lists with brief descriptions are easy to read and won’t overwhelm your guests. A few words will go a long way. Highlight what makes each place unique: the delicious pizza at the Italian restaurant, the live jazz nights at the local bar, or the breathtaking views from the mountain peak.
- Be clear and concise: Avoid overly complicated sentences or local jargon, unless you take the time to explain it.
- Add photos: Include high-quality photos of your recommendations where you can.
- Get specific: If you want to truly go above and beyond, tweak your recommendations slightly for each guest. Ask them if there is anything in particular they’d like to do and see, then adjust your guide so that it fits their preferences.
Sharing Your Guide
You can share your guide electronically with your guests after they confirm their booking, and you can even upload it so that it lives on your Airbnb listing.
Print out a hard copy too, and consider getting it bound and laminated at your local printer so that it stays in good condition. You could probably get away with making one to keep on hand at your property, or you could always let each guest take a copy of their own to remember the trip by.
Ultimately, creating a local guide is a very small investment with a very big return. When you provide your guests with such valuable information and tips, you’ll improve their experience, boost your positive reviews, and help you obtain that ever-important Superhost status.
You’ll be amazed at how just a little effort can go such a long way!
This content originally appeared in our twice-monthly Guest Book newsletter.
