36 Unique Hotel Tips And Tricks: How To Make Your Guests’ Stay Memorable

Running a hotel is no easy job, and keeping guests happy while staying competitive can be a challenge. But when we go above and beyond, the rewards are worth it—not just for our guests but for us too. Making a guest's stay unforgettable doesn’t have to cost a fortune or involve big changes. Sometimes, it’s the little touches that make the biggest impact. 

In this article, I’ll share practical tips and tricks to help you leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Challenges Of Hotel Management In A Competitive Industry

Managing a hotel in today’s competitive market can feel like swimming upstream. Guests have so many choices, and they’re quick to share their opinions online. 

A single bad review can ripple through your reputation. On top of that, balancing rising costs, staff shortages, and ever-changing guest expectations can stretch us thin. But in a world where everyone wants more for less, finding simple ways to stand out is the key to thriving.

36 Unique Tips And Tricks For Hotels To Make Guests' Stay Memorable

Here are a few ideas I have for making each guest's stay special and memorable.

1. Greet guests by name whenever possible.
2. Offer a small welcome gift, like chocolates or a local snack.
3. Keep fresh flowers at the reception desk.
4. Provide complimentary bottled water in every room.
5. Include a handwritten welcome note in the room.
6. Share insider tips on local attractions and hidden gems.
7. Offer free coffee, tea, or cookies in the lobby.
8. Host themed nights, like movie nights or local food tastings.
9. Keep umbrellas handy for guests to borrow on rainy days.
10. Provide a pillow menu with different options for comfort.
11. Add a bedtime storybook for families staying with kids.
12. Set up a “selfie spot” with a scenic or fun backdrop.
13. Send a quick check-in text to ensure guests have everything they need.
14. Offer early check-in or late checkout when possible.
15. Create a local playlist for guests to enjoy during their stay.
16. Provide a guide with staff's favorite restaurants and activities.
17. Add unique room amenities, like a yoga mat or a board game.
18. Surprise guests celebrating special occasions with a small gift.
19. Offer a free shuttle service to popular destinations.
20. Make check-in and check-out fast and easy with digital options.
21. Host a weekly meet-and-greet with hotel staff and guests.
22. Keep bikes available for guests to explore the area.
23. Provide a relaxing aromatherapy spray or candles in rooms.
24. Include a QR code linking to a digital guidebook for your city.
25. Have a "forgotten items" kit available, like toothbrushes or phone chargers.
26. Give departing guests a thank-you card or discount for their next visit.
27. Add a kids’ corner with toys and games.
28. Offer a nightly turndown treat or keepsake.
29. Provide customizable breakfast menus.
30. Set up a book exchange in the lobby.
31. Host free local walking tours for guests.
32. Offer charging stations or loan portable chargers.
33. Host morning yoga or meditation sessions.
34. Provide surprise upgrades like breakfast in bed.
35. Display and sell art from local artists.
36. Send a thank-you email with a future discount. 

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Bonus: Make Sure You Use The Best Tools

Tech-savvy hoteliers will find that they can streamline operations, boost guest satisfaction, and increase revenue with hotel management software—your ultimate support tool for success. Here are my recommendations: 

1. 1. Canary Technologies — Best for mobile check-in
2. 2. innQuest — Best for hotel revenue optimization
3. 3. WebRezPro — Best for integrating with third-party applications
4. 4. Little Hotelier — Best for small hotels and bed & breakfast establishments
5. 5. innRoad — Best for independent hotels
6. 6. Skyware Hospitality Solutions — Best for large-scale hotel chains
7. 7. HotelKey — Best for mobile property management
8. 8. Hotelogix — Best for automated reservation management
9. 9. RMS Cloud — Best for managing multiple properties
10. 10. ThinkReservations — Best for boutique hotels

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The Benefits Of Going The Extra Mile For Hotel Guests

There’s a reason why we work so hard to make each guest’s stay feel special. Here are some benefits you can expect for going the extra mile every time:

Positive Reviews and Word of Mouth

Guests who feel special are more likely to leave glowing reviews and tell their friends. Good reviews bring in more business, and word of mouth is free advertising we all love.

Increased Guest Loyalty

Happy guests are repeat guests. They’ll return because they trust you’ll deliver a great experience again and again.

Higher Revenue Opportunities

Guests who are impressed are often willing to spend more—whether it’s on upgraded rooms, dining, or other services you offer.

A Happier Work Environment

When guests are satisfied, staff morale improves too. There’s less stress and more pride in providing excellent service.

Stronger Brand Reputation

Standing out for great service sets you apart in the crowded hotel industry. Over time, this builds a strong reputation that keeps your business flourishing.

Other Tools To Support Your Hotel Operations

Here are some other digital tools that I recommend for those looking to find unique ways to excel. 

What Next?

"True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests." — Eleanor Roosevelt, Hospitality Quotes

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