73% of Indian travellers have opted to stay in the same accommodation again primarily because of the host

Global travel leader Booking.com reveals the driving factors behind the appetite to stay in different types of unique accommodation. As travellers have the luxury of more choice than ever before when planning their next trip, getting it right as a ‘host’ can be the difference between checking in or checking out other properties. In fact, research from Booking.com found that 73% of Indian travellers believe their stay has been improved by the person managing their accommodation going above and beyond. Furthermore, the research also highlights that an equal percent of travellers (73%) have opted to stay in the same accommodation again primarily because of the host.

The role of a host will continue to carry significant weight for travellers seeking alternative types of stay this year, with 90% of respondents planning to stay in accommodation which allows them to interact with a property owner or manager in 2019. The research also found that while some travellers are happy with a simple warm welcome, others have ‘great expectations’ when it comes to what they want from hosts when traveling. For most, the main advantage is feeling ‘at home’ with 80% of Indian travellers stating that this is important, while for 79% the main perk is the ability to take advantage of ‘insider’ knowledge by staying in an accommodation owned by a native to that area. What’s more, nearly half (49%) of Indian travellers are looking to this insider know-how as a bottom line for their vacation budget too, hoping for tips to help them save money by avoiding tourist pitfalls.

An accommodation owner or manager even brings a social element to their trip for some, with 68% of respondents looking to boost their social circle, stating they would like to be invited to a party by the person managing their accommodation. However, there is a fine balance to strike for owners and managers to ensure they’re providing the best possible experience for their guests, and not every traveller is keen for such a close relationship. 28% of India travellers feel that they only need to see their host once during their stay to feel welcomed and almost a third (26%) only expect to be contacted once at check-in and once at check-out. Furthermore, 82% of Indian travellers believe that hosts should intuitively know the right amount of time to spend with their guests.

To stack the odds in their favour, accommodation managers could look to embrace the most universally welcomed attributes that travellers are looking for. A warm smile could be the key to positive reviews, with more than three quarters (86%) of Indian travellers expecting to meet someone friendly and personable upon arrival. Offering a personal touch, such as gifting local delicacies, can also make a big difference; added extras such as tea, coffee and edible treats help more than half (56%) feel settled in their new environment.

Furthermore, hospitality can mean different things in different countries. When looking at the results by nationality, people in India (84%), Colombia (80%) and Brazil (80%) feel that ensuring guests are well fed is key (compared to the global average of 69%) whereas the Thai (74%) and Chinese (60%) find it important to keep their guests well entertained (compared to the global average of 46%) and for 79% of Italian hosts it’s all about adding small touches that create a welcoming atmosphere, such as arranging a crackling fire or a candle-lit room (compared to the global average of 68%).

Commenting on the release of the research, Ritu Mehrotra, Country Manager, India, Sri Lanka and Maldives at Booking.com said, “Travel needs differ from person to person and hence there isn't one right option for all. This research identifies what motivates travelers to choose their accommodation while also highlighting the imperative role a host can play in driving these choices. The core of this research indicates that the more each traveler’s needs are understood and met, from the moment they search, book and check-in, the better and more memorable the experience they are likely to have.”

Join the 5.7 million listings already on Booking.com, which include everything from homes and apartments to igloos and tree houses, and make a difference in someone's next vacation by visiting join.booking.com/homeowners