Booking sites and tour operators bring hotels a lot of guests, and for most properties in Bhutan they will stay important. But every booking that comes directly to you is a guest you have a direct relationship with, and usually a booking without a commission.
Direct bookings do not happen by accident. Guests need a reason to book with you rather than through someone else, and a website that makes it easy. Here is where to start.
1. Give guests a website they trust
Many guests find you on a booking site or a map listing, then search for your name to check you out. What they find should look as good as your property:
- Real, recent photos of rooms, views, dining and common areas
- A clear description of each room type: size, beds, view and facilities
- Your exact location, with a map and how to reach you
- Genuine guest reviews, or a link to them
- Contact details that work: phone, WhatsApp and email
2. Make rooms and rates easy to understand
Guests compare. If they cannot work out what is included, they go back to the booking site where it is spelled out. Explain how your pricing works: per room or per person, what meals are included, and any seasonal differences. If you cannot publish exact rates, say clearly how a guest can get a quote.
3. Make booking or enquiring effortless
A guest who has decided should be able to act in seconds:
- A booking request or reservation form on every room page
- WhatsApp available in one tap, for guests who prefer to ask first
- A fast reply. A booking site answers instantly, so a slow reply can lose the guest.
Our Premium website package includes a booking or inquiry system for exactly this. See the hospitality websites we build.
4. Give a reason to book direct
If your website offers nothing extra, many guests will book wherever is most familiar. A simple direct-booking benefit helps, such as a welcome drink, a flexible check-in time or a room preference noted in advance. Keep it honest and easy to deliver.
5. Be visible on Google and Maps
Claim and complete your Google Business Profile with photos, accurate details and your website link, and reply to reviews. Our guide on how to get your business on Google walks through the steps.
6. Make it easy for tour operators too
Many international visitors to Bhutan travel with a tour operator, so operators are customers as well. A short section on your website with room types, capacity, facilities and a direct contact for trade enquiries saves them time and puts your property on their shortlist.
7. Stay in touch after the stay
A guest who enjoyed their stay is your best source of future direct bookings and reviews. Thank them, ask for a review, and with their permission keep their contact for the next visit or a recommendation to friends.
Where to start
If you only do three things this month: update your photos, make sure a guest can contact you on WhatsApp in one tap from your website, and complete your Google Business Profile. If your website is holding you back, book a free consultation and we will look at it with you.