What’s the Most Memorable Way You’ve Gone the Extra Mile for a Guest?

[Kathy134]

One of the things I love about hosting is creating special moments for my guests. Sometimes, it’s the little unexpected touches that leave the biggest impact—whether it’s surprising a honeymoon couple with a small gift, helping a guest celebrate a birthday, or simply offering a local recommendation that turns into the highlight of their trip.

I try to go the extra mile when I can, whether by adding special kitchen staples, offering local insights, or being available for any extra requests since I live nearby. It’s always rewarding to see how small gestures can make a big difference.

I’d love to hear from other hosts—what’s the most memorable thing you’ve done (or seen another host do) to make a guest’s stay extra special?

[Kathy134]

That is such a beautiful and thoughtful gesture! What an incredible way to help them preserve such a special moment. Your lakefront cabin will always hold a special place in their hearts, and now they have a video to relive that memory forever. Moments like these truly highlight the emotional connections we get to be a part of as host. What a gift! 

[Jonathan2725]

Hi  Kathey134,

This is a great thread.

We begin by keeping the house and kitchen stocked with items that make their stay effortless. Also, when a guest books, I like to find out what their interests are and curate suggestions on activities in the area that they might enjoy. I've gotten really nice feedback from doing so. 

Regards,

Jonathan

[Rebecca]

What a wonderful unique approach @Jonathan2725 and a great way to get to know your guests on a deeper level. 

It's always tricky to find things to do, and who better to advise than the host! @Kathy134 what do you think to Jonathan's approach? Simple and a cost effective way of going that extra mile! 

[Kathy134]

I absolutely love Jonathan’s approach! It's such a thoughtful way to personalize the experience for guests. Helping them find activities based on their interests not only adds value to their stay, but also shows you’re genuinely invested in their experience.

Regarding cost-effectiveness, I think it depends on how much time you spend doing this and how many properties you manage or how often you do it. Since Airbnb is full of hosts who are renting out their homes and putting their hearts into it, I believe these gestures are more about making a meaningful connection with guests than focusing on cost. It’s the heartfelt touches that truly make a stay special! 😊

[Kathy134]

Hi @Jonathan2725,

I love your approach! It's so thoughtful to curate activity suggestions based on guests' interests—that personal touch really makes a difference and helps guests feel welcomed and valued.

I also make sure to stock the kitchen with basics and extras. Since guests are on vacation, they might want to prep something, and it’s nice for them to have everything on hand without needing to run out for basics. 😊

Thanks for sharing!

[Mia1090]

The most extra mile we’ve ever gone was accommodating all the requests of a guest who had just given birth. From an additional refrigerator and wardrobe to a crib, a Nespresso machine, and more tables and chairs. It was a bit frustrating at first, as we had never encountered such a demanding guest before. But thankfully, once her family settled in, they kept extending their stay and have now been with us for over two months. Since then, we haven’t had any additional requests. 😊

[Rebecca]

How beautiful @Mia1090! Those times after having a baby are hard but it's lovely to hear how accommodating you were and that the guests extended their stay because of it! Did they leave a wonderful review? 

[Fatima645]

I offer special mints to all my guests as a welcome. But mostly, I try to accommodate any requests they may have like checking-in early, or anything else, only if I comfortably can. 

Most look for earlier check-ins than what a hotel would offer. It's one of the reasons why people choose Airbnb. 

[Sussy0]

Hi @Kathy134! I love the topic! I've been hosting for awhile! but the first thing that popped in my mind was an occasion that I had to play interpreter over the phone for one of my guests. I felt so bad that this group of girls visited my country without knowing the language. It was just an adventure for them and I wanted them to feel super welcome and at home! So I interpreted, helped them with car rentals, was a "remote tourist guide... anything they asked for I tried to helped with. 

[Alex]

Thank you for sharing this @Sussy0! I'm pretty sure they really appreciated the help you gave them in order to enjoy their trip. 🤗 Since you were their "remote tourist guide", what places did you recommended them? 🌆

Kind regards, 

Alex

[Sussy0]

@Alex El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America where you can go from the mountains to the ocean in less than 3 hours 🤗! If seafood is your favorite thing El Salvador has the best beaches and restaurants to visit! Surf? Surf city is the best place to go! Hiking? How about a VOLCANO 🌋! Coffee lover? We have lots of coffee crops where you can experience the best fresh coffee and see how it is processed! Do you like whale watching? We got it too! Have you tried Pupusas! You have to come to El Salvador 🇸🇻! 

[Dawn241]

Anniversaries get a card & bottle of champagne, birthday cards, welcome notes written on jumbo postcards of the area, repeat customers get a 20% discount, I ask everyone what their favorite Kcups are before arrival, everyone gets a bag of pretzels & other snacks, everyone gets toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, hand sanitizer, lip balm. 

[Alex]

I absolutely love the selection of gifts you chose for your guests @Dawn241 ! I'm sure they appreciate them even more! What inspired you to put together such a thoughtful collection? I'd love to hear the story behind it!😄

Kinds regards, 

Alex

[Dawn241]

@Alex I also have local coupons- free fries, a free drink, free desert, free wine tasting. I also put together and constantly update a visitors guide. These are things that are low cost but I think they are things people really appreciate having on a weekend trip especially if the are traveling last minute or on a motorcycle they can pack light and everything they need is here when they arrive. 

[Julie5882]

@Dawn241 Favorite K-cups! So thoughtful and smart. 

Julie