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?

[Carrie643]

This is a subject I love, and actually I have a friend ( a wonderful air bnb host) who has been doing this for years and her top tips when we were setting up ours were things I really paid attention to....here are some of the things we did to go the extra mile

1. We put magnifying mirrors in the bathroom and the bedroom vanity... sounds strange right but actually its just a little touch older folks really appreciate - you can get these pretty cheap on amazon and they attach to the corner of a larger mirror 
2. I focused on luxury sleeping experience!!- just something as simple as good quality sheets and towels a beautiful plush comforter and big fluffy pillows. I did a lot of research on linens and how hotels set up their beds and I think it has really contributed to our guests experience. 
3. I set the table nicely with a table cloth and place settings and napkins to give that welcoming "homey" feel on arrival
4. In addition to providing the basics of farm fresh eggs, butter and milk, I also bake a fresh loaf of sourdough bread for all my guests - its something I do anyway and its my way of offering a very cost effective warm welcome. This has allowed me to list our property under the bed and breakfast category also - I don't know if it helps with search results. 
5. If our guests arrive at night and its been cold we light the wood stove for them and leave some lamps on so they can find their way.

Many of our guests have commented on how they have felt right at home and have mentioned in our guest book that they will be back again - who knows because this is our first year, but it has given us confidence that we are serving our customers with a quality experience.... Its of course easier for us to do because we live on site but some ideas I hope might be transferrable for others!