Has anyone here tried using Google Maps for better visibility?

[Rebeca287]

Hi everyone!

I’m looking at how to improve the visibility of a listing outside of Airbnb. It caught my attention how many travelers start their search on Google Maps.

Since I work with Google My Business/Google Maps in my own consultancy, I know it’s a strong tool for local businesses, but in the case of STRs I haven’t seen it used very often, even though it could have certain benefits.

I was curious to know if anyone in the community has tried something like this.

Do you use Google Maps? Or do you prefer another channel?

I just want to understand what worked for you and how hosts are adapting, especially with the increase in tourism coming for the World Cup.

Thanks for your help!

Rebeca.

[Emiel1]

@Rebeca287 

Hosts can choose within their account whether their own listings are available for Google (and other bots) to index.

If this is set to "no" (my setting), those listings will never appear in Google (-maps) anyway.

[Wendy-May0]

That is a really smart observation, Rebeca! You are right that Google is a huge funnel, but for STRs it works a bit differently than a standard local business profile.

Google has a dedicated product called Google Vacation Rentals. It puts your listing right on Maps, but unlike a standard business profile, you usually can't create it manually due to residential address rules.

The trick to getting visibility there is using a software partner (like Hostaway, Guesty, or Smoobu).

They have a direct integration that pushes your listing to Google Maps automatically.

It is a massive win for direct bookings because it sends the guest straight to your own website, bypassing the Airbnb fees completely.

Do you currently have a direct booking site set up for the properties you consult for?