What’s Your Signature Guest Experience That Keeps Them Coming Back

[Shafer0]

I’m curious what’s your secret sauce when it comes to creating unforgettable guest experiences?

For me, I go beyond just a clean space. I partner with local food trucks and offer catering experiences, including hibachi-style dinners on the patio! I also give guests the option to have their fridge pre-stocked by placing pickup orders from Walmart+ or H-E-B before their arrival.

And that’s not all—my cleaning team offers babysitting, and I help guests book boat and jet ski rentals or even wine tours with local companies.

These extras have made a huge difference in guest satisfaction and my review scores, and I love finding new ways to elevate the stay.

So I’d love to hear from you:

What do YOU offer that goes above and beyond?

What little (or big) things make your guests say “wow”?

Let’s share ideas and level up together!

[Marie10777]

I am accessible and want my guest to feel like they are transported to the vibrant and nostalgic era of the casitas built in the 1960's.  My casita is nestled in an old established neighborhood that combines vintage charm with modern conveniences, ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable stay.  Complete with retro furnishings, warm lighting, and personal touches that evoke a sense of stepping back in time.  Our guest, have found delightful surprises; a selection of Mexican cookies, refreshing Jarritos or Topo Chico, bottled water, and a half dozen eggs in the refrigerator.  In the Freezer Mexican Chorizo.  They have mentioned they like the self check-in.

[Mary1523]

Honestly, all great ideas below!

But for me, when you have a large 6 bed rural property with outdoor entertaining areas to clean and setup, sometimes it's a win to have it clean and presentable. Because you can get penalised for a spiderweb (welcome to australia), or a smell cause a mouse died in a hidden place (welcome to rural properties), leaves in the pool (its not a resort). Or a few forks out of the 24  have food on them because previous guests didn't wash them properly - who checks every piece of cutlery, plates, bowls when you have 24 of each? Cleaning already takes 5+ hours.

It doesn't matter what I have in the localised gourmet food hamper they get, or the toyroom prepped and set, or the outdoor woodlands play area for the kids with wood to play with, or everything just about provided including local guide recommendations etc, if there is something on the 'cleanliness' scale above that guests don't like, it comes at me with a lower rating.

When you have much smaller properties, much easier to do the WOW stuff and less room for error on the cleaning side. I always thought that my next airbnb will be much smaller, so MUCH EASIER! 

Regs MK

[Shafer0]

Haha @Mary1523  MK, I feel you! Hosting a big rural property is no joke spiderwebs, sneaky mice, rogue forks… it’s like playing Airbnb Jumanji sometimes. But seriously, you’re doing so much right with the toyroom, the hampers, and all the thoughtful extras. Guests don’t always realize how much work goes into it. I’ve definitely said the same next Airbnb: small, simple, and easy to clean!

[Thamel-Central-Apartment0]

Hi there!

Your signature guest experience sounds amazing! It's clear you put a lot of thought into creating memorable experiences for your guests. I absolutely love the idea of partnering with local businesses and offering unique touches like the hibachi-style dinners and pre-stocked fridges.

As for me, my "wow" factor comes from blending adventure, relaxation, and personal growth. I offer guests not just a place to stay, but an experience that includes guided trekking in the stunning landscapes of Nepal, meditation sessions, and healing with singing bowl therapy. Many of my guests come seeking peace, personal connection, or a bit of a spiritual reset, and I make sure to provide those moments through meaningful activities.

Additionally, I make sure my guests feel truly at home with customized itineraries, local cuisine experiences, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. I want them to leave not just feeling relaxed but also rejuvenated, with a sense of connection to the place and the culture.

It’s amazing how small personal touches can make such a big impact on guest satisfaction! Looking forward to hearing more ideas from everyone here!

Best,
Devraj

[Fiona256]

I simply offer a beautiful, charming, quirky cottage in a spectacular seashore setting with unmatched sunset, sea and mountain views, decorated and cared for with love and dedication. A friendly, helpful welcome from a local owner who can provide information on the fascinating history, culture and geology of the area and suggest hidden gems away from the busy tourist spots. A homely and cosy base from which to explore our island. No need for gimmics or long lists of items guests should have the common sense to bring for themselves.

[Mary5551]

Hi, I leave a welcome card to my guests. There is also a basket by the door, where I leave a variety of chocolate in. I try to personally meet my guests and have a short conversation with them. “ now that you had time to look things over, do you have any questions, or something you may need.” If I can’t meet them, I will text them basically the same thing.

we live in a small rural area and have one weekly newspaper,  I cut out interesting and things happening in the area

if my guests shared with me the reason for the visit (birthday, anniversary), I get a small cake, or make other type of dessert to help them to celebrate. I had one couple that came to golf. I had a bag of balls I left for them.

 Treat your gruests as I would like to be treated. The same as cleaning.

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

Hi @Shafer0, @Mary5551, @Fiona256, @Thamel-Central-Apartment0, @Mary1523, @Marie10777, @Mark5779, @Mod-Pods0, @Nora1535, @Mfonabasi0, @Panmaa-Vacation-Rental-Manager0, @Paula2944, @Melissa-and-Michael0, @Marina1909, @Muralidharan0,

Wow — this entire thread is full of so much inspiration! 🙌 From local partnerships, cultural touches, and thoughtful welcome gifts to deep personalization and immersive local experiences, you all show what true hospitality looks like.

We also focus on small details that make a big difference — warm greetings, curated local tips, welcome baskets, and spotless spaces. Our guests often mention these touches in their reviews, which we believe helped us earn Top Contributor status here in the community.

Big thanks to everyone for sharing. It’s amazing to see how each host brings their own signature style to create unforgettable guest stays!
@Elegant-Homes-Retreat0