How do you prepare for a new guest's arrival?

[Rebecca]

Although I'm not a host, I do often have friends and family come to stay with me. Usually, I'm doing a mad dash around with the hoover, cleaning bathrooms, making sure beds are changed and towels are ready,  as well as making sure the cupboards are fully stocked. Oh, and I always open a window, even if it’s just for five minutes to bring is some fresh sea air. 🌊 

But what about you? Do you have a big routine or simple once-over? I’d love to hear how you prepare for your guests, especially as hosts running things more formally than for friends and family. Do you have any little habits, rituals, or must-dos before the doorbell rings? 

[Rebecca]

That's very sensible @Andrea6232. What would you do if the guest wasn't as communicative as you'd like? Do you have a go-to default for these occasions? 

I think the UK will be fitting air conditioners the way this heatwave has hit us! 😅

[Andrea6232]

@Rebecca 

if the guests are uncommunicative I don't insist more since in this case it can be counterproductive and to the guests it might seem like too much attention 😉

[Kwesi-Quao0]

As a host, I keep it simple but consistent with a checklist.

Fresh linens, a quick full clean of the space, restock essentials like water, coffee, and toiletries, and open the windows for fresh air.

I also get in touch with the guest after booking to find out if there's anything they'll need during their stay.

In Ghana, it's mostly summer all year, so we turn on the AC an hour prior to the guest checking in. 

Little touches go a long way in making guests feel at home.

[Rebecca]

Hello @Kwesi-Quao0 👋

Thanks for stopping by! It does sound like you’ve got a good system down. Turning on the AC before check-in must be a lifesaver in Ghana’s heat. Do you ever get requests for anything unusual or specific from your guests?

[Kwesi-Quao0]

Yes, definitely!

First-time guests often ask for info on nearby grocery stores, malls, restaurants, and places to explore. Others may request extra towels or an extra cleaning session during longer stays.

It depends on the kind of guest, but I’ve found that small gestures like sharing a quick neighbourhood guide or offering a bottle of water just make their stay more enjoyable.

[Rebecca]

That's lovely @Kwesi-Quao0 and really goes above and beyond. What are your goals for the next 6 months? 

[Kwesi-Quao0]

@Rebecca I recently achieved Superhost status and my listing was also rated a Guest Favorite Place 🥳

My goal for the second half of the year is to continue improving the guest experience and, if the opportunity comes, start co-hosting other properties as well. Excited for what’s ahead! 🤩

[Rebecca]

Congratulations!!! We've started a new thread to celebrate you and other hosts who’ve reached Superhost status, why not drop in and join the celebration?