If there is one thing every property owner and manager should do frequently, it’s to be a guest in someone else’s property. Because, however much you do for your own guests, you can never truly understand the experience of staying in a short-term rental, unless you have done it yourself. And not in your own place.

In this episode, I reflect on the four different accommodation types I stayed in while vacationing in Europe this summer.  A one-bedroom cabin on the owner's property in Northampton, UK; an aparthotel in central Berlin; an upscale chalet in the Black Forest area of southern Germany with an indoor swimming pool, and a room in a guest house in Horley, Surrey, close to Gatwick Airport.

Each of these experiences had something unique and, interestingly, they all had exactly the same shortcomings, which tells me that some messages about what guests really need are not getting out there.  Or…maybe my needs are different from the norm.

I don’t think so, but will let you be the judge.

You’ll hear:

• Why putting all your eggs in the Airbnb basket can close your business with no redress
• The hospitality moments that solidified 5* reviews for each place
• How a $20 purchase can resolve a common issue for international travelers
• The primary way of pleasing your connected guests
• How to avoid things going missing
• Why you should provide the basics for a full stay and add the costs to your rental rate
• The importance of good bedding and pillows
• What you should include in a ‘well-equipped’ kitchen
• That providing sufficient outdoor seating for everyone is essential
• What was missing from every place we stayed
• My recommendations for each one

Where we stayed – all well deserving a 5 Star review:

Blisworth, Northampton

Schwarzwald Villa, Black Forest

Clipper Boarding House - Berlin

The Lawn Guest House - Horley

Links mentioned:

Touch Stay