ChatGPT — The New Search Engine on the Block

• What: ChatGPT, a popular AI chatbot, just evolved into a browser-based search engine for premium users, letting travellers find hotels, plan trips, and access live links directly within ChatGPT.
• Why: This shift means ChatGPT could soon become a key tool in how people search for accommodations, potentially competing with traditional search engines.
• When: The rollout began on the 31st of October 2024 and is currently exclusive to paid ChatGPT subscribers (Plus and Team users).
• Does it matter? It might not be game-changing right now, but it’s a clear signal of where travel search is heading. Hoteliers who adapt early will be better positioned as this trend grows.
• Important Tip: Build a strong digital brand by focusing on SEO, quality reviews, and fresh content. These will ensure your property stands out on AI-powered search platforms.

13 strategies to boost your hotel’s visibility and stand out

1. Strong SEO presence

Optimised content: Sprinkle those magic words and make sure your website and pages are loaded with relevant keywords like “beachfront hotel in Malindi, Kenya” or “all-inclusive resort with family packages.” Consistent updates: Keep it fresh and regularly update your website to stay on-trend with seasonal travel vibes and events. Local SEO: Keep is local: Set up and keep your Google Business Profile up-to-date with the latest info in your area, photos, and reviews.

2. High-quality reviews

Maintain good ratings: Getting high ratings on TripAdvisor, Google, and Booking.com will make your hotel shine bright like a diamond—hey Riri. Prompt review management: Be responsive and show you care by replying to reviews, good or bad, to keep the conversation going.

3. Engaging website with direct booking benefits

User-friendly design: Make it easy by creating a website that’s a breeze to navigate, especially on mobile. Direct booking incentives: Sweeten the deal by offering exclusive discounts for booking directly to lure guests to your site because your guests are worth it!

High-quality visuals and descriptions: Be captivating and use high-quality images with engaging descriptions to woo potential guests. Remember, you’re courting them, make them want to stay at your hotel.

4. Content is king

Blogs and articles: Be informative to your audience. Share travel tips, local hotspots, and hotel highlights to draw in guests through organic search.

Collaborations and partnerships: Team up and work with travel bloggers and influencers to create content that links back to your site.

5. Listings on major travel platforms

Presence on multiple OTAs: Be everywhere — make sure your hotel is listed on all the big travel sites, such as TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google Hotels.

Detailed listings: Be thorough and include all the juicy details and high-quality images to make your listings pop. It’s a courtship, okay?

6. Use schema markup

Structured data: Be search-engine smart and implement schema markup to help search engines dish out more informative results.

7. Consistency is your friend

Accurate and uniform details: Be reliable and keep your details consistent across all platforms to build trust and improve search rankings. Consistency and clarity go hand-in-hand, beloved.

8. Engage in newsjacking and trend optimisation

Just like you’re reading this blog on ChatGPT news, keep your content current by “newsjacking” relevant stories in the travel industry. Respond to trends, run seasonal promotions, and ensure your website reflects the latest travel must-haves.
Seasonal promotions: Be timely and create special offers or packages for holidays, events, or peak travel times.

9. Engagement with travel news and PR

Feature in travel news: Be newsworthy and partner with travel journalists and PR agencies to get your hotel featured in the best travel articles. Press releases: To boost visibility, spread the word and share press releases for new openings, renovations, or unique services.

10. Partnerships with travel sites and aggregators

Exclusive deals: Collaborate with travel booking sites to offer special deals that make your property stand out. Metasearch Integration: It’s all about visibility—ensure your hotel is listed on metasearch platforms like Trivago, Google Hotel Ads, or Kayak for maximum exposure.

11. Incorporate those high-quality videos

Virtual tours: Use virtual tours or promotional videos to grab attention on travel platforms and your website. Lights, camera, action!

Picture perfect: It’s all up from here; go high-res and ensure all your visuals are top-notch and updated regularly.

12. Positive media and user engagement

Respond to Q&A on platforms: Be interactive and answer questions on Google, TripAdvisor, or Booking.com to boost engagement. Social proof: Be social and encourage happy guests to share their experiences on social media and tag your hotel for extra visibility.

13. Add FAQs to your website

An FAQ section on your homepage can work wonders. Not only does it answer common questions before they’re asked, but it can also tackle potential fears and doubts and excite your guests about staying at your hotel. This type of content is highly engaging and valuable for both travellers and search engines.

In Summary: With ChatGPT shaking up the travel search landscape, it’s never been more important to optimize your online presence. Keep your website fresh, your reviews glowing, and your brand consistent. That way, when ChatGPT becomes a go-to tool for travellers, your hotel is ready to stand out.