How to Attract International Guests to Your Short-Term Rental

With the rise of global travel, attracting international guests can significantly expand your short-term rental (STR) audience. However, hosting travelers from different cultures and languages requires thoughtful preparation and targeted marketing. This article explores actionable strategies to make your property appealing and accessible to international guests.

Why Focus on International Guests?

1. Expands Your Audience

International travelers represent a growing market, especially in popular tourist destinations.

2. Increases Occupancy Rates

Catering to a global audience can help fill your calendar during off-peak seasons.

3. Boosts Revenue Potential

International guests often book longer stays, resulting in higher revenue per booking.

Step 1: Optimize Your Listing for International Travelers

1. Offer Multilingual Descriptions

Translate your property listing into popular languages like Spanish, French, or Mandarin to broaden its appeal.

Tools:

• Google Translate: For basic translations.

• Pro Translators: Use professionals for accurate and culturally sensitive descriptions.

2. List International-Friendly Amenities

Highlight features that appeal to global travelers, such as:

• Universal power adapters.

• Multilingual streaming services.

• Reliable Wi-Fi for staying connected.

3. Include Metric Measurements

Provide dimensions and distances in both imperial and metric systems.

Step 2: Simplify the Booking Process

1. Enable Instant Booking

Allow guests to book immediately without host approval, which is particularly appealing to international travelers in different time zones.

2. Accept International Payment Methods

Ensure your booking platform supports major credit cards and digital payment options like PayPal.

3. Highlight Flexible Policies

Offer flexible cancellation and check-in options to accommodate time zone differences and travel uncertainties.

Step 3: Market Your Property Internationally

1. List on Global Booking Platforms

Expand your reach by using platforms popular among international travelers, such as:

• Booking.com

• Expedia

• Trip.com

2. Use Social Media

Run targeted ads on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, focusing on key international markets.

Pro Tip: Use hashtags like #GlobalTravel or #InternationalStay to increase visibility.

3. Collaborate With Travel Agencies

Partner with international travel agencies or tour operators to promote your STR.

Step 4: Provide a Seamless Arrival Experience

1. Share Clear Directions

Provide detailed directions to your property, including public transportation options.

Example:
“From the airport, take the Blue Line to Downtown Station. Our property is a 5-minute walk from there.”

2. Offer Flexible Check-In

Accommodate late or early arrivals with features like:

• Self-check-in via smart locks.

• 24-hour access to key pickup.

3. Arrange Airport Transfers

Collaborate with local transport services to offer airport pickup options.

Step 5: Enhance the Guest Experience

1. Cater to Cultural Preferences

Research cultural norms to tailor your hospitality.

Examples:

• Provide slippers for Asian guests.

• Offer coffee and croissants for European travelers.

2. Create a Multilingual Welcome Guide

Include property instructions and local recommendations in multiple languages.

Tools:

• Hostfully: Create multilingual digital guidebooks.

3. Highlight Local Attractions

Focus on experiences that appeal to international visitors, such as:

• Historical landmarks.

• Cultural events.

• Scenic tours.

Step 6: Address Safety Concerns

1. Share Emergency Contact Details

Provide local emergency numbers, including police, medical services, and your contact information.

2. Ensure the Property Is Secure

Install features like smart locks, exterior lighting, and secure storage options for valuables.

3. Offer Health and Safety Information

Include details about nearby hospitals, pharmacies, and COVID-19 testing centers if needed.

Step 7: Build Loyalty With International Guests

1. Offer Discounts for Repeat Stays

Encourage loyalty by providing special rates for returning international guests.

2. Stay Connected

Send follow-up emails thanking them for their stay and promoting seasonal offers.

3. Encourage Referrals

Ask satisfied guests to recommend your property to friends and family.

Case Study: Attracting International Guests to a Coastal STR

Scenario:
An STR owner in Miami wanted to appeal to international travelers from Europe and South America.

Actions Taken:

1. Translated the listing into Spanish, Portuguese, and French.

2. Highlighted amenities like free Wi-Fi, universal adapters, and a multilingual guidebook.

3. Partnered with a local tour operator to offer discounted sightseeing packages.

Results:

• International bookings increased by 35% within six months.

• Positive reviews praised the host’s attention to cultural details.

• Occupancy rates during off-peak seasons improved by 20%.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Neglecting Cultural Differences: Tailor your approach to accommodate varying preferences and norms.

2. Overlooking Language Barriers: Provide translations and ensure all communication is clear and concise.

3. Ignoring Payment Preferences: Ensure your platform accepts international-friendly payment methods.

Tools to Support International Hosting

1. Airbnb Language Support: Allows multilingual listings and communication.

2. Google Translate: Quick translations for basic communication.

3. Hostfully: Multilingual digital guidebooks.

Cross-Link Opportunities

Explore related articles to grow your STR business:

• How to Build Guest Loyalty for Your STR

• How to Enhance the Guest Experience for Your STR

• How to Use Social Media to Market Your STR

Additional Resources

1. Airbnb Host Blog: Tips for hosting international travelers.

2. BiggerPockets STR Forum: Discussions on global STR marketing.

3. Booking.com Partner Hub: Insights for attracting international guests.

Conclusion

Attracting international guests to your short-term rental requires thoughtful planning, cultural awareness, and strategic marketing. By optimizing your listing, enhancing the guest experience, and promoting your property globally, you can tap into a lucrative market and grow your STR business.