How to Run a Successful Airbnb: Put Your Guests First
Photo courtesy of Meggan Kimberley
~ Natalia Radcliffe ~
Have you ever had people over, or hosted a party? If so, you’re familiar with the importance of taking care of your guests. As the host, it’s your job to make sure they are happy, comfortable, and having a good time. After all, there is a reason you make sure there is more than enough food at a party.
In the same token, running an Airbnb is a similar perspective. You’re creating a unique oasis for your guests to kick back and relax during their stay. Therefore, you want to create and run the Airbnb with their comfort and happiness in mind. The happier your guests, the better time they will have and the more likely they will recommend you to people they know.
Here at Prospector Ranch, each of our Airbnbs, our vintage 1972 Airstream, Conestoga covered wagon, rustic elegant Safari tent, and our Miner’s Camp (where you can book both the Safari tent and the Conestoga covered wagon) are created with future guests in mind. They are for them, after all.
Each theme of our Airbnbs is carefully crafted to both reflect our brand and a desirable place to stay for guests. One thing owner Meggan is passionate about is creating unique Airbnbs that call back to the old west and simple times camping out under the stars, but are also high-end, elegant places to stay with the comfortable amenities of the 21st century.
Another thing Meggan is passionate about is people. Once the Airbnb has been created, she loves to personally greet guests when they arrive, meeting them in the saloon and offering a drink and a snack. We receive guests from all over, both within the United States and those visiting from other countries, and she loves talking with them and sharing stories, giving the feel of staying at a friend’s place. In greeting the guests, she also likes to see what their plans might be while there and then give suggestions of places to go whether for hiking, biking, wineries or places to eat. Many guests book as a surprise for a special Birthday, Anniversary or romantic getaway. Sometimes we try to put up signs for those special occasions to help with the surprise!
People are the heart of how she runs an Airbnb, and it shows. Take a look yourself at some of the notes that have been left in our Conestoga covered wagon guestbook and reviews from our Airbnb pages. From couples spending the night, to families on vacation, no matter their background, guests leave Prospector Ranch with smiles on their faces and memories to last a lifetime.