Property Management

What Are Local Recommendations in Vacation Rentals?

Updated 2026-05-28

Local recommendations comprise a curated collection of suggestions for guests regarding nearby points of interest, dining options, activities, and essential services. This information helps guests explore the local area, discover hidden gems, and make the most of their visit.

By providing insider tips, hosts can significantly enhance the guest experience, moving beyond just providing accommodation to offering a more authentic and memorable trip.

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How it works

Hosts compile a list of their trusted and favorite local spots, which can include everything from cafes and restaurants to hiking trails, museums, and grocery stores. This list is then shared with guests, often through various formats.

Common methods include a physical binder in the property, a section in a digital guidebook, an email sent before arrival, or a dedicated page on a direct booking website. Hosts often categorize recommendations for easy navigation, such as 'For Families,' 'Restaurants,' or 'Outdoor Activities,' and include personal notes to add a unique, local perspective.

Why it matters

Providing local recommendations demonstrates a host's care and expertise, fostering a stronger connection with guests and building trust. This personal touch can lead to better reviews, guest loyalty, and positive word-of-mouth marketing.

It also helps guests navigate an unfamiliar area with confidence, saving them time on research and improving their overall trip satisfaction.

Examples

  • The owner of a beachfront condo in Florida sends a pre-arrival email with recommendations for family-friendly seafood restaurants, a local company for booking dolphin-watching tours, and the best spot to watch the sunset.
  • A host in a ski town provides a digital guidebook with their top-rated ski runs for different skill levels, favorite après-ski bars, and a reliable ski rental shop that offers a discount to their guests.
  • A host in a bustling city leaves a printed, laminated card with a QR code that links to a Google Map they've created, pinpointing their favorite coffee shops, late-night food spots, and public transit stations.
  • An owner of a rural cabin curates a list of nearby hiking trails with difficulty ratings, a farm stand for fresh produce, and a cozy local pub, all included in the property's welcome binder.

Frequently asked questions

How should I deliver local recommendations to my guests?+
Recommendations can be delivered in multiple formats, such as a physical welcome book, a digital guidebook, or a dedicated page on your direct booking website. Property management software like Lodgify can also automate pre-arrival emails containing these recommendations, helping to streamline hosting operations.
Should I partner with local businesses for my recommendations?+
Partnering with local businesses can be beneficial. You can sometimes arrange exclusive discounts for your guests or earn a commission through affiliate agreements, creating an additional revenue stream while offering more value to your visitors.
How often should I update my local recommendations?+
It is good practice to review and update your recommendations quarterly or semi-annually. Businesses can close, change hours, or decline in quality, so keeping your list current ensures your suggestions remain reliable and helpful for guests.
What kind of places should I include in my recommendations?+
Include a variety of options that cater to different tastes and needs. Consider restaurants (casual and fine dining), coffee shops, bars, tourist attractions, unique local experiences, grocery stores, pharmacies, and transportation options. Tailor the list to your typical guest persona.
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