Prepare Your Vacation Rental for the Gen-Xers

As a vacation rental owner one very important aspect of setting your home apart from the crowd is providing amenities travelers expect. This year (2007) the Baby Boomers have been replaced by the Gen Xers as the largest group of both business and leisure travelers. Gen Xers are fond of leisure travel and spend more per trip than their Boomer counterparts and have higher expectations for the level of service, amenities and quality in their accommodations.

Gen Xers although individuals, have a number of common characteristics they look for when choosing their accommodations. Here is a list of preferences as they relate to travel decisions:

1. They love electronics and gadgets and they expect freebies such as internet access. Is your rental set up for wireless access? Most Gen Xers travel with laptops.

2. Gen Xers respond to promotional offers as they make vacation plans. They are always looking for discounts. Do you offer specials to fill you calendar? They often make plans last minute taking advantage of airline specials.


3. Gen Xers are more oriented toward family life and more leisure trips. Expect 3-4 day getaways to become more prevelant. Do you have a minimum stay of 7 nights? If so, reducing the required number of nights can help to increase your bookings.

4. They consistantly value three things: service, security, and a comfortable bed. Are you receiving good feedback from previous guests in this area?

6. Common with other groups, the Gen Xers appreciate the "personal touch" what better way to show your guests you appreciate them than by greeting them with a welcome gift upon their arrival from Welcome Your Guests Gifts.

In summary, like most vacationers the Gen Xers are looking for luxury, value, and relaxation. Take a look at your vacation rental from the Gen Xers point of view and see if you can improve in any areas. The benefits to you in the end will be a full calendar of happy travelers.

How to Pamper Your Guests

The vacation rental industry, in general, caters to more sophisticated travelers seeking luxurious accommodations with the comforts of home. It's important that your home stand out from the competition by giving them an accommodation they'll never forget.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Start pampering with your first impressions- these are your website, e-mails, phone manners and brochures. They should reflect warmth and the quality of your home.

2. Be sure to list all your amenities even the small stuff! Guests have many choices for their lodging and you never know what is important to each individual.

3. A simple "Thank You" goes a long way.

4. Provide extra pillows, blankets, towels for your guests.

5. Make sure guests have information with whom they should contact should they require assistance during their stay.

6. Provide information about the local area such as things to do, shopping, restaurants, brochures of local attractions, etc.

7. Offer to help plan a local itinerary.

8. Greet your guests with a "Welcome" gift with a personal message. Such as one of the themed gift bags from our gift service Welcome Your Guests Gifts