Tips from Airbnb Plus hosts: How to add thoughtful touches

Airbnb Plus hosts each bring unique stories, environments, and neighborhoods into their hosting narratives and one-of-a-kind spaces. Here are some inspiring ways to share those thoughtful touches with your guests:

Surprise and delight guests with small gestures that make a big impact, like leaving out a chilled beverage, adding freshly cut flowers, or offering to book them a table wherever locals prefer to dine. These unexpected details make guests feel special while connecting them to places and people in your community.

Make a great first impression by offering a selection of snacks, drinks, and local treats. Consider including goods that are personal to you, such as fruit from your garden or homemade bread if you’re a baker.

One great example of a thoughtful touch: “Elena left us olio nuovo [first-pressed extra-virgin olive oil] from the family’s farm, along with coffee,” says Natasha, a guest who stayed with Airbnb Plus host Elena on her olive farm in Florence, Italy. “We had everything we needed for a night under the stars!”

Welcome guests by name with a personalized note. If you know the reason for the visit, consider wishing them a great time experiencing the point of interest or event that brought them to town. You might even add a personal tip, such as the best way to travel to the place they’re going. If you’re aware that guests will be on their honeymoon or celebrating a birthday, offer a note of congratulations or even a birthday bouquet.

And feel free to be creative. “We installed a huge blackboard so that people can leave messages and suggestions for other people. And often they create beautiful drawings,” says Elena.

There are many ways to exceed guest expectations and raise the bar for memorable stays, but some of the hosting tips shared here are a great way to get started.