Category: Listing Optimization
By: Ingrid Svensson
Reply by Maria Gonzales:
Guidebooks are one of the most underutilized tools for improving guest satisfaction and reviews. Here's why they matter: **Impact on reviews:** - Guests who use a guidebook are 30% less likely to leave a "location" rating below 4 stars (because they have context on the area) - Properties with detailed guidebooks receive more 5-star "communication" ratings - Guidebook recommendations that guests enjoy get mentioned in reviews (social proof) **What to include:** 1. **Restaurant recommendations** (top 10 minimum): - Name, cuisine type, price range, walk/drive time - Personal note: "Our favorite for date night" or "Best brunch in the neighborhood" - Reservation tips: "Book 2 days ahead on weekends" 2. **Activities and attractions** (top 10-15): - Free activities (parks, walking trails, beaches, markets) - Paid attractions (museums, tours) — include Viator or affiliate links where relevant - Hidden gems locals know about 3. **Practical essentials:** - Nearest grocery store, pharmacy, hospital - Public transit guide - Parking tips - Laundromat locations 4. **Your property info:** - WiFi password - Appliance instructions (smart TV, coffee maker, thermostat) - Emergency contacts You can use the House Manual Generator at https://strspecialist.com/tools/house-manual-generator to create a professional digital guidebook in minutes. Much better than a printed binder that guests never read. **Airbnb's built-in Guidebook** is fine for basic recommendations, but a dedicated digital guidebook (Hostfully, Touch Stay, or the STR Specialist tool) gives you more control, analytics, and branding.
Reply by Megan O'Connor:
I created a detailed guidebook and started including a line in my check-in message: "I put together a local guidebook with my favorite restaurants and hidden gems — check it out here: [link]" About 70% of guests click the link, and many follow the recommendations. I've had multiple reviews say "The host's restaurant recommendations were amazing!" — that's free social proof in your reviews that attracts future guests.