Hotel Advertising: Examples of Hospitality Ads

The Power of Hotel Online Advertising

Hotel online advertising is one of the most effective ways for hotels to generate business in today's digital age. The rise of digital platforms has transformed how hotels can reach potential guests, ensuring that your property is finded, noticed, and booked. Here’s a quick look at why hotel online advertising is essential:

• Visibility: Reach a global audience
• Cost-Effective: Better ROI compared to traditional marketing
• Targeted: Precision in audience targeting reduces wasted spend
• Engagement: Interactive ads capture attention better
• Measurable: Track and measure ad performance easily

In the competitive world of hospitality, mastery of both digital and traditional advertising channels is crucial. While traditional methods like TV and print ads still play a significant role, digital marketing is now at the forefront, enabling hotels to engage directly with their audience through various platforms.

I'm Shahar Rubin, and I've spent my career at the intersection of technology and hospitality. As the founder and CEO of Sail, I've helped hotels use hotel online advertising to boost their direct bookings while reducing costs. With experience in AI-driven marketing campaigns, I’ve seen how powerful these strategies can be.

Stay tuned to find effective hotel advertising strategies that can lift your hotel's visibility and profitability.

Key terms for Hotel online advertising:

• Best hotel marketing strategies
• effectiveness of social media marketing on hotels
• luxury hotel social media marketing

Types of Hotel Advertising

Hotel Online Advertising

Hotel online advertising is the most crucial avenue for modern hotels. It encompasses various strategies, including SEO, Google Ads, social media, email marketing, metasearch, and display ads. Each method serves a unique purpose in the digital marketing ecosystem.

• SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Boosts your hotel's visibility on search engines. For example, including keywords like "Best Great Barrier Reef hotel" in your content can improve your search rankings.
• Google Ads: Allows you to target specific keywords and demographics, ensuring that your ads appear to potential guests at the right time.
• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok offer powerful tools to engage with guests. For instance, at least 80% of Instagram users have used the platform to inform purchase decisions.
• Email Marketing: Personalized and automated campaigns can keep your guests informed about special offers and updates.
• Metasearch: Sites like Google Hotel Ads aggregate listings from various OTAs, increasing your hotel's visibility.
• Display Ads: Banner ads on websites can drive traffic to your site and increase bookings.

Hotel Commercials/Broadcast Advertising

Traditional broadcast advertising, including TV and radio ads, remains a powerful tool for hotels.

• TV Ads: Reach a broad audience quickly. For example, Marriott’s "Travel Brilliantly" campaign used TV spots to push exclusive content.
• Radio Ads: Useful for targeting local audiences and promoting special events or offers.

Broadcast ads are excellent for building brand awareness and reaching a large audience at once. They can create a lasting impression and lift your hotel's brand image.

Hotel Print Ads

Print advertising, though traditional, still holds significant value, especially in niche markets.

• Magazines: High-quality visuals in travel and lifestyle magazines can attract upscale travelers.
• Newspapers: Ideal for reaching local and regional audiences.
• In-Flight Magazines: Target travelers already in the mindset of exploring new destinations.

Print ads can significantly increase brand exposure and attract a specific demographic that values tactile and visual experiences.

Hotel Outdoor Ads

Outdoor advertising is another effective way to capture the attention of travelers.

• Billboards: Located on highways or near airports, these ads can attract the attention of drivers and travelers.
• Bus Stops: Effective in urban areas where foot traffic is high.

Outdoor ads are particularly effective for motels and other driver-focused accommodations, offering high visibility and local reach.

By leveraging a mix of online and traditional advertising methods, hotels can maximize their visibility and attract a diverse range of guests. Each type of advertising has its strengths, and the best strategy often involves a combination of these methods to achieve optimal results.

Next, we’ll dive into effective hotel online advertising strategies, starting with SEO, to help you make the most of your digital marketing efforts.

Effective Hotel Online Advertising Strategies

SEO for Hotels

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is vital for hotels to appear in search results when potential guests are looking for accommodations. There are three main components to focus on:

• Keyword Research: Identify keywords that your target audience is likely to use. For example, phrases like "luxury hotel in Paris" or "family-friendly hotel near Disneyland" can help attract the right guests.

• Content Creation: Create high-quality, engaging content that incorporates these keywords naturally. This includes blog posts, guides, and itineraries that provide value to users. For instance, a hiking guide for guests visiting your hotel can attract nature enthusiasts.

• Local SEO: Optimize your website for local searches. Ensure your hotel appears in local search results by including your location in keywords and setting up a Google My Business profile. This is crucial because most hotel searches have local intent, like "hotel in New York City."

Google Hotel Ads can also help you appear at the top of search results quickly. These ads show real-time availability and pricing, making it easy for potential guests to book directly with you.

Content Marketing

Content marketing involves creating and sharing valuable content to attract and engage your audience. Here are some effective types of content for hotels:

• Blog Posts: Write articles that inspire and inform. Topics can range from travel tips to local attractions. For example, a post about "Top 10 Things to Do in Rome" can attract future travelers.

• Podcasts: Share stories and interviews that highlight your hotel's unique features and local culture. The Intercontinental’s podcast is a great example, offering cultural insights that appeal to curious travelers.

• Virtual Tours: Use virtual reality to offer guests a sneak peek of your rooms and amenities. This can be particularly effective for luxury hotels.

• User-Generated Content: Encourage guests to share their experiences on social media. Repost their photos and reviews to build social proof and authenticity.

Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms are powerful tools for engaging with guests and promoting your hotel. Here are some key platforms to consider:

• Facebook: With 2.79 billion monthly users, Facebook is ideal for sharing updates, creating events, and engaging with guests through comments and messages.

• Instagram: Perfect for showcasing beautiful photos of your hotel and destination. Encourage guests and influencers to tag your hotel in their posts.

• TikTok: Use this platform for short, engaging videos that showcase your hotel's unique features. TikTok is especially popular among younger travelers.

• YouTube: Create video content that informs and inspires. This could include virtual tours, behind-the-scenes looks, or guest testimonials.

• Pinterest: Build boards that highlight your hotel's aesthetic and local attractions. This can attract potential guests who are in the planning stages of their trips.

Email Marketing

Email marketing is a cost-effective way to keep in touch with past and potential guests. Key strategies include:

• Personalized Emails: Send custom messages based on guest preferences and past behavior. For example, offer a discount for a guest's birthday or anniversary.

• Automated Campaigns: Set up automated emails to welcome new subscribers, confirm bookings, and follow up after stays. This ensures consistent communication without extra effort.

• Segmentation: Divide your email list into segments based on factors like booking history, location, and interests. This allows you to send more relevant content to each group.

The ROI for email marketing is impressive, often yielding a higher return compared to other marketing channels.

Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing involves partnering with social media influencers to promote your hotel. Here’s how to make it work:

• Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand values and target audience. For example, a travel blogger with a large following can provide valuable exposure.

• Brand Alignment: Ensure the influencer's content style matches your hotel's image. Authenticity is key for successful partnerships.

• Audience Engagement: Influencers can create engaging content that resonates with their followers, driving interest and bookings for your hotel.

The ROI for influencer marketing can be significant, as it leverages the trust and engagement influencers have with their audiences.

By implementing these hotel online advertising strategies, you can increase your hotel's visibility, attract more guests, and boost your bookings. Next, we'll explore best practices for ensuring your online advertising efforts are as effective as possible.

Best Practices for Hotel Online Advertising

Consistency

Consistency is key in hotel online advertising. Regular posting ensures your audience stays engaged and your brand remains top-of-mind. Here are some tips:

• Regular Posting: Maintain a consistent posting schedule on social media platforms. Aim for daily or weekly posts to keep your audience engaged.
• Brand Personality: Your messaging should reflect your hotel's unique personality. Whether it's luxurious, family-friendly, or eco-conscious, make sure every post aligns with your brand.
• Clear Messaging: Be clear and concise in your communications. Your audience should immediately understand what you offer and how it benefits them.

Creativity

Standing out in a crowded market requires creativity. Unique content and engaging visuals can capture attention and drive engagement.

• Unique Content: Create content that sets your hotel apart. This could be behind-the-scenes looks, guest testimonials, or virtual tours.
• Engaging Visuals: Use high-quality photos and videos to showcase your hotel's best features. Visual content is more likely to be shared, increasing your reach.
• Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive elements like polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions. This not only engages your audience but also provides valuable insights into their preferences.

Competition Analysis

Understanding your competition can help you refine your strategies and stay ahead in the market.

• Competitor Strategies: Analyze what your competitors are doing well and where they fall short. This can provide valuable insights and ideas for your own campaigns.
• Market Trends: Stay updated on the latest trends in the hospitality industry. This can help you adapt and innovate in your advertising efforts.
• SWOT Analysis: Conduct a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to identify areas for improvement and potential opportunities.

Audience Targeting

Effective advertising starts with understanding your audience. Tailor your campaigns to meet their specific needs and preferences.

• Guest Personas: Develop detailed guest personas to represent your ideal customers. Consider factors like age, interests, and travel motivations.
• Demographic Research: Use demographic data to target specific groups. For example, if your hotel is popular with families, focus on family-friendly amenities and activities.
• Behavioral Insights: Analyze past guest behavior to predict future actions. This can help you create personalized marketing messages that resonate with your audience.

By following these best practices, you can improve your hotel online advertising efforts, attract more guests, and achieve better results. Next, we'll look at some examples of successful hotel advertising campaigns to inspire your own strategies.

Examples of Successful Hotel Advertising Campaigns

Campaign A – ‘Where can we take you’

Marriott Bonvoy's campaign, "Where can we take you," is a great example of using emotional connection to engage travelers. This campaign focuses on inclusivity, growth, and healing, celebrating all the reasons people travel. The video spot succeeds in getting an emotional reaction from viewers in just one minute. By showcasing diverse travel experiences, Marriott appeals to a wide audience, making them feel welcomed and valued.

Campaign B – ‘Travel with purpose’

Hilton's "Travel with purpose" campaign highlights the growing desire among travelers for sustainability. Hilton committed to being more sustainable and delivered a message that resonates with their customers' values. This campaign shows Hilton's dedication to the environment and its guests, reinforcing the brand's commitment to making a positive impact. This alignment with customer values helps build stronger brand loyalty.

Campaign C – ‘Let’s Italy together’

Belmond's "Let's Italy together" campaign is a fantastic example of showcasing a destination through different lenses. This campaign inspires travelers to see and experience Italy by highlighting its cultural richness and beauty. Belmond focuses on the message of exploration and subtly includes its brand, making it feel more authentic and less like a hard sell. This approach effectively captures the imagination of potential guests.

Campaign D – Luxury of the workcation

The "Luxury of the workcation" campaign by Four Seasons is custom for high-end travelers looking for unique experiences. This campaign uses aspirational content to attract those who can afford to blend work and leisure in luxurious settings. By promoting exclusive experiences and sophisticated amenities, Four Seasons positions itself as the go-to choice for travelers who want to enjoy the finer things in life while working remotely.

Campaign E – Leave Better

Holiday Inn's "Leave Better" campaign focuses on self-enrichment and personal growth. This campaign shares guests' unique narratives through mobile-optimized web documentaries. For example, the story of Scott Rigsby, a double-amputee who became a marathoner and motivational speaker, highlights the hotel's role in providing comfort and support during his journey. By recognizing the importance of connections and personal stories, Holiday Inn makes the hotel experience meaningful to its guests.

These campaigns demonstrate the power of hotel online advertising when it is done thoughtfully and creatively. They each focus on different aspects—emotional connection, sustainability, cultural experiences, luxury, and personal growth—showing that there are many ways to successfully engage and attract guests.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Online Advertising

What is hotel online advertising?

Hotel online advertising is the practice of promoting a hotel through various digital channels to reach potential guests. This includes using SEO, Google Ads, social media platforms, email marketing, metasearch engines, and display ads. The goal is to increase visibility, drive traffic to the hotel’s website, and ultimately boost bookings.

Example: Holiday Inn's "Journey to Extraordinary" campaign effectively used digital channels like Tumblr, Facebook, and Twitter to share inspiring guest stories, significantly enhancing their online presence and engagement.

How can hotels use social media for advertising?

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter offer hotels a unique opportunity to engage with potential guests in a more personal and interactive way. Here are some effective strategies:

• Share Guest Testimonials: Tweet out positive reviews and testimonials to build trust.
• Visual Content: Post high-quality photos and videos showcasing your hotel’s amenities and local attractions.
• User-Generated Content: Encourage guests to share their experiences using a branded hashtag, like #FairmontMoments.
• Live Streaming: Host live tours or events to give potential guests a real-time look at your property.
• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with travel influencers to reach a broader audience.

Case Study: Holiday Inn's collaboration with organizations like Tumblr and Mashable in their "Journey to Extraordinary" campaign leveraged social media to tell compelling guest stories, driving engagement and brand loyalty.

What are the benefits of influencer marketing for hotels?

Influencer marketing can be a powerful tool for hotels. Here’s why:

• Increased Visibility: Influencers have large, dedicated followings. Partnering with them can significantly boost your hotel’s visibility.
• Targeted Reach: Influencers often have specific audiences. Choosing the right influencer means your hotel will be seen by a highly relevant audience.
• Authentic Content: Influencers create authentic, relatable content that can make your hotel more appealing.
• Higher Engagement: Influencers’ followers are more likely to engage with their content, which can lead to higher interaction rates for your hotel.

Example: Hotels partnering with influencers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok have seen an average increase of over 30% in direct bookings, as influencers effectively showcase the hotel’s unique experiences and amenities to their followers.

By integrating these strategies into your hotel online advertising efforts, you can effectively reach and engage with your desired audience, driving more bookings and enhancing your hotel's reputation.

Conclusion

When it comes to hotel online advertising, Sailtech.ai offers an best solution. Our AI-driven marketing approach ensures your hotel is prominently featured on essential channels like Instagram, Metasearch platforms, and Google Search.

One of our standout features is our cost-effective model. We cover all ad spend and only charge for the bookings we generate. This risk-free approach means you can boost your hotel's visibility and direct bookings without worrying about upfront costs or hidden fees.

Seamless integration with your existing hotel systems is another benefit. Our platform is designed to work smoothly with your current setup, making the transition effortless and hassle-free.

Our AI technology leverages 9 billion data points to optimize your marketing campaigns continuously. This ensures your hotel reaches the right audience at the right time, driving higher booking rates and revenue.

By partnering with Sail, hotels have seen an average increase of over 30% in direct bookings, along with significant uplifts in average reservation values and overall revenue.

Ready to take your hotel advertising to the next level? Find more about Sail's modern hotel marketing solutions and see how we can help you achieve unprecedented success.

For more insights on hotel online advertising and effective strategies, explore our topic cluster on Marketing Hotels on Social Media.