Thailand's tourism industry is booming, but hotel websites are stuck in the past.
Hotel Technology solutions are bombarding you with "boost" and "elevate" your guest experience but are not showing you the problem.
We analyzed 70 Phuket hotel websites, focusing on booking engines, loyalty programs, and payment options. The results? Disappointment. Here's what we found, and how hotels can fix it:
1. Let Guests Book What they Want
Don't just show stunning photos of Muay Thai classes - allow them to add it to their booking.
The Problem:
- My friend spent hours searching for a Koh Samui hotel with a fitness program.
- We endured a 15-email saga trying to book a Krabi boat tour through a hotel website.
The Fix:
- Offer pre-built packages combining accommodation with popular activities, like spa treatments, island excursions, or Muay Thai lessons.
- Enable flexible add-ons during the booking process, allowing guests to easily personalize their stay without endless emails or calls.
2. Mobile Booking Shouldn't Be a Pain.
Mobile devices drive travel bookings today. Your website needs to be mobile-friendly, especially the payment page. Don't force guests to type in their entire credit card number on a tiny screen.
The Problem:
- I'm on your beautiful website, picturing myself on that sea-view balcony. Then, the payment page hits - tiny forms, endless fields. My dream vacation turns into a chore.
The Fix:
- Integrate secure mobile wallets like Prompt Pay, Apple Pay or Google Pay for one-click checkout.
- Offer autofill options for returning guests who have previously saved their information.
- Optimize your website for mobile - clear buttons, large text, and intuitive navigation are crucial.
3. Your Loyalty Program is Losing Your Hotel Bookings
Loyalty programs are a powerful tool for repeat business, but don't make sign-up a mandatory step for checkout. Offer the option to register later and still receive the discount.
The Problem:
- I'm excited about your hotel, but I don't want to create an account just to book a room.
- Long forms with irrelevant details (address, nationality) are frustrating on mobile.
The Fix:
- Allow guest checkout with email address only.
- Offer a separate loyalty program sign-up option after checkout, highlighting its benefits.
- Simplify registration forms by focusing only on essential information.
Don't break your heart searching for the hotel tech stack that can achieve this.
Book a Call with Techie Stays to Get Started.