Welcoming guests this Christmas

Is it too early for the C word? …Never in my book! The hospitality industry, like no other, provides endless opportunities to go the extra mile for your guests, especially during the holidays. If ever a year needed extra Christmas spirit, this is that year! With many of us experiencing a very different Christmas in 2020, I’ve got a feeling this Christmas will be double the celebration, making up for lost time and enjoying the festivities with family and friends. Here are six ways to add some sparkle to your guests stay, making them feel welcome this holiday season.

Promote Your Local Festive Calendar

Hotels stays during the holidays are often centred around events. Your guests might be visiting in the area to attend Christmas parties with family, friends or colleagues, or they might be finalising (or starting) their Christmas shopping. With many of us missing out on holidays over the last 18 months, we have heard from our customers that guests are opting for longer stays, making the most of a trip away from home. Be sure to share local holiday events with your guests, whether its ice skating, Christmas markets or Santa’s grotto!

Festive Winter Warmers

Give your guests warmth this season… literally and figuratively. Light that fireplace, provide extra blankets in outside areas and offer a drinks menu with a festive twist. Classic hot chocolate with all the trimmings, festive spiced lattes and hot spiced teas! Whether it’s after a long walk in the countryside or a busy day shopping a festive drink next to an open fire is sure to get your guests feeling super festive!

Festive Cocktails

Nothing gets me in the festive spirit like a Christmas cocktail. Whether it’s a warm mulled wine, traditional eggnog or a festive twist on a classic! Cocktails are a sure way to cause a stir amongst guests, so wow them this Christmas with a festive cocktail menu. Browse 50 holiday cocktails here, from Delish, I’m not sure how you will narrow down this list, but there is certainly enough to offer a different festive cocktail every day in December! I’ll take a Gingerbread Eggnog White Russian, please!

Festive Menu

Spending time with loved ones at Christmas is at the top of my list, but the food, well that is a firm close second! Serve a traditional Christmas menu right through December. Turkey and all the trimmings, smoked salmon starters, yule log and mince pies! Don’t forget to explore plant based and vegan offerings too, there are some fantastic recipes out there! The list is endless and sure create a memorable experience this Christmas for all your guests. Not serving food on Christmas Day? No problem, your festive menu is sure to be welcomed throughout December. You could even have a Christmas themed afternoon tea, dainty turkey sandwiches, stuffing, pigs in blankets, mini mince pies, stollen and Yule log!

Festive Décor

Hotels are the true stars of the holiday season, hosting guest’s trips and parties. In fact, hotels have become somewhat of a decoration inspiration and talking point, with some of the most luxury hotels spending months planning and bringing in huge teams to create a festive setting and magical experience for guests. Decorations are not just limited to common areas either, add a touch of sparkle with in-room decorations and festive treats.

Spread cheer (not germs)

Despite our wonderful industry being largely free from restrictions this Christmas, continue to take precaution to ensure the safety of both your hotel guests and staff. Encourage guest and staff cleanliness, following government advice where needed. Provide plenty of hand sanitiser in shared spaces, you could even add our 20ml hand sanitiser to your in-room amenity offering. Keep your guests up to date with your housekeeping service and let them know if they can request fresh linen or linen or towels during their stay.