Understanding Different Types of Guests: Practical Guide for Hosts
Discover how to identify and manage different types of guests to improve your hosting experience. Learn practical tips to handle any guest with confidence.

·4 min read
Create a warm, personalized welcome letter to delight your guests and set the tone for their stay. Share key details, local tips, and a friendly touch.
As a vacation rental host, one of your top priorities is making your guests feel welcome. The first impression establishes the mood for the entire visit, and a carefully designed welcome letter is a quick, small touch to help your guests feel at home.
A vacation rental welcome letter is not just a note with instructions. It's a chance to connect with guests immediately and share helpful tips for their stay. But how do you write a letter that is both informative and warm? In this article, we'll dive into the details of a well-written welcome letter that'll truly make your guests feel special.
The greeting is the first thing your guests will see, so use this to your advantage. Introduce yourself in a personable, upbeat tone to set a welcoming mood and show your guests that their experience matters to you. Begin with something simple and warm like:
This is your opportunity to show how excited you are to host them. Be sure to personalize with details specific to your guests instead of just generic statements. For example, if you know they're visiting for a special occasion, like a honeymoon or anniversary, acknowledge it with a greeting:
"Welcome to our cozy cottage! We're so excited to have you with us for your anniversary. We wish you the best and hope you enjoy every minute of your stay!"
Write a brief introduction about yourself and your vacation rental. This is your chance to add some personal touches and connect with guests beyond just a faceless listing. If you have a personal story concerning the property, this is an appropriate time to share it. People enjoy learning the history behind a location—it makes their visit feel more special.
For example, you might write:
"We're John and Sarah, and we've been hosting guests at this property for the past five years. This place holds a special spot in our hearts as it was once our family vacation retreat, and we're so happy to share it with you."
Make sure they know you are approachable and willing to answer any questions they may have.
Although the welcome letter should definitely be warm and friendly, it serves a functional purpose as well. You want to give vacation rental guests all the vital info that will help them be comfortable and have fun during their stay. Here are some examples to get you started:
One of the best parts of staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel is experiencing the local culture. In your welcome letter, include a list of your favorite local spots that guests might enjoy. This not only helps them make the most of their trip but also establishes you as an expert in the area.
To wrap up your note, express your gratitude for their visit and let them know you're available if they have any questions or need assistance during their stay. For example: "We're so glad you chose to stay with us, and we hope you have an amazing time. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to reach out. Enjoy your stay and make lots of wonderful memories!"
If you want to go the extra mile, you can offer your guests a complimentary welcome basket or a bottle of wine and local treats to take with them. These little touches make a world of difference.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for the perfect vacation rental welcome letter, it's up to you to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard!). A personalized welcome note can turn one-off visitors into repeat guests and strengthen their bond with you.
And while you're creating a welcoming experience, remember that platforms like Houfy offer an excellent direct booking solution for your vacation rental business. With Houfy, you can communicate directly with guests, manage your bookings easily, and keep more of your hard-earned money. Not on Houfy yet? List your property today!
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