Master Local SEO to Make Your Bed & Breakfast the Top Choice for Travelers
Last updated Nov. 17, 2024
Written by Iftekhar Chowdhury. In collaboration with oDeskStudio
Imagine two quaint bed & breakfasts nestled in the same charming town. Both have cozy rooms, delicious breakfasts, and friendly hosts.
But here’s the twist: one of them is booked solid every weekend, while the other struggles to fill its rooms.
What’s the difference?
Local SEO.
The first B&B shows up on Google searches like “cozy bed & breakfast near me” or “romantic getaways in [Your Town],” while the second is buried on page three.
If you want to be the go-to destination for travelers in your area, Local SEO is your ticket to consistent bookings and happy guests. Let’s dive into the strategies that will make your B&B shine online.
Why Local SEO is Essential for Bed & Breakfasts
1. Travelers Rely on Local Search
Whether it’s a weekend escape or a last-minute trip, most travelers use Google to find accommodations. Ranking high in local search results ensures they’ll find your B&B first.
2. Compete with Big Booking Platforms
Sure, listing on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com is helpful. But relying solely on them eats into your profits. Local SEO allows you to attract direct bookings, saving you commission fees.
3. Highlight Your Unique Experience
Unlike big chain hotels, your B&B offers charm, personality, and a story. Local SEO helps you showcase these unique features to the right audience.
Local SEO Strategies to Fill Your Rooms
1. Optimize Your Google My Business Profile
Your Google My Business (GMB) profile is a non-negotiable tool for Local SEO. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Photos: Upload high-quality images of your rooms, breakfast spreads, and outdoor spaces.
- Attributes: Highlight amenities like free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, or proximity to local attractions.
- Posts: Share updates like seasonal promotions, special events, or local festivals.
Pro Tip: Add a virtual tour of your property to your GMB profile. It builds trust and helps potential guests envision their stay.
2. Target Long-Tail Keywords
To stand out, focus on niche keywords that reflect your unique offerings. Examples include:
- “Pet-friendly B&B near [City]”
- “Romantic bed & breakfast with lake views”
- “Family-friendly B&B with home-cooked breakfasts”
These keywords should feature in:
- Your homepage’s title and meta description.
- Dedicated landing pages for special amenities (e.g., “Pet-Friendly Stays”).
- Blog posts like “Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a B&B in [Your Area].”
3. Create Location-Specific Content
Showcase what makes your area special by creating content like:
- Local Attraction Guides: Write posts about nearby landmarks, parks, or events.
- Seasonal Guides: “Best Fall Getaways in [Your Town]” or “Holiday Stays at a Charming B&B.”
- Foodie Features: Highlight local restaurants, cafes, or farmers’ markets your guests can visit.
Not only does this attract travelers, but it also helps search engines associate your B&B with the area.
4. Encourage Guest Reviews
Positive reviews are gold for Local SEO. Here’s how to get them:
- Ask at Checkout: A simple, “We’d love your feedback on Google,” can work wonders.
- Follow-Up Emails: Send personalized thank-you emails with a gentle nudge to leave a review.
- Incentivize Reviews: Offer small perks like discounts on future stays for guests who share their experiences.
5. Build Partnerships with Local Businesses
Team up with nearby attractions, restaurants, or event organizers. For example:
- Cross-promote each other on websites and social media.
- Offer packages like “Stay & Dine” with a local restaurant.
- Host local events or workshops at your B&B.
These partnerships not only enhance your guest experience but also help you earn high-quality backlinks.
6. Leverage Social Media for Local Visibility
While Local SEO focuses on search engines, social media can amplify your efforts:
- Post about local events, fun facts, or hidden gems in your area.
- Share behind-the-scenes moments, like preparing breakfast or decorating for the holidays.
- Encourage guests to tag your B&B in their posts.
Pro Tip: Use location-based hashtags like #CozyB&B or #[YourTownGetaway] to increase your visibility.
Success Story: From Hidden Gem to Must-Visit B&B
Take “The Maple Inn,” a B&B in Vermont. They struggled to attract guests outside peak seasons. After optimizing their GMB profile, creating seasonal blog content, and targeting keywords like “best winter B&B near Stowe,” their bookings increased by 50% in just six months.
Their secret? A blend of hyperlocal SEO and showcasing their unique charm.
Your Step-by-Step Action Plan for Local SEO Success
- Claim and optimize your Google My Business profile.
- Target niche keywords that highlight your unique offerings.
- Create location-specific content that attracts travelers.
- Actively encourage and manage guest reviews.
- Collaborate with local businesses for cross-promotion.
- Stay active on social media with location-based posts.
Conclusion
Running a bed & breakfast isn’t just about offering cozy rooms—it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for your guests. And Local SEO is your gateway to reaching more travelers, boosting bookings, and building a reputation as the place to stay in your area.
So don’t let your competition take the spotlight. Follow these steps, and let Local SEO help your B&B thrive year-round.
Here’s to a future full of happy guests, glowing reviews, and fully booked weekends!