Let’s be real—the holiday season is peak time for bookings, stress, and expectations. Everyone’s looking for that perfect getaway, amd if you’re managing a short-let apartment, it’s officially your time to shine.
But with great demand comes great responsibility. Guests want cozy, clean, and Insta-worthy—and they’re not afraid to leave a review if anything feels off. So, how do you deliver a next-level experience and lock in those 5-star reviews during the busiest season of the year?
1. Set the holiday mood
Think subtle holiday vibes, not full-on Santa’s grotto. A touch of fairy lights, a mini wreath on the door, or a scented candle with cinnamon or pine can go a long way. You want the space to feel festive and neutral enough to suit every guest—whether they’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends.
2. Comfort Is the new luxury
The holiday season is when people want to snuggle up and feel at home. That means cozy blankets, plush pillows, extra towels, and maybe even a hot chocolate station.Even better? Set the vibe with soft lighting, ambient music, and fast WiFi (because yes, that’s still top priority even in holiday mode). If you want 5-star reviews during the holiday season, make sure every corner of your apartment says “relax and stay a while.”
3. Be a proactive host
The difference between a good host and a five-star host? Being on it. Guests remember how quickly you responded when they needed help or had a question—even if it was minor.Stay reachable, polite, and efficient.
4. Ask (Nicely) for the review
People are more likely to leave a review when prompted—especially if they had a great stay. After check-out, send a friendly message to remind the guest to drop a review on how their stay went.
5-star reviews during the holiday season aren’t just about the apartment—they’re about the experience. They drive your visibility on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com and more. They build trust, boost your ranking, and make future guests more likely to book your apartment over others.
So this holiday season, take the extra steps. Decorate a little, respond quickly, add thoughtful touches, and stay guest-focused. That’s how you transform a good stay into a memorable one—and turn happy guests into raving fans.
Want help managing guest experiences and reviews? Let Homely handle it for you.
