As the world starts to open back up again, people are beginning to travel once more. And while international travel is still not the best choice for most, that doesn’t mean people aren’t itching to get out and explore their cities. This is good news for businesses that rely on tourism, but it’s important to remember how people’s travel has changed. Here are a few ways to adjust your business to support local tourism better.
1. Be Flexible with Your Cancellation Policy
In the past, many businesses had strict cancellation policies to avoid last-minute cancellations. But with the pandemic still a problem in some parts of the world, people are understandably hesitant to commit to travel plans too far in advance. So, if you can be flexible with your cancellation policy, you’ll likely see an uptick in bookings.
If you’re worried about last-minute cancellations, consider a non-refundable deposit policy. This will give potential customers more leeway in booking and help you ensure that you don’t miss out on any potential business. Make sure your policy is clear and easy to find on your website. This will also help customers make an informed decision about their booking and prevent any unpleasant surprises down the line
2. Promote Local Products
As people are looking for ways to explore their own country, ensure that your business shows off the best of what is available in your area. Whether it’s local produce, handmade crafts, or unique experiences, promoting local products is a great way to show that you’re invested in the local community. This can help attract more customers looking for an authentic experience.
When promoting these local goods, photograph them in the best way possible. Investing in commercial product photography can go a long way toward making your products look more professional and enticing to customers. Many businesses have made the switch to digital marketing, and having professional images can help you stand out from the competition. You can also use these images in other marketing materials, such as brochures and flyers, to help spread the word about your local offerings.
3. Promote Outdoor Activities
If your business offers outdoor activities-like hiking, kayaking, or even just a patio for enjoying a meal-be sure to promote those heavily. People are looking for ways to safely enjoy the outdoors, and your business can be their go-to destination. Make sure to highlight the safety precautions you take and any extra services you offer, like renting out equipment or offering guided tours.
By marketing your outdoor activities, you can attract more customers looking for a way to explore their local surroundings. You can also use creative marketing techniques, such as social media campaigns or creative videos, to spread the word about your offerings. Some businesses have even started offering virtual experiences, such as virtual tours or instructional videos, to reach a wider audience.
4. Showcase Your Community
People love to support businesses that are part of their local community. Showcase the people and places you care about by featuring them on your website or social media accounts. You can also use your blog or newsletter to highlight the best of what your area has to offer. This will help potential customers connect with your business and get excited about what they can experience in your area.
Plus, celebrating the community will help to build stronger relationships with local businesses. Many local tourism businesses have collaborated to create bundle packages they can promote together. This is a great way to get more exposure and attract customers looking for a fully immersive experience. You can also cross-promote each other’s businesses, so you both benefit from the partnership.
5. Support Local Charities
Although it can be difficult to donate money or resources during difficult times, many businesses have found ways to support local charities or organizations doing important work in their community. This can be anything from donating a portion of profits to sponsoring an event or simply spreading the word about their work. Supporting local charities is a great way to show your customers that you care about the community and are willing to invest in its future.
Not only does this help the charity, but it can also be a great way to boost your business’s reputation. People are more likely to choose businesses that support causes they care about, so it’s a win-win for everyone involved. Many charities are also more than happy to return the favor by promoting your business on their website or social media accounts.
Local tourism is rising as people start to feel comfortable traveling again. As a business owner, there are a few things you can do to adjust your business and better support local tourism. From being flexible with cancellations to promoting outdoor activities, these small changes can make a big difference for your business and your community.
