Chapter 11

Hosting Themed Stays – A Unique Way to Attract Guests

In today’s competitive hospitality industry, standing out is key. One way to make your homestay, farmstay, or boutique hotel irresistible is by curating themed stays that appeal to niche audiences. Whether it’s a wellness retreat, adventure escape, digital detox, or heritage experience, guests are more likely to book when they feel an emotional connection to your offering.

Examples of successful-themed stays

Art & Creativity Retreats

A countryside homestay in France transformed itself into an artist’s escape, offering painting workshops with local artists. They provided easels, canvases, and even personalized critiques, making it a hotspot for creative travelers.

Wellness & Digital Detox

A boutique farmstay in Bali banned WiFi for guests but offered sunrise yoga, farm-to-table organic meals, and guided meditation. Their marketing slogan? “Reconnect with yourself, not your phone.” The stay gained viral popularity among stressed-out city dwellers.

Food & Wine Experiences

A homestay in Italy collaborated with local vineyards to host wine-tasting weekends, where guests could stomp grapes and dine under the stars. Their weekday bookings surged thanks to exclusive “midweek wine escapes.”

Adventure & Offbeat Experiences

A Himalayan lodge created a “Survival Weekend” where guests learned fire-making, foraging, and star navigation with expert guides. It became a favorite among thrill-seekers and corporate teams looking for unique bonding activities.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to make major changes to your property. A themed stay can be as simple as curating an itinerary, adding special decor, or partnering with local experts to create a memorable experience.

Interactive Reflection: 10 questions

  1. What kind of events would your ideal guest be excited about?
  2. Do you already have unused spaces that could be repurposed for events?
  3. Could you partner with local artists, chefs, or instructors to co-host experiences?
  4. How can you create an event series that builds anticipation every week?
  5. Could you offer a package deal that includes an event ticket and stay?
  6. Would your guests prefer morning, afternoon, or evening events?
  7. Can you involve the local community to attract attendees beyond just your guests?
  8. How will you promote these events on social media and email marketing?
  9. Could you document your events (photos/videos) to boost future bookings?
  10. What pricing strategy would make midweek events profitable but still attractive?