Creating the Perfect Airbnb Welcome Guide

A well-crafted welcome guide is one of the most powerful tools for creating exceptional guest experiences. It sets expectations, provides valuable information, and shows that you care about your guests' comfort and enjoyment.

After managing 301+ properties across five countries, we've refined our welcome guide formula to consistently earn 5-star reviews and create guests who return again and again.

Essential Information Section

Start your welcome guide with the basics that every guest needs to know immediately upon arrival.

Property Basics

• WiFi Details: Network name and password prominently displayed
• Property Address: Full address for delivery and emergency purposes
• Check-out Time: Clear expectations and procedures
• Trash and Recycling: Local pickup schedules and bin locations
• Parking Information: Where to park, permits needed, restrictions
• Appliance Instructions: How to use washing machine, dishwasher, TV, etc.

Local Area Recommendations

This is where your guide transforms from functional to exceptional. Share your insider knowledge to help guests experience the area like a local.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Fine Dining: 2-3 upscale options with reservation suggestions
• Casual Dining: 5-7 local favorites with different cuisines
• Quick Bites: Coffee shops, bakeries, grab-and-go options
• Late Night: What's open after 10 PM
• Delivery Options: Apps and phone numbers for food delivery
• Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options

Activities and Attractions

• Must-See Attractions: Top 3-5 tourist destinations with tips
• Hidden Gems: Local secrets that tourists often miss
• Outdoor Activities: Parks, hiking trails, beaches, sports facilities
• Cultural Experiences: Museums, galleries, theaters, music venues
• Shopping: Local markets, boutiques, shopping centers
• Family-Friendly: Activities perfect for children
• Romantic Options: Perfect spots for couples

Transportation Guide

Help guests navigate your area with confidence by providing comprehensive transportation information.

Public Transportation

• Metro/Bus Systems: How to buy tickets, route maps, schedules
• Taxi Services: Reliable companies and average costs
• Ride-sharing: Which apps work in your area
• Bike Rentals: Where to rent and safe cycling routes
• Airport Connections: Best ways to get to/from airports
• Car Rentals: Nearby agencies and parking tips

Safety and Emergency Information

Ensure guests feel secure by providing essential safety information and emergency contacts.

Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Services: Police, fire, ambulance numbers
• Your Contact Info: Phone number and response time expectations
• Property Manager: Alternative contact if you're unavailable
• Building Management: For apartment buildings or condos
• Nearest Hospital: Address and phone number
• Poison Control: Local poison control center
• Non-Emergency Police: For reporting minor incidents

Safety Features

• Smoke Detectors: Locations and what to do if they beep
• Fire Extinguisher: Location and basic usage instructions
• First Aid Kit: Where it's located and contents
• Flashlights: Location in case of power outages
• Safe Areas: Where to go during severe weather
• Exit Routes: Emergency exits from the building

House Rules and Expectations

Set clear, friendly expectations to prevent misunderstandings and maintain your property standards.

Respectful House Rules

• Noise Policy: Quiet hours and consideration for neighbors
• Smoking Policy: Where smoking is/isn't allowed
• Pet Policy: What's allowed and any restrictions
• Guest Limits: Maximum occupancy and visitor policies
• Party Policy: What's acceptable and what isn't
• Check-out Expectations: What guests should do before leaving

Tone and Language

Frame rules positively to maintain a welcoming atmosphere:

"To ensure all our guests have a peaceful stay, we ask that you keep noise levels considerate after 10 PM."

Instead of:

"NO LOUD NOISE AFTER 10 PM OR YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE."

Personal Touches That Matter

Small personal touches transform a functional guide into a memorable experience that guests will appreciate and remember.

Local Expertise

• Seasonal Tips: What's happening during their stay period
• Weather Considerations: What to expect and how to prepare
• Local Events: Festivals, markets, concerts happening nearby
• Insider Tips: When to visit attractions to avoid crowds
• Photo Spots: Instagram-worthy locations in the area
• Local Etiquette: Cultural norms and customs

Welcome Gifts and Amenities

• Welcome Basket: Local snacks, drinks, or treats
• Fresh Flowers: A simple but elegant touch
• Local Products: Coffee from a nearby roaster, local honey
• Maps and Brochures: Physical materials for easy reference
• Handwritten Note: Personal welcome message

Digital vs. Physical Formats

Consider offering your welcome guide in multiple formats to accommodate different guest preferences.

Digital Benefits

• Easy to update with current information
• Can include clickable links and maps
• Guests can access from anywhere
• Eco-friendly option
• Can include videos and interactive content

Physical Benefits

• No need for device or internet access
• Can be beautifully designed and branded
• Serves as a keepsake or souvenir
• Always visible and accessible
• Feels more personal and thoughtful

Best Practice: Hybrid Approach

Provide a beautiful physical guide for the essentials (WiFi, emergency info, key recommendations) and supplement with a digital version that includes comprehensive details, links, and updates.

Welcome Guide Template Structure

Here's a proven structure that works across all property types and locations:

Page 1: Welcome & Key Info

• Personal welcome message
• WiFi password
• Your contact information
• Check-out time and procedure

Page 2-3: Property Guide

• How to use appliances
• Heating/cooling instructions
• Parking and access details
• Trash and recycling info

Page 4-6: Local Recommendations

• Restaurants by category
• Top attractions and activities
• Transportation options
• Shopping and services

Page 7: Safety & Emergency

• Emergency contact numbers
• Safety feature locations
• Hospital and pharmacy info
• Building-specific procedures

Page 8: House Rules & Check-out

• Respectfully stated house rules
• Check-out expectations
• Thank you message
• Review request

Measuring Success

Track the effectiveness of your welcome guide through guest feedback and behavior:

Success Indicators

• Fewer Questions: Guests contact you less during their stay
• Better Reviews: Guests mention feeling well-informed and welcomed
• Local Business Visits: Guests mention trying your recommendations
• Positive Feedback: Specific compliments about the guide
• Return Guests: Visitors choose to stay with you again
• Referrals: Guests recommend your property to others

Continuous Improvement

• Ask guests for feedback on the guide
• Update recommendations based on closures or new openings
• Add information based on frequently asked questions
• Seasonal updates for weather-dependent activities
• Test different formats and layouts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Information overload: Too much detail can be overwhelming
• Outdated information: Closed restaurants or changed hours
• Generic recommendations: Chain restaurants instead of local gems
• Poor organization: Information that's hard to find quickly
• Negative tone: Rules that sound harsh or unwelcoming
• Missing basics: Forgetting essential information like WiFi
• No personal touch: Purely functional without warmth

Conclusion

A thoughtful welcome guide is an investment in guest satisfaction that pays dividends in reviews, repeat bookings, and referrals. It shows professionalism, local expertise, and genuine care for your guests' experience.

Remember that your welcome guide is often the first detailed interaction guests have with your hosting style. Make it count by providing valuable information in a warm, helpful way that sets the tone for an exceptional stay.