Hospitality tech innovators drive Direct Bookings and Transform Guest Experiences

An insightful event titled Transforming Guest Experiences: Winning the Battle for Direct Bookings was held at the Galle Face Hotel, Colombo recently, jointly organized by Antyra Solutions, The Hotels Network, Profitroom and Hoteltime Solutions.

These insightful discussions focused on redefining guest experiences to enhance direct booking strategies.

The event featured sessions by Niranka T. Perera, CEO and Co-Founder of Antyra Solutions; Marisa Nolan, Senior Business Development Manager for Profitroom; Ivan Cintado, Director APAC for The Hotels Network; and Shaham Naufer, Country Manager for Hoteltime Solutions.

Niranka T. Perera focused on the importance of understanding guest archetypes and the opportunities this understanding creates for funnel expansion.

“Hotel marketing teams must understand the importance of creating strong user journeys and building the connecting tissue from the inspiration stage to the booking stage in the travel buying cycle”, he said.

Additionally, Niranka stressed the significance of Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) in improving the booking funnel, emphasizing that the first impression online is often the deciding factor for a potential guest.

Ivan Cintado shared insights on spotting conversion opportunities in the booking funnel and booking engine.

Marisa Nolan spoke about the key aspects hoteliers can implement to differentiate themselves. Her session highlighted the potential of packages and loyalty programs as effective tools for enhancing guest engagement and boosting direct bookings. Shaham Naufer explored how hoteliers can leverage technology to personalize the guest experience and create successful, long-lasting relationships.

The event provided a collaborative space for industry leaders and hoteliers to share knowledge and connect with peers, paving the way for a more personalized, direct booking-focused future in Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector.