Wonder why it’s so important to book direct? When you book directly with Morehead Manor and other B&B inns, you will get the best rate. Did you know that the “Book Now” button on Google does NOT book a reservation on our website? It actually books a reservation through an online travel agency (OTA)? In order to remain competitive as a small lodging establishment, this means that we (and other independently owned B&B inns) must sign up with an OTA and pay commission on reservations that come through them.
We’re thankful for Small Business Saturday® celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving to encourage people to Shop Small and bring more holiday shopping to small businesses. We’re glad that there is a growing awareness of the need to support small businesses (including local shops and local farms).
According to Acorn Internet Services, a leader in hospitality web design, and promoter of the #BookDirect movement:
Innkeepers are paying more and more commissions on bookings. These non-direct bookings continue to grow as Google and TripAdvisor widen their nets to sell your rooms. What percentage of your bookings are coming via an OTA? Is it 10%, 20%, 30%, or more? You are spending approximately 18 cents on each dollar booked via an OTA. What’s more, Google is on a mission to maneuver between you and your guest, not to mention prevent hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts from accessing GMB (Google My Business) tools that other industry professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, plumbers, etc., all have access to. These tools include updating your business description, having a direct link to your booking engine, and posting Google Posts. If our industry had access to these options, as other industries do, then we would be able to advertise to the guest to book direct. But Google would be cut out of the deal. Thus, those in our industry have no access to these valuable tools.
Acorn goes on to explain that when you commit to booking direct, you will receive many benefits and amenities that you would not have access to if you booked through a travel agency. Essentially, you will be paying more to receive less! When you book direct:
- You usually are guaranteed the lowest pricing available.
- You work directly with the property in case of changes, delays, or cancellations.
- You typically will not have to pay additional booking, change, or cancellation fees.
- You will enjoy exclusive benefits.
- You can take advantage of special deals or amenities.
Morehead Manor Bed and Breakfast, located in Durham, North Carolina, is honored to host all our guests. We really appreciate it when you book directly with us. This helps us provide the best possible hospitality since we can interact with you right from the beginning. We look forward to hosting more guests in the New Year!