E-commerce isn’t the only domain benefiting from SEO. The hospitality industry, with its unique challenges, also relies heavily on SEO strategies to stand out. In a recent discussion in The Ecom Mafia, Malayalee professionals exchanged ideas on how hotels can improve their search rankings and drive direct bookings, even when competing against giants like TripAdvisor and Booking.com.

The Challenge: Standing Out in a Competitive Landscape

A member asked how to improve SEO for a hotel website, beyond using Google My Business (GMB), especially when aggregator sites dominate search results. The conversation revealed several actionable strategies to help hotels optimize their online presence.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion

1. The Role of Brand Building

• Pranav emphasized that brand building is critical. Social media, paid ads, and customer-centric content like blogs and reels can create a strong online identity.

• Blogs showcasing local attractions, events, and travel tips can attract travelers searching for relevant information.

2. User Experience is Key

• A user-friendly website is essential. Simplify navigation and provide clear, concise information on pricing, amenities, and booking options. Avoid making customers work to find what they need.

3. Leverage Third-Party Platforms

• Listings on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) like Booking.com and MakeMyTrip help build visibility.

• Work closely with these platforms to understand ranking algorithms, such as prioritizing reviews or location proximity.

4. Reviews Build Credibility

• Collect reviews on both OTA platforms and Google Maps. Positive reviews not only improve rankings but also enhance trust.

5. "Parasite SEO" Hack

Shan Salam shared a practical approach:

• List on OTAs and accumulate initial reviews.

• Activate Google Maps listings and encourage reviews from walk-in customers.

• Result: Customers discover the hotel on OTAs, check reviews on Google Maps, and book directly.

6. Understanding Aggregator Websites

Prasad Karthik explained the difference between information aggregators (e.g., TripAdvisor) and integrators (hotel websites).

• Aggregators are trusted by Google for broad queries, so it’s nearly impossible to outrank them.

• Instead, find gaps in the content they don’t cover and create valuable, unique content for your website.

SEO Pro Tip: Avoid Black-Hat Tactics

Using strategies like "Parasite SEO" should be done carefully. Google has recently taken action against such practices, penalizing sites that exploit third-party platforms unfairly. Always focus on sustainable, white-hat techniques.

Join The Ecom Mafia: Your Growth Partner

Discussions like these happen every day in The Ecom Mafia, where Malayalee entrepreneurs and professionals collaborate to solve real-world challenges in e-commerce and beyond.

👉 Click here to join The Ecom Mafia and unlock access to a supportive community of experts who are ready to help you grow.