Adding a new dimension to the concept of consumer generated content, HotelsByCity is looking to their customers for hotel and travel content, then packaging it in an inspiring, entertaining blog format.

Published: 12 Jun 2007

Adding a new dimension to the concept of consumer generated content, HotelsByCity is looking to their customers for hotel and travel content, then packaging it in an inspiring, entertaining blog format.

HotelsByCity recently referred to a “unique guest-generated hotel space with a focus on the guest experience.”

Combining available technologies in image sharing and video production with a content production team that has hotel experience, HotelsByCity have focused on a “critical few” hotel guest touch points like beds, bathrooms and swimming pools that are important to the guest. It shared that its Hotel Bed Jumping and other hotel blogs feature guest-submitted images and travel stories in a daily posting format.

“Rather than telling our customers what we think they should be interested in, we would rather let them tell us,” said Randy Schartner, CEO and Co-Founder, HotelsByCity. “Our overall objective is to improve the process of searching and reviewing hotel options online, and we believe that interacting with our guests in an entertaining and informative way supports our objectives in the long run.”

“Over time, hotel intermediaries have helped facilitate the commoditisation of the guestroom product,” said Andrew Loewen, President and Co-Founder, HotelsByCity. “Through our hotel blog network, we see an opportunity to interact with and inspire our customers to purchase though our hotel and travel portal by delivering content that guests care about. Guests care about it because they create it.”