6 Easy Ways to Boost Your Hotel’s Local SEO in the Age of AI Search
Did you know travelers aren’t just turning to Google anymore when searching for hotels? AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Apple Intelligence are reshaping how guests discover where to stay. These platforms pull data from across the web — not just one search engine — to recommend trusted, visible brands. For hotels, that means local SEO is no longer optional. If your property doesn’t appear consistently across all search surfaces, you’re invisible to the new generation of digital travelers.
Here are six simple ways to improve your local SEO and get more guests.
1. Be Everywhere, Not Just on Google
Don’t rely only on your Google Business Profile. Make sure your hotel’s name, address, phone number, and website are correct on every site — like Apple Maps, Bing, Facebook, and Yelp. Add photos, offers, and FAQs so guests can find the right info fast.
2. Keep All Your Info the Same
If your hours or phone number are different on different websites, search engines and guests will get confused. Keep all details consistent everywhere. It builds trust and helps you show up higher in search.
3. Create Local Pages That Work Fast
Have a local landing page for your hotel that loads quickly and looks great on phones. Add clear details, photos, and local keywords (like “hotel in Kona near the beach”). This helps search engines understand your hotel and send more guests your way.
4. Get and Manage Reviews
Good reviews help you show up more in search results. Ask happy guests to leave reviews and always reply to them. Even a short thank-you helps. The more positive feedback you have, the more people (and Google) will trust your hotel.
5. Watch Your Data
Use your analytics tools to see what’s working — which keywords people search, which pages they visit, and how they book. Update your listings and ads based on what you learn. Small changes can mean more bookings.
6. Use Social Media
Many travelers now search on social media before booking. Keep your profiles updated on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Post often, reply to comments, and use the same info everywhere. It helps people (and AI search tools) find and trust your hotel.
The Takeaway
AI is changing how guests find hotels. Keep your info correct, your pages fast, your reviews positive, and your social media active. Doing these simple things will help your hotel get found — and booked — by more travelers.