How did the idea for Lokalee come about and what is the story behind its current global success?
Lokalee was born from a vision to bridge the gap between travelers seeking authentic experiences and hotels enhancing satisfaction. Consequently, with over 20 years of experience in hospitality IT, I identified a key missing link. This gap was a seamless connection between travelers and hotel services or local experiences, which we aimed to address. Therefore, we set out to transform the travel experience, making it more interactive, integrated and highly personalized. Additionally, we tackled key challenges within the hospitality industry, such as curating, sourcing and updating destination content. Ultimately, our global success has been fueled by strategic partnerships with leading hotels worldwide.
What is Lokalee’s primary value proposition and mission within the hospitality industry?
Lokalee is an AI-powered, customizable content platform that drives unmatched guest engagement through highly personalized recommendations and experiences. Specifically designed for hotels and short stays, Lokalee centralizes services and unique local activities into one intuitive platform. For hotel guests, Lokalee functions as a digital companion, enhancing their experience from pre arrival to post departure. Additionally, for partner hotels, Lokalee simplifies on-demand service management while driving new revenue streams. Furthermore, it enables hotel teams to stay connected with their guests throughout their entire journey, creating a seamless and integrated hospitality experience.
How does the platform achieve seamless interaction throughout the entire guest journey?
Lokalee engages guests early in their travel journey by sending automated trip planners and curated itineraries with booking confirmations. Additionally, during their stay, guests enjoy real-time access to nearby authentic experiences and hotel services via digital and printed touchpoints. Furthermore, post departure, Lokalee fosters loyalty and encourages repeat bookings by collecting valuable feedback from guests. Moreover, it sends personalized thank you notes, which also inspire positive word of mouth, creating lasting connections.
In what ways does the AI-powered platform help properties maximize revenue potential through its features and capabilities?
Lokalee boosts revenue by enabling properties to upsell premium experiences, dining and activities that match guest preferences and convenience. Moreover, the platform enhances operational efficiency by automating guest request management, reducing staff workload and ensuring swift service fulfillment. Additionally, it unlocks new revenue opportunities through targeted guest promotions and curated experiences. These experiences are offered by our ecosystem of Lokal Curators, local destination experts, creating a win-win situation for both guests and properties. Ultimately, this approach drives growth and strengthens the relationship between guests and properties, benefiting everyone involved.
What tangible benefits have clients reported since implementing Lokalee, particularly in terms of operational improvements and guest satisfaction?
Hotels and long stays using Lokalee have reported significant benefits, including a 25 percent increase in experience bookings within the first quarter. Operationally, several properties have achieved a 30 percent reduction in average service fulfillment time due to AI-driven streamlined workflows. Furthermore, some surveys indicate a 40 percent boost in positive reviews and guest sentiment, reflecting enhanced satisfaction and engagement. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the platform in improving both operational efficiency and guest experience, leading to overall success. Ultimately, Lokalee proves to be a valuable tool for both hotels and their guests.
Looking ahead, what are some of the key developments or new features that Lokalee plans to introduce to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality industry?
Lokalee is committed to expanding its services, ensuring they meet the dynamic needs of the ever-changing hospitality industry. Key new features include an enhanced Trip Planner that provides dynamic updates based on individual guest preferences and real-time local events. Additionally, a direct messaging feature will streamline communication between hotels and guests, thereby improving service delivery. Furthermore, Lokalee plans to explore sustainability initiatives, such as collaborating with local communities to promote eco-conscious tourism practices. This collaboration will foster a more sustainable and authentic travel experience. These initiatives ultimately aim to enhance guest satisfaction while supporting sustainable tourism practices.
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About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
