The most popular way to communicate in the U.S. is text messaging through SMS, but it’s the only country where this reigns true. To provide elevated hospitality via guest messaging for international guests, hotels need to consider other more popular channels such as WhatsApp.

Reach international guests 

Guests traveling internationally are more likely to be on a special occasion, or having a once-in-a-lifetime experience—make it memorable by reaching them where they’re at. 

Most countries around the world use digital messaging channels, like WhatsApp, to communicate with friends, family, and businesses, instead of SMS.

According to Statista, WhatsApp is the most-used messaging app in the world, with over 2 billion users globally. It’s especially popular in markets outside of the U.S., such as India and Europe, and is a cheaper alternative to operator-based text messaging via SMS.

By integrating WhatsApp into a property’s digital messaging platform, hotel teams can create seamless experiences for international guests that may be coming in from around the world. Make it easy for them to communicate with the front desk and go the extra mile with messaging that works for them.

Kipsu now offers messaging through WhatsApp for all properties. The integration allows hospitality teams to reach guests through the platform, which is useful when guests may be traveling without cell service or want to avoid roaming charges. 

Increased accessibility 

Hotels that may have a lot of international guests coming in need to consider how and where to reach their guests. For international travelers who may not have access to a SIM card that works in the U.S., WhatsApp is one of the best options for communication. 

Since WhatsApp doesn’t require cell service, users are able to connect with friends, family, and businesses with just a Wi-Fi connection. Used on both smartphones and tablets, WhatsApp is increasingly accessible for anyone with Wi-Fi. It functions similarly to text messaging, with the ability to send photos and videos, but does not require cell service.  

Digital messaging channels that function with only a Wi-Fi connection are not only more accessible for technical reasons, but also help both front desk teams and international travelers deal with language barriers at a slower pace. 

Eliminating barriers

Reading is often easier than speaking in a second language, and the ability to translate messages allows for a more seamless and less stressful experience. With auto-translation features within top messaging platforms like Kipsu, users can communicate with guests in 60+ languages. 

Digital messaging for hotels also gives both guests and front desk teams more time to read messages and compose responses, instead of trying to communicate over phone calls or voicemails. 

Many travelers also don’t have the ability to call (no SIM card, don’t want to speak in a second language), so using WhatsApp opens another door.

All in one place

While it may seem like an additional lift for hotel teams, top hospitality messaging platforms like Kipsu integrate WhatsApp into the same platform—all messages, from WhatsApp to SMS, flow through the same dashboard. 

From the guest perspective, messages come from a number or verified title of the business, directly in their WhatsApp chats. There’s no additional sign-up or download required, allowing for a seamless guest experience.

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Create meaningful experiences with international guests with the WhatsApp integration. Learn more and schedule a conversation today.

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