DreamGuest

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | September 15, 2024

Rewarding Travelers for Good Behavior

During the recent IFWTWA (International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association) annual professional development conference, I had the privilege of speaking with Jason Scism, the innovative CEO and founder of DreamGuest. His new program, set to launch in just two weeks, promises to revolutionize the hospitality industry by rewarding guests for good behavior – turning the usual travel experience into something even more meaningful.

A Win-Win Concept for Guests and Properties
The essence of DreamGuest is simple: reward travelers who maintain cleanliness and follow property rules. In return, properties can reduce their employee costs, speed up room turnover, and accommodate more guests. But here’s the exciting part for travelers: your good behavior could earn you something more than just a thank-you. Guests staying at DreamGuest-affiliated properties may receive gift cards or the option to donate to a charitable cause. This unique twist adds extra value to any stay, making it more than just a temporary home away from home—it becomes an opportunity to give back.

As someone who leaves just the basics to be done—wiping down the bathroom, changing bed linens, and vacuuming the floor—I’m fully on board with this concept. The idea of earning rewards for behavior I already follow feels like a major perk. Though the option to donate toward a charitable cause isn’t yet available (Jason mentioned they’re currently ironing out the tax-deduction details with accountants), it’s clear that DreamGuest is already delivering on its promise of transforming travel.

How It Works for Guests: Easy and Free
Signing up for DreamGuest is completely free for travelers, and the process couldn’t be simpler. By staying at member properties, you’ll earn rewards based on how well you follow the host’s rules—be it maintaining cleanliness, respecting check-in/out times, or minimizing disruptions. These rewards can come in the form of gift cards, charitable donations (soon!), or future discounts. This approach empowers travelers to engage more consciously with the properties they stay in while knowing they’re being recognized for their efforts.

A Tool for Properties to Stand Out
For hosts and property managers, DreamGuest offers a powerful new way to differentiate their offerings in a crowded market. Imagine this: your vacation rental, hotel, or campground can attract guests by advertising a rewards program, turning your property into a go-to destination for conscientious travelers. Best of all, the host controls when and how rewards are distributed. Properties are under no obligation to reward everyone—only the guests whose behavior meets the standards set out in the rules.

This selective rewarding system naturally incentivizes good behavior, benefiting not just the property owners but also the surrounding communities, reducing the common annoyances and disturbances that can arise from vacation rentals. DreamGuest has been thoughtfully priced as well—just $2 per reward—so it’s affordable for hosts of all sizes and types.