A warm welcome at Casa Mariola.

STAYCATION TIPS

How to Craft a Signature Guest Experience at Your Vacation Rental

Because it’s the little moments that become five-star memories.

In a crowded world of vacation rentals, the ones that truly stand out aren’t just beautifully designed—they’re thoughtfully felt. If you’re a homeowner, designer, or host, creating a signature guest experience isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about shaping moments guests will remember — and retell.

Staycation has filmed across dozens of destinations—from Baja to the Bahamas. Here’s what stood out: guests rarely remember thread counts, but they always remember how a space made them feel. Here’s how to make a property unforgettable, one thoughtful detail at a time.

Why Signature Guest Moments Matter

Tailoring a memorable experience helps to build:

• Emotional connection

• More five-star reviews

• Higher return-booking rates

• Organic shares and referrals
  

When a property feels personal, guests become story-sharers—not just visitors.

How to Craft a Signature Guest Experience

Let’s break down what makes a guest moment go from “that was nice” to “I’ll never forget that.”

1. Engage the Senses

Memories begin with sensory details:

• Sound: Welcome playlists—preferably local or atmospheric.

• Smell: A calming scent or native incense.

• Touch: Plush towels, cozy blankets, or a cooling welcome towel.

• Taste: A local treat or homemade snack to set the tone.
  

2. Personalize the Welcome

Small gestures leave a big impression:

• A handwritten note with guest names.

• A bespoke guide to local favorites.

• A family recipe card or local flavor note to cook during their stay.

3. Design a Share-Worthy Moment

Set a scene that guests can’t resist capturing:

• A serene morning coffee nook with a view.

• A sunset terrace set-up with drinks and blankets.

• A fairy-lit hammock corner or cozy fire pit.

4. Give It a Name

Naming it gives guests something to talk about—or search for.

• The Golden Hour Lounge — drinks and sunset vibes

• La Mañana Mexicana — coffee, pastries, morning mix

• The Stargazer Set-Up — blankets, lanterns, moonlit sky

Include the name in the listing to paint the experience before they even book.

Casa Mariola in Tulum featured in Staycation Season 3.

Casa Mariola: A Signature Guest Moment in Action

Deep in Tulum’s private Soliman Bay enclave sits Casa Mariola—a place where guests don’t just stay, they step into a story. In Staycation Season 3, this home became a textbook example of how a signature moment can elevate an entire stay.

• Privacy as the Canvas: Nestled in Tulum’s only gated beachfront community, Casa Mariola feels like a sanctuary you didn’t know existed. It’s a secluded paradise—designed to disappear into nature and offer absolute tranquility.
  

• A Personalized Welcome: Guests are welcomed with a drink native to Yucatán, setting a warm, rooted tone. Every detail—from scents to service—feels handcrafted and heartfelt.
  

• A Home with a Story: Built by the owner (who is also the designer and architect), every room in Casa Mariola opens to the ocean. Each element was designed with her family of five kids in mind—meaning comfort and connection are everywhere.
  

• A Scene Worth Sharing: Guests wake to sea breezes, sip coffee by the shore, and explore calm waters via kayak—all steps from the living room. There's a staff ready to help with meals, massage, and more. For many, it's the kind of escape they dream of—and return to.
  

Want Your Home Featured on Staycation?

If your rental has character, personality, or an unforgettable story—Staycation wants to see it. Submit your property to be considered for a future episode.