NATIONAL REPORT—As the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the hospitality industry, a website has been created to help guests prepare for their next stay once it is time to leave their homes and life gets back to normal.
WeTravelForward.com is taking a proactive approach to travel at this time of uncertainty by creating a directory of properties with information such as how to order gift cards, book packages and view special promotions for future stays. The website also enables hotels to earn revenues while being closed to guests or open only to medical personnel and first responders.
The website was created by Amy Ogden, a hospitality branding executive, and Wade Breitzke from WeCreate Media.
“We teamed up to create the site because we built our careers and brands in hotels and travel and wanted to do something to support the industry we both love so much,” said Ogden. “Consumers will want to visit the site because it will be one place to view and book attractive offers that hotels across the U.S. are creating during this unique time. They can plan now and get excited for their future adventures. We all deserve something to look forward to.”
Once a hotel submits its details—address, image, logo, link to purchase/booking page, etc.—it will be included in a directory organized by state. The listing will also include links to gift cards, packages and other revenue generators.
Ogden pointed out that hotels have been very receptive so far to the website. “We don’t charge a commission or a fee—it truly is a goodwill mission—so the hotels have no reason not to be listed. It gives them yet another way to tell their story and reach consumers,” she said.
Once the directory starts to build out, it will be promoted to consumers “through PR,” said Ogden, who added, “We’ve also seen great word of mouth within the industry.”
