DESERT WILD JOSHUA TREE, CALIFORNIA Top tips

AUSSIE NATALIE SAUNDERS AND HER PARTNER LOUIS LITRENTA HAVE CREATED A STUNNING DESERT STAY IN JOSHUA TREE. HERE ARE NATALIE’S TIPS FOR CREATING A SUCCESSFUL AIRBNB.

It Takes A Team

My husband and I are very involved in the running of Desert Wild, from cleaning and maintenance to messaging guests, but we still need people helping us. Finding people that you trust and who do a great job is key to getting five-star reviews. Don’t hesitate to change it up if it isn’t working; it took us a few tries to find the right team.

Stay Here

Desert Wild is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom oasis in Joshua Tree, California. Complete with its own pool and hot tub, this Airbnb is a place to unwind and enjoy the slow pace of the desert. Conveniently, it’s just a short drive to the west entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, as well as downtown shops, cafes and galleries.

@desertwild_jt desertwildjoshuatree.com

I love when guests tell me our place looks even better in person than in the images, but having a professional come in and take good photographs is a must. Spend some time putting the photos in the right order, so a potential guest can get a feel for your home from inside to out.

Be Yourself

I can always feel how much love a host has put into their home. Don’t just try and copy and paste someone else’s listing. Guests will appreciate a unique experience with personal touches, and it will show in your reviews.

Craft A Warm Welcome

First impressions of a home are key. I always spray essential oils and put music on when guests arrive to invoke all their senses. We are always asked what we use to make the place smell so good and what the welcome music mix is. We leave some little gifts and a bottle of wine as well, which takes the guests’ experience to the next level. It also goes without saying that having the home immaculate is a must.

Respond Quickly And Thoughtfully

Part of staying at a holiday rental instead of a hotel is feeling like a local. Guests want good local knowledge, so make sure to be in the loop on the current best places to eat, drink or hike. Make sure you’re ready for questions, especially when your guests are checking in.