Flip.to on the road: Flat Ricky’s HITEC debut

HITEC 2016 wrapped up last week, and it was the perfect opportunity to have a bit of fun with our Director of Partnerships, Richard Dunbar by introducing his new-found colleague and friend, Flat Ricky. (One Ricky just wasn’t enough.)

Flat Ricky explored the conference, stopped by the booths of our many partners, and ended an eventful first day with a party hosted by Flip.to, Lanyon, NAVIS and Social Tables.

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Arriving at Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel before shuttling over to the Morial Convention Center.
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Visiting our friends and partners at the Guestcentric and Digital Alchemy booths.
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Saying hello to the folks at SHR and Spring Engage.
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Posing with our partners from NAVIS and IDeaS Revenue Solutions.
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Preparing for the Flip.to, Lanyon, NAVIS and Social Tables party to kick off.

As our night was coming to an end, one thing became apparent—we were #MissingFlatRicky—and word spread quickly!

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Turns out, our friends at Vista Cay had different plans for Flat Ricky, and an adventure in the making unfolded.

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At the end of the day, Flat Ricky got a VIP tour of the town and was swept away once again. We’re still #MissingFlatRicky—but if you have any tips on where he might be, let us know at hello@flip.to! (Don’t worry, all tips remain anonymous.)

Watch now: Impact of a story well told

We’ve shown you how to reach and inspire entirely new audiences of travelers worldwide with Flip.to. Now let’s see what happens when all that goodness comes together for Crystal Lodge, Adrift Hotel, Inn on Fifth and Turtle Bay Resort.

 

Sound interesting? Introduce your hotel to the world with Flip.to. Take a tour, or adventure on to see the impact of advocacy for more hotels below:

Stories that inspire: our favorite guest moments from May

Every guest story is an opportunity for a hotel to unveil something new. Stories reach & inspire—they’re truly memorable, sometimes magical, and a lot of times, a bit of fun.

In a way, we’ve fallen in love with guest stories, and every day see firsthand the impact they’re making for hotels. That’s why we’re sharing them with you! Check out a handful of our recent favorites below:

Hotel El Ganzo—Top May 2016

Hotel El Ganzo — Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico

“This was our second stay at El Ganzo and it did not disappoint! We visited in 2014 before the hurricane and the hotel has maintained its very hip vibe, with exceptional customer service and attention to detail. This visit was for our wedding, and our family and friends all raved about their time at El Ganzo. We cannot wait to come back!” — Cristina C.

Soak it in

Cristina is just one of Hotel El Ganzo’s current 26 photo contest finalists. Together, Cristina and her fellow guests have shared their stories to over 17 thousands friends and family, leading to 310 warms leads for the 72 room property in only 4 months.

Turtle Bay—Top May 2016

Turtle Bay Resort — Kahuku, Hawaii

“I loved the laid back atmosphere, the beautiful surroundings and the many variety of activities offered on property! Everything I could want to do in a vacation is offered at Turtle Bay!” — Ileana M.

Experience Turtle Bay

Ileana is just one guest who shared her favorite moment to Turtle Bay Resort. She reached a network of 455 friends & family.

Turtle Bay Resort has topped over 67,000 warm introductions from their guests in just the past 30 days alone—reaching travelers one degree away in the best way possible.

Adrift Hotel & Spa—Top May 2016

Adrift Hotel & Spa — Longbeach, Washington

“We have two special needs pets so this was the perfect little getaway for us. Thanks for making us all feel welcome!” — Zera M.

Show some love

Not only did Zera’s story create a richer narrative for Adrift, but when she shared it with an audience of 800, Zera captured the hearts of 29 warm leads for Adrift in just 6 days.

Pacific Terrace Hotel—Top May 2016

Pacific Terrace Hotel — San Diego, California

Ride along

This incredible moment shared by Wendy captures the perfect poolside vibes that future guests at Pacific Terrace Hotel can enjoy off the shores of San Diego.

Floridays Resort Orlando—Top May 2016

Floridays Resort Orlando — Orlando, Florida

Jump in

Ann Marie shared her story to 697 friends & family, helping Floridays Resort receive 333 unique site visits and 50 warm leads so far in their current photo contest.

Avanti Resort—Top May 2016

Avanti Resort — Orlando, Florida

“This hotel is in a fantastic location, the staff are so incredibly helpful, they always keep it clean and the pool is a great place just to chill out after exploring the sites, I TOTALLY recommend the Avanti Resort Hotel.” — Eugenie F.

Take Flight

Eugenie’s story from a recent trip to Avanti Resort gives future travelers a taste of Orlando. Plus, after being shared to 278 friends & family it earned 230 unique sive visits and 55 warm leads for the hotel. It’s a win-win.

Woodloch—Top May 2016 Copy

The Lodge at Woodloch — Hawley, Pennsylvania

“The best part of my stay with Woodloch is the staff! It’s a testament to what a great organization Woodloch is that over my 7, yes SEVEN, visits, I see mostly the same people. The staff is what makes Woodloch a great place to be. Well…along with the excellent spa services, tasty meals, great art/yoga/meditation/workout classes. I have brought many people to Woodloch and recommend to everyone I know!” — Jennifer H. W.

Take it in

After sharing her favorite moment to 834 friends & family, Jennifer quickly climbed the ranks in The Lodge at Woodloch’s current photo contest, with 103 participants and counting! Her story alone drove 218 unique visitors to Woodloch’s site, leading to 56 warm leads.

Even better, this loyal, lifetime guest shared the true hospitality she’s experienced again and again at The Lodge at Woodloch, becoming a true brand ambassador for the hotel!

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel—Top May 2016

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel — South Lake Tahoe, California

“Family friendly with comfortable clean furnishings in the flexible suites. The kids love the happy hour and breakfast in the morning.” — Joshua R.

Show some love

Joshua is just one of the 18 finalist in Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel’s current photo contest. Just two months in finalists have introduced 20,000 of their friends and family to the resort, leading to 330 warm leads. (And the clock’s still ticking!)

Casa del Mar—Top May 2016

Casa del Mar Golf Resort & Spa — Cabo Real, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

“The feeling of being the only people there, complete solitude, peaceful, quiet, paradise! Unlike any other resort I’ve ever been to!” — John M.

Tee up more stories

John shared his view from one of Casa del Mar’s championship golf courses, revealing the beauty of this “peaceful, quiet, paradise” from a guest’s unique perspective.

Metropolis Resort —Top May 2016

Metropolis Resort — Eau Claire, Wisconsin

“My daughter was so excited to go to her first water park! She could barely wait for us to get our suits on!” — Tara J.

See more candid moments

Tara shared her story to an audience of 270, half of whom became a warm lead for the hotel after visiting Metropolis Resort’s site and claiming an offer on a future stay. Tara’s friends showed genuine interest in a future stay at this Western Wisconsin family getaway—unveiling travelers that are the perfect fit for the hotel.


Check back next month for even more. See any stories that stand out? Let us know!

Adventure back to April’s stories

Stories that inspire: our favorite guest moments from April

Every guest story is an opportunity for a hotel to unveil something new. Stories reach & inspire—they’re truly memorable, sometimes magical, and a lot of times, a bit of fun.

In a way, we’ve fallen in love with guest stories, and every day see firsthand the impact they’re making for hotels. That’s why we’re sharing them with you! Check out a handful of our recent favorites below:

The Point—Top April 2016

The Point — Orlando, Florida

“We love the updated rooms and you can’t beat the location. The staff is friendly and helpful here!” — Carol K.

Jump in

Carol shared her story to 615 friends and family, earning 189 unique site visits & 73 warm leads for The Point. (So far, this story and the others helped boost the contest reach to over 20,000 new folks perfect for their hotel. With only 2 months down, they’re still growing!)

Crystal Lodge—Top April 2016

Crystal Lodge — Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

“Super friendly staff and great location. Perfect ski valet service.” — Joern J.

Catch air

Future guests get a true sense of what they can expect when they hit the slopes, and Crystal Lodge gets an awesome story to share with future guests.

Shores Resort—Top April 2016

The Shores Resort & Spa, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida

Take a beach day

Not only did Cindy share her story, but so did 4 of her closest friends, driving more than 100 visitors back to The Shores Resort’s site. We like to call this the viral effect.

The Lafayette—Top April 2016

The Lafayette, San Diego, California

“Enough room to swing a cat!!!! Front desk service was exemplary…thanks Ronan! Close enough to walk to the zoo and Balboa Park. Everything you could want…” — Belinda M.

Flashback

Belinda’s story shares how Ronan gave them a sense of hospitality and a more intimate experience. It empowered The Lafayette’s staff, and speaks volume towards the type of service future guests can expect.

Adrift Hotel—Top April 2016

Adrift Hotel & Spa — Long Beach, Washington

“Lounging in our room with a beautiful ocean view to the south, Mimosa in hand – A lovely slow down. Loving Long Beach” — Rachel S.

Tip toe along

Putting guests in the driver’s seat of their marketing drastically boosts this boutique property’s ability to capture timeless moments that reveals their rich story.

Brasada Ranch—Top April 2016

Brasada Ranch — Powell Butte, Oregon

“Our stay at Brasada was amazing! As usual the only part we didn’t love was leaving to come back home.” — Danielle J.

See more of Bend at Brasada

Danielle shared her story to over 300 friends and family, helping Brasada Ranch top over 30,000 warm introductions in just 8 months.

Caribe Royal—Top April 2016

Caribe Royale, Orlando, Florida

“I’m a US soldier and your staff truly made me feel appreciated. It was my engagement weekend and we were a large group, they made sure we were all happy with our rooms and everything was absolutely perfect. Thanks so much for an unforgettable experience.” — Eddy M.

Show some love

Guests at Caribe Royale captured this unforgettable moment and shared with friends and family—the beginning of a lifetime of memories.

Shore Hotel—Top April 2016

Shore Hotel — Santa Monica, California

“Every employee I encountered made eye contact and said ‘hello’ and it looked like they meant it!” — Christopher C.

Soak it in

When a guest calls out what an amazing experience your hotel provided, you don’t have to. (Plus, a stunning shot for Shore Hotel in Santa Monica.)

Shawnee Inn—Top April 2016

The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania

“We visit 2-3 times per year with the kids. We love the surrounding beauty, the old time charm and the nostalgia (we married on the front lawn 11 years ago and my husband spent his childhood summers here)…..our Shawnee trips give us a chance to simply be present and enjoy one another – simple, laid back” — Faith P.

Peek at more candid moments

A long tradition of visiting their favorite getaway was shared to over 700 friends and family, helping Shawnee Inn receive 182 unique visits and 60 warm leads. This, and their other spectacular guest stories has boosted Shawnee’s lifetime reach to well over 100,000. (Growing more every day.)


Check back next month for even more. See any stories that stand out? Let us know!

Adventure back to March’s stories

Watch now: Introduce your hotel to the people who matter most

Start delivering unique, personal experiences to everyone that visits your site, no matter who they are or where they’re from. You’ll reach a global audience of travelers that are a great fit for your hotel, while converting warm leads into your future guests—each and every day.

 

Sound interesting? Introduce your hotel to the world with Flip.to. Take a tour, or adventure on to see the power of a story well told below:

Stories that inspire: our favorite guest moments from March

Every guest story is an opportunity for a hotel to unveil something new. Stories reach & inspire—they’re truly memorable, sometimes magical, and a lot of times, a bit of fun.

In a way, we’ve fallen in love with guest stories, and every day see firsthand the impact they’re making for hotels. That’s why we’re sharing them with you! Check out a handful of our recent favorites below:

barefootcay-top-march

Barefoot Cay Resort — Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras

“Top notch accommodations in a perfect location with incredibly knowledgeable, caring, attentive and professional dive staff.” — Sherry W.

Dive in
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Adrift Hotel & Spa — Long Beach, Washington

“Our dog is a rescue from Iran and had never seen the ocean before. It was a hoot to let her run off-leash on the beach for the first time; to be completely honest, we weren’t sure she would ever come back! Adrift is a haven for dog lovers and a beautiful destination year-round. We loved visiting in early March, there were times when we had the whole beach to ourselves and the stormy ocean was indescribably beautiful.” — Danielle J.

Take a stroll
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The Stanley Hotel — Estes Park, Colorado

“The hotel and the area are beautiful. Our room was regal!” — Barbi B.

(And our very first drone photo!)

Take flight
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SeaVenture Beach Hotel — Pismo Beach, California

“Room was small but cozy and clean, breakfast was great, hot tub on balcony was very relaxing!” — Dan H.

Grab the wheel
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Hotel El Ganzo — Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico

“The food, service, and ambiance on the rooftop bar were superb. I’m dreaming of that ceviche!” — Connor S.

Catch some rays
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The Lodge at Woodloch — The Poconos, Hawley, Pennsylvania

“The opportunity to really relax and feel totally pampered. At 8 months pregnant, this was the perfect weekend escape!” — Kate F.

Let’s relax
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Crystal Lodge — Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

“The staff was really helpful when I was booking my room.”
— Delan W.

Hit the slopes
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Turtle Bay Resort — Oahu’s North Shore, Kahuku, Hawaii

The photo says it all. No quote needed—am I right?

Hear the waves
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Pacific Terrace Hotel — San Diego, California

“Hotel is in a perfect location. Easy walk to the beach and many restaurants, shops, etc. Staff is super friendly and helpful. 2nd time there and will be going back” — Brooke M.

Enjoy the sunset
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Avanti Resort — Orlando, Florida

“Avanti Resort have great staff, brilliant location, lovely spacious rooms and really good swimming pool hours to unwind in after a tough day out in the parks.” — Adam M.

Experience the magic
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The Platinum Hotel — Las Vegas, Nevada

“We loved being so close to the strip at a smoke-free facility. The staff was so friendly and our view was amazing!” — Kristin N.

See the view
Check back next month for even more. See any stories that stand out? Let us know!

Watch now: Inspire a global audience

Something special happens when travelers discover your hotel through real experiences shared by friends & family. Capture these memorable moments and let your guests introduce your hotel to the world. You’ll inspire an entirely new audience of future guests with Flip.to.

 

Sound interesting? Introduce your hotel to the world with Flip.to. Take a tour, or see how to introduce your hotel to the people who matter most below:

Introducing: Photo Explorer (our first video!)

The need to make videos has become more apparent as our team and company continue to grow. Video will complement how we communicate our product, culture, and vision to the world. It’s a completely new arena for us, and I’m awfully excited that we’ve just jumped in.

We closely collaborated with our account team to better understand our customers’ needs, and narrowed in on what topics were right for us to get started. Of course, producing high-quality videos fast is crucial for a small startup team. After some help from The Startup Video Course, we were up and running in a couple of days.

In the end, here is what we made:

 

Be on the lookout for a ton more in this arena, from product updates, ideas and of course a bit of fun.

Also, word around the office is that a few other employees want to try their hand at voiceovers, so expect to see a few auditions, and possibly some bloopers along the way.

Take a tourorWatch next video

Flip.to welcomes very first Director of Breakfasts

Kevin holding up the line
Kevin holding up the line

The sounds of grumbling stomachs were heard far and wide, and the torment of a bagel-less, muffin-less, and cold-brew-less morning in the office had to stop. Plus, the line at the Starbucks machine was getting a bit lengthy thanks to the 32 ounce option. (I mean, really, Kevin? Who needs 32 ounces of coffee in the morning? All those dev hours, I guess…)

The decision was clear. We needed help:

 

Director of Breakfasts
Flip.to seeks first-meal-making wizard

Qualifications:

We are looking for a creative and gifted Director of Breakfast. You will be known as “the meal-making wizard” and maintain complete control of the kitchen and breakroom.

Experience:

Making breakfast taste good

Skills:

  • Cold brew making ability
  • Can incorporate tasty, vegan alternatives
  • Must hail from New York City

Sure, these were HUGE shoes to fill, and quite honestly we weren’t too sure they could.

To our surprise, the response was overwhelming. We had lines of people outside our office giving us tastings of their best breakfast dishes for days. In fact, we’re still getting the occasional chef trickle into our office. It’s a tear-jerker turning down so many crumble-top muffins in the past few days. Regardless, we had to stay strong and move on.

After countless hours of taste testing, résumé reviewing, and deliberation, a decision had been made! We couldn’t be more ecstatic to announce our new Director of Breakfasts, Traci Kent—sister of CEO and fearless Flip.to leader, Brian Kent.

The NY Style Bagels—you should’ve tasted them. And don’t get me started on the multitude of muffins. They’re so good that Traci was once asked to come to the White House for a Presidential Breakfast. She kindly turned it down. With gumption like that, we couldn’t be more proud to have her on the team. She captures the essence of Martha Stewart with the execution skills of highly trained Swat team. In other words, she’s the best.breakfast-collage-2

UPDATE: Traci had to return to Brooklyn after the holidays. The team didn’t take the news very well, but we’re working out a plan to bake remote.

The not so chilly chili cook-off

The aprons were tied, the Crock Pots were in-line, and the heat was ablaze during Flip.to’s First-Ever Chili Cook-Off. With chilly weather (74˚) sweeping across Florida, there wasn’t a better time for a warm bowl of chili topped with ooey gooey cheese and a dollop of sour cream (unless you are Ed who despises anything with sour cream.) Plus, office bragging rights were on the line, which hold a lot of weight around here!

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For some, it was about trying the newest recipes they found online the night before or maybe stopping at Wendy’s and asking to fill their Crock Pot. For the seasoned veterans, it was about cooking recipes passed down from generations and toiling over perfection for hours, days, or even weeks! Contestants were starry-eyed and hopeful, however, they were unaware of the domination that was about to pursue.

Everyone was given a ballot to cast their votes for Team Favorite, Best Texture, Best Color, Best Consistency, Best Spice, Best Flavor, and Best Aroma. After the votes were counted, the winners are (drum-roll):

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Overall, the hard work paid off (mainly for Rosana) and the team got to eat some pretty darn good chili. I mean, look at those happy Flip.to-ers!

chili-cookoff-teamAfter the tastings were done, votes tallied and the TUMS taken, all-in-all things didn’t get too fiery. The bar was set high thanks to the winners’ Martha Stewart like chili-cooking skills. Truly, everyone was a winner–even the slackers who didn’t participate, which I can say because I was one of them. Until next time!