The review system was meant to ensure quality – but has it gone too far? Small inn owners are increasingly frustrated by ratings that punish them for weather, wildlife, and other uncontrollable factors.
Consider Mark’s experience running a countryside B&B in the Lake District. He received a scathing review because “sheep in the neighboring field were too loud at dawn.” Nevermind that his property is advertised as a “rustic farmstay experience.” The review cost him nearly 20% in bookings that month.
Industry experts suggest reframing these “flaws” as features. Mark now highlights his “alarm clock of cheerful bleating sheep” in listings. Surprisingly, it’s become a selling point for city-dwellers seeking authentic rural charm. The lesson? What some see as a bug, others see as a feature – if you present it right.
