Is Booking.com Genius Programme Worth Joining in 2025?
If you’re a property owner or Airbnb host listing your short-term rental on Booking.com, you’ve probably heard about the Booking.com Genius Programme. This loyalty program offers special perks and discounts to frequent bookers, and joining it can impact how your property is marketed on the platform. But the big question is: Is it worth enrolling your Manchester Airbnb or short-let property in the Genius Programme in 2025?
In this blog post, we’ll break down what the Genius Programme involves, its pros and cons for hosts, and whether it can truly boost your bookings and revenue.
What is the Booking.com Genius Programme?
The Genius Programme is Booking.com’s loyalty scheme, designed to reward frequent bookers with perks like:
Discounts ranging from 10-15% on eligible properties
Free breakfast or other incentives
Priority customer support
To qualify, guests must have completed at least two stays booked via Booking.com in the past two years. Properties enrolled in Genius are marked with a special badge, making them more attractive to these loyal customers.
Pros of Joining the Genius Programme for Hosts
Increased Visibility: Genius properties appear higher in search results, attracting more eyeballs.
More Bookings: Discounts encourage repeat bookings from loyal travellers who often book last minute.
Competitive Edge: Your listing stands out with the Genius badge, potentially increasing trust and clicks.
Cons to Consider
Reduced Revenue per Booking: Offering a 10-15% discount cuts into your nightly income.
Discount Expectations: Guests in the Genius Programme expect perks like free breakfast or free cancellation, which may add to your operational costs.
Less Control Over Pricing: You may need to adjust your pricing strategy to remain competitive within the Genius segment.
Is the Genius Programme Worth It for Manchester Hosts?
The answer depends on your property type and target guests. If you’re located in a highly competitive area like Deansgate or Northern Quarter, joining Genius can help you stand out and fill gaps during low-demand periods. However, if your property already commands premium rates with strong direct bookings, the discounts might hurt your bottom line.
Our Advice
For most Manchester hosts, selectively joining the Genius Programme during off-peak seasons or slow booking periods can boost occupancy without permanently slashing your revenue. Partnering with an experienced local Airbnb and short-let management company (like us!) ensures your pricing and participation in Genius are optimised to maximise profit.