One of my favourite marketing tips for attracting more guests to stay at your B&B, is to have a regularly updated, well optimised blog on your bed and breakfast website.

Even in the days of social media and podcasts, this blog you’re reading now generates over 1500 visits ( and increasing ) to my website a month.

And I really believe that my own B&B blog was responsible for my success in attracting guests, and encouraging guests to come back, without having to rely the OTAs to get bookings.

You can read why I think it's important to have a blog on your website here >> top 6 reasons to write a blog for your bed and breakfast 

What to blog about to attract guests to your B&B

Coming up with ideas for your blog can be the hardest part of writing one.

And, if you’re out of practice with writing, then actually writing the blog post itself can be pretty daunting.

And this is where AI ( aka Artificial Intelligence ) can come to your rescue.

Note that I may use ChatGPT and AI interchangeably in this blog post. 

AI is the broad term that encompasses a wide range of technologies to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, whilst ChatGPT is a specific example of AI technology that uses deep learning techniques to generate natural language responses to text-based inputs.

A simpler way to explain this is that it's bit like saying that you're going to hoover the floor. You're actually going to vacuum the floor with your Hoover ( other vacuum cleaner brands are available! 😀). In this example, AI is the vacuum and ChatGPT the hoover.

In this blog post, I’m going to walk you through an example of how to use  ChatGPT to come up with a list of 12 blog post titles for the year. And then we’ll dig a bit deeper into how to use it to write the whole blog post for you.

How to make your B&B marketing easier with ChatGPT

ChatGPT can help you create marketing content for your bed and breakfast by generating ideas for blog posts, social media captions, and even website copy. You provide information about your B&B, like the rooms, breakfast, history, location, and any unique features, and ChatGPT can suggest different topics to focus on in your marketing content.

Additionally, ChatGPT can help you craft headlines and descriptions to attract potential guests.

How to use ChatGPT

There are many different software options for trying out AI these days and ChatGPT is one of the most popular ones, but there are other software programmes such as Notion and Canva that incorporate it too.

Note that if you use Canva free you have 25 lifetime magic write uses, but Pro users have up to 250 Magic write uses per month.

Why can’t I just Google for ideas?

When you Google a topic, the search results are based on keywords and phrases and will be a list of other links of other people’s content, blog posts etc.

You can, of course, Google your topic and look through all of the results and blog posts. But this is going to take much more time and you need to be careful of not plagiarizing someone else's blog post!

With ChatGPT, it generates idea based on its understanding of the natural language and generates a list of relevant and creative ideas that are tailored to your own specific needs.

Don’t just Copy and Paste

This sort of AI is still pretty new and is evolving all of the time, so it doesn’t get it right all the time.

And apparently Google and other platforms recognises copy that has been generated by AI and will rank it a bit lower.

So you do need to check what ChatGPT has written, and that it has got it’s facts right. And then edit it to feel a bit more like something that you’d actually write and add your own personal touch.

How to write prompts

It can take a bit of practice writing prompts that produce the results you’re looking for with AI. The more information you put in the better your results will be and the more relevant

And the advice is to refine, refine, refine.

If you don’t get exactly what you’re looking for the first time round, refine your prompts some more until you do.

How else can you use ChatGPT to help you write your blog posts?

To improve your website SEO and drive more customers to your B&B website, there are a few elements that every blog post needs, including relevant keywords, headings and subheadings, internal and external links, meta title and descriptions.

ChatGPT ( or whichever AI programme you’re using ) can suggest ideas for all of these.

Here’s a real example of using AI to come up with ideas for a B&B blog post.

I used Canva’s Magic Write for some of this blog post, as ChatGPT was very slow yesterday afternoon because of the number of users. And then I hopped over to ChatGPT again this morning to finish it off.

If you’re in the UK, maybe consider using it in the morning whilst the US is still asleep!

I started off by asking Magic Write the following:

“suggest 10 blog post titles to promote my bed and breakfast in shropshire”

and this is what it came up with:

1. "Discover the Hidden Gems of Shropshire: A Guide to Our Bed and Breakfast"
2. "Escape to Shropshire: A Relaxing Stay at Our Bed and Breakfast"
3. "Experience the Charm of Shropshire: A Weekend Getaway at Our Bed and Breakfast"
4. "Unwind in the Countryside: Your Ultimate Shropshire Bed and Breakfast Experience"
5. "Indulge in Luxury: A Stay at Our Bed and Breakfast in Shropshire"
6. "The Ultimate Retreat: Why Our Shropshire Bed and Breakfast Should be Your Next Destination"
7. "Step Back in Time: Experience the History of Shropshire at Our Bed and Breakfast"
8. "Foodie Heaven: Enjoy Local Cuisine at Our Shropshire Bed and Breakfast"
9. "Relax, Recharge and Reconnect: Why Our Shropshire Bed and Breakfast is Perfect for Couples"
10. "Explore the Beauty of Shropshire: A Stay at Our Bed and Breakfast"

I felt like this read more like a list of advertising taglines than blog post titles. so I then decided to refine my prompt a bit to:

“suggest 12 blog posts about what to do in Shropshire throughout the year”

I got a much more usable list of blog titles.

1. "Exploring the History and Beauty of Shropshire's Castles"
2. "Hiking in Shropshire: 5 Scenic Trails to Explore"
3. "A Foodie's Guide to Shropshire: Must-Try Local Dishes and Restaurants"
4. "Discovering Shropshire's Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions"
5. "Festivals and Events in Shropshire: What to Look Forward to Throughout the Year"
6. "Perfect Day Trips from Shropshire: Exploring Surrounding Towns and Villages"
   "Family-Friendly Activities in Shropshire: Fun for All Ages"
7. "Outdoor Adventures in Shropshire: From Canoeing to Zip-Lining"
8. "Exploring the Arts and Culture Scene in Shropshire: Museums, Galleries, and Theaters"
9. "Relaxation and Pampering in Shropshire: Spa Days and Wellness Retreats"
   "A Guide to Shopping in Shropshire: Unique Boutiques and Markets"
10. "Christmas in Shropshire: Festive Markets, Lights, and Events to Get You in the Holiday Spirit"

I then took the first suggestion and asked Magic Write to:

Write a blog post outline about “exploring the history and beauty of Shropshire’s Castles”

Again the results felt more like a history essay than a blog post.

Introduction
Explanation of the topic
Importance of exploring Shropshire's castles
History of Shropshire's Castles
Overview of the medieval period in Shropshire
The role of castles in Shropshire's history
Notable historical events related to Shropshire's castles
Beauty of Shropshire's Castles
Description of the castles' architecture and design
Overview of the castles' surroundings and landscapes
Highlighting unique features of each castle
Castles to Visit in Shropshire
Ludlow Castle
Shrewsbury Castle
Stokesay Castle
Whittington Castle
Other notable castles in Shropshire
Conclusion
Recap of the importance of exploring Shropshire's castles
Encouragement for readers to visit and experience Shropshire's castles themselves.

At this point I hopped over to ChatGPT, as it had speeded up again and asked:

“Write a blog post about 5 castles to visit when you’re staying in South Shropshire”

South Shropshire is a beautiful area in England, filled with picturesque countryside, charming towns, and historical landmarks. One of the most notable landmarks in the area is the castles, which were once fortifications that played a crucial role in the region's history. Here are five castles to visit when you're staying in South Shropshire:

1. Ludlow Castle - This castle is located in the charming town of Ludlow, which is a must-visit destination in South Shropshire. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was built by the Norman conquerors. It has played a significant role in the history of the area and has hosted many important events over the years. Today, visitors can explore the castle ruins, visit the museum, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Stokesay Castle - This is a fortified manor house that was built in the 13th century. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval fortified manor house in England. The castle is located in the small village of Stokesay, which is known for its picturesque charm. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its history and significance.

3. Clun Castle - This castle is located in the town of Clun, which is situated on the border of Shropshire and Wales. It was built in the 12th century and played a crucial role in the conflicts between England and Wales. The castle is now a ruin, but it still attracts visitors who come to admire its imposing remains and learn about its history.

4. Bridgnorth Castle - This castle was built in the 12th century and is located in the market town of Bridgnorth. The castle played a significant role in the English Civil War and was heavily damaged during the conflict. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy stunning views of the River Severn.

5. Shrewsbury Castle - This castle is located in the county town of Shrewsbury and dates back to the 11th century. It has played a significant role in the history of the area and was used as a prison until the 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds, visit the museum, and learn about its history and significance.

In summary, South Shropshire is home to many impressive castles that offer a glimpse into the area's rich history and heritage. From Ludlow Castle to Shrewsbury Castle, there is no shortage of castles to visit when you're staying in the area. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an enjoyable day out, South Shropshire's castles are definitely worth a visit.

This much more what I was looking for. However we live just over a mile from Hopton Castle, and I wanted to include that, so I changed my prompt

"Write a blog post about 5 castles to visit when you're staying in south shropshire including Hopton Castle"

Sure, here's a blog post about 5 castles to visit when you're staying in South Shropshire, including Hopton Castle:

South Shropshire is a beautiful area in England, filled with picturesque countryside, charming towns, and historical landmarks. One of the most notable landmarks in the area is the castles, which were once fortifications that played a crucial role in the region's history. Here are five castles to visit when you're staying in South Shropshire, including Hopton Castle:

1. Ludlow Castle - This castle is located in the charming town of Ludlow, which is a must-visit destination in South Shropshire. The castle dates back to the 11th century and was built by the Norman conquerors. It has played a significant role in the history of the area and has hosted many important events over the years. Today, visitors can explore the castle ruins, visit the museum, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Stokesay Castle - This is a fortified manor house that was built in the 13th century. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of a medieval fortified manor house in England. The castle is located in the small village of Stokesay, which is known for its picturesque charm. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its history and significance.

3. Hopton Castle - This castle is located in the village of Hopton Castle, which is situated in the rolling hills of South Shropshire. It was built in the 12th century and played a significant role in the English Civil War. The castle is now a ruin, but it still attracts visitors who come to admire its imposing remains and learn about its history.

4. Clun Castle - This castle is located in the town of Clun, which is situated on the border of Shropshire and Wales. It was built in the 12th century and played a crucial role in the conflicts between England and Wales. The castle is now a ruin, but it still attracts visitors who come to admire its imposing remains and learn about its history.

5. Shrewsbury Castle - This castle is located in the county town of Shrewsbury and dates back to the 11th century. It has played a significant role in the history of the area and was used as a prison until the 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds, visit the museum, and learn about its history and significance.

In summary, South Shropshire is home to many impressive castles that offer a glimpse into the area's rich history and heritage. From Ludlow Castle to Hopton Castle, there is no shortage of castles to visit when you're staying in the area. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an enjoyable day out, South Shropshire's castles are definitely worth a visit.

This is better, but still a bit short for blog post.

It would, however make a great Instagram or Facebook Caption, accompanying photos of each castle, or even the caption to a reel. It is also short enough for a newsletter.

So I went back to Magic Write and asked it to “write a blog post about Hopton Castle in South Shropshire”

Hopton Castle is a historic ruin located in South Shropshire, England. The castle was built in the 14th century and was an important stronghold during the English Civil War. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and a fascinating glimpse into England's rich history.
The castle played a significant role during the Civil War, serving as a Royalist stronghold. In 1644, the castle was besieged by Parliamentarian forces, and after a fierce battle, the castle finally fell. The castle was then partially dismantled to prevent it from being used again as a military stronghold.
Despite the damage, the castle remains an impressive sight. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle walls and towers, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is also home to a number of interesting features, including a drawbridge, a well, and a number of secret tunnels.
The castle is open to visitors throughout the year, and guided tours are available. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique day out, Hopton Castle is well worth a visit. With its rich history, stunning views, and fascinating features, it's sure to be a highlight of any trip to South Shropshire.

That’s much better. Though remember the bit about sense checking?
There are no guided tours of the castle, so that would need to be taken out!
And I would rewrite it a bit in my own voice.

In Summary

• AI / ChatGPT can be a really powerful tool to help you quickly come up with ideas and write content for your blog posts
• Make sure you aren't copying word for word, but sense checking and writing it in your own "tone of voice"