WHAT? A Mystery Game That Lives Inside Your Airbnb?? - with Rachel DeSantis

Want to turn your vacation rental into an unforgettable adventure that guests can’t stop talking about? In this episode of the SmartStay Show, we sit down with Rachel DeSantis — the mastermind behind QR Clue, a groundbreaking in-home escape game that transforms ordinary short-term rentals into immersive, puzzle-filled experiences!

Imagine your guests stepping into a thrilling story where they solve clever puzzles, uncover hidden clues, and win prizes — all through simple, strategically placed QR codes. Rachel shares how this innovative concept not only makes stays wildly fun but also skyrockets your five-star reviews and booking rates.

With quick three-minute setups and fully customizable storylines, QR Clue offers a fresh, tech-savvy way to stand out in a crowded rental market and create lasting memories for your guests. If you’re a host looking to boost your rental’s appeal and provide an experience guests rave about, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

Press play and discover how storytelling and technology can literally change the game for your short-term rental business!

Things we discussed in this episode:

• Transforms vacation rentals into escape room-style adventures.
• Guests scan hidden QR codes to solve puzzles and follow a storyline.
• Takes 2–3 hours to complete; guests can pause and resume anytime.
• Setup takes just 3 minutes with a ready-to-go kit for cleaners.
• Hosts can promote it in listings to attract more bookings.
• Collects guest names and emails at game start.
• Leads to more five-star reviews and detailed feedback.
• Seasonal themes like Halloween and Christmas coming soon.
• Featured at VR Nation in April with a live demo.
• Designed to create unforgettable stays with minimal effort for hosts.

Get in touch with Rachel:

• Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / ⁠  
• Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / ⁠  
• Website - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.qrclue.com/⁠

➢ Subscribe:    / @smartstayshow  

• 0:00:00 Introducing QR Clue: A Unique Rental Experience
• 0:02:16 What Exactly is QR Clue?
• 0:04:06 Creating Memorable Guest Experiences
• 0:05:43 Escape Room Memories and Comparisons
• 0:07:38 How Guests Discover and Start the QR Clue Adventure
• 0:09:27 Game Complexity and Duration
• 0:11:19 Guest Interaction Patterns with the Game
• 0:12:43 Setup and Reset Process for Hosts
• 0:14:12 Game Components and Replacement Strategy
• 0:15:22 Guest Reviews and Feedback
• 0:17:38 Marketing the Experience in Rental Listings
• 0:21:25 Impact on Bookings and Guest Interest
• 0:23:43 Conference Plans and Future Expansion
• 0:26:15 Origin Story: How QR Clue Was Developed