Overview
An iCal link is a calendar file that lets you sync availability between Amenitiz and platforms that don't support an XML channel-manager connection. It's a basic, one-way sync of availability only — pricing, check-in/check-out restrictions, and minimum/maximum stay rules don't transfer through iCal.
For the full comparison between iCal and XML, see How to distinguish an XML connection from an iCal connection.
Before you start
Check whether your OTA supports an XML connection first — XML is faster, syncs more data, and imports bookings automatically. See the list of OTAs we connect via XML.
iCal updates run on a schedule (typically every few hours), not in real time.
Bookings made on the iCal-connected platform won't appear automatically in your Amenitiz calendar — you'll need to add them manually.
Each room or accommodation type has its own iCal link. You'll need to share separate links per room for the sync to work correctly.
Step-by-step instructions
Log in to your Amenitiz account and go to
Channel Manager→iCals. You'll see a list of your properties and rooms set up for iCal.Find the room or accommodation you want to sync and click
Copynext to its iCal link.Open the other platform and paste the iCal link in its section for importing external calendars.
Repeat for each room — each one needs its own iCal link.
⚠️ Warning
iCal doesn't sync bookings. When a reservation comes in through the iCal-connected platform, you must manually add it to your Amenitiz calendar. Otherwise you'll end up with overbookings.
Troubleshooting
Availability keeps resetting to zero in Amenitiz. An external iCal feed may be overwriting your availability with bad data. To fix:
Remove the external iCal link in Amenitiz (
Channel Manager→ External Calendar Settings).Manually correct the availability and inventory in Amenitiz.
Check that the availability on the external platform is also accurate.
Re-add the external iCal link once both platforms show matching data.
FAQs
How often does iCal sync?
How often does iCal sync?
Every few hours. iCal isn't real-time — for instant sync, use an XML connection if your OTA supports it.
Why doesn't pricing or my minimum-stay rule sync through iCal?
Why doesn't pricing or my minimum-stay rule sync through iCal?
iCal only carries availability. Pricing, check-in/check-out restrictions, and minimum/maximum stay rules need to be set on each platform separately. If you need the full set of fields to sync, you need an XML connection.
Can I use a single iCal link for my whole property?
Can I use a single iCal link for my whole property?
No. Each room or accommodation type has its own iCal link. Share each one separately with the other platform so it can map them correctly.
What happens if I remove an iCal link?
What happens if I remove an iCal link?
Amenitiz can still sync with major OTAs (Booking.com, etc.) through other tools like bulk updates, but the iCal-connected platform will stop receiving availability changes from Amenitiz. Reconcile both calendars manually right after removing the link.
Can I switch from iCal to XML later?
Can I switch from iCal to XML later?
Yes. If your OTA later supports an XML connection with Amenitiz, contact [email protected] to migrate. Once XML is live, remove the iCal link so the two methods don't run in parallel.