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How to connect with an OTA through iCal

Updated this week

What is an iCal link?

An iCal link is a calendar file that allows you to sync availability between Amenitiz and other platforms that don’t support XML connections but still need basic synchronisation of your availability. If you want to learn more about the difference between an Ical connection and an XML one, check this article. Note that iCal links only sync availability. They do not transmit pricing, check-in/check-out restrictions, or minimum/maximum stay rules. These details need to be manually updated on each platform.

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Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Go to the Channel Manager section Log in to your Amenitiz account and navigate to the Channel Manager section from the left-hand menu.

  2. Go to the iCals section Once in the Channel Manager, go to the iCals section. Here you’ll see a list of all your properties and rooms that are set up for iCal connections.

  3. Find and Copy the iCal Link Locate your property or room/unit. Each room/accommodation type will have its own unique iCal link. Separate iCal links must be used for each room type to ensure proper synchronization. Next to the property or room you want to sync, click on copy.

  4. Paste the iCal Link into the Other Platform Now that you have the iCal link, go to the platform you want to sync and paste it in the appropriate section for importing external calendars.

Keep your calendar in sync iCal connections do not sync in real-time. Updates typically happen every few hours. For faster updates, consider using an XML connection if we support it. Check this article with the list of OTAs we can connect via XML.

Manual Entry for Bookings If a booking is made through a platform connected via iCal, you will need to manually update your Amenitiz account. This is because iCal only synchronises availability and not bookings.

Key Functional Limitations of iCal Links While iCal links are useful for syncing availability, they do not:

  • Synchronize prices.

  • Reflect check-in/check-out restrictions.

  • Include minimum or maximum stay requirements. These parameters must be manually updated on the respective platforms to ensure complete alignment.

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