When you pull up to a hotel and see a “No Vacancy” sign, don’t be too quick to believe it. Hotels often display this sign when they have only a few rooms left. Instead, try calling the front desk to check for availability. Hotel star ratings can be misleading as they vary between countries. For instance, in Italy, a hotel can earn five stars simply by having a 24-hour reception, multilingual staff, and rooms of a certain size. Instead of relying on stars, look at guest ratings and reviews for a more accurate picture.
If your travel plans are flexible, booking a room on the day of your stay can lead to discounts. Hotels often reduce rates at the last minute to fill empty rooms. Additionally, booking directly with the hotel is usually better than using third-party websites, as hotels may offer reduced rates and better rooms to direct customers. This is because third-party sites charge hotels a fee, which can affect room allocation.
When you check in, hotel staff might already know a bit about you from social media research. While this might seem intrusive, it’s intended to enhance your stay. You’ll receive an initial key that resets the door lock, canceling any previous keys. Be courteous to the receptionists, as being rude might lead to practical jokes like “key bombing,” where two initial keys are given, causing one to deactivate the other.
Once in your room, check for tiny cameras that could be slipped under the door. If you can fit a finger under the door, a camera can fit too, so consider covering the gap with a towel. If you’re unhappy with your room, request a change; managers are usually willing to help if other rooms are available. Feel free to take the complimentary toiletries, as they serve as free advertising for the hotel. However, be cautious with robes and towels, as many hotels track them with radio frequency chips.
Toothpaste is often absent in hotel bathrooms due to cost or branding issues. You might notice a phone next to the toilet, which is a requirement for a four-diamond rating and serves as a safety feature. While hotel rooms are cleaned regularly, smaller items like remote controls and phones might not be disinfected as often, so bring wipes to clean them. Be wary of using the safe for valuables, as hotel staff might know the master code.
Housekeeping might not always vacuum or clean glasses thoroughly, so be cautious. Being friendly to the staff can lead to upgrades and perks, as a smile and a tip go a long way. If you’re leaving early and will miss breakfast, ask the staff to prepare a takeout box the night before. Most hotels have carpeted floors for safety, soundproofing, and cost-effectiveness.
If you need to cancel last minute, try rescheduling to a later date first, as this might help avoid cancellation fees. Hotels often overbook due to no-show rates, so if your room isn’t available, they might “walk” you to another hotel at their expense. Most hotels prefer credit card payments to ensure they receive payment for any additional services used during your stay.
Finally, be mindful of items left behind in hotel rooms. You never know what might be discovered, like the surprising case of a shark found in a hotel room in Portugal. With these tips, you’re ready to make the most of your next hotel stay!
Engage in a role-playing exercise where you take turns acting as hotel guests and front desk staff. Practice negotiating for room upgrades, handling overbookings, and addressing guest complaints. This will help you understand the dynamics of hotel operations and improve your communication skills.
Conduct a research project comparing hotel star rating systems across different countries. Present your findings on how these ratings can be misleading and suggest alternative ways to evaluate hotel quality, such as guest reviews and personal experiences.
Analyze case studies of different booking strategies, including last-minute bookings and direct hotel bookings versus third-party websites. Discuss the pros and cons of each approach and develop a guide on how to secure the best deals for hotel stays.
Participate in a workshop focused on hotel room safety and privacy. Learn how to identify potential security risks, such as hidden cameras, and discuss strategies to ensure a safe and comfortable stay. Share tips on what to do if you feel unsafe in a hotel room.
Join an interactive discussion on the importance of housekeeping and guest relations in the hospitality industry. Explore how guest interactions with staff can impact their stay and discuss ways to foster positive relationships with hotel employees for a better experience.
Hotel – A commercial establishment providing lodging, meals, and other guest services. – The development of hotels in urban areas can significantly impact local economies and tourism dynamics.
Booking – The act of reserving accommodations, tickets, etc., in advance. – Online booking systems have revolutionized how travelers plan their trips, offering greater convenience and flexibility.
Safety – The condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause danger, risk, or injury. – Ensuring the safety of guests is a primary concern for hotel management, especially in regions prone to natural disasters.
Cleanliness – The state of being clean and free from dirt, germs, and impurities. – Cleanliness in hospitality settings is crucial for maintaining health standards and customer satisfaction.
Housekeeping – The management of household affairs, especially in a hotel or other lodging establishment. – Effective housekeeping practices are essential for maintaining the operational efficiency and reputation of a hotel.
Amenities – Desirable or useful features or facilities of a building or place. – The availability of modern amenities can greatly influence a guest’s choice of accommodation.
Cancellations – The action of canceling something that has been arranged or planned. – Flexible cancellation policies can enhance customer trust and encourage bookings during uncertain times.
Reviews – Evaluations or assessments of something, typically in the form of written feedback. – Online reviews have become a powerful tool for consumers to share their experiences and influence the reputation of hotels.
Discounts – Reductions in the usual price of something. – Offering discounts during off-peak seasons can help hotels maintain occupancy rates and attract budget-conscious travelers.
Experiences – Practical contact with and observation of facts or events. – Travelers often seek unique experiences that allow them to engage with local cultures and traditions.
