Additional Coverage:
- 15 Things You Must Do Every Time You Walk Into a Hotel (financebuzz.com)
Checking In: Your Hotel Room Safety and Comfort Checklist
Arriving at your hotel after a long journey should be a welcome respite. But before you unpack and relax, taking a few key steps can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re at a budget-friendly motel or a luxurious resort, these tips will help you maximize your experience.
At the Front Desk:
- Check-in Etiquette: Be courteous to the staff, confirm your reservation details, and tip appropriately. A little kindness can go a long way!
- Room Requests and Upgrades: Consider requesting a room on a middle floor for optimal safety and accessibility. Politely inquire about upgrade availability – the worst they can say is no.
Inside Your Room:
- Linens and Cleanliness: Thoroughly inspect bed linens for cleanliness and signs of bed bugs. If anything seems amiss, request fresh linens or a different room.
Expand your cleanliness check to include floors, surfaces, and amenities like towels and robes. Don’t unpack until you’re satisfied with the room’s condition.
- Damage Check: Carefully examine the room for any pre-existing damage and report it to the front desk immediately to avoid potential charges.
- Safety First: Test all locks on doors and windows.
If any are compromised, request a room change.
- Climate Control: Locate and test the thermostat to ensure it functions correctly.
Communicate any temperature preferences to the staff.
- Hidden Cameras: While rare, it’s wise to scan the room for anything unusual that could be a hidden camera, particularly in smoke detectors or other devices.
- Bathroom Check: Test the faucets for water pressure, temperature, and cleanliness. Report any issues promptly.
- Phone Functionality: Ensure the hotel phone works correctly for contacting the front desk or emergency services.
- Wi-Fi Connection: Obtain the Wi-Fi password and test the connection.
For international travelers, consider downloading communication apps like WhatsApp.
- Familiarize Yourself: Take a moment to explore the room’s layout, locate light switches, and identify the nearest vending and ice machines.
- Emergency Preparedness: Study the evacuation plan located on the back of the room door, and familiarize yourself with the escape routes and fire extinguisher locations.
- Sanitize: Wipe down high-touch surfaces like remotes, light switches, and doorknobs with disinfectant wipes.
- Secure Valuables: If available, utilize the in-room safe for storing valuables like cash and passports. Set a unique code and test its functionality.
Before You Book:
- Online Research: Check online reviews on sites like Tripadvisor to gain insights from previous guests.
By following these simple precautions, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and worry-free hotel stay, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip.
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- 15 Things You Must Do Every Time You Walk Into a Hotel (financebuzz.com)