Not to open the door naked: 7 commandments of good behavior in hotels
Every hotel guest should be quiet and respectful of their neighbors, avoiding excessive noise. Additionally, polite treatment of hotel staff is crucial. Guests should remember to use words like "please" and "thank you" and remain patient in case of possible misunderstandings.
However, even high-class hotels occasionally encounter customers who exhibit rude behavior and lack civilized manners. Learning how to maintain tact, especially in interactions with others while traveling, is discussed in an article by Travel and Leisure.
Rude Guest
Staying at a hotel is not just a vacation but also an opportunity to demonstrate respect and good manners. Remember that the hospitality industry demands a lot from its staff, especially during evenings and weekends. Show courtesy and respect to every employee, from the waiter to the manager. Your words and actions are significant - utilize basic manners such as "please" and "thank you." Avoid aggressive gestures and sounds, such as clapping your hands or waving your arms.
Also, show consideration for other guests by refraining from occupying pool areas that you are not using and by supervising children in areas designated for adults only. In case of delays during check-in or check-out, exercise patience and yield to others to ensure a harmonious experience for everyone.
The Impatient Guest
The key to effective communication with concierge or front desk staff is simple: be patient. While you may have urgent needs, remember that haste isn't always the solution. Concierges do not possess a magic wand, and your polite communication with the staff encourages them to assist you. Remember, politeness is crucial for mutual understanding and the successful resolution of any issues.
Forgetting Tips
When traveling in a country where tipping is customary, ensure you have cash on hand before arriving at the hotel. Setting aside a small amount for a tip expresses gratitude for excellent service. Remember, the tip amount may increase depending on the length of your stay, so be mindful of this aspect.
However, leaving a one-time tip at the end of your stay is also perfectly acceptable and is seen as a token of appreciation.
The Dirty Guest
Before departing, engage in some light cleaning, neatly leaving dirty towels in the bathroom instead of on the carpet to prevent wet spots. If you've ordered room service, refrain from taking it outside the room into the hallway unless the hotel provides specific instructions. Not only is it untidy and potentially odorous for other guests, but it also presents a tripping hazard. Instead, simply call room service and inform them you're ready to return the tray.
The Unclothed Guest
Exercise discretion and respect for others when choosing where to wear a bathrobe or bathing suit. The hotel lobby is not an appropriate place for such attire. Walking around public areas, like the lobby of a prestigious hotel or restaurant, naked is considered a serious offense.
If you plan to visit the on-site pool or spa, plan ahead and bring a robe or light button-down shirt to comfortably cover up before entering public areas.
The Noisy Guest
One type of guest that can inadvertently inconvenience the hotel is someone who disregards noise levels in rooms, common areas, or balconies. If you find yourself habitually using loud devices without headphones in public spaces, reconsider your behavior.
Guest with Sticky Hands
To avoid being labeled as an unruly hotel guest, adhere to a simple rule: do not take what does not belong to you. It's not uncommon to hear reports of stolen items such as bathrobes, decor, or even salt and pepper shakers from restaurants.
Remember, you wouldn't take anything from your friends' or family's house without permission, so show the same respect when staying at a hotel.