Vacation in a hotel - or: How I learned not to annoy the other guests
Sleep in, munch your way through buffets, lie by the pool and forget the stress of everyday life. Sounds heavenly, doesn't it? Well, mostly. Because I've noticed this on my travels: With a little consideration, the vacation won't just be nice for me - but also for the other guests (and the staff, who bravely put up with our little quirks). Here are my personal tips on how to avoid embarrassing moments and enjoy a relaxed hotel stay!
Whether at reception, at breakfast or when housekeeping accidentally bursts into my room (oops): A smile and a friendly word work wonders. I've gotten into the habit of always being nice - no matter how urgently I need a coffee. It goes down better than storming the breakfast buffet with a frown on my face. And lo and behold: friendliness is almost always returned. Win-win!
I admit it: the first morning in the hotel, hungry as a bear - and I sneak into the room five minutes before breakfast starts. The waiter looks at me, grins and says: "Five more minutes - we're just finishing the buffet." Since then, I've been practising patience. When the buffet is ready, it doesn't just look nicer - I also don't have to fumble cheese off the plastic wrap.
I actually experienced it the other day: a guest unpacked his Tupperware and filled it at the buffet for the next day trip. I was speechless for a moment. People, the buffet is not a supermarket! If you need something for the road, just ask. There's often fruit or a snack to go - without any smuggling action.
Let's be honest: we don't change all our towels every day at home either, do we? I now always hang mine up properly when I want to use them again. Saves water, protects the environment and I don't have to worry about the chambermaid thinking I'm living in a mess. Extra tip: Wet towels belong on the towel rail - not on the bed. (Believe me, I've tried it. Not a good idea).
We've all been there: at eight in the morning, the pool is empty - but every lounger is already covered in towels. I used to be like that myself (embarrassing, I know). These days, I only put my towel down when I'm actually staying there. Saves trouble and looks from other guests who are armed with sunglasses AND rolling their eyes.
Whether it's the baggage handlers, cleaning staff or bartenders - a few extra euros usually puts a real smile on their faces. I've gotten into the habit of leaving a small thank you note on the bedside table for housekeeping at the end of my stay. The pleasure is guaranteed!
Sure, you could vent your displeasure about a pillow that's too hard online. But that doesn't help. I've learned: Just talk to them on site! They usually help immediately. And when I write a review, it's honest, friendly and helpful - just as I would want it myself.
Whether it's a room with a mountain view, far away from the elevator or with extra pillows - you should express your wishes early on. I've also learned that if you book directly with the hotel, you often have a better chance of getting your dream room. And of course: if you pay more, you usually get a better view.
Those who are relaxed on vacation, remain considerate and take the odd bit of etiquette to heart get more out of it - and so do all the other guests. After all, we all want just one thing: sun, good food, a comfortable bed and a good time.
AUTHOR ANONYM