Finding a good hotel can be difficult, especially at short notice. While each hotel offers a unique experience for travelers, the best hotels share certain characteristics that enhance the comfort and enjoyment of their guests. Whether planning a long-awaited holiday or seeking a last minute accommodation for business needs, certain elements must be present in order to enjoy the best hotel stay possible.
Service
Throughout the hospitality industry, quality of service is the primary characteristic that sets the great hotels apart. From first contact to last, hotel staff should be courteous, responsive and helpful. Rooms should be meticulously clean, and any complaints or requests should be handled promptly and to the guest’s satisfaction. Necessities like shampoo, fresh towels, and comfortable beds are all part of the hotel’s overall service to its customers. Most importantly,
the hotel should offer a restful experience for its guests. Many hotels offer soundproofed rooms to ensure that all guests enjoy peace and quiet during their stay.
Location
Finding a hotel located within convenient distance of popular attractions can make any holiday more enjoyable. For business travelers, close proximity to clients and meetings can save on car hire and cab fares. Generally, better hotels are located in more desirable locales; this can be a quick and easy guideline to finding a suitable hotel when more detailed information is not available.
Travelers should be aware, however, that convenient location usually comes at a premium price, especially in areas with high demand for accommodations.
Value
The hotel with the lowest initial rate may not be the best value. Many better hotels include extras and amenities in their basic rate including a free breakfast; some now offer free wireless internet service. Travelers should ascertain precisely what is included in their room rate and what services incur an additional charge. This is especially important for business travelers; internet and phone charges can add significantly to the cost of the stay. For hotels offering a free breakfast,
it’s usually a good idea to find out exactly what the breakfast comprises; there is a significant difference between an elaborate breakfast buffet and a couple of lonely pastries on a tray.
Reputation
While firsthand experience is always the best guideline, reviews and ratings are useful in choosing a hotel for business or holidaymaking. Online reviews often give information on cleanliness, likely rates, and the quality of staff. Better hotels usually have an active web presence; this can give a general idea of amenities and extras. Friends, family members, and colleagues can also be a valuable source of information on hotels, especially if they live or work in the area. When in doubt,
it’s wise to remember that if you’ve never heard of the hotel in question, there may be a reason for their anonymity.
Space
The size of the accommodations can make a significant difference in the comfort level provided to guests; a suite can afford needed privacy and room to work and sleep comfortably. Information on room size should be available at the time reservations are made. Some of the last minute hotels offers may feature smaller rooms than in other areas; this is a factor of higher property costs and more demand for accommodations in this popular destination.
Conclusion
When traveling, finding the perfect hotel can be a daunting task. However, by following these simple guidelines, you are sure to find the perfect hotel for your needs. The first step is to figure out what type of traveler you are. Are you looking for a luxurious resort or something more affordable? Once you know what you’re looking for, start by checking online review sites to get an idea of what other people have said about the hotels in your area.
Next, consider your budget and make a list of hotels that fit within your price range. Once you have a few options, take a look at the amenities each hotel offers and decide which ones are important to you. If you’re looking for a fitness center or pool, for example, be sure to factor that into your decision.
Finally, don’t forget to read the reviews thoroughly before making your final decision.
