**Maximizing Your Luxury Hotel Stay: 12 Expert Tips**
Staying at a luxury hotel is a rare and unforgettable experience that most people only get to enjoy on occasion. When you splurge on fancy accommodations, you want to make the most out of your stay. To help you have a truly memorable experience, we’ve gathered tips from industry experts and seasoned travelers. From complimentary services and niche amenities to booking and check-in hacks, here are 12 tips to take full advantage of your luxury hotel stay.
**1. Let Them Know You’re Celebrating Something**
When booking your stay, let the hotel know any reason for your visit. Whether it’s for business or leisure, sharing the purpose of your stay allows the hotel to curate the best experience for you. If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary, this information could result in a free upgrade or a complimentary bottle of champagne. The hotel might also leave customized notes to make your stay extra special.
**2. Check In Early and Check Out Late**
To maximize your luxury hotel stay, try to check in as early as possible and check out as late as you can. Request a later checkout, as hotels often accommodate this for free. This way, you can fully utilize the hotel’s facilities throughout your stay. If you can’t get an early check-in, drop off your bags and spend your time at the pool or bar area before your designated check-in time.
**3. Take Advantage of Free Food Offerings**
Luxury hotels often have complimentary food offerings that guests can enjoy. Check if the hotel includes breakfast or if it has cocktail hours or lounge access with small bites. Plan your schedule around these food events and even take leftovers back to your room for later. Complimentary snacks and drinks might also be available at the spa, or you might find treats and small bites by the pool.
**4. Make Use of the Concierge Service**
Luxury hotels take pride in their excellent concierge services, so it’s worth making the most of it. Utilize their expertise by asking for recommendations or assistance. The concierge might have special connections to in-demand experiences that are hard to book on your own. Get to know the concierge as they can help you with tickets to sold-out shows, reservations at fully booked restaurants, and other last-minute celebrations or services.
**5. Try All the Bath Products**
Luxury hotels provide on-brand bath products that are often on the luxurious side. Use them during your stay, and they will be replenished daily. Don’t let half-used bars of soap or mini bottles of shampoo go to waste – toss them in your suitcase before you leave. This way, you can bring a piece of the relaxing hotel environment home with you. Upscale hotels may also offer fancy body lotions, face products, and hair care tools for guests to try during their stay.
**6. Familiarize Yourself with Niche Complimentary Services**
Luxury hotels often offer niche complimentary services that are worth exploring. Some hotels might provide pressing services, shoeshine, or a top-of-the-line complimentary house car for short-distance transportation. Other unique services like complimentary sunglasses cleaning or special promotions might not be openly promoted, so always ask about potential upgrades and complimentary services.
**7. Don’t Forget About Your Credit Card Perks**
Before booking a hotel stay, consider your credit card perks. Some credit cards offer benefits when booking certain hotels. For example, American Express cardholders can book through the Fine Hotels + Resorts program, which provides VIP check-in, welcome gifts, complimentary breakfast, late checkout, hotel credits, room upgrades, and early check-in when available. Additionally, co-branded credit cards for specific hotel chains can offer extra loyalty points, fast track to premium status, and other exclusive benefits.
**8. Utilize the Amenities**
Luxury hotels enhance the overall experience by providing a wide range of amenities. Make the most out of these offerings, which can include slippers, robes, five-star spa facilities, state-of-the-art fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, and golf courses. Maintain your daily gym routine and indulge in a steam or muscle recovery massage afterward. Additionally, take advantage of free water bottles available at hotel gyms, and some luxury hotels might let you use their spa facilities even without booking a treatment.
**9. Remember That Pets Might Get Perks Too**
Luxury hotels often cater to pets as well. Some hotels offer amenities and services specifically for pets. For example, the concierge team at Baltimore’s Four Seasons can provide a curated list of dog-friendly parks, trails, and outdoor dining patios. In-room dining menus are also available for dogs who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own room. Upon arrival, pets receive complimentary amenities such as plush bedding, squeaky toys, food and water bowls, waste bags, and the option for dog sitting services.
**10. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Requests**
Luxury hotels are designed to cater to guests’ needs and preferences. While you don’t want to go overboard with requests, take advantage of the options built into the luxury hotel experience. Request specific types of pillows or customize your bed to your liking. You can even ask for a drawn bath during turndown service. Some hotels have mobile apps that allow guests to communicate with the property teams before, during, and after their stay.
**11. Explore Local Experiences Recommended by the Hotel**
Luxury hotels have in-depth knowledge of their surrounding areas. Consult the concierge for recommendations beyond the typical tourist spots. They can recommend off-the-beaten-path activities, events, and hidden gems that you won’t find in guidebooks. The concierge will assist you in exploring the city like a local, including the best restaurants, bars, and other attractions.
**12. Share Feedback and Show Appreciation**
After enjoying your luxury hotel stay, make sure to share your positive experience with the hotel. Leave reviews or provide feedback on platforms like TripAdvisor or the hotel’s website. Showing appreciation for exceptional service and personalized experiences encourages hotels to go above and beyond for future guests. Additionally, consider tipping the hotel staff who have made your stay comfortable and memorable.
In conclusion, make the most out of your luxury hotel stay by following these expert tips. Personalize your stay by sharing the purpose of your visit. Check in early, check out late, and take advantage of complimentary services and food offerings. Utilize the concierge service to access exclusive experiences and recommendations. Try all the bath products and take home any unused items. Familiarize yourself with niche complimentary services and credit card perks. Enjoy the hotel’s amenities, consider your pet’s needs, and don’t hesitate to make requests. Finally, explore local experiences recommended by the hotel and share your positive feedback. With these tips, your luxury hotel stay will be an unforgettable experience.
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