Now, it’s true that traveling is exciting in theory; there are new places, new experiences, and a break from the daily grind. But it’s not always smooth sailing. Everyone has had to experience delayed flights, hauling luggage across town, and navigating confusing public transport at least once during a trip, and this can leave any traveler questioning their life choices.
Not Just Pretty Spaces Making Hotel Stays Effortless
At this moment, hotels seem to be caring more about their image, specifically aesthetics, rather than attention to detail. Sure, using marketing trends for social media and following interior decor trends for a more “Instagram-worthy” experience is still super sought-after, but a pretty meal and a pretty lobby aren’t exactly going to cut it either. It’s the hotel experience overall, and yes, that can mean going above and beyond.
So, to be more specific, this is where hotels have a golden opportunity to step up and make things easier. After all, guests aren’t just looking for a comfy bed. They want a stay that feels like a sigh of relief after a long, chaotic journey. So, what can hotels do to help guests feel less stressed and more taken care of?
7 Tips for Hotels to Help Their Guest Stay Stress-Free
Discover how hotels are transforming transfer services from a luxury perk to an essential stress-reducer for modern travelers seeking seamless journeys.
1. Go the Extra Mile with Transfers
For many travelers, public transport is a no-go. But why? Well, maybe it’s too complicated, crowded, or too much after a long journey. And what about taxis? Well, depending on the city, they can come with dodgy reputations or sky-high prices (or even both, which people hate too).
But this is where hotel transfer services become a lifesaver. Some hotels offer this, but it still seems to be a bit rare. But why would something like this matter nowadays? Well, it does depend on the location of the hotel for starters, especially if you know most guests aren’t traveling by car.
So, airport pickups, train station drop-offs, or even shuttles to the city center can take the stress out of getting from point A to point B. But even for hotels located a little off the beaten path, these services are even more critical. For the most part, guests don’t mind being a bit farther away from the action if the hotel makes getting around effortless.
Why expect your guests to just fend for themselves?
2. Stop Making Luggage Everyone’s Problem
To a degree, luggage is the third wheel no one asked for. If a guest arrives hours before check-in or has time to kill after checking out, that suitcase quickly becomes the enemy. This means walking through a city dragging bags is not the vibe anyone’s going for. Now, just try and imagine this in Amsterdam, there are cyclists everywhere, the sidewalks are narrow, so many crowds on the sidewalks, sometimes people ride mopeds on the sidewalks, and it’s just so overwhelming in the worst way possible.
Outside of museums, most tourist-related activities (or shops) won’t cater to holding luggage, and instead, guests will have to look into other businesses offering luggage storage Amsterdam to help them out. Now, if you’re a hotel, such as in Amsterdam, why would you want your guest to scramble for outside help?
Why are more hotels becoming less willing to hold onto guest’s luggage before check-in or after check-out? Just think of it this way; even for a small fee (granted, it’s better if you didn’t), guests will thank you with glowing reviews (and possibly a return visit). It’s a simple service that makes a world of difference.
3. Be Honest About Your Location
Not every hotel can be in the middle of the action, and that’s okay. Some guests are happy to stay somewhere quieter, but only if the hotel is upfront about its location. The problem comes when hotels market themselves as “conveniently located,” only for guests to discover that “convenient” actually means a 30-minute bus ride to the nearest attraction.
If your hotel isn’t centrally located, own it. Instead, just offer shuttle services, provide detailed directions for getting around, or highlight local gems near the property.
4. Late Check-In Options for Tired Travelers
So, this was mentioned earlier already, but delayed flights, missed trains, and traffic jams are practically a guarantee of travel. Guests arriving late at night are already on their last nerve, and hearing “Sorry, check-in is closed” is the ultimate insult. Well, that and charging them extra. Guests just want to crash into bed after a rough journey, not beg someone to let them in. This small flexibility can go a long way in building guest loyalty.
5. Stop Hiding Behind “Sustainability”
Sustainability is important, but there’s a fine line between being eco-friendly and cutting corners in the name of greenwashing. Actually, too many hotels are ditching services under the guise of saving the planet. This includes skipping daily housekeeping or switching to single-use toiletries that barely last one shower. It isn’t about saving the earth; it’s about saving money. And guests can tell.
6. Streamline Digital Communication
Why make guests call the front desk for every little thing? Offer a user-friendly hotel app or messaging system where guests can request room service, extra towels, or local recommendations without picking up the phone. But keep it simple – nothing’s more stressful than a complicated app that’s supposed to make life easier. Make sure there’s still a human touch when needed, as not everyone wants to communicate digitally.
7. Create a Hassle-Free Dining Experience
After a long day of travel or sightseeing, the last thing guests want is to hunt for food. Keep your kitchen open for late arrivals, offer grab-and-go options for early departures, and maintain a solid room service menu. Consider providing a complimentary welcome snack or beverage – it’s a small touch that can make a big difference when guests are tired and hungry. If you must close your kitchen early, partner with reliable local restaurants that deliver to the hotel.
Hotels that prioritize guest comfort beyond aesthetics create memorable experiences that drive loyalty and positive reviews. By implementing these stress-reducing strategies, hotels transform from accommodations into sanctuaries for weary travelers. Start today – your guests will thank you.
More Tips to Grow Your Business
Revfine.com is the leading knowledge platform for the hospitality and travel industry. Professionals use our insights, strategies, and actionable tips to get inspired, optimize revenue, innovate processes, and improve customer experience.Explore expert advice on management, marketing, revenue management, operations, software, and technology in our dedicated Hotel, Hospitality, and Travel & Tourism categories.
Leave A Comment