A hotel stay shouldn’t just be about where you will sleep at night but should be an experience. To create this experience, many hotels offer a number of complimentary things which can elevate your stay from ordinary to extraordinary.
We chatted to Michelle Cyster of Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront to find out what hotel guests should look out for or enquire about when they book a hotel stay. Here are her top five things to ask about.
Is breakfast included?
“Not all hotels offer complimentary breakfasts,” says Cyster. “But we all know that people love a good hotel breakfast, so definitely check ahead to see if it’s included. At our hotel, we offer a full buffet breakfast plus a menu selection of breakfasts – all at no additional cost if you are an overnight guest on a breakfast included rate.”
Cyster also notes that guests can ask about having breakfast delivered to their rooms. Many hotels offer this as a service and for some, it’s free. If you’re the type to enjoy breakfast in bed, this option is for you.
View this post on Instagram
Does it have a fitness centre?
“For those who are keen on exercising while staying at a hotel, be aware that not every hotel has a fully-equipped fitness centre,” Cyster notes. “Be sure to enquire about this and check out any pictures online to see the state of the equipment.”
Many luxury hotels even offer personal trainers, and while this is an additional cost to the guest, it might be a great way to keep your fitness regime on track. Of course, the use of the gym and fitness centre, in general, is usually free if you are working out on your own.
What spa facilities can I use as a hotel guest?
Cyster shared: “Many hotels that have spa facilities on-site will have certain areas of the spa that hotel guests can access free of charge. For example, at Amani Spa and Wellness at our hotel, guests over the age of 16 can use the relaxation area around the indoor pool. It’s a great place to wind down with a good book and, of course, take a dip in the vitality pool if you so desire.”
Some hotels have relaxing areas that overnight guests can make use of. If a spa treatment is not your thing or not in your budget, this is a great way to experience the spa without any additional costs.
Does it come with fluffy robes and slippers?
“You will be surprised how many people absolutely love this part of the whole hotel experience,” Cyster points out. “It’s one of the first things many people look for when they get to a hotel.”
For years, the fluffy robes and slippers have been part of hotel culture. When you book your hotel, ask about this ahead of time. You could plan a nice, relaxing night with a luxurious bath or a hot shower, then slip into the robe and slippers and just kick back and have a movie night. You could order room service (an additional charge) and enjoy some time in the room.
View this post on Instagram
In-room dinner set-up
“Our location means that dinner on the private balconies is something that guests really enjoy,” says Cyster. “They love to watch the sunset while enjoying a delicious meal. And while the food, of course, has to be paid for, the set-up itself is at no additional cost to our guests.” If your hotel offers this, it could make for a great romantic getaway or a fun way to celebrate a special occasion. Or simply do it for no reason at all other than to enjoy the sunset.
So, next time you book a hotel, be sure to ask about what additional and complimentary things you are able to make use of while you are there. This way, you easily turn your hotel stay into a memorable one.
Also read:
This Camps Bay villa will provide you with the staycation of your dreams
Picture/s: Instagram