Hotel front desk staff do not just assist guests with check-in and check-out procedures. While not all hotels offer the exact same facilities or services, these front desk staff can help meet some requests that almost all guests may have, some of which you may not be aware of.
According to a report by the Huffington Post, hotel employees from across the United States shared what services they can provide to make your journey a pleasant one.
Even though you can find information about restaurants or local cuisine online, hotel front desk staff often have more in-depth knowledge in this area.
Jessica Kaup, a guest service supervisor at a hotel in Tennessee, mentioned that she is always happy to recommend local restaurants to guests and can even provide customized suggestions.
She mentioned that everyone on their team has a list of restaurant recommendations to meet guests’ needs. Sometimes, front desk staff can even help guests make reservations at hard-to-get-into restaurants.
Ericka Nelson, the operations manager at a hotel in Florida, noted that the fun part about guests asking for restaurant recommendations is that “no matter who you ask, you’re going to get different answers and a completely different vibe.”
Bryce Baron, the guest service manager at a hotel in Colorado, said, “I particularly enjoy assisting guests in planning their itinerary to enjoy unique local experiences because it’s always rewarding to see them explore and appreciate everything Colorado Springs has to offer.”
Just as asking front desk staff for restaurant recommendations, they can also guide you on the best local attractions and the ideal time to visit them.
Nelson often sees guests checking into the hotel for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations, and they request help from the front desk staff to decorate their rooms.
She mentioned that front desk staff usually have basic materials like balloons or rose petals for decorations, and if guests need additional decorations, there will be an added cost. Some staff are also willing to decorate rooms with decorations provided by guests.
Elena Fermin-Rivers, a room attendant at a hotel in Massachusetts, mentioned, “I really enjoy preparing for these events.” They even have a team dedicated to providing such services to guests.
If your hotel allows pets, they are likely to have items your pet may need in your room, such as a water bowl.
Therefore, if you plan on traveling with your pet, it’s best to inform the hotel in advance. This way, they can prepare the necessary items for your pet in your room before your arrival.
Front desk staff can assist in booking adjacent hotel rooms for people traveling with family, a common request for those with children, as mentioned by Fermin-Rivers.
If you require transportation services, front desk staff should be able to assist you, especially when you need to reach the airport, cruise terminal, or tour meeting point at a specific time.
Nelson mentioned they are familiar with several transportation companies that can provide reliable services to hotel guests.
You might realize after checking into the hotel that you forgot small items like toothpaste or find that nearby cafes have already closed, but you really crave a cup of coffee.
Kaup mentioned that helping with such situations is common and one of her favorite ways to assist. She said, “The feeling you get from helping those seeking your assistance is very strong because they feel you’re doing something special for them.”
Nelson pointed out that they often prepare seemingly random small items like hair ties to assist forgetful guests, making them feel at home.
It’s worth noting that you can join the hotel’s loyalty program for more personalized services.
Kate Casey, the guest ambassador manager at a hotel in Massachusetts, noted that since most applications are now completed entirely online, people may overlook indicating their preferences. This can be done through many hotel loyalty programs.
For the hotel where Casey works, guests can request special pillows and rooms with better views, but when they quickly register online, they often don’t see these perks.
Fermin-Rivers encourages guests to pay attention to the services and loyalty programs each hotel offers. This way, guests’ preferences can be documented and saved. When they stay at the hotel, they can avail themselves of these services provided by the hotel staff.