Here 10 Secrets, Hotel Employees Won't Tell You Considering the number of people who regularly stay at hotels—not...
Here 10 Secrets, Hotel Employees Won't Tell You
Considering the number of people who regularly stay at hotels—not to mention how many guests have bunked in your room prior—it's only natural to wonder about the behind-the-scenes shenanigans that happen at your favorite establishments. And who better to ask than the fabulous desk clerks, housekeepers, and bellhops who can make (or break) your stay? The secrets you're about to learn from these anonymous hotel staffers could mean the difference between scoring freshly laundered bedding—or a bedspread that hasn't been washed since JNCO jeans were a thing. (Kidding. Sort of.)
1. Yes, We Know You're Having An Affair
"And no, we don't care. When you emphasize, er, I mean, casually drop that he's your work husband and you have a big presentation to prepare for, we'll always slap on a smile and pretend you're telling us the truth." –Alicia, a former desk clerk in Washington
2. Your Secrets Are Safe With Us
"Once when I was working late, I found one of our regulars staggering down the hallway in one of our hotel's bellhop uniforms. I still can't figure out how he managed to get his hands on one, but regardless, a concierge never tells. There's always something fun to smile about in our world." –Josh, a concierge in New Orleans
3. For Better Rates, Call The Hotel Directly
"Online booking sites are convenient and all, but you stand a better chance at scoring a lower rate if you call the hotel directly. Hotels pay these sites up to a 25 percent commission, so most are able to offer a cheaper rate if you just ask." –Maggie, a desk clerk in New York
4. Beware Of The Minibar
"Check the expiration dates on the snacks in the minibar. I've discovered snacks plenty of times that were months past their expiry. You'll also want to make sure the seals on the bottles of booze haven't been broken. The stories you've likely heard about people peeing in tequila bottles or filling vodka bottles with water to get out of paying for them aren't urban legends." –Jenna, a hotel maid in New York
5. Also, Avoid Sitting Directly On Sofas And Chairs
"Never sit on a couch or chair without laying a towel or sheet down first. Many guests sit on them naked, and yes, some leave stains behind. And much of the time, the stains are basically just dabbed with cleaner until they can't be seen anymore." –Jenna
6. Please, Please Tip Your Housekeeper
"Hotel maids aren't paid much—typically, minimum wage—so every little bit helps. Make sure you leave the tip under your pillow so they know it's for them. Also, it's best to leave a daily tip if you're staying for more than one night, since you're not necessarily going to have the same housekeeper twice. The general rule of thumb is anywhere between $5 to $20 a day, depending on how many stars the hotel has and how big your room is. (More stars usually means more work for the housekeeper.)" –Jenna
7. Consider The Doorman Your Bestie
"In the hotel world, the bellman's kind of like the kid who's picked last in gym class. Meanwhile, we're well connected and can hook you up with whatever you need—free water bottles, tours, reservations, dry cleaning, the works. I've even helped guests upgrade to a better room. Most guests don't realize that tipping us unlocks a world of perks." –Mason, a doorman in New York
8. The Rooms Are Not All The Same
"The staff at the front desk knows which rooms have the best features, such as primo lighting or a bigger TV. How you treat us at check-in seals your fate, and is the defining factor in receiving a room with a great view or one with a mysterious odor." –Maggie, a desk clerk in New York
9. Step Away From The Ice Bucket
"Always use the plastic bag that comes with the ice bucket. When a guest needs to throw up but can't make it to the bathroom, guess what they use?" –Jenna
10. Your Room Probably Isn't As Clean As It Looks
"Here's the thing: housekeepers have a ton of rooms to clean every day, and have to haul ass to get them done between check-out and check-in. This usually means that we have to cut corners to keep up with the demand. Sheets get washed daily, but blankets are usually only washed once a week, while the bedspreads barely ever get washed—maybe once a month, longer if there aren't any obvious stains. When you book a room, requesting a full set of clean linens should do the trick." –Jenna
"The remote is probably the least cleaned item in the room. I'd also steer clear of the drinking glasses, which tend to get their sparkle from furniture polish. Stick to paper cups." –Britt, a former hotel maid in Kansas
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