A few hours after checking into his Dallas hotel, Matt Rogers heard disruptive noises outside his room - a guest doing a workout in the hallway. Unaware of his obnoxious behavior, the guest disrupted other travelers.
Rogers, a personal trainer, emphasized the importance of following hotel etiquette and using appropriate facilities like the gym instead of the hallway for workouts.
As summer vacations approach, annoying hotel guests become more prevalent, disregarding rules, making noise, and causing disruptions. Etiquette expert Rachel Wagner highlighted the need for guests to be considerate of others' peace and comfort.
Identifying bad hotel guests involves answering three questions: violating house rules, receiving excessive attention from staff, and behaving inappropriately. Good guests are courteous, self-sufficient, and respectful of hotel staff.
Wagner shared her experience of being an ideal guest, emphasizing courtesy, thoughtfulness, and respect in interactions with hotel staff. Acknowledging their hard work and leaving a daily tip are simple yet effective ways to show appreciation.
If you've been a problematic guest in the past, there's hope for redemption. Take the example of Nick Burchill, who apologized to a hotel 17 years after being banned for attracting seagulls with pepperoni pizza. By being polite, following rules, and respecting staff, guests can improve their behavior and ensure a pleasant stay.
Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist, providing valuable insights on consumer problems and customer service through Elliott Advocacy, Elliott Confidential, and the Elliott Report.