What should you expect when you check in to a hotel? If your hotel is not doing the following things, you are being short-changed on service. Your desk attendant should provide:
A warm and sincere greeting: Even while you're waiting in line, the desk attendant should recognize you appropriately and ask for your name. When you've reached the check-in counter, the attendant should address you by name at least once prior to directing you to your room.
Confirmation of your reservation: Your attendant should confirm the rate and type of your room prior to handing you the keys. You don't want to arrive at your room and discover you're not getting what you reserved.
Discreet communication of your info: You never know who's listening in while you're checking into a hotel. Your room number and all other private messages should be communicated to you with the utmost discretion.
Sincere desire and compliance to your requests: The attendant is there for you. All of your special requests should be swiftly and properly dealt with. You should be informed of any fees involved with these requests; you don't want any surprises on your bill. The attendant should then ask if there are any other ways to be of service.
Arrangement of an escort to your room: The attendant should always offer to have you and your baggage escorted to your room, and you should always be formally introduced to your escort. Your escort should then offer you information on the facilities and a tour of the building. Once you've reached your room, the escort should place your luggage in the appropriate area, hang your garment bag, explain the functions of the room, offer to fill your ice bucket, and inquire about other ways to be of service. Anything less is unacceptable.
