Free hotel services not everyone knows about

Recently we talked about free services on board an airplane. This time, we’ll tell you what you can get for free at a hotel.

Free Transfer

We are used to hotels providing free internet, parking, breakfast, morning sauna, and 24-hour reception. But this is not always and not everywhere the case. A free transfer to the hotel from the airport or train station is more an exception than a rule, but if available, it’s a shame not to use it. This way you’ll save on transport and nerves — running around with bags and suitcases on buses is more exhausting than the flight itself. If a transfer is necessary for you, check with the hotel about the availability of this service before booking.

Complimentary from the Hotel

To get a room upgrade or a bottle of champagne with fruit, you don’t necessarily have to be newlyweds. A wedding anniversary or birthday will also work for a compliment. But there’s no need to shout about your celebration from the doorstep; it’s enough to mention it in a pleasant conversation, being polite and smiling. The phrase ‘It’s our wedding anniversary, give us the best room!’ is better replaced with something more friendly: ‘Excuse me, is this room quiet enough? We’re here for our wedding anniversary and would like to fully relax.’ If you book hotels of the same chain in different countries, you can be considered a regular guest and receive privileges. Early check-in or late check-out, a room upgrade, or even the same transfer to the hotel. The main thing is not to forget about politeness and remember: you don’t need to demand anything. A compliment from the hotel is the hotel’s initiative.

Crib for a Child

When booking, ask for a crib to be placed in the room if you are traveling with a small child. If the room is spacious enough for another bed, there will be no problems. In cramped rooms, it won’t be placed because it contradicts fire safety regulations.

Small Comforts

It’s good at the hotel, but for complete happiness, something is always missing. Don’t be afraid to ask for the little things you need: an iron, a phone charger, a couple of cups, a corkscrew, or a sewing kit to mend a shirt.

Wake-up Call

Sometimes, a turned-off alarm clock subconsciously signals relaxation. Is something important coming up, and you’re afraid of oversleeping? Ask the reception desk to call you at the appointed time. But if you need an early wake-up, make sure the reception desk operates 24/7.

Printing or Scanning Documents

In a foreign country, the last thing you want to think about is where to print or scan necessary papers. Just go down to the reception and politely ask for help; they won’t refuse you.

Sending Postcards

Finding a post office and sending postcards to friends often turns into a quest. But some hotels can do it for you. You’ll just need to pay for envelopes and stamps.

Luggage Storage

It often happens that you need to check out now, but your train or plane isn’t for at least half a day. You don’t want to drag your belongings around the city! Some hotels offer free luggage storage for such situations. We remind you once again that you should be polite and friendly with hotel staff. Don’t demand things from them that they are unable to do. For example, making crows caw quieter in the mornings or adding poached eggs to the breakfast menu. Even if a service cannot be fulfilled, the staff will try their best to help with the problem. The main thing is to remain human.