Are you planning a trip and want to make sure your hotel stay goes smoothly? One way to do that is by making special requests when you book your room. Special requests allow you to personalize your stay and help the hotel prepare for your visit.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Common special hotel requests include room location preferences, bed types, accessibility needs, pet accommodations, and amenities like extra pillows, refrigerators, and early check-in or late checkout.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the types of special requests you can make when booking a hotel room, how to submit requests properly, and tips for getting your requests fulfilled.
Common Types of Special Requests for Hotels
When booking a hotel, many travelers have specific needs or preferences that go beyond the standard room offerings. These special requests can enhance their overall stay and make their experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Hotels strive to accommodate these requests whenever possible, as customer satisfaction is their top priority. Here are some common types of special requests that guests may make when booking a hotel:
Room Location
One of the most common special requests is for a specific room location. Some guests may prefer a room on a higher floor for better views, while others may request a room closer to the elevator for convenience. Hotels do their best to fulfill these requests, taking into consideration availability and guest preferences.
Room Type
Guests often have a preference for a particular room type, such as a suite, a room with a balcony, or a room with a kitchenette. These requests may be driven by personal preferences or the need for additional space and amenities. Hotels usually have a variety of room types available to cater to different guest needs.
Bed Type
The type of bed can significantly impact a guest’s comfort and quality of sleep. Some guests may have a preference for a king-size bed, while others may prefer two double beds or a room with a sofa bed. Hotels generally offer different bed options to accommodate these requests.
Accessibility Accommodations
Hotels are committed to providing accessible accommodations for guests with disabilities. Special requests in this category may include wheelchair-accessible rooms, grab bars in the bathroom, or visual alarms for the hearing impaired. Hotels should strive to meet these requests to ensure that all guests have equal access to their facilities.
Pet Accommodations
For guests traveling with pets, the availability of pet-friendly accommodations is crucial. Some hotels offer designated pet-friendly rooms or floors, while others provide amenities such as pet beds and bowls. It’s important for guests to check the hotel’s pet policy and make the necessary arrangements in advance.
Room Amenities
Guests may have specific requests for room amenities, such as a mini-fridge, a microwave, or a coffee maker. These amenities can greatly enhance a guest’s convenience and comfort during their stay. Hotels often provide such amenities upon request, or they may offer them as standard in certain room categories.
Other Amenities and Services
Aside from room-specific requests, guests may also have special requests related to other amenities and services offered by the hotel.
This could include requests for early check-in or late check-out, additional towels or pillows, or assistance with luggage. Hotels strive to accommodate these requests to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free stay for their guests.
Remember, it’s essential to communicate your special requests to the hotel in advance to increase the likelihood of them being fulfilled.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check the hotel’s website or contact their customer service directly to inquire about specific requests and their availability.
How to Submit Hotel Special Requests
Make Requests When Booking
One of the easiest ways to submit special requests to a hotel is to make them at the time of booking. Most online booking platforms provide an option for guests to include special requests during the reservation process.
Whether it’s a specific room location, dietary restrictions, or additional amenities, this is the perfect opportunity to let the hotel know about your preferences and requirements. By making your requests at the time of booking, you increase the chances of the hotel being able to accommodate them.
Call the Hotel Directly
If you have already made your reservation and forgot to include any special requests, don’t worry! Another way to submit your requests is by calling the hotel directly.
Speaking with a hotel representative allows you to explain your needs in more detail and have a conversation about the available options. Additionally, the hotel staff might be able to suggest alternative solutions or provide more information about specific requests you have in mind.
Use the Special Requests Box
When making a reservation online, many booking platforms offer a special requests box where you can detail any specific requirements you may have. This box is a great place to provide additional information that may not have been covered during the regular booking process.
Whether you have allergies, need a specific type of bedding, or have any other preferences, utilizing the special requests box will ensure that the hotel receives your message.
Be Specific and Provide Details
When submitting a special request, it’s important to be as specific as possible. Instead of saying, “I prefer a quiet room,” provide details like, “I am a light sleeper and would appreciate a room away from the elevator or any noisy areas.”
The more specific you are, the better the hotel can understand and fulfill your request. Providing details helps the hotel staff tailor their service to meet your needs and ensures a more enjoyable stay.
Prioritize Your Most Important Requests
If you have multiple special requests, it’s important to prioritize them. Understand that the hotel may not be able to fulfill every single request due to availability or other constraints.
By identifying your most important requests, you increase the likelihood of those requests being met. Remember, it’s better to focus on a few key requests rather than overwhelming the hotel with an extensive list.
Be Flexible
While it’s essential to communicate your preferences and requirements, it’s also important to be flexible.
Hotels do their best to accommodate guests’ special requests, but sometimes, due to factors beyond their control, they may not be able to fulfill every request. Being understanding and flexible can go a long way in ensuring a positive experience for both you and the hotel staff.
Tips for Getting Your Hotel Special Requests Fulfilled
Book Early
One of the best ways to increase your chances of having your hotel special requests fulfilled is to book your stay well in advance.
By doing so, you give the hotel staff ample time to prepare for your arrival and accommodate your requests. Remember, popular requests such as a specific room location or amenities might be limited, so it’s always better to secure them early.
Confirm Your Requests
Once you’ve made your hotel reservation, it’s essential to confirm your special requests directly with the hotel.
This could be done by calling or emailing the hotel’s front desk or reservations team. By confirming your requests, you ensure that they are not overlooked or forgotten, and the hotel staff can make the necessary arrangements to fulfill them.
Politely Follow Up
If you have made special requests and haven’t received confirmation, it’s a good idea to follow up with the hotel a few days before your arrival.
Politely remind them of your requests and inquire about their status. This gentle reminder shows your commitment and increases the chance of your requests being fulfilled.
Provide a Special Occasion Reason
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon, don’t hesitate to mention it when making your special requests.
Hotels often go the extra mile to make these moments memorable for their guests. By sharing the reason behind your requests, you create a personal connection with the hotel staff, increasing the likelihood of them fulfilling your wishes.
Be Reasonable
While it’s important to communicate your preferences and desires, it’s equally crucial to be reasonable with your special requests.
Understand that hotels have limitations and constraints, and not all requests may be feasible. By being flexible and understanding, you increase the chances of the hotel staff accommodating your requests to the best of their abilities.
Offer to Pay Fees for Big Requests
For certain special requests that require additional resources or services, consider offering to pay any associated fees.
For example, if you want a room upgrade or wish to have specific decorations, offering to cover the costs can incentivize the hotel staff to prioritize your requests. However, it’s important to negotiate these fees upfront and ensure they are reasonable.
Tip Staff for Going Above and Beyond
If the hotel staff goes above and beyond to fulfill your special requests, show your appreciation by tipping them.
A little extra gratitude can go a long way in strengthening the relationship between you and the hotel staff. Not only will they be more likely to fulfill your current requests, but they may also be more inclined to assist you with any future needs.
Conclusion
Making special requests when booking hotel rooms can help personalize your stay and ensure it meets your needs.
By planning ahead, providing details, remaining flexible, and politely following up, you’re more likely to get the hotel experience you want.
Just remember that not all requests can be guaranteed, so focus on your most important needs when booking. With the right strategy, special requests can take your hotel stay from ordinary to extraordinary.
