When you're booking a hotel, you want more than just a bed for the night. The right stay can make a holiday, a work trip, or a family visit feel easy and enjoyable. While things like heating, air conditioning, and acoustic compliance (so that it's not too noisy) are a given, there are certain details that can take a stay from standard to memorable. Here are some of the things guests tend to look for when choosing where to stay.
Personal touches make a difference
As guests, we love to feel recognized and valued so small gestures can go a long way. Look out for hotels that ask about your preferences before you arrive, whether through a booking note or a short pre-arrival survey. This means they can do things like stock your favorite drink, adjust pillows to your liking, or leave a handwritten welcome note with a treat in the room. Those thoughtful extras are what often stay in your memories long after the trip. The hotel we stayed in during our honeymoon asked about these things when we booked, when we arrived there was a bottle of champagne, a box of chocolates and a congratulations note in the room which we thought was so sweet.
A smooth arrival
After a long journey, no one wants a complicated check-in process. The best hotels make it quick and painless, with options like mobile check-in or staff who handle things promptly. Being welcomed with a drink or snack can also make you feel like your holiday has started the moment you walk through the door. It’s about being able to get straight to what you came for, whether that’s heading out to the pool, exploring the local area, or collapsing into bed.
Loyalty that feels genuine
If you find a hotel you love, it’s nice when returning doesn’t feel like starting from scratch. Guests often appreciate little extras for their loyalty, like a gift in the room, complimentary wine with dinner, or a late checkout. When staff remember your name or small details about your last visit, it makes the experience feel personal instead of transactional. That’s the kind of treatment that keeps people coming back.
Extras that stand out
Sometimes what makes a hotel unforgettable is the unique touches you can’t get everywhere else. It might be a novelty like a hot tub in the room, or floor to ceiling windows with a spectacular view. It could be a rooftop bar that overlooks the city, something that can turn a standard stay into something special. Have a think about the sorts of things you'd enjoy and do your research to find a hotel that's offering those kinds of extras if you want to make your trip even more memorable.
