The Top Three Things I Look For When Visiting A Hotel
It probably goes without saying, but I have visited thousands of hotels. Just this past year, I have seen over 100 - and that’s a drop in the bucket compared to my younger days. Touring properties is a passion of mine, not an obligation.
I’m often my happiest when I’m at a hotel and spending time with Marriott International associates. And while I would love to spend all my time chatting with them, I’m also there to evaluate the hotel and how it is running. Here’s what I’m looking for:
ENGAGED ASSOCIATES
That goes back to our roots where we started in the food business 90 years ago. The minute I step onto a property, I can feel the mood of the associates. I can tell when associates are engaged and when they’re simply going through the motions. It all starts at the top; when everyone is excited about their work, it tells me their general manager is doing something right. There’s nothing more important for a GM than having a finger on the pulse of the organization.
QUALITY FOOD
Like most people, I enjoy going out to dinner. Dining on property gives me a firsthand view of how a major piece of Marriott’s business is working. There is some excellent food that comes from our hotels. If I can stay on property for a great meal rather than look around the neighborhood for one, I’ll stay. Plus, when I see an on-property restaurant full of happy diners, it tells me the hotel is working hard to provide guests with a complete and wonderful experience.
CLEANLINESS
Just like my dad, I look for cleanliness. One of my favorite tests is evaluating the cleanliness of the elevator grooves, along the threshold of the elevator. That may sound a little crazy, but, to me, it shows attention to detail. Elevators are one of the most trafficked areas in a hotel, so associates should pay extra attention to those areas. Treating cleanliness as a priority will always be worth the time. Though it may seem like a small thing to others, it’s those little things that add up.
I’m curious - what do you look for when staying at a hotel? Let me know in the comments.
Director of Rooms Division, Director of Operation, Hotel Manager
5 年I totaly agrre with you. Besides, cleaning in public wc at lobby and meeting floors is very important for me.?
Antenna Lawyer
6 年When I walk in, bedraggled from six hours of cabs, waiting in line, flying, waiting in line for my luggage, and more, I want the front desk clerk to acknowledge that I'm standing there. I know she may have to finish up something before turning to me, but honestly, couldn't she just say: "Hi! Be with you in a minute."?
Retired
6 年FYI: Just stayed at three Marriott properties recently and housekeeping at all three was exceptional...very impressive.
Diploma at Point Loma High School
6 年I look for clean fresh bed tightly made, all the amenities in place especially the TV is working even if i just turn it on for a second.
Merchandizing Associate at TJMaxx & Home Goods; Production/Quality at Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe Inc.
6 年I worked briefly at a small resort and what I remember most is setting wakeup calls for guests, getting their TV's working for them, making sure golfers had enough towels after their games before dinner time and explaining bills. (The courtesy elements). From my stays, it is that the concierge took care of getting my car to me and explained where to find places I wanted to visit in a city I had never been. As a tourist - feeling safe, having a good rest and not finding stains on room carpets or refrigerators that froze my bottle of wine and food.