Welcome, travelers! Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a casual vacationer, checking into a hotel is always an exciting part of the journey. But before you dive onto that plush bed or unpack your suitcase, there’s a small yet crucial ritual you should embrace. Ensuring your hotel room is not just welcoming but also safe and up to your standards is key to a delightful stay. Here’s your ultimate checklist of what to do before settling into your temporary abode. Let’s turn that good stay into a great one!
1. A Warm Welcome: The Visual Inspection
As soon as you step into your room, engage in a quick visual sweep. Check for overall cleanliness, signs of damage, or anything out of place. This initial scan helps set the tone for your stay and ensures immediate issues can be addressed before you get comfortable.
2. The Secret Life of Bedbugs: A Close-Up Look
Bedbugs are the last “souvenirs” you want from your travels. Pull back the bed sheets and inspect the mattress seams, headboard, and bedside furniture for any signs of these unwelcome guests—think small rust-colored spots. A few minutes spent doing this can save you a lot of discomfort and hassle.
3. Personal Air Quality Check: The AC/Heater Test
Your comfort also depends on the room’s air quality and temperature control. Test the air conditioning or heating system to make sure it’s working properly and doesn’t sound like a freight train. This ensures you won’t be waking up in the middle of the night either freezing or sweating.
4. The Safety Audit: Locks and Safes
Security should never take a backseat. Verify that the door locks (including the deadbolt and security chain) function correctly. If your room has a safe, check that it’s operational. Knowing your valuables are secure lets you explore with peace of mind.
5. Connect to the World: Wi-Fi Connectivity
In today’s digital age, staying connected is often non-negotiable. Test the Wi-Fi strength and reliability as soon as you can. Whether it’s for leisure scrolling or an urgent work email, you don’t want to be caught in a connectivity black hole.
6. Emergency Exits: Know Your Way Out
Safety first, always. Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exits and fire escape plan, usually found on the back of your door. It’s a simple step that’s often overlooked but paramount in the unlikely event of an emergency.
7. The Ultimate Sniff Test: Smell Check
Our noses often pick up what our eyes miss. A quick “sniff test” can alert you to mold, smoke, or other odors that might make your stay less pleasant. If something smells off, it probably is—don’t hesitate to request a room change.
8. Bathroom Basics: Plumbing and Cleanliness
Before unpacking, ensure the bathroom is clean and everything is in working order—flush the toilet, run the sink and shower, and check for hot water. These are comforts you’ll definitely want during your stay.
Your Stay, Your Way
Embarking on this quick yet effective ritual upon entering your hotel room not only ensures your immediate comfort but also empowers you to address any issues right from the start. Remember, you deserve a stay that meets your standards of comfort, safety, and hygiene. So, before you kick off your shoes and relax, a few minutes spent on this checklist can transform your hotel experience from good to exceptional. Here’s to happy, safe, and satisfying travels—may your hotel stays be nothing short of perfect!
By Stanislav Kondrashov
