Staying in a hotel can be a mix of excitement, frustration, and sometimes even a few surprises. Whether you’re on a dream vacation or attending a business conference, there are plenty of little-known facts about hotels that might make you see your next stay in a whole new light. From hidden charges to surprising cleaning habits, here are 25 things you probably didn’t know about hotels but absolutely should.
Some Taxi Drivers Earn Hotel Commissions
In many popular tourist areas, taxi drivers earn commissions for bringing guests to specific hotels. If a driver tries to redirect you from your booked hotel claiming it’s “closed” or “full,” stay cautious—they may just be trying to profit.
Hotel Safes Can Be Unreliable
Hotel room safes are often inconsistent. They might malfunction, leaving your valuables at risk. While it’s unlikely someone will break into your room, relying on a faulty safe isn’t the best security measure.
Maids Sometimes Sleep in Guest Rooms
Though rare, some hotel cleaning staff take short naps in guest rooms between checkouts and cleanings. It might be harmless, but it’s still a strange practice.
Remote Controls Are Germ Hotspots
The dirtiest item in any hotel room is often the TV remote. It’s rarely cleaned between guests, making it a haven for germs. Use disinfectant wipes or skip the TV altogether.
Resort Fees Add Unexpected Costs
Resort fees can add a surprise cost to your bill, often without clear explanation. These fees cover amenities like Wi-Fi or gym access but can feel sneaky if you didn’t plan for them.
Hotel Glasses May Not Be Changed
The drinking glasses in hotel rooms might look clean but aren’t always replaced between guests. Unless sealed or sanitized, they may not be as hygienic as you think.
Luggage Storage Is a Security Risk
Storing luggage at the hotel while you explore seems harmless, but it’s a stressful process for hotel staff. Misplaced bags can cause chaos, so double-check your tags and labels.
Behavior Can Get You Room Upgrades
Polite and friendly behavior towards hotel staff increases your chances of a room upgrade. Staff are far more likely to reward kindness than tolerate rudeness.
Phones Can Demagnetize Key Cards
Keep your hotel key card away from your mobile phone. Phones can demagnetize key cards, leaving you locked out of your room.
Tourists Attractions Pay Hotels for Referrals
Hotels often partner with tourist attractions for mutual promotion. If staff recommend a specific spot, it’s worth considering they might be receiving a commission.
Maids Are Often Paid Per Room
Many housekeeping staff are paid by the room rather than by the hour. The messier your room, the longer it takes them, potentially cutting into their wages.
Hotels Sometimes Hold Grudges
Causing problems at a hotel can land you on their internal blacklist. Years later, your name might still raise a red flag when you try to book a stay.
Diluted Alcohol Isn’t Uncommon
Some hotels dilute alcoholic drinks to stretch supplies. If your cocktail tastes a little weak, you’re probably not imagining it.
Cleaning Isn’t Always Thorough
Hotel rooms aren’t as spotless as they look. Dusty corners, overlooked surfaces, and even forgotten items from previous guests are more common than you’d think.
Sunday Is the Best Day to Book
Hotel rates are often lowest on Sundays. Booking on this day can save you a significant amount, especially if you’re planning ahead.
You’re Unlikely to Get a Call About Lost Items
If you leave something behind, don’t expect the hotel to call. You’re more likely to recover your belongings if you contact them first—and quickly.
Two Hotels With the Same Name Can Exist Nearby
Some hotel chains have multiple locations within the same city. Double-check the exact address to avoid showing up at the wrong one.
Long Check-Ins Aren’t Random
Lengthy check-ins happen because staff follow detailed protocols. It might seem slow, but there are dozens of steps involved in processing a guest.
Toiletries Are Yours to Keep
The small toiletries provided in hotel rooms are complimentary. Feel free to take them home, but avoid grabbing larger items like towels or robes.
Bargaining for the Last Room Can Work
If a hotel only has one room left, negotiating might score you a discount. Staff often prefer a paying guest over leaving the room empty.
Tourist Deaths Can Increase Hotel Demand
A dark but true fact: if a celebrity or public figure dies in a hotel, it can attract curious fans eager to stay in the same place.
Staff Have Stressful Jobs
Hotel staff deal with demanding customers, tight schedules, and strict policies. Despite the pressure, they often work tirelessly to ensure a good guest experience.
Drinks in the Room May Not Be Free
Bottled water and snacks in your room aren’t always complimentary. Check with the front desk to avoid unexpected charges.
Famous TV Shows Can Influence Guests
After the show American Horror Story: Hotel, some travelers admitted they felt uneasy staying in certain hotels. Fictional scares can sometimes leave real impressions.
Taxi Fares Can Be Negotiated
If you’re staying at a hotel, consider negotiating your taxi fare ahead of time. Some drivers inflate prices when they know tourists are headed to popular hotels.
Conclusion: Be Hotel-Savvy for a Better Stay
Hotels are full of quirks and secrets that aren’t always obvious to guests. From sneaky resort fees to overlooked cleanliness, understanding these insider truths can help you make smarter choices during your stay. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, being informed ensures a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Enjoy your trip—and don’t forget to check the remote!
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