Hotel Stays - Hidden Perks Most People Don't Get

Savvy travelers know a few simple tricks can help make any hotel stay better. Whether you’re chasing a better view, more space, or extra perks, these expert-backed tips can help you get more comfort, convenience and value out of your next trip. 

Talk to the Hotel Concierge

Most hotel guests walk right past the concierge, not realizing these talented individuals are a wealth of local knowledge. Yes, they can help you book transfers and make dinner reservations, but they can also offer personalized recommendations that go far beyond the basics such as the best hiking trails in the area, best venue to watch the perfect sunset, best walking route (safest) to get to your desired location in a big city. John and I learned that last one the hard way! We were in Philadelphia for the Army-Navy game with our kids. (The one where it snowed the whole game and army was in white uniforms). The Concierge kindly have us the best route to walk to get to the Liberty Bell from our hotel. But his suggestion had us walking several blocks out of our way so we decided to cut the corner to get there faster. Big mistake! It’s so true that in a big city- you can walk 2 blocks in “the wrong” directions and end up in an unsafe area.

A great question to ask the Concierge is, “If you were spending the day here, what would you do?” 

Beyond sharing their favorite hidden gems, concierges can also help unlock hidden perks you didn’t know existed. At the Paris Marriott Champs Elysee, for instance, they can arrange priority access to the Eiffel Tower. Similar advantages can apply to iconic landmarks such as the Louvre or the Palace of Versailles, where concierge-arranged visits may include priority entry or tailored experiences not accessible to the general public.

The concierge might also add thoughtful touches like a free glass of Champagne upon arrival at a restaurant or preferred seating at a show.

Booking through your hotel concierge, regardless of the request, guarantees an extra level of care and consideration that you’re unlikely to receive when making reservations independently. 

Timing is everything in the world of travel

Even if you’re visiting a super popular destination during peak season, you can still find moments of calm—and your hotel can help.

A great question to ask is, “When is the best time to visit (the spa, pool, restaurant)? The concierge knows all of this and can help you have a quiet, peaceful, relaxing experience instead of a stressful, overcrowded experience.

We were blessed by our hotel concierge during a recent visit to Paris. We asked him if there were any restaurants in close walking distance to the hotel (we just arrived from the US and wanted a good, quick dinner so we could get to bed early.) He suggested a restaurant 2 blocks away and suggested we get there before 6pm since we were too close in to get a reservation. Turns out- it was a Michelin starred restaurant; they seated us right away and we had a fabulous dinner and were in bed by 8!

Join Loyalty Programs

Hotel loyalty programs are free and can unlock perks like Wi-Fi, late checkout, room upgrades and points toward free nights. Even entry-level members get perks, so it’s worth taking a few moments to sign up. 

Space and Grace

A large, multi-room vacation rental where everyone can stay together might seem like the best choice for a multi-generational group getaway. But your family may enjoy the privacy and space of booking individual hotel rooms. For example, people have different sleep schedules with some being early birds and others being night owls. Have separate rooms allows everyone freedom and time to recharge.

Maximize Value

Look for those complimentary breakfast and spending credits. For example, for our clients booked on an Alaskan cruise from Vancouver, BC. We often put them at the Fairmount Waterfront, which is directly across the street from their ship and has fabulous harbor views to watch the sea planes land and take off and the cruise ships and sail boats come and go. Our hotel amenity program is wonderful: Free upgrades as available on arrival, free breakfast for 2 (worth $75) each day, $100 food and beverage credit, early check and late check out privileges and access to their lovely Club Lounge that has complimentary beverages and snacks throughout the day.

Communicate Early and Often

Many travelers think their hotel experience begins at check-in, but it often starts much earlier—right when the reservation is confirmed. Reaching out in advance gives hotel staff a chance to tailor the stay in ways that might not be possible at the last minute. When we make hotel reservations for our clients, we call the property in advance and speak to the hotel manager. WE let them know if our guest is celebrating something special, or if our clients would prefer a certain floor or would like to arrive early so kindly have their room early.

Be Polite and Professional

It may seem obvious, but simply being kind and considerate can go a long way. A friendly attitude at check-in can sometimes open the door to small perks—especially if the hotel has extra availability that day. While upgrades aren’t guaranteed, front desk staff often have some flexibility, particularly during slower periods. A courteous request—and a bit of patience—can sometimes lead to a larger room, a better view or access to extra amenities. 

Ask for Forgotten Items

These days, hotels don’t just carry extra toothbrushes in case guests forget theirs at home. Many properties quietly stock a range of useful items that can make a stay more comfortable or save travelers from an emergency shopping trip. A quick call to reception can sometimes solve problems you didn’t pack—or plan—for.

At high end hotels, even items such as adapters, beach bags, yoga mats and toiletries might be available to you. It never hurts to ask - nicely. 😊

Remember, your next adventure awaits!