Most people who travel end up staying in a hotel. Sadly, this experience isn't always a good one. There are many tips and tricks which can help your hotel stay be the best possible. In fact, we've collected the best below, all from expert sources, so that you can learn what it takes to enjoy your hotel stay every time you have to do it.
Check the sheets on the bed for any questionable stains before you get in. Sometimes the bed linens don't come totally clean, but the maid won't necessarily notice. Flip the pillows, look at the top and bottom of the sheet, and check the whole thing out thoroughly. You may also want to check for bedbugs, just in case.
One alarming surprise you may get is when your clock wakes you up at a super early time. Make sure the clock is not set to go off, or if you don't know how to do that, just unplug it. Call the front desk and ask for a wake-up service if you need to be awake at a certain time, such as to catch your flight home.
If you forgot anything at home, from your toothbrush to a pair of socks, ask the front desk if they can help. They often have anything and everything available, be it a curling iron or a charger for your laptop. Frequently the items will be free of charge, saving you a ton over having to go out and buy a replacement.
Check out the room as soon as you get in and make sure it is up to snuff. Check the toiletries in the bathroom and call the front desk if anything is missing. Check your towels and be sure they are clean and fresh. If anything is amiss, be it a broken chair or an air conditioner which won't go on, ask for help or, at worst, a new room. The hotel will want to please you and will go to any lengths to do so.
If you have many things to plug in to charge on your trip, you may find that outlets are difficult to use. Bring a power bar along with you so that you can plug everything in at the most convenient location. Be sure the power bar has enough plugs for everything you need to charge, including cell phones, iPods, and laptops. If you have any other appliances you want to use, such as a hair dryer, curling iron or CPAP machine, you can use the power bar to extend the reach to the nearest outlet as well.
When you get home, check your credit card statement thoroughly. Be sure that you weren't charged for anything extra you don't remember using. Sometimes hotels make mistakes, and it is your job to catch them.
The stress of a vacation often overwhelms the relaxing aspects. Sometimes you can get home and feel like you need a vacation after your vacation! Relieve some of the stress by using the tips above and your hotel stays should be good from now on.