Tips for hosts and guests during the holidays

by W. Andrew Powell

HotelHotelAs the holidays approach, there’s always a lot of stress for families, and friends, as loved ones come to visit for a few days… or weeks. To help ease the pain, Hotels.com is offering a few tips to help your guests feel like they’re actually checking in to a private getaway destination, and to help guests to make sure they’re not freeloading on your best intentions.

Check out the tips below, and have your say about the best suggestions for holiday travellers in the comments section.

Tips for the holiday host:

1. Welcome home: Make your guests feel right at home by providing easy access to amenities they find in hotels or their own homes like a TV channel guide in their room, Wi-Fi access cheat sheet and by providing a quick tour of the kitchen and pantry.

2. Get cozy: Unless you’re in the Caribbean, it’s probably cold outside. Do as the top hotels and put out a throw pillow, slippers or a robe. This simple gesture will make your guests feel right at home. There is also something super cozy about the warm glow of lamps and candles – especially those with yummy holiday scents!

3. Stock up on warm drinks: Hot chocolate, hot cider, coffee and tea are an easy and affordable way to treat your guests. Consider putting a coffee maker in your guest room so guests can have fresh java just the way they like it.

4. Bring out the games: Regardless of age, we’re never too old to have some fun. Board games are a great way to spend time together away from the television. Building a gingerbread house is another great activity if there are kids around.

5. Prepare toiletries: Create a little kit for your guest room that includes everything they might need, or could forget, including toothbrushes, shampoo and body lotion.

Tips for the holiday guest:

1. Show gratitude and bring a gift: A host or hostess gift is a must if visiting friends or family. This small gesture could apply to hotel guests too. Pay it forward and give your bell hop or housekeeper a generous tip, or bring the doorman hot chocolate. Remember hotel employees are missing the holidays with their families to serve you. A little appreciation goes a long way!

2. Clean up after yourself: Wash your plates or stack them in the dishwasher after meals and don’t forget to strip your bed before you leave.

3. Don’t expect a babysitter: If you’re travelling with kids, just because you’re on vacation, remember it is still your responsibility to watch them. If your child is in the curious stage, bring some easy and temporary childproofing items with you like cabinet and door locks.

4. Respect house rules: This may not seem like a big deal to you, but to your host it matters. Show respect, and if certain areas are off limits, or shoes are to be removed when inside, it’s important to do so.

5. Thank you notes are key: Never underestimate the power of the written word. Whether you stayed with family or at a hotel, a simple note is a great way to express your appreciation.

Need to get out of town and need some tips for holiday hotels? Check out these suggestions:

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, AB: This hotel loves the holidays so much that they developed a special holiday booklet to keep guests apprised of all the activities. Attractions include a gingerbread house workshop to Santa’s workshop, cookie decorating, a traditional Christmas sing-a-long, ice skating and much more. Just because you’re not at home doesn’t mean you have to miss the turkey and stuffing either, as they have traditional dinner on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. ADR in Banff: $164

The Bellagio in Las Vegas, NV: Everything in Vegas is over the top, so we can’t expect the holiday season to be any different. The Bellagio hotel transforms its Conservatory & Botanical Gardens to accommodate the holiday theme which includes daily live musical performances, oversized ornaments, bells and snowflakes. ADR in Las Vegas: $113

The New York Palace in New York, NY: This hotel is a prime holiday destination for several reasons. It is known for its stunning holiday decorations, but its location is what makes it so great for holiday activities. Located near Fifth Avenue shopping, ice skating and the famous tree at Rockefeller Center this hotel gives you the authentic New York holiday experience. ADR in New York: $257

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