If it is your first time staying at a Hotel in the U.S.A. here are 10 tips to prepare you for your stay.
- Natural Air -First and foremost, most US hotels especially in cities will have windows that do not open. Non functioning windows are cheaper, require less maintenance and allow for complete control of the indoor climate which means more savings for hotels. Hotels will tell you that it’s to prevent suicides but that is clearly not the reason as a simple window stopper can be installed to allow the windows to open 6 inches (15 cm) only. Click here to find hotels with opening windows https://openmyhotelwindow.com/.
- Incidentals – When checking in you will be informed that your credit card will be put on hold for an extra $50-$200 for incidentals. This is perfectly normal and as long as you don’t destroy the room, smoke or steal anything all your money will be returned once you check out.
- Smoking – Most hotels are completely smoke free and smoking is usually not allowed even on the balconies. Some hotels may force a strict penalty for smoking and be sure that if a neighbor sees or smells it they will complain. So just don’t do it, take a walk outside if you are going to smoke a cigarette.
- Upgrades – To make the most of your stay, call after booking and ask details about your room (the view, floor, balcony etc.). You can always kindly ask for a higher floor or a room with a balcony. Depending on availability the agent might be able to fulfill your request.
- Problems – If you end up having any issues with your stay, talk to the employee at the front desk. Be polite and state specifically what the problem is, what are the reasons and how it can be solved. Hotel employees are usually very polite and friendly and will try to help you the best they can.
- Resort fees – Be wary of resort/hidden fees if your hotel is fancy or has the word resort in it. These fees are not included in the initial price.
- Water – Tap water is safe and drinkable in the USA. It is regulated by the EPA and except for some rare occurrences where it has been contaminated it is completely safe to drink and yes it safe to even drink from the bathroom faucet. Bottled water is complimentary sometimes, just ask the front desk.
- Credit cards – Use a credit card, avoid cash and debit cards which will make everything more complicated.
- Taxes – Check for sales tax which varies from state to state and lodging tax which varies from city to city. Depending on where you’re going, it could range between 7-17%. When browsing booking sites the tax will not be included in the price until final payment. So just keep that in mind.
- Accent – Do not for a second feel that your accent should hold you back. In America many people have an accent. Your English is probably a lot better than you think.