Going on a family vacation, taking time out for a couple’s weekend, or even traveling for business purposes can be exciting. If you’re handling the planning, you’re probably browsing hotel websites, looking for one with the most appealing amenities.
While it has become standard for hotels and resorts to offer things like free coffee, guests want to see a variety of amenities where they’re staying. Starting with the usual fare, let’s explore 12 of the best amenities guests look for.
- Personal care items
Most hotels offer small bottles of shampoo and conditioner and mini soap bars. If you’re traveling on an airplane where there are size restrictions to some of these products, it helps to rely on finding them gratis at your destination. The best resorts stock organic products or luxury brands. Also, you can often pick up complimentary items like razors or toothbrushes at the front desk.
- Free on-site parking
Many guests find it frustrating to pay for parking separate from their hotel bill. That’s why free on-site parking can be so attractive. For clients with limited mobility, parking lots should have spaces and entrances that accommodate their needs. It should be noted that valet parking is often a paid service.
- Wi-Fi
These days it’s unusual for a hotel or resort to charge for Wi-Fi. Almost everyone, adult or child, enjoys online entertainment or wants to check their email account or log into social media while they’re away. Plus, having Wi-Fi available is a must for business travelers.
- Mini-fridge
Many resort guest rooms come with a small fridge where people can keep their beverages cold or store leftovers from last night’s dinner. Some hotels provide complimentary bottled water in addition to some basic snacks. High-end establishments even house mini-fridges right in the bathroom so you can grab a cool drink from the shower.
- Pickleball courts
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports for adults and families alike, so it’s no wonder that more and more holiday resorts are building pickleball courts for the free use of their clients. At some locales, you can even sign up for a competitive tournament during your stay or take lessons.
- Mini-golf
A favorite pastime for many Americans is mini-golf. It can be enjoyed by the whole family regardless of an individual’s age or skill level. Many resorts recognize this and have created miniature golf courses either outside or inside—or both. Often, the equipment can be signed out at no charge.
- Fitness facilities
For many travelers, an in-house fitness facility is a must. Keeping up a workout routine allows them to stay balanced and make the most of their time away from home. Some luxury destinations offer athletic clothing or accessories on the house, not to mention free fitness instruction or classes.
- Pools, hot tubs, and saunas
Most resorts and hotels offer a pool for their guests. What’s more, many have hot tubs and/or saunas. Depending on its location, the pool could be indoor or outdoor. Whether you want to swim for exercise or play with your kids in the water, you should have little difficulty booking a place with a pool.
- Breakfast
A no-charge buffet breakfast is another popular hotel freebie. Some are simple affairs with fruit, cereal, toast, coffee, and juice, but you can find hotels that offer a made-to-order breakfast of eggs and a variety of nutritious items for you to take with you. There’s nothing like having a hot meal to begin your day of fun and some snacks to keep you going.
- Electronics chargers
Have you ever left your phone charger at home? Forgetting to pack something important like that can be a real pain. Some hotels thoughtfully provide electronic chargers at the front desk for anyone to borrow.
- Laundry services
Several vacation complexes offer washers and dryers for guests can use. The convenience of being able to wash your clothing just down the hall from your room, particularly during a longer stay, is a real bonus. Some facilities offer a wash and fold service as well.
- Entertainment
Entertainment is the name of the game when you’re on holiday. Having said that, when you just want to kick back and relax in your room for a while, it’s good to have on-demand television programming. Your resort may provide DVDs, board games, or books as well. Some even include a popcorn maker as an in-room amenity.