Your Guide to Nailing the Luxury Hotel Experience
So you have booked a luxury hotel stay. Congratulations! Now it is time to make the most of every moment, from the room to the spa to, perhaps most of all, the food. Here is how to get the full luxury experience and feel completely at home while you do it.
Pack for the setting
You do not need a suitcase full of designer clothes, but luxury hotels have a certain vibe.
Smart-casual is acceptable during the day but you may wish to smarten up for an evening meal. It’s worth checking with the individual restaurant or bar in advance to find out if they have a dress code and if so what this is. Most luxury hotels provide their guests with hotel robes, slippers and good quality hotel toiletries, so pack light but smart and remember items such as your favourite skin care products, a good book and smart dinner attire.
Do your research before you arrive
It’s worth looking through the hotel’s website or app and booking things that will get booked up, especially at weekends – such as treatments at the spa, bookings for dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, and afternoon tea. If you’re celebrating a special occasion it’s worth telling the hotel before you arrive, as many hotels like to mark guests’ birthdays and anniversaries with a small touch.
For a Luxury Hotel Llandudno, consider a site like https://stgeorgeswales.co.uk
Make the most of the food
Dining is often the highlight of your stay at a luxury hotel. Book your hotel restaurant for at least one night of your stay and find out if the hotel is offering a tasting menu. Having afternoon tea at a hotel is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Sandwiches, warm scones and cakes are brought to your table on tiered stands. Breakfast is also something not to skip. Many luxury hotels take pride in their breakfast offerings, from freshly baked pastries to cooked-to-order breakfasts. Having breakfast in bed from your room service menu at least once is a simple pleasure to enjoy during your hotel stay.
When you book a hotel, let them know about any allergies or special dietary requirements so the hotel’s kitchen can then prepare for your needs. Good hotels can cater for a guest who is vegetarian, vegan, or has gluten-free dietary requirements and so on.
Use everything that is on offer
Luxury hotels contain more than just bedrooms – they often include swimming pools, spas, gyms, gardens, bars and lounges. Try to find time to use them. If you would like something the hotel does not provide, such as extra pillows, a particular newspaper, or a recommendation for a local restaurant, just ask – helping guests is the staff’s job.
Ways to get the most from your stay
| When | Tip |
|---|---|
| Before arrival | Book dinner, spa and afternoon tea; mention any occasion or dietary needs |
| On arrival | Ask about facilities, times and anything included in your rate |
| During the stay | Try the restaurant, room service breakfast and the spa |
| Before leaving | Ask about late check-out, so the last morning is relaxed |
Frequently asked questions
Can you ask for a room upgrade at a luxury hotel?
You can ask politely, but do not expect one. Upgrades depend on availability, how busy the hotel is and whether you are celebrating something or a returning guest. Booking directly with the hotel and mentioning a special occasion can sometimes help.
Should you tip at a luxury hotel in the UK?
Tipping is optional and generally appreciated for good service. Many restaurants include a discretionary service charge on the bill. A little extra for porters, housekeeping or the concierge who has gone out of their way for you is a kind gesture, if you feel they have provided a good service.
Where to go next
Planning an afternoon treat? Read what you should know about afternoon tea, or see how to make the most of a five-star New Year’s Eve.
Most of all, relax and enjoy it. You have chosen a special stay, so make the most of every part of it.
