If you have been thinking of spending some extra money to stay at a luxury five-star hotel. Do it!, you deserve to be spoiled, live in luxury, and have your needs met before you even know that you need anything.
I have come up with my list of 5 areas that I feel set different hotels apart, and make the experience even that much better. It’s pretty simple for the top hotels to do, and it’s the small attention to details and service that have made the difference to me.
Of course there are certain things that some five-star hotels can offer that others can’t based on location, time of year, and staff.
Here are some of the things that easily enhance the experience that I notice right away, and really set the tone of luxury and attention to detail that you should expect.
Bathroom
Let’s start with the bathroom. Do they have two sinks? Also they should have that simple little lighted make-up mirror a good sign if they do. Also a scale is something I have come to expect, 2 warm cozy robes, slippers (sometimes found in the closet), Q-tips, cotton pads, lip balm, body wash, nail care items, sewing kit, bottled water, loads of extra cozy towels, soaps, body wash shampoos, conditioner, body cream, real décor silver, glass items in the bathroom, and a double shower head. A must is a real hairdryer, extra combs and now they even have small airline size plastic bags that you can take home your unused items.
Closet
In the closet I like to find extra hangers wood ones that actual come off the racks, they should also have many soft cloth hangers, extra pillows, extra warm cozy blankets, and yes I like to find a iron, and extra luggage rack. How great is it to have a safe that’s actually large enough for my laptop and a safe that has plugs in it – excellent!
The Minibar and refrigerator
It’s great to find fresh and healthy items these days in your room, so hotels will have some cheese and fruit waiting for you. In the minibar some healthy items are a big plus and a nice selection of sweet and salty items. Coffee makers stocked with the right condiments and extra tea, coffee.
Concierge & Staff
Above all the hotel staff can make or break your experience. A concierge who knows how to communicate, is helpful, and offers great suggestions is worth their weight in gold. Anyone who comes into your room, from housekeeping in the day, to the room turndown service at night. Bellhops, maintenance personal, room service servers, those who are warm and friendly bring comfort and value to your stay.
Other Amenities
Round the clock room service, laundry service, 24 hour fitness center with water, towels, magazine, and juice.
A few more of my top choices —
Villa D Este Via Regina 40 Lake Como Cernobbio CO 22012 Italy 1-855-201-7819
Grand Hotel Timeo Teatro Greco 59, 98039 Taormina, Italy
Four Seasons Hotels Nevis,Florence,Haulalai,Chicago, New York, Whistler
Hotel Le Meurice Paris, France
The Peninsula Hotels – Chicago, Beverly Hills
St. Regis Florence – The Grand Hotel
Feel free to contact me on Twitter @BethRosen
and next week I will be covering each hotel in more detail.