Registering to stay (check in) at a hotel is actually simple, but the procedures and facilities vary from hotel to hotel. Whether staying at a local or foreign hotel, as well as a large hotel that has many branches or just a small hotel, sufficient preparation and information will facilitate the hotel booking process.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Finding Out About The Hotel You're Going To
Step 1. Check the destination hotel online (online)
Before you decide on a hotel, check the hotel from the internet and pay attention to the choice of rooms, the location of the hotel, the facilities provided, and so on.
If you can't use the internet, you can call the hotel and ask a few things like hotel location, noise level, walking distance to restaurants around the hotel, etc
Step 2. Pay attention to the hotel's cancellation policy
Sometimes things happen unexpectedly, so make sure you agree to the hotel's policies, and know what the consequences will be.
Some hotels and hostels have basic amenities, so you may have to bring drinks and supplies such as sheets and towels
Step 3. Bring the map
Print a map of the location of the hotel you are going to so you can find its location even if you are in an unfamiliar area.
- It is better to bring an enlarged map and a reduced map that has been marked with your destination.
- In advance decide whether you will use a taxi, rental car, or public transportation from the point of arrival to the hotel.
- If you use a private car, make sure in advance that there is parking available for your vehicle, and know the cost and location according to your plan. And of course, don't forget to bring a map.
- If you use a taxi, as a foreign tourist, make sure you know the estimated fare of the trip so that you are not scammed by irresponsible parties.
Step 4. Confirm the hotel reservation before you arrive
We recommend that you confirm your reservation a few days before your trip.
- Tell the receptionist if you have ordered anything specifically in advance. (e.g. two adjoining rooms with connecting doors, non-smoking rooms, rooms away from noise, cots, etc).
- Confirming your reservation ahead of time will prevent mistakes on the part of the hotel, and help you if the hotel makes a mistake. That way you can negotiate for an increase in room type with the right reasons.
Step 5. Know the hotel check-in time
Almost all hotels, especially small hotels have certain hours for checking in.
- If the hotel check-in time is far apart, you can call the hotel and ask if you can check in earlier or at least leave your bags. after that you can walk around and start exploring!
- If you're checking in late at night, especially at a small hotel without a 24-hour concierge, it's a good idea to let the concierge know your arrival time so they can greet you.
Step 6. Make sure the name on the ID card, credit card, and passport is the same name
If the name on each card is different, this will make it difficult for you to register.
Method 2 of 2: Registering at the Hotel
Step 1. Go to reception
The front desk at a hotel is called a receptionist, and this is where you register.
Step 2. Prepare identification, reservation confirmation, and proof of payment (preferably a credit card with sufficient funds)
Identification cards can also be in the form of a driver's license (SIM), a passport, and one or more credit cards.
- If you are staying overseas, hotel employees will usually copy the front of your passport, or keep your passport during your stay.
- Proof of reservation confirmation is also useful, especially if you use a promo to stay at a hotel.
- If you haven't made a reservation, you must be tolerant if you are refused a stay because all rooms are fully occupied. Ask hotel employees for other hotel alternatives.
- Many hotels will withhold the amount of your stay plus a percentage for incidentals per day, so it's best not to give your debit card.
Step 3. Take note of the hotel facilities
Make sure you know where and when you have breakfast, internet access and passwords, work areas, lounges, bars, restaurants, gyms and spa facilities, and other facilities that make you comfortable.
Step 4. Feel free to ask questions
The hotel receptionist and staff can give you recommendations on places to visit and what to do around the hotel.
Step 5. Accept the key
Nowadays most hotels use electronic keys, but there are still some hotels that use old metal keys. Electronic keys are usually required to turn on the electricity in hotel rooms.
Make sure you know the hotel's policy regarding keys to be deposited at the reception which is usually a common procedure when there is only one key
Step 6. Give pocket money to the waiter (bellboy)
If the bellboy is carrying your luggage, make sure you give a tip to appreciate the effort.
There are some hotels that provide luxury trolleys and elevators, but there are also hotels that don't provide these so the bellboy has to carry your luggage up many stairs. Give appropriate tips
Step 7. Pay attention to the contents of your room
Before you take out your bag and rest, check the contents of the room to make sure it matches what the hotel promised, that all equipment is available and there are no bad smells or stains on the mattress (bed bugs), and so on.
- Check the cleanliness of the room. Make sure there are enough towels and toiletries.
- Check the wardrobe for extra blankets and pillows.
- If you are dissatisfied with your room's location, smell, or noise level, ask to be moved to another room. If possible, the hotel will accept your request. If there is no room of the same type as the room you booked, ask the hotel to upgrade to a better room or a room with a beautiful view.
Step 8. Unpack your belongings and make yourself feel at home
Relax and get your stuff out, shower, and get ready for the next thing!
Tips
- Ask and remember the concierge's name.
- If you like, give a tip to the cleaning maid who has made your bed. When was the last time someone made your bed every day?
- If you are staying abroad, in a country where English is spoken as a second or even third language, make sure you pronounce every word clearly and avoid using jargon for clear and efficient communication.
- Print out your reservation receipt and a map of the location of your hotel which includes the village/city/region of your destination hotel.
- Ask if the hotel provides a laundry service which will be very useful if you are traveling for a long time and you have a lot of dirty clothes.
