As the pandemic continues, states are reopening and life may require you to travel out of necessity again (i.e. relocation and other unforeseen circumstances). If you find yourself in a hotel again, here are some of the changes that have been made to ensure the safety of our hotel guests and employees.
1. Less Contact and Social Distancing
It may be tempting to just walk into the hotel but many are enforcing the government mandate to wear masks upon entering public spaces. You may begin to see measures in place such as additional stanchions, plexiglass, and tables to create distance between guests. As a courtesy, please follow these guidelines to keep yourself and staff safe.
It is strongly encouraged to keep a distance of 6 feet from your hotel staff and refrain from using common areas as gathering places. Most importantly, hold your ID and form of payment up so that employees can verify without needing to touch your personal property. It keeps everyone in the transaction safe. Similarly, place your keys in the designated drop off containers. This way contact is minimized between one another. Many hotels will also begin encouraging mobile check-in via their respective loyalty program apps.
2. Limited Amenities
It is best to call ahead if there is something you need. Expect that most common spaces and fitness facilities will be closed as the pandemic continues to maintain safety. Depending on the property, food and beverage outlets and room service will be suspended or limited until business resumes as usual.
3. Limited Housekeeping
Turndown service and housekeeping will not be available for many guests throughout the duration of their stay to protect housekeepers and guests. In some properties, you may even be required to strip the bed yourself at checkout and place linens in a designated bag. Towels and linens along with toiletry items are still available upon request for the duration of your stay,
4. Increased Cleaning Procedures
Employees around the globe will be cleaning far more regularly than before. Hand sanitizers and wipes will be available in common spaces for guests to ensure proper hand hygiene. Employees will also be cleaning surfaces such as check-in counters and similar high-touch areas. Corporate-owned and managed properties are working to develop medical-grade cleaning devices to sanitize guestrooms and common spaces more efficiently.
5. Cancellation Policies Shifting
Depending on the brand, hotel cancellation policies will shift to accommodate changes due to COVID-19. It is best to read the updated policies as they develop since the lockdown is an ever-changing variable from region to region. As of May 2020, cancellations and arrangements will be slightly more flexible up to a certain date for most brands.
As times change, so must we. Hotels will need to adapt as the pandemic continues along with their guests and employees. Whatever the case may be, hotels are looking forward to welcoming guests safely with open arms. In the meantime, stay safe and healthy at home.