A hotel can feel like a luxurious home away from home, but that doesn’t mean you should always act the way you do in the confines of your actual abode. Recently, HBO’s “The White Lotus” illustrated the kind of rude behavior many hotel guests display regularly. And while the show was entertaining to watch, it should not be a model for acceptable traveler etiquette ― especially as the hospitality industry struggles amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Travel is picking up, and hotels are finally getting back to business,” said Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert, author of “Modern Etiquette for a Better Life,” and founder of The Protocol School of Texas. “Do your part to keep the experience pleasant for fellow guests and hotel staff.”
To that end, HuffPost asked Gottsman and other etiquette experts to identify some rude behaviors they often observe at hotels and advice for avoiding this faux pas. Read on for 13 examples.
Trashing Your Room
“The housekeeping team should not encounter an unconscionable mess upon entering your room,” said Thomas P. Farley, the nationally syndicated etiquette columnist Mister Manners. “Ensure the habitation is presentable and hygienic before hanging the ‘please makeup room’ tag on your door.”
Beyond the state of your room, you can also be considerate about cleanliness with your room service tray or cart. “When it comes to room service, ask the hotel when you’re ordering what you should do with the tray or trolly when done,” said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert, and co-host of the “Were You Raised by Wolves?” podcast. “Many hotels would rather you call to have it picked up rather than have you just leave it in the hallway.”
Raiding The Housekeeping Supply Cart
Hotels offer many different amenities and supplies to make your stay comfortable, but that doesn’t mean you can help yourself to anything you see.
“Don’t raid the hotel housekeeping supply cart. Ask for what you need, so supplies don’t mysteriously come up short during the housekeeping shift,” said Patricia Rossi, a civility expert, keynote speaker, and the author of “Everyday Etiquette.”
Getting Greedy At The Buffet
“The complimentary breakfast buffet is not an all-day extravaganza,” emphasized Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. Don’t treat the breakfast buffet as an invitation to stock up on enough sustenance for multiple meals.
“When breakfast is included, know there’s a fine line between grabbing an extra banana to take back to your room and loading a full set of Tupperware with food to have for lunch and dinner later,” Leighton said.
