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“Three Signs That It’s Time to Check Out of Your Hotel or Guesthouse”

An industry veteran with 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector advises that upon checking into a hotel room, there are three key things to look out for. If any of these red flags are present, it's a sign that your stay may be less than satisfactory, and it might be wise to consider alternative accommodations.

Administrator

2 September, 2024

Thinking of staying in a hotel or motel? Be cautious. It’s a mistake to assume that all accommodations are safe and secure. After checking in, it’s crucial to inspect your room for any abnormalities. If you encounter any of the following three things, don’t hesitate to check out immediately.

1. Two-Way Mirrors

According to a hotel service professional with 20 years of experience, it’s common for guests to bring their own disposable items when staying in hotels or motels. However, aside from hygiene concerns, the most critical aspect to consider is the mirrors installed in your room.

While regular hotels typically use one-way mirrors, it’s essential to conduct a thorough check before settling in. Unscrupulous hotels or motels may install two-way mirrors, allowing someone on the other side to observe your every move.

One-way mirrors feature a single layer, allowing you to see your reflection without anyone on the opposite side seeing you. On the other hand, two-way mirrors enable individuals on both sides to see each other, compromising your privacy.

Testing for a two-way mirror is simple. Just use your finger to touch the mirror; if there’s a gap between your finger and its reflection, it’s a standard one-way mirror. However, if there’s no gap, you may be facing a two-way mirror, and it’s time to check out.

2. Dirty Showerheads and Faucets

Upon checking into your hotel room, don’t forget to inspect the showerheads and faucets. It’s not just about checking for grime or limescale; you should also examine the showerhead’s water pipes.

Disassemble the showerhead and check the pipes for any hair or other debris. If you find any, refrain from using the shower, and contact the front desk immediately to request a replacement or consider checking out.

3. Hidden Cameras

In addition to maintaining hygiene, it’s crucial to ensure your privacy when staying in a hotel. When you first enter your room, avoid changing clothes or plugging in electronic devices. Instead, inspect the room for any infrared lights, especially in sockets, TV holes, or other hidden areas.

If you spot any red lights, it’s a telltale sign of a hidden camera. Should you discover any privacy-invading devices in your hotel room, it’s best to decline the room and contact the front desk to express your concerns and check out immediately.

Your safety should always come first when staying in a hotel. Don’t overlook these crucial details. If you find any of these three items in your hotel room, check out as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions

There are a few key signs that indicate it’s time to leave your accommodation. First, if you’re experiencing poor customer service, such as unfriendly staff or a lack of responsiveness to your requests, it’s a good indication that you won’t have a positive stay and it might be time to leave. Second, if you find that the facilities are not up to your standards, whether it’s due to a lack of cleanliness, broken amenities, or an uncomfortable bed, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your time there. Finally, if you feel that the location is inconvenient or unsafe, it can ruin your overall experience and it’s probably best to cut your stay short and find alternative accommodation.

Unfriendly or rude staff can certainly make your stay unpleasant. Additionally, if your requests are being ignored or met with resistance, it’s a sign that the management doesn’t value your comfort or satisfaction. For example, if you’ve asked for a quiet room and your request is ignored, or if you need assistance with your luggage and the staff is unwilling to help, it’s time to consider checking out.

Pay attention to the cleanliness of the room and the shared spaces. If you notice dirt, stains, or an unpleasant odor, it’s a sign that the place isn’t being properly maintained. Check that all the amenities advertised are functioning properly. This includes things like the shower, toilet, air conditioning, TV, and WiFi. Finally, consider the comfort of the bed and pillows. If you’re not getting a good night’s sleep due to an uncomfortable bed, it’s definitely time to look for alternative accommodation.

An inconvenient location might be one that is far from the attractions or areas you want to visit, requiring long commutes. Additionally, if the neighborhood feels unsafe, with signs of crime or a lack of security, it’s not worth risking your well-being. Trust your instincts and if you feel uncomfortable or vulnerable, it’s best to leave and find a place that makes you feel secure.