Hotels.com has unveiled a report that caught everyone’s attention by revealing behind-the-scenes stories of over 400 hotels worldwide. From bizarre items left behind by guests to room service requests that make you wonder, the hidden stories within hotels are full of surprises. Plus, there are special services offered by hotels that we never knew about.
Melanie Fish, Deputy Director of Global Publicity at Hotels.com, said, “From guitar concierges to pet therapists, hotels provide services that meet the unique demands of travelers.”
The most common lost items are soiled laundry, chargers, and cosmetics. However, this report focuses on unusual lost items. The most expensive lost items include Rolex watches, Birkin bags, and watches worth over 900 million won. Awkward lost items found after check-out include chicks and pet lizards. Essential items like two leg casts and a set of dentures that could fill an entire hotel, along with inexplicable items like rice cookers, tires, blenders, and construction pipes, were also discovered.
Some hotels have services for forgetful guests. Viceroy Riviera Maya Resort offers a “soap concierge” service, while Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel operates a “Forgot it? We’ve got it!” program. Through this program, guests can browse and rent accessories like sunglasses and handbags from Anthropologie retail shops.
Hoteliers’ tear-soaked efforts to return lost items also stand out. One employee drove 160 km to return a guest’s passport, while another rushed to the pier just before a cruise ship departed to deliver a lost item. There are even cases where hotel staff returned a travel bag after a four-hour journey.
Room service requests are also becoming increasingly unique. From bathtubs filled with Evian water to pet-friendly menus (gluten-free, dairy-free), toasted sandwiches, caviar hot dogs, fresh goat milk, and 2 kg of bananas, guests confirm their room service requests being accepted by high-fiving staff.
Surprisingly, hotels are adapting to increasingly creative room service requests. For example, at W Osaka in Japan, guests can order anything, anytime through the “Whatever/Whenever” button. At Hospes Maricel & Spa in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, guests can enjoy beauty programs like face care and the latest skincare treatments as room service. Room service is evolving into an all-purpose problem solver, meeting guests’ needs and even addressing their skin concerns.
The report also revealed secret perks offered by hotels. These unique services transform ordinary stays into extraordinary experiences.
If you’re a culture enthusiast, you can take a private tour of the British Museum at The Montague on the Gardens in London. And if you’re a wine lover, you can enjoy a personalized wine tasting at Villa Gallici Hôtel & Spa in France.
Hotels.com has shared tips on how to make the most of your hotel stay. Smokers can request a room with a balcony to enjoy a worry-free, leisurely experience. If you prefer a quiet environment, aim for a high-floor room. And at Hotels.com’s VIP access accommodations, luxury treatment awaits Silver-tier and above members. Starting with room upgrades, guests can relax with spa vouchers and kickstart their mornings with complimentary breakfast.
By Hyo-Jung Kwon, Travel+ Journalist