Intro:
Corporate executives have high expectations for their travel accommodations. Thus, their assistants pick the ones that meet them. In other situations, the company’s corporate travel planner handles the hotel reservations in miles motels.
In situations when you receive carte blanche to pick your hotel, ensure that you pick the best one. It’s important to have a good experience. Your accommodations can set the tone for your trip.
The following are seven things to remember when choosing a hotel.
1. Research the Location
Thanks to online map features, it’s easier to get around any town.
Some online maps allow you to see addresses from the street view. However, the street view shows you a moment in time. It doesn’t show the user how the area looks the rest of the day and night.
When booking a new hotel, research the location first.
It’s important to find accommodations in areas that remain fairly safe during the day and night hours. Lodging that resides near restaurants and business meeting venues is always a bonus.
2. Ensure it Caters to Business Clients
The business travel market share in the United States continues to increase. In 2019, it made up 30% of the total American travel industry. Therefore, lodging providers see a new opportunity.
Hotels that cater to business clients operate a little differently from those that do not. They recognize that the corporate client has a different set of needs from the overnight guest. Plus, they use the room in another manner.
Hotel rooms for corporate clients are more likely to consist of workspace essentials, different layouts, and remain quieter.
3. Scan the Amenities
Before booking a room, scan the amenities. Most business travelers request:
- Reliable internet service
- Accessible power outlets
- Fitness room
- On-site dining
- Workspace
Depending on the destination, you might have to set your expectations. That’s why it’s a good idea to know the available amenities before booking the room.
4. Read the Reviews
If you have a good experience at a hotel, you can skip reading the reviews. However, when you book a new location, read the reviews before accepting the terms and conditions.
Each hotel has a purpose. Some cater to road travelers who only need a bed to sleep in for the night. Others sit in locations that have taken a turn in a different direction.
Hotel reviews provide an honest picture of the location. Read at least five. Look over reviews that provide an array of ratings, especially the two- and four-star ones. Then, decide if that’s where you want to stay on your next corporate trip.
5. Know the Check-in Rules
In general, check-in takes place after 3 pm; check-out takes place at 11 am. Those who fly on the red-eye must speak with their hotel a few days before the flight.
Your goal is to ensure that they will accommodate your arrival time. Some tack on an extra fee. Others allow an early check-in as a thank-you for your business. Plus, they have availability to make this exception.
6. Assess the Availability
Some hotels sit in high-demand areas. Therefore, it’s tough to book a room with them at the last minute. When a company develops a relationship with a hotel chain or location, they can get around the limited availability.
Small businesses who send employees on travel meetings can compete too. If you work consistently with the same hotels, it garners you a spot among their favorites.
When booking with a specific hotel becomes difficult, it’s time to find another.
7. Evaluate the Rewards Program
Sticking with a hotel chain can make booking rooms across the United States easier. The big names in the industry aim to protect their brands. Therefore, they provide consistent service. In addition, they provide tiered services so that guests can remain confident they’ll have a stellar experience.
If you book several rooms annually, evaluate the rewards program for the chains and boutiques. Keep in mind that hotels see the business traveler segment continuing to increase in value. So, they compete with each other for this business.
One way they compete is through their reward offerings. Consider opting for the most attractive program.
Conclusion
In most cases, picking a hotel is an easy task. Opting for a hotel chain remains a safe choice. Sometimes a specific location provides some surprises. To prevent them, complete research beforehand.