With a city as big as New York, it’s no surprise that the best hotels range from boutique properties with Central Park views to opulent luxury stays located just steps away from NYC’s most famous attractions. The best hotels are those that offer precision, discretion and the kind of round-the-clock dedication that makes you feel not only cared for but right at home.
Aside from offering a place to sleep and shower, hotels typically have additional amenities for guests like restaurants and fitness centers. Hotel staff are also available to assist with things like booking local activities and sightseeing trips. In general, hotels tend to be larger than motels and are geared towards travelers who arrive at the property mostly via car or taxi.
In a survey of travelers, the 50 Best organization recently revealed the world’s top hotel: Passalacqua, an 18th century villa on the shores of Italy’s Lake Como. The luxury property, which costs about $1,300 a night, received high marks for its history and setting as well as its modern-day amenities including an 18th century chapel. The company says the rankings are based on an evaluation of “all aspects of the guest experience, from room and bathroom design to service and food and beverage.”
Many hotels have their own loyalty programs that give guests perks like free stays or upgraded rooms. These programs are aimed primarily at frequent travelers, but even occasional guests can reap the benefits by joining one. Many travel apps and sites also offer bundled packages that allow consumers to save money by purchasing both a hotel stay and a flight or car rental at the same time.
While some travelers are hesitant to book through an app, others say it can be helpful to compare prices before making reservations. These tools are also useful for finding hidden deals and price fluctuations, as they can alert travelers to discounts or bargains that may not be advertised. Some apps have partnerships with specific hotels and will guarantee the lowest price if booked through the platform.
The latest technology is revolutionizing the way hotels communicate with their guests. Some are adopting chatbots and other automated systems that can help answer questions quickly, provide concierge services and make recommendations for dining and entertainment options. Whether it’s for a reservation or an in-room request, these tools can be more convenient and less time-consuming than calling the front desk.
It’s also important for hotels to stay on top of guest feedback and respond to reviews in a timely manner. If a guest experiences a problem, it’s important that the hotel address the issue as soon as possible so the customer can leave happy memories of their trip. This is particularly true for businesses that cater to tourists, who often have very limited time to enjoy their getaways.