7 secrets of hotels revealed
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<p>Why is the hotel mini-fridge so expensive? Can I take the slippers and robe from my room when I leave? Am I expected to tip? All the questions about hotels you’ve been too afraid to ask have just been answered by <a href="http://www.escape.com.au/travel-advice/10-top-questions-about-hotels-you-were-too-afraid-to-ask/news-story/00035356ef09c0b9726c86cb785337b1" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Escape</span></strong></a>.</p>
<p><strong>1. Why is the mini-fridge so expensive?</strong></p>
<p>According to Gail Hughes from TravelManagers, it’s all down to convenience. “You don’t need to put on shoes and head outside the hotel to find a convenience store to buy a chocolate or if you feel like a drink in your room.”</p>
<p><strong>2. Can I take the robe or slippers home?</strong></p>
<p>The robe? No. The slippers, however, are a different matter. “Perhaps a little-known fact among guests is that if you used them, you are more than welcome to take your slippers home with you,” Grand Hyatt Melbourne’s Ilan Weill explains. “We certainly do not reuse them.”</p>
<p><strong>3. What else can I take home?</strong></p>
<p>In addition to the slippers, you can take home any small amenities. “As long as you don’t take the kettle, most hotels are fine for you to take the bathroom and coffee and tea amenities, including soap, tea and hair products,” says Wotif.com travel expert Amanda Behre. “However, all hotels are different, so you should always check with reception if you are not sure.”</p>
<p><strong>4. What should I expect from 5-star accommodation?</strong></p>
<p>“Offerings differ depending on the property type and location,” Behre explains. “However, travellers can expect a high level of service, including indulgent rooms, VIP-style service, a decadent breakfast, fluffy bathrobes and pillows, along with many other perks.”</p>
<p><strong>5. Who am I expected to tip?</strong></p>
<p>Housekeeping? Luggage handlers? Hughes says it all depends on the country you’re visiting. “Some countries such as Japan consider tipping rude. However, if you are travelling to Africa or the USA, where tipping is appreciated, you could tip housekeeping $US2-5 ($A2.60-6.50). This is at your own discretion and only if you are completely happy with the service.”</p>
<p><strong>6. What exactly does the concierge do?</strong></p>
<p>The concierge is there to help you with anything to do with your visit, from flights to activities and everything in between. “If anyone loves a challenge, it’s the hotel concierge,” says Dion Chandler from Adelphi Hotel in Melbourne. “Tickets to a sold-out show? Not a problem for the concierge.”</p>
<p><strong>7. How can I get an early check-in or late check-out?</strong></p>
<p>It never hurts to ask, but if you’re part of the hotel’s loyalty program, you’re much more likely to have your request for an early check-in or late check-out granted. “We always say yes if we can,” Weill explains. “Unfortunately, this is not always possible.”</p>
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