Hotel Front Desk Confessions: The Do’s, Don’ts, and “Why Are You Like This?” Moments Every Guest Should Read
If you’ve ever wondered what hotel staff really think when you saunter in four hours before check-in, or sheepishly ask for “just one more” free water bottle, buckle up. The front desk is more than a countertop—it’s a battlefield of patience, timekeeping, and, apparently, bottled water rations. In a recent viral post on r/TalesFromTheFrontDesk, Redditor u/Hotelslave93 laid out the “Do’s and (mainly) Don’ts” of hotel guest behavior, and it’s equal parts hilarious and eye-opening.
So, whether you’re a road warrior, a family on vacation, or just someone who’s ever stayed at a hotel, these tales from the trenches might just make you rethink your next check-in strategy.
Time Is of the Essence (Seriously, Look at Your Phone)
Let’s start with the basics: time. It’s the one thing that unites us all—unless you’re a hotel guest with a magical ability to ignore it completely. According to our front desk insider, there’s a special place in hospitality limbo for guests who show up four hours early, then act flabbergasted that their room isn’t ready.
“You have a phone and know what time it currently is,” writes u/Hotelslave93. And yet, every day, someone walks in, luggage in tow, eager to “just check” if their room is ready—then sighs dramatically when it’s not.
Here’s the pro tip: If you’re going to arrive early, call ahead. Sometimes, the stars align and the room is ready. But more often than not, you’ll just get to know the lobby seating area a little too well. Remember, housekeeping isn’t powered by magic elves—they need time to turn over rooms, especially after last night’s “all-you-can-eat pizza” convention.
The Late Check-Out Tango
Next up, the late check-out dance. We’ve all been there—snuggled in crispy white sheets, clinging to the last moments of vacation. But, as our front desk friend points out, asking for a late check-out five minutes before you’re supposed to leave is not just wishful thinking—it’s a logistical nightmare.
“You knew what time check out was since yesterday at the least. Use your alarm clock or your phone!”
Now, there’s empathy for families wrangling tiny humans, but if it’s just you and your partner and you’re still horizontal at 10:55 am, you’re not making anyone’s day easier. Want a late check-out? Ask in advance. Sometimes, hotels can accommodate. But if you wait until the last minute, don’t be surprised if the answer is “no”—and if housekeeping is waiting outside your door, humming the theme from Jaws.
The Great Bottled Water Heist
And then there’s the age-old saga of free water. Hotels often hand over a complimentary bottle at check-in, a token of hospitality. But there’s always that guest who treats the front desk like a water fountain—coming back, again and again, with a hopeful glint in their eye.
“For some reason it makes me think you’re the a$_hat who brings 15+ items in the 10 item or less line.”
Ouch. But relatable. Here’s a little industry secret: that bottle of water is meant as a welcome gift, not an endless buffet. If you’re genuinely thirsty, by all means, ask politely—just don’t make it a sport. The front desk can spot a water hustler a mile away.
Golden Rules for Guests (and a Few Redemption Tips)
So, what’s the takeaway? Being a good hotel guest isn’t rocket science—it’s just about a little courtesy, some advance planning, and maybe not treating bottled water like buried treasure.
Do: - Check your check-in and check-out times. Trust us, your phone knows. - Call ahead if your plans change. Surprises are for birthdays, not hotel lobbies. - Treat staff like humans—smiles and thank-yous go a long way.
Don’t: - Show up four hours early with an attitude. - Beg for late check-out at the last minute (unless you have a toddler, a dog, or a medical emergency). - Treat the complimentary water like an all-you-can-drink bar.
Share Your Hospitality Wins (or Fails!)
Have you witnessed (or committed) one of these hotel faux pas? Maybe you’ve got your own “don’t” that drives you up the wall. Share your stories in the comments—let’s turn the tide of guest etiquette, one check-in at a time!
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just planning your next staycation, remember: a little consideration goes a long way. And if in doubt, just ask yourself, “Would I want to be on the other side of that front desk?”
Happy travels—and don’t forget to check the time.
Original Reddit Post: Do's and Don'ts (Mainly Don'ts)