Three key things to consider when booking a hotel, according to expert
Booking a hotel or a place to stay when organising a holiday can sometimes feel more stressful than it needs to be.
With a few simple steps you can take the anxiety out of planning, a hotel expert has revealed.
Speaking to 9Travel, Dean Jones, who is Vice President, Commercial, East Asia & Pacific at IHG Hotels & Resorts, has shared the top three things people should look out for when booking. And a common mistake to look out for.
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There are three key things to consider when looking for a hotel. Getty
And the first rule of thumb is to think about what truly matters to you. What are your non-negotiables?
"When booking a hotel, it's important to ensure it offers amenities that are non-negotiables for you to make your stay as comfortable as possible," Dean tells us, pointing to things like reliable Wi-Fi, a comfortable in-room workspace, a pool, parking, or on-site dining options.
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"Everyone's needs are different, so take a moment to consider what matters most to you during your stay.
"For instance, if you're travelling with pets, be sure to review the hotel's pet policy in advance. Many of our brands, including Kimpton, are well-known for pet-friendly offerings and warmly welcome furry friends."
How important is it to you to have a nice hotel pool for example. Mindil Beach Casino Resort
The next key thing to consider seems like a no-brainer. It's all about the location.
"We've all had that moment where you arrive at a beautiful hotel, only to realise it's far from where you actually need to be," Dean says.
"A well-located hotel doesn't just cut down transport time, it amplifies your stay. It's about spending your time doing what you came for, not commuting back and forth."
Finally if you're travelling a lot, Dean says it could be worth joining hotel loyalty program.
"Members get extra perks like free breakfast, early check-in, and late checkout," he says of IHG One Rewards.
Same goes for having a better chance of scoring a room upgrade, Dean says.
Different hotels cater to different traveller needs. Supplied/Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
What do you look for in a good hotel?
When it comes to what a hotel boss looks for in a good property, Dean says it varies depending on the trip.
"If I'm travelling for work, I love a quick check-in, a quiet room with a good desk setup, strong Wi-Fi, and ideally a space that's stylish but still comfortable… and great coffee doesn't hurt either!"
But things are different when he's with family.
"I really value thoughtful service, flexible room layouts, and experiences that make it easy for everyone to enjoy – from a warm welcome for the kids to helpful concierge recommendations," Dean explains.
"Across both, I definitely appreciate great design, attention to detail, and thoughtful service. That sense of being looked after, without things feeling overdone, is what makes a stay stand out for me."
