Journeys and Adventures

I’ve always been a fan of Budget Travel—they have interesting articles and helpful tips for anyone looking to travel anywhere and not spend a fortune (nowadays, who can?).  I’m particularly fond of their series on the hospitality industry: “Confessions of…”

In this collection of articles, hospitality workers like cruise agents, hotel inspectors, and massage therapists reveal some “behind-the-scenes” thoughts, activities, and realities that are often hidden behind the customer service mirage.  Often, these articles are controversial and cause interesting discussion (check out the newly released “Confessions of a Hotel Housekeeper” for an idea).

As someone who has spent several years in the industry, I have first-hand experience in some of these positions , and thought it isn’t always nice to hear, many of the points they make are true…while some are only true in some places.

Here are some particular quotes I do agree with:

Front Desk Clerk: “The desk is where everyone comes to complain.  Sometimes there’s good reason…and then there are instances where guests are less reasonable.”

Vegas Massage Therapist: “Many guests, men in particular, don’t think a woman can give a good deep-tissue massage…Big mistake.”

Hotel Executive: “When guests have a problem or special request, it’s important that they speak to the right person.”

B&B Owner: “Before we come to clean your room, please put your fur handcuffs away—far away, preferably in the bottom of your suitcase.”

Concierge: “Be courteous, and treat me like the professional I am, and the sky’s the limit.”

I’ll say it again and again…please be conscientious of every hospitality worker you come into contact with, but don’t put up with bad service (assuming, of course, you have a reasonable definition of bad service.)

Related Articles

A Traveler’s Dream Job in Queensland, Australia
Hospitality Employees and the Holidays

Photo waiter by keb, www.sxc.hu.