What's the Latest Time for Hotel Arrivals?
In the world of travel, arriving at a hotel late can sometimes cause anxiety. But fear not, for we've gathered some essential information to help you navigate this scenario.
Firstly, it's important to note that large hotels, those with more than 300 rooms, usually have 24-hour front desk service. However, they may sell your room to someone else if you haven't alerted them to your late arrival. Medium-sized hotels, on the other hand, may have someone 'on duty' in the evening or at night, but they may have other responsibilities and be away from the front desk when you arrive late.
Boutique hotels, known for their personalized service, may be more flexible with late check-ins, provided you communicate in advance. However, their smaller size and fewer rooms may mean they can't always accommodate special requests, so advance notice is critical.
When it comes to late check-ins, common hotel policies require guests to notify the hotel in advance if arriving late, typically after the standard check-in hours (usually between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.). Hotels will often hold rooms until 6 a.m. the next day to accommodate late arrivals; failure to check in by then may result in reservation cancellation or a no-show fee.
However, there can be significant variation depending on the hotel type. For instance, large hotels, especially chain hotels, usually have established policies to hold rooms until 6 a.m. The next day, and they often handle late check-ins as a standard procedure. They may also have elite loyalty programs that allow more flexibility for late check-in and late checkout requests, sometimes at no extra cost for elite members.
On the other hand, medium-sized hotels typically have set standard check-in times and generally do accommodate late check-ins, especially if the front desk operates 24/7. They tend to follow chain-wide policies that include holding rooms until early morning (6 a.m.) and may charge fees or cancel bookings if guests don’t arrive by the cutoff.
Boutique hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts may have a narrow window for check-ins due to post-check-in duties. It's important to give notice to these smaller hotels for a late check-in to ensure someone will be available.
Checking in later can save money by avoiding penalties for no-shows or late arrivals. Moreover, it can save anxiety and worry due to potential travel delays. Large hotels, with their staff available round the clock, can accommodate guests who arrive in the wee hours of the morning.
Johnson & Wales University, a renowned institution offering degree programs in more than 50 fields of study, is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The university's career placement center offers services such as resume help, interview coaching, and networking opportunities. Johnson & Wales University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an MBA in Hospitality, with coursework in Event Leadership and Planning, Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Law, Hospitality and Tourism Global Issues, and Franchising and Licensing. Financial aid is available for qualified students.
In summary, whether you're staying at a boutique hotel, a medium-sized hotel, or a large-sized hotel, always best practice is to notify the hotel in advance of a late arrival to ensure the reservation is held and to avoid cancellation. Different types of hotels have varying policies and capacities regarding late arrival, so it's always a good idea to check with your specific hotel beforehand. Many hotels allow check-in until midnight, but this can vary, so it's essential to confirm with your hotel.
- Financial aid is available for students pursuing a doctoral degree in Hospitality at Johnson & Wales University, a school known for its accreditation and offering programs in more than 50 fields.
- Late check-ins can lead to savings, as arriving after the standard check-in hours can help avoid no-show penalties, thus benefiting one's lifestyle and wallet.
- Alongside offering courses in Hospitality, Johnson & Wales University's career placement center provides services such as resume help, interview coaching, and networking opportunities for home-and-garden enthusiasts interested in lifestyle and travel industries.
- Online learning options are valuable for those seeking higher education in fields like Hospitality, as one can manage assignments from the comfort of their home and travel when required.
