Hotels, Motels, and the Holiday Inn

I was recently asked to weigh in on hotel etiquette, more specifically, etiquette for room service. As this is a broad subject, I'd like to break it down to a couple topics:

• What is appropriate attire to wear when accepting room service?

Although hotels are meant to feel like a home away from home, it's important to remember some discretion when stepping out of your room or when others will be coming in. Try to be as covered up as possible. Lounge wear (sweats, pajamas) is acceptable. In a pinch, most hotels keep white robes in the closet near the door. Although I'm sure hotel employees have seen it all, it's best to prevent yourself from overexposure and potential embarrassment for the room attendant.

• Should I tip on top of the included 18% gratuity for delivered food?

Generally speaking, I don't tip on top of included gratuity in restaurants or for room service. Some wait staff go above and beyond when setting up a room service meal. In this case I suggest tipping a few dollars in cash rather than adding an amount onto the ticket.

• Should Housekeeping be tipped?

Tipping housekeeping is something that has become more prevalent as of late. Showing this appreciation is partly due to the fact that many hotels are cutting back on their cleaning staff and housekeeping employees are having to take on more rooms. A couple dollars a day will suffice. If you leave the room especially messy, I recommend tipping a little more. I also recommend doing a little pickup yourself before leaving the room for the day. Housekeeping doesn't generally interfere with your personal affects, however leaving them scattered all over can make it more difficult for them to properly clean the room.

• When is it OK to submit a complaint to management?

There are those who expect five star service at a two star price, and will gladly vocalize these expectations. Please do not allow yourself to fall into this category. Unfortunately, the situation may arise that the essentials of your stay are over-looked or service is sub-par (Items I would include with this are unclean linens, anything that is visibly dirty, a rusted iron, or broken utilities). When this occurs, go to the front desk and ask for management. Patiently explain the problem, taking the approach that you thought it important to inform the hotel of the situation in hopes to prevent this from occurring with future guests, rather than complaining. Do not cause a raucous. A good hotel will provide some recompense for the inconvenience, however do not express that this is expected. If you feel your concerns were not adequately addressed, end the conversation by thanking them for their time, but regrettably you will not be returning for a future stay.