You survived the plane ride, and now you just want a nice place to lay your head. Some of us larger bears know that the hotel stay is a major part of the total vacation experience. We have our own checklist of things to do and things to bring, in order to maximize the hotel experience. A little forethought and planning can make your hotel experience a pleasant one. Here are some tips that might make staying in a hotel more comfortable and provide a little peace of mind.

Consider Your Options

Sometimes a hotel will be the only game in town and you will not have much choice. However, if you are staying in an area that has choices, choose wisely. Large hotels often have more room choices than smaller hotels or motels. Bed and Breakfasts, while often quaint or cozy, often have shared bathroom and are not very accessible. Do your homework.

Room Location Considerations

It is best to make your requests when you book your room. As with everything, you will have the best chance of success, if you make you requests early. Often hotels will not guarantee anything, but will make a notation on your reservation.

If you are able to have a room on the ground floor, you will not have to deal with crowded elevators. Rooms that are close to the elevator will often be noisier than room that are farther away. so balance your desire to not hike to your room with your desire for some peace and quiet.

Tiny Bathrooms

Many of the larger hotels have different types of rooms. If the size of the bathroom (or bathtub for that matter) is a concern, ask for a room with a bigger bathroom. This is often best done when making the reservations.

When making accommodations, ask questions. Are there different size bathrooms? What are the tradeoffs to certain rooms? Also, remember that the 800 number is usually a call center. Call the property directly, discuss room options, and then call the 1-800 reservation line.

My personal priority is the commode. Having recently traveled through Europe, I was challenged with location of the apparatus wedged between the sink and the shower. In the smaller, quaint locations, the options are limited. While truly not a preference, in one particular establishment the amenities in the lobby were more accommodating for a person of size. I often tour the property to access my options.

In the Room

Once you get to your room, quickly check that everything is to you liking. Look at the bathroom and check out the bed. If you are not satisfied, call the desk and ask them to assign you to another room. If a bell person has helped you to your room, they can help you get what you want. Be sure to tip them after they have helped you.

Remember to Nap

Sometimes when things get stressful, it’s just that we are tired. Having traveled cross country or across the Ocean, survived customs, baggage claim and the taxi ride to Outer Mongolia, we depleted our energies. So once you check in, check out. A recent Harvard study found that a 60 minute nap can help people be as fresh as when they first woke up. So instead of reaching for a cup of Joe, grab 40 winks. After a short nap, the bathroom thing doesn’t seem so bad, does it?

An ideal nap should last 15 to 20 minutes. More than 30 minutes and sleep inertia sets in causing the sleeper to feel more groggy than when they started.

The Concierge is Your Friend . . .

If a concierge if available, they can be a valuable asset. They know the local restaurants and venues. They will know the seating is tight at the Café, but you might more comfortable in the Lounge. They can inquire about seating issues and other facilities on your behalf.

Don’t Settle for Less

If you are not happy with your room (not enough room to move around, uncomfortable bed or too small bath), politely ask for what you want. I have had the experience of being given a room that was just too small and noisy. The hotel arranged for me to have a room in a different nearby hotel that was able to meet my needs.

If you don’t ask, you won’t get it. It is that simple. And remember the old adage “you attract more bees with honey.” If you a friendly and patient, you’ll be amazed at how helpful the staff can be. Finally, if someone does accommodate a special need, acknowledge this person. It promotes good will, it encourages them to assist of travelers and believe me they will remember you on their next visit.