Ah, hotels. Those magical places where someone else makes the bed, fresh towels appear like clockwork, and tiny bottles of shampoo whisper, take me home. Whether you’re checking into a historic palace like La Posta Vecchia, a secluded sanctuary like Mezzatorre or a chic resort like Hotel Il Pellicano, there’s an art to being the kind of guest hospitality people secretly adore – and the kind they hope never books again.
So, let’s talk about hotel etiquette – what’s fair game, what’s a major faux pas, and how to enjoy your stay while keeping your dignity (and security deposit) intact.
The Art of Taking (and Not Taking) Souvenirs
We get it. Those plush robes feel like a hug from heaven, and the slippers are practically begging to be stuffed into your suitcase. But let’s break it down:
- Fair game: Mini toiletries, stationery, postcards, and yes, the slippers (if they’re disposable). These are meant to go home with you.
- Not okay: Bathrobes, towels, pillows, and—believe it or not—mattresses. Yes, people have actually tried to smuggle out a mattress. Don’t be that person.
Pro tip
If you love that ashtray that much – hello brand new ashtray of La Posta Vecchia, an oh-so chic declination of our Mezzatorre and Hotel Il Pellicano versions – ask the front desk if you can buy one. One of the amazing things about our properties is that so many of the impeccably stylish items that adorn them are available on ISSIMO or even on-site, meaning you can bring them home without incurring any extra charges. Clever, right?
Housekeeping Is Not Your Personal Cleaning Crew
Yes, part of the joy of a hotel stay is not having to make your bed, but let’s keep it civil.
- Tidy up a little. You don’t need to deep-clean your room, but leaving it looking like a storm just passed by is just bad manners.
- Leaving wet towels in a heap on the floor. Use the towel racks or the tub, people. It’s not only an act of courtesy, but good for the environment, too!
Pro tip
If you don’t need your room cleaned every day, let housekeeping know. Better yet, ask about the Towel & Linen Change procedure implemented at check-in by our hotels, which offers guests the option to choose how often they would like their towels and linen changed throughout their stay. Opting for less frequent towel and linen changes, such as every other day rather than daily, reduces water and energy use.
The Great Breakfast Buffet Debate
Hotel breakfast buffets are a thing of beauty, but they come with unspoken rules.
- Take what you’ll actually eat. Piling your plate with croissants just in case and leaving half of them untouched is not a good look.
- Stashing food in your bag for later. You know who you are.
Pro tip
If you’re dying for that extra cornetto, check if the hotel has a to-go option instead of smuggling it out like a carb-fueled criminal.
Treat the Staff Like Humans (Because They Are)
This should go without saying, but hotel staff are not your personal servants. They’re professionals, and a little kindness goes a long way.
- Greet the front desk staff. A simple “buongiorno” goes a long mile, and it’s the perfect way to practice your Italian!
- Clicking, snapping, or waving money at staff to get their attention. Just…no.
Pro tip
If you’re asking for an upgrade or special request, be charming. A polite demeanour and a friendly smile work wonders – much more than acting entitled.
Late Check-Out: A Delicate Dance
You can ask for a late check-out, but that doesn’t mean you should demand it.
- Ask nicely. If the hotel isn’t fully booked, they may grant you an extra hour or two.
- Pretending you didn’t hear the knock when housekeeping comes to clean. They have a schedule, and you’re now that guest.
Pro tip
If you need extra time, the Pellicano hotels offer luggage storage, so you can explore a little longer without keeping the room hostage.
Simply put: Be the guest they want back!
Hotels are designed to pamper, but that doesn’t mean you should push the limits of hospitality. Take only the right souvenirs, be courteous to staff, and enjoy the experience without treating your room like a festival campsite.
Because let’s be honest: the best hotels don’t just give you a place to stay. They give you an experience. And if you play your cards right, they might just be thrilled to welcome you back.
