Travel Blogger Reveals Hotel Secrets: Corner Rooms Offer More Space at Same Price
Have you ever stayed in a hotel, booked a room with a great view, and assumed all guests paying the same rate get a similar experience? Many travelers do, but seasoned globetrotters know better. Hotels operate on subtle nuances that can significantly shape your stay, from room placement to booking methods. Travel vlogger Alma Asinobi, who has stayed in over 100 hotels and attempted a record-breaking journey across all seven continents, recently shared several lesser-known insights from her extensive personal experience.
Why Corner Rooms Are Often Larger and Priced the Same
One of the most practical tips Asinobi highlights is about corner rooms. In many hotel buildings, these rooms naturally have slightly larger layouts due to architectural design. Positioned at the end of corridors, they typically feature two exterior-facing walls instead of one, which translates into more usable floor space and often additional windows. This means more natural light, a welcome feature after long flights or busy schedules. The key advantage? These rooms are usually priced the same as other standard rooms in the same category. Asinobi suggests simply asking for a corner room at check-in. While not guaranteed, front desk staff may accommodate the request at no extra charge if availability permits.
Timing Tricks for Late Checkouts and Upgrades
Another valuable tip relates to late checkout requests. Many travelers ask days before arrival, but Asinobi recommends waiting until the morning of departure. At this point, hotel staff have a clearer idea of that day's occupancy rate. If the hotel isn't fully booked, your chances of securing a late checkout increase significantly. This small timing adjustment can make all the difference in extending your stay comfortably.
Regarding upgrades, Asinobi points out that they aren't just for loyalty members or premium guests. Polite requests can sometimes yield complimentary upgrades, especially when hotels aren't operating at full capacity. Flexibility with unsold inventory among staff improves the odds. While not a certainty, asking politely might occasionally land you a better room category without additional charges.
Practical Advice on Bedding, Booking, and Bills
Asinobi also shares practical tips on hotel bedding. While bed sheets are changed after every guest, blankets and throw pillows aren't always cleaned as frequently. Her straightforward solution: remove decorative bedding upon arrival if you prefer not to use it. This easy habit adds peace of mind without requiring extra requests from housekeeping.
She emphasizes that booking directly with hotels, rather than through third parties, can open more opportunities to negotiate small favors. Direct bookings often give you better leverage for requests like room preferences or minor amenities.
Finally, one of her most crucial pieces of advice concerns the final bill. Before checking out, carefully review your folio for extra charges, such as minibar items, service fees, or duplicate entries. These can occasionally appear and are only disputable if noticed before departure. Taking a few extra minutes to scan the bill can prevent unnecessary payments and post-trip disputes, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
By applying these insights, travelers can enhance their hotel stays, making the most of available space, timing, and resources without incurring extra costs.
