Since late 2021, as more information about the Covid-19 virus emerged and the international situation improved, thousands around the globe have resumed their travel plans.

Flying has been proven to be a safe practice, especially if you take the proper precautions. But what about your accommodation?

Today, in this post, we will uncover everything you need to know about hotels and Covid:

• What is the current Covid protocol at hotels?
• What should you consider while booking?
• What can you do to minimize risks during your stay?

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

What Is the Current Covid Protocol at Hotels?

It comes as no surprise that the vast majority of major hotel chains have announced new cleaning policies. Some of these policies were even created in partnership with health experts. Other common measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 focus on contact-free transactions and social distancing opportunities. Let’s take a closer look.

Social distancing

Many hotels have rearranged the furniture in their public areas, (such as the lobby, restaurants, and fitness areas) in a way that makes it easier to keep social distance while still enjoying their facilities.

It has also become a common practice to add partitions at Front Desks, for an extra layer of protection between employees and guests.

Contactless experiences

Major hotel chains are offering a mobile app to make your stay contactless and convenient. With them, you can easily:

• Check-in and out
• Access to a digital key to open your door
• Chat with hotel associates to make requests, such as placing food and beverage orders, or asking for an extra pillow

This is ideal if you want to save time and avoid unnecessary gatherings at the Front Desk. You can check your hotel’s website to know if this option is available to you. Plus, the download may come with benefits.

Constant Cleaning

The cleaning and disinfecting frequency for public areas and rooms have increased exponentially. Especially on frequent contact surfaces.

This should be easily visible in:

• Elevator and elevator buttons
• Front desks
• Public bathrooms
• Bars and dining surfaces
• Locks
• Room keys
• Stair handrails
• Gym equipment
• Light switches
• Doorknobs
• Remote controls

The hotel should also provide hand-sanitizing stations in high-traffic areas. Sometimes, they may also offer you cleaning wipes for you to use in your room whenever you need them.

What Should You Consider While Booking?

Most hotels will list their Covid policies in detail on their website. Before you make your reservation, do your research and make sure you feel adequately protected.

Nonetheless, some hotels may not live up to their promises. So, before booking, you should also check recent reviews on websites like Google, Tripadvisor, or Booking.

Furthermore, it’s fair to mention that each hotel’s Covid protocol will adapt to their current local restrictions. This means that some things may vary from one location to another, even within the same country.

Local laws may impact:

• Housekeeping service frequency
• Requested room vacancy between stays
• Covid-19 pass requirements
• Access to gyms, spas, and pools
• Amenities & extra services

If you want specific information about your hotel’s safety practices, we suggest you contact the Front Desk directly.

What Can You Do to Minimize Risks During Your Stay?

According to the CDC’s recommendations for safe travel, during your hotel stay, you should:

• Wear a face mask in all common areas
• Go for the stairs when the elevators are busy
• Spend as little time as possible in areas where other people are less than 6 feet from you (such as restaurants, bars, gyms, or pools)

Moreover, if you are comfortable with the hotel’s Covid protocol but still want to take an extra step to minimize your personal risk, once you get to your room, you could:

• Lightly disinfect high-contact surfaces (e.g: light switches, doorknobs, nightstands, and remote controls)
• Open the windows for a bit

Additionally, you could:

• Ask for room service instead of attending the restaurant
• Make use of amenities during off-peak hours
• Skip every day housekeeping services, and ask for extra towels and sheets at the reception instead

Key Takeaways

The Covid-19 pandemic isn’t a thing of the past yet. It’s important for everyone to continue practicing proper safety measures. This, of course, has reached the hotel industry, and some brands have even obtained major certifications for their cleaning standards.

However, if the likelihood of being around strangers worries you, and you’re not convinced about booking a hotel room yet, maybe a private rental would be a better fit for you.

Additionally, remember to check your destination’s local travel restrictions, while you’re planning your trip. They can vary across locations, but all in all, there is one requirement that seems to be almost universal: You should get tested.

No matter where you are, discover your nearest Covid-19 testing center with our international directory.