Table of Contents:

5. Those Registration Forms? Yea, They Actually Matter
4. Your Concierge Is Basically a Wizard
3. Celebrations Are Meant to Be Shared
2. Don’t Sleep on the Spa
1. Loyalty Programs Are the Real MVP

Let’s talk travel, not just the dreamy vacations we all love to plan (and post about), but the behind-the-scenes details that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.

Picture yourself walking into a hotel, and everything just clicks. The front desk greets you by name, your favorite pillow is already in the room, and your morning coffee is handed to you exactly how you like it. Feels like witchcraft, right? Nope, that’s just really good hospitality.

I had a front-row seat to this magic show everyday during my time at the Four Seasons. Working there wasn’t just a career chapter; it was a backstage pass to the world of luxury hospitality and a masterclass in personalized travel. And let me tell you, once you experience that level of service, you won’t ever forget it.

Today, I’m spilling the complimentary tea and sharing five behind-the-scenes lessons that completely changed the way I travel, and will change the way you do too.

So, let’s dive in, shall we?

5. Those Registration Forms? Yea, They Actually Matter

We’ve all been there. You check into a hotel after a long travel day, get handed a registration form you don’t care much for, and think, “Does anyone actually read this?”. The answer is yes, yes they do. I used to breeze through these forms like a crowded airport security line: eyes glazed, just wanting to get to the next part, until I realized they actually matter.

I know you’re ready to cannonball into vacation mode, but here’s the deal: the details you share on those forms are used to create your guest profile: a special little file that travels with you to every property within the brand. This is the key to unlocking a seamless, personalized stay.

Why it matters: Think of it like creating your travel playlist. The more personal, the better the hits. For example, do you prefer sparkling water over still? Feather-free pillows? Have an irrational fear of cilantro? Or need a room chilled to 15°C? These preferences stick with you, ensuring that every stay feels tailored to you. That almond-milk cappuccino you raved about in Paris? It could be waiting for you in Tokyo, too.

But here’s the catch: consistency is key. If you write “John Smith” at one hotel and “Jonathan Smith” at another, or use different email addresses, you’ll end up with fragmented profiles and none of the benefits. You’ll end up repeating yourself. A lot. And over time, that “they just know me” feeling fades.

So, how do they add to your profile? It’s simple, it’s all based on what you share throughout your stay.

Ask the bellman for an extra luggage rack? Noted ✅
Tell the server you love oat milk in your coffee? Filed ✅
Rave about an Amarone to the bartender? Added ✅

Piece by piece, these little nuggets of info, shared by you, come together to create a “home away from home” experience. To be clear, not in a “we’re watching you” kind of way, but in a “we’re listening to what matters to you” way.

Pro Tip: If you’re a timid traveler like I used to be, it’s time to shake that off. Share what you love, need, or can’t live without, this is your experience after all! Hotels aren’t mind readers, but they are really great listeners. The more you open up = the more they can deliver = your trip turns into a *chef’s kiss* great one. Your future self (and your next vacation) will thank you.

So, fill it out, and thank me later!

And speaking of people who make your stay effortless…

4. Your Concierge Is Basically a Wizard

If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t need the concierge, I’ve got Google” let me stop you right there. A great concierge isn’t just a glorified search engine, they’re part fixer, part fairy godparent, and your ultimate travel ally.

Luxury hotel concierges do so much more than book dinner reservations. They have the local insider knowledge and connections that can turn travel hiccups into seamless experiences. Lost luggage? They’ll track it down and have it in your room before dinner. Need a doctor at 2 a.m.? They know just the person to call. Tickets to a sold-out event? A last-minute baby stroller? Directions to the best local dive bar (because balance is everything)? They’ve got you.

That said, even the best concierges aren’t *actual* wizards, though it feels that way sometimes. Not every request is doable, but if there’s a way, they’ll get it done. And if there isn’t, they’ll offer the next best thing to make sure you’re taken care of.

Traveler Tip: Reach out before you arrive if you have a special request, don’t wait until you’re at the hotel. Not only does it give them time to pull some strings, but it also guarantees you’ll have less to stress about on vacation.

3. Celebrations Are Meant to Be Shared

Got a birthday, an anniversary, or even a big career win, to celebrate? Tell the hotel.

Hotels like the Four Seasons pride themselves on going above and beyond for those “special moment” vibes. A little heads-up can mean champagne in your room, a handwritten note, a surprise dessert, or even a room/suite upgrade if the stars (and hotel availability) align.

And no, you don’t need to be living the suite life to enjoy this level of care. Sometimes, it’s just about letting others in on the moment and giving the universe (and the guest services team) a friendly nudge.

Traveler Tip: However you book your stay, whether online, via an app, or over the phone, always follow up (yes, call!) with the hotel directly to make sure your celebration is noted in your file.

2. Don’t Sleep on the Spa

Even if you’re not a spa person, hear me out.

Hotel spas (especially at luxury properties) are hidden gems. And no, I’m not just talking about massages (though yes, those are amazing). I mean the saunas, steam rooms, plunge pools, and relaxation lounges that you can often enjoy without booking a treatment. Game-changer.

Most of the time, these amenities are reserved for guests only, but some hotel spas even offer day passes to non-guests. Yep, you can sneak into your own personal slice of heaven for a fraction of the price.

And if you do book a treatment? Show up early and stay late to soak up the full spa experience. You’ve earned it.

Pro move: Ask the spa receptionist about the best times to visit for a quieter, more relaxing experience. Your future zen self will thank you.

1. Loyalty Programs Are the Real MVP

Even if you travel once a year, sign up for the loyalty program. Every. Single. Time.

These programs aren’t just about collecting points (though, it is fun seeing those points go up). Some, like the Four Seasons’ Preferred Partner Program, give you VIP-style perks like early check-ins, late checkouts, complimentary breakfasts (tips and taxes not included), and room upgrades (based on availability) just for booking through the right channels.

And here’s the best part: so many of these programs are free to join. The benefits? They can easily add up to hundreds of dollars in extras. Plus, hotels love repeat guests. A little brand loyalty can mean a warmer welcome (and maybe a few extra surprise perks along the way).

The Takeaway

Travel isn’t just about where you go → it’s about how you experience it.

Working in this industry taught me that luxury isn’t about excess or gold-plated everything (though admittedly, I do love a bit of sparkle every now and then), it’s about feeling seen, valued, and genuinely cared for, no matter where you are in the world.

Leaning into the little things, like sharing your preferences, letting the concierge work their magic, or shamelessly milking those extra perks, can turn an ordinary trip into something truly special. Thoughtful details don’t just make travel smoother; they shape the way you remember it (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little VIP treatment?).

So, here’s to making your next adventure one for the books. Because great travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about those "wow, they really thought of everything" moments.

And if that moment happens to include a surprise upgrade or a welcome cocktail? Well, that’s just the cherry on top. 🍒✨

Inside Luxury Hospitality: The Subtle Art of Getting Spoiled