Checking In: A Guide to Hotel Vocabulary
Your holiday has begun! But before you can enjoy any time by the pool or on the beach you will have to check in at your hotel.
So, be prepared for the questions you'll hear and those you might want to ask.
You've probably booked before arriving, so you'll begin by telling the staff at reception that you "have a reservation."
They may ask to see your ID or perhaps "booking confirmation" — that could be the email you got that proves you booked the room.
If you have paid part of the total price or a deposit to reserve the room, you might be asked if you would like to "pay the balance" — or, pay the rest — when you arrive.
Some hotels will tell you everything you possibly need to know, but in others you'll have to ask the questions.
Of course, many of us begin with: "Is there a password for the Wi-Fi?" Or: "What time is breakfast?"
If you have to get up early the next day, you could ask for a "wake-up call," which means the reception will call the phone in your room to wake you up.
Some guests might like to see if they can get a better room by asking if "any upgrades are available?"
You might have your eye on a room with a sea view or even a suite, and as they say — if you don't ask, you don't get!
