Imperial Cruise Travel
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Using a Concierge
I don’t know about you, but I’m really tired of all the baggage fees and other add-ons. It’s really nice to know that some things are free. Yes, FREE! Can you guess what it is?? It’s consulting the concierge at the hotel. That’s right the hotel concierge. First, let define what a concierge is. It is French in origin and means "keeper of the keys," and as the 'keeper' the concierge becomes the point of contact for hotel guests who seek information or assistance during their stay. So, behind the desk at some hotels stands a person that can recommend where to dine, which show to see, what museum exhibit to visit, and tours of local attractions. A concierge can also assist you in arranging spa services, booking a limousine or car. The concierge will usually know about the best restaurants in town and will be able to book a reservation for you. If it's a really popular place that is fully booked up for the evening, the concierge may know someone at the restaurant that can get you a table. Also, let the concierge if you want to stay within a budget and what kind of food you like and if you want your dining experience to be casual, formal or a romantic dinner. An experienced concierge will be able to find you what you’re looking for. If you are a savvy traveler, you know to tip waiters 15%-20% and bellmen $1 to $2 per bag. But should you tip the concierge? Tipping is not required, but it is definitely recommended if he or she pulls some big strings for you! Let’s say if the concierge got you a reservation with no problem, you need not tip. But if the concierge got you a table at the popular new restaurant in town at 8 p.m. when the restaurant told you the only time available was at 5 p.m. or 10 p.m., then you should probably tip the concierge between $5 to $20. The concierge relies on an extensive list of contacts with local merchants and service providers so use the knowledge and experience they have to offer. The concierge is there exclusively to serve the hotel guests. So the next time your hotel stay has a concierge use their services. It's free!
What it is
First, let define what a concierge is. It is French in origin and means "keeper of the keys," and as the 'keeper' the concierge becomes the point of contact for hotel guests who seek information or assistance during their stay. So, behind the desk at some hotels stands a person that can recommend where to dine, which show to see, what museum exhibit to visit, and tours of local attractions. A concierge can also assist you in arranging spa services, booking a limousine or car.