What a hotel stay could look like post Covid-19

From contactless check-in to restrictions on using the lifts, here are the ways hotels could operate differently once they reopen. 

Many people are looking forward to travel of any kind once Covid-19 restrictions are eased, and even if international travel is not possible, there are many great hotels across Ireland that would make for a great break.

However, a hotel stay could look quite different than we remember when hotels are allowed to reopen. Pat McCann, the CEO of Clayton, Maldron and Partner Hotels explained to RTÉ Drivetime the measures that his hotels are planning.

These include limiting contact that guests will have with staff through measures like online check-in, which would allow guests to simply collect their room key from a screened reception area, although the option to check-in on arrival would also be available. Employees will wear masks at all times.

He also explained how open areas of the hotels would be cleaned continuously throughout the day to minimise any spread of infection in these common areas. These will also be clearly marked to remind people of social distancing, and hand sanitiser will be available around the hotel. The use of lifts would be strictly regulated, with protocols displayed clearly on each floor.

When guests arrive at their bedroom, the door will have a seal on it to indicate that no-one has entered the room since it has been cleaned. The cleaning process will focus on high-touch surfaces in the room, as well as the use of a fogging device that kills viruses and other surface and airborne pathogens, McCann explained.

Ordering food will still be possible, and guests will have the option to have it brought to their room to avoid contact with others. The option to sit in hotel restaurants will still be available, McCann says, although social distancing regulations will apply, which in all likelihood will mean a reduced capacity.

Guests will also have the option to check out online, simply dropping their key off as they leave. McCann stressed that while they hope to keep things as normal as possible, the safety of guests and staff are of the utmost importance, and all their new measures are in line with expert guidance.

“Above all, we want you as our guest, whether you are on business or leisure to have a relaxed enjoyable stay with us,” he said.

Featured image:Rhema Kallianpur via Unsplash

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