The $500 Hotel Without Free Drinking Water: A Real Challenge!

How Do Hotels Change When Cutting Costs?

Recently, I heard about the Westin Detroit Airport's new approach to providing free water for guests. Instead of having bottled water readily available in the room, they've opted for an empty glass container and a notice directing guests to refill their water at stations on each floor. While this might sound eco-friendly, it actually detracts from the guest experience.

Customer Complaints

Several reviews on TripAdvisor have highlighted the disappointment of guests now that free drinking water is no longer available. One guest expressed their frustration: "I can't believe it! Instead of bottled water, there's just a glass container for us to fill from the tap, and honestly, the water there is worse than tap water!"

Cost and Value

Looking at the costs, that glass container might cost the hotel around $10, while bottled water used to cost just a few cents. It really feels like this hotel is trying to cut costs in a penny-pinching way, especially with a nightly rate of up to $500. Everyone knows that at this price point, providing complimentary drinking water is simply expected.

Basic Services

Water in the room is a fundamental aspect of the hospitality industry. Having to go out into the hallway to fetch water cannot compare to having a bottle right there in your room. Guests typically arrive tired and thirsty, needing a certain level of convenience.

Hygiene and Trust Issues

While the glass container might be cleaned, who can really guarantee that? In my opinion, it's tough to ensure that the container is hygienically maintained between stays. The hotel is asking guests to trust their cleanliness standards, but there are many things in the room that could be overlooked.

Alternative Solutions for Reducing Plastic

If the hotel truly wants to minimize plastic instead of just cutting costs, they could consider several alternatives, like providing water in cartons, cans, or sealed glass bottles. Offering a complimentary bottle in the room along with refill stations for those in need would be a great compromise.

Big Hotel Chains Are Declining

Major hotel chains are increasingly looking to save money, which results in a loss of the brand value they've built over the years. The CEO of Marriott once said, "They will inscribe the room growth on my tombstone." When a brand no longer represents quality, customers will be less likely to book through their websites as they once did.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Hotels continue to raise prices while cutting back on services, from drinking water to housekeeping and even bedside alarm clocks. Little amenities like robes, slippers, soaps, laundry bags, and room service are being reduced, making the difference between full-service hotels and cheaper options like Airbnb less distinct.

Final Customer Impressions

Customers won't remember the signs by the bed asking not to change the sheets or reminding them to reuse towels; they will remember paying a premium price but receiving subpar service – including the absence of drinking water. That experience can be quite shocking for guests who had high expectations.

Hotels are making things more cumbersome, with unnecessary concerns like fetching their own water instead of having it provided. Everyone wants a bit of comfort and convenience while traveling, especially at such a high cost.