Whether you are having friends or family stay over or have a guest cottage that you rent out, we all want our guests to have the best possible experience during their stay. I recently had the privilege of being a guest at the Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis and got some great tips from them on how to make a guest feel extra special. The hotel is the epitome of understated luxury, but their attention to detail is what really makes all the difference. Here are the 7 things that you will need to create a luxury guest room for your guests.
#1: Welcome note and gift
A personalized welcome is always appreciated. A simple welcome letter with a small token is a great way to make your guests feel right at home. We found these delicious little traditional Turkish Delight with a note from the hotel’s general manager on arrival – a welcome treat after a long week!
#2: Quality Linen
Feather duvets, large comfortable pillows and high thread count – these are the things that are going to ensure your guests have a great sleeping experience. Invest in a high-quality bed linen set for guests and buy the best that you can afford – at least 400 thread count Percale linen. White bed linen is always a good choice since you can easily dress it up with a couple of scatter cushions and a throw. It is also the best option for regular laundering.
#3: Keep Accessories Simple and Stylish
The decor of the rooms was inspired by the surroundings of the hotel. Natural wood, moody greys with stripes, indigenous floral prints and delicate cobalt shway shway patterns all remind of the natural beauty of the Franschhoek valley without competing with the magnificent views from the high windows. High gloss finishes are contrasted with light wood to create a warm and sophisticated interior. Keeping things uncluttered is key, so stick to 2 or 3 scatters on the bed and a throw for colour. Bed lamps on both sides of the bed are a must, and a luggage rack and comfy chair or ottoman are essential.
#4: Tea and Coffee Facilities
Even if you’re not offering a self-catering option for your guests, a small tea and coffee-making area is essential. Ensure that you have a selection of local teas and offer both regular and decaf coffee. Instant is fine, but also offering ground coffee beans and a small plunger adds a nice touch. Something that I really appreciated, was the option of a small teapot. I love tea but a cup is just never enough!
#5: Blackout Curtains
By adding a second blackout layer behind your decorative curtains, you can ensure that your guests will have complete darkness to rest in. This could be either full-length blackout curtains or a blackout-lined blind. Sheer curtains will add a layer of privacy during the day and help to diffuse harsh daylight.
#6: Bath sheets
Few adults are actually able to comfortably wrap themselves in a standard bath towel. Make sure that you invest in good quality bath sheets to enable to your guests to fully envelop themselves after a shower or bath. Towels should also be of the highest quality cotton to make them extra absorbent and comfy.
#7: Well Appointed Kitchen
If you are going to offer a self-catering option, ensure that your guests will have everything they might need. A kitchen doesn’t have to be big, but it does have to be equipped with the basics. On top of the tea and coffee station with fridge, you will also have to offer cooking appliances (oven, stove top, and microwave), washing up facilities and utensils. Unless you are offering a serviced apartment like at Pearl Valley, a dishwasher is another great luxury touch because honestly, who wants to wash dishes on holiday!
Happy Hosting!
