With coronavirus infections rising once again, more hotel companies are issuing enhanced health and safety protocols. The American Hotel and Lodging Association has issued a “Safe Stay Guest Checklist” to help guests travel safely and create a standardized safety experience nationwide. The checklist is an industry-wide, enhanced set of health and safety protocols designed to provide a safe and clean environment for all hotel guests and employees.
- Face Coverings: Required in all indoor public spaces and practice social distancing in all common areas.
- Choose contactless options, where available, including online reservations, check-ins and payments.
- Consider daily room cleaning, only if necessary. Ask the hotel about options for getting clean towels & sheets if you need them.
- Request contactless room service delivery.
- Refrain from traveling if you have, or recently had, any symptoms of COVID-19 or contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19
The top priority for the hotel industry is the health and safety of guests and employees. These preventive measures make it safer and easier for Americans to travel while also supporting hotel and tourism employees. To further expand the hotel industry’s Safe Stay initiative, a recently launched online course has been developed in partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute to help hotels train their staff on enhanced safety and cleanliness guidelines.
Read more about Hotels & Airlines Using Enhanced Disinfecting Protocols
Other tips to consider would be choosing your destination carefully. Perhaps avoid areas that are considered hot spots. Check the hotel’s website for what protocols they have in place. At check in, request a room that has not been occupied for a few days. Take your own Lysol or disinfectant spray to clean the main areas of your room including door handles, the phone, remotes and other frequently touched items. Last but not least, avoid shared facilities like the spa & gym.
Note: We share tips for health, travel & preparedness, but this is not official medical advice. Please contact your medical professional if you have questions or symptoms.
Staying safe in hotels is part of the larger travel health picture. For more preventive travel health advice, our advisors recommend our comprehensive guide to Hantavirus and other travel health risks.
