Travel is one of the most exciting, soul-nourishing, and perspective-changing things a person can do. But as exhilarating as these adventures are, getting to your destination can be downright exhausting.
The first day of any trip will inevitably have me feeling pretty burnt out, which is multiplied according to the number of hours spent in a plane, train, or automobile.
The best hotels, however, intimately understand this, and go out of their way to help you settle in on that first day, whether by allowing early room access, offering a free ice-cold beverage, or even unpacking for you. Here are some of the hotel brands that have wowed me with a strong first impression.
Kimpton Hotels
I love Kimpton hotels for all sorts of reasons, not limited to their boutique-style approach, urban-chic aesthetic, pet-friendly policies, and on-site restaurants.
Also, all Kimptons across the world have a “guest-first” policy that offers early check-in as soon as your room is available, which often means you don’t need to wait until that late 3 or 4 p.m. check-in time, just because. (This is a free service, so no need to upgrade.)
If your room isn’t ready right away, you still have access to their lobby. Many of the properties have a “living room” sort of feel in the lobby that make it easy to relax, and the on-site food and bar options allow you to start vacation basically right away. Some even offer complimentary cruiser bikes to explore nearby.
Pendry Hotels
I always love staying at Pendry hotels because of how above and beyond their hospitality staff go to make you feel at ease from the get-go. Welcome drinks are often part of the arrival experience and I’ve also received little welcome gifts in the room for no reason at all.
Another reason Pendry hotels make this list is because they’re designed to be a destination even for locals, thanks to exceptional restaurants and social spaces. For me, staying “in” on night one is often exactly what I need so I can hit the ground the next day; jumping back into a cab right away sometimes feels overwhelming. Pendry lets me do that without feeling like I’m missing out.
Four Seasons Hotels
This is a total splurge, but if I’m celebrating something special or just really want to knock my own socks off, then Four Seasons is it. Across the globe, Four Seasons is renowned for exceptional customer service that minimizes any travel-related friction, starting on day one.
Many offer services that help you navigate everything from passport control to luxe vehicle transfers, and seamless baggage collection.
And they definitely put you in the spirit from the second you arrive on property. At Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru, we were welcomed as soon as we got off the boat with drinks, and the open-air lobby was the prettiest place to rest while check-in details were gathered.
St. Regis Hotels
If you want to be wined and dined then consider booking at a St. Regis hotel, which is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s luxury portfolio. This ultra-luxury hotel chain is famous for its “old money” vibes, and that includes having your own butler for the entirety of your stay.
Before you even arrive, you can arrange for special requests and give preferences for your room (and throughout your stay). It’s a fun perk that makes me feel like a celebrity.
Once you actually arrive, the pampering hits new heights with services like unpacking and storing your luggage and arranging drinks and food for your room.
The Shortcut
Kimpton lobbies are built like living rooms. Plus, they typically have on-site food and drink options, so you can relax at check in, even if your room isn't ready.
Pendry designs its restaurants and bars to pull in locals, which is why the hotel restaurant doesn't feel like a wasted meal.
A St. Regis butler is yours for the whole stay, unpacking your suitcase and putting the empty bag somewhere you'll never see it.
