Back to Basics: Using a Hotel Concierge

One of the most overlooked and under-used services at hotels is the concierge. 

Maybe it’s because we don’t know what they do and so, by extension, we don’t know what they can do for us.  Maybe it’s because we think a concierge will bill us some outrageous sum of money for helping us.  Or maybe it’s because it’s a French word, and that alone makes it intimidating.

How can a hotel concierge help you? 

Here’s a list of some requests that a concierge can assist with:

• recommendations about things to see and places to go
• arrange limo services
• make appointments for spa treatments, private shopping, hair styling, etc.
• assist with problems like finding a tailor for clothing repair or alterations
• arrange for shipping
• make restaurant reservations
• secure theater, concert, and special event tickets
• having flowers delivered
• helping to stage surprise events and make special occasions over-the-top
• make referrals to suppliers, shops, services

While the price of any tickets or items purchased is yours, there is no charge for the concierge’s service.  A gratuity, based on difficulty of request, is appropriate.  For simple reservations or information, no gratuity is necessary.  However, if your concierge gets you into a restaurant that’s booked for a months, or gets you tickets to a sold out concert, $20 (or more) would be appropriate.

I’ve used a concierge to make reservations, find a charger for my cell phone, arrange a limo to the airport, and create a diversion for a surprise party.

How about you?  What creative things has a concierge helped arrange for you?

Photo image:  flickr

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