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There’s no shortage of articles telling you to “go above and beyond.” But for boutique hotels and design-forward short-term rentals, that advice can feel vague—uninspiring at best. When you’re already putting care into every detail, what does above and beyond even look like?

Let’s break that down in real terms. Because meaningful guest experiences aren’t made from big gestures alone. They’re layered into the space—into habits, routines, even the unseen.

According to an American Express Travel Global Trends Report,

• 78% of surveyed travelers say they are looking for personalized experiences that reflect their interests and preferences, and

• 62% say they prefer brands that pay attention to the small details.

That lines up with findings in an Expedia 2023 trends report, which showed that Gen Z and Millennial travelers care more about design, integrated tech, and amenities that feel tailored—not templated—than any generation before them.

What does that tell us? Guests aren’t just noticing the big things. They’re remembering the details.

Here’s a grounded, design-aware checklist for making your guest experience more personal, more memorable—and perhaps, a bit more aligned with what they actually care about.

1. Arrival Starts Before the Door Opens

First impressions often begin before a guest steps foot inside. The confirmation email, the check-in instructions, the tone of your messages—these set the tone.

Simple wins:

• Send a branded, helpful pre-arrival message 48 hours before check-in with parking tips, entry instructions, and local recommendations.
• Offer self-check-in where it makes sense, especially for STRs with remote setups.
• Keep scents subtle—earthy tones like cedar, cardamom, or bergamot tend to feel more premium than synthetic florals.

Want visual and sensory consistency across the guest experience? Custom-branded amenities can help align your brand across bath products, signage, and room details.

2. Design Isn’t Just Looks—It’s Behavior

Good design doesn’t just look nice—it anticipates guest behavior and makes everyday moments frictionless.

Useful tweaks:

• Use layered lighting: ceiling lights for general use, table lamps for mood, and task lights for function.
• Upgrade the essentials guests actually use: bath towels, hand towels, and sheets.
• Store practical items like hair dryers and irons in clear, labeled places.

3. Create One or Two Anchors Guests Will Remember

Instead of novelty at every turn, focus on a few memorable sensory anchors guests will associate with your space.

• A signature bath product scent used across all bathrooms and suites.
• A welcome drink or snack that’s seasonal, local, and low-fuss.
• Seasonal décor or a tactile artwork in the entryway.

Want more inspiration on using scent, texture, and rituals to shape guest experience? Explore the sensory side of hospitality →

4. Stock Supplies for Comfort—Not Just Function

Running out of basics like coffee pods or tissues can make even a beautiful stay feel frustrating. Instead of overfilling the room, stock in zones:

• Keep one visible backup of key items: a clean towel, a second pillow, and extra toiletries.
• Hide overflow in neat, labeled containers or bins.
• Go beyond the basics: try lavender pillow spray, herbal tea, or a small book selection.

Guest room supplies that reduce friction and support rest are the quiet heroes of hospitality.

5. Ask the Right Kind of Questions Post-Stay

Skip generic feedback forms and try conversational questions that reveal what guests really noticed:

• “What did you use more than you expected?”
• “Was there anything you needed that wasn’t there?”
• “What small moment stood out to you?”

These questions often yield more specific, actionable feedback than traditional surveys.

6. Small Consistencies Build Big Trust

Consistency is comfort. From room temperature to towel folding, small patterns show guests you’ve thought it through.

• Standardize towel type and placement across all rooms using matching sets.
• Use sensory cues—like a scent or curated check-in playlist—to reinforce your brand’s mood.
• Create reset routines so every guest receives the same thoughtful touches.

7. Be Quietly Attentive, Not Loudly Impressive

Luxury is often felt more than seen. Small touches that reduce effort are what guests remember most.

• Hooks where guests actually need them (e.g., entryway, bathroom).
• A tray for wet umbrellas on rainy days.
• An outlet beside the bed that doesn’t require moving furniture.

These thoughtful touches rarely go unnoticed—and they often show up in 5-star reviews.

Final Thought: Not Every Detail Needs a Story

Not every item has to be handmade or local. Guests want a clean shower, a great sleep, and simple interactions that feel intuitive.

Design with empathy. Adjust often. And remember that the most meaningful parts of your space might also be the quietest.

Looking for modern, design-forward hospitality supplies that bring intention to every guest touchpoint? Discover more at Amenie.com.