Things I Find Impossibly Chic at Hotels
A list of all the things that stand out at a hotel, in no particular order.
Handwritten notes on arrival,
A plush bathrobe,
His + hers slippers (in your sizes and that are actually comfortable!!),
A signature scent (think Hotel Côstes — I burned through their candle so quickly),
Intentional design (warm and inviting, homey-touches, never sterile),
Personalized pillowcases,
Heated bathroom floors + towel rack,
A gooood pen + custom hotel stationery (thick, textured paper with the hotel’s monogram),
Turn-down service,
Intentional products (Dyson wrap, Le Labo, Bath salts),
The morning paper,
A proper nook (to read, to sip tea, to just be),
A story or note about the hotel's history (a sense of place),
Locally inspired welcome amenities,
Luxury sheets (cool, crisp, and impossibly soft),
Consistent branding,
Postcards + matches,
Thoughtfully curated playlists,
An expertly stocked library,
A fireplace,
A relaxed, thoughtfully designed check-in experience,
A hidden speakeasy or bar on property (exclusivity adds allure),
Warm, soft lighting (no harsh fluorescents — think ambient sconces and bedside lamps),
A proper dressing area (with a vanity, stool, wardrobe, and perfect lighting for getting ready),
Artisan cups (locally crafted coffee or tea cups),
A welcome drink,
A warm or cold, scented hand towel on arrival (refreshing and indulgent),
An elevated wellness center (sauna, steam, cold plunge, etc.),
An inviting communal space,
A silent luggage delivery service (bags are already waiting in your room),
High ceilings,
Strong water pressure,
A deep soaking tub,
Curated art throughout the space (that feels intentional and reflective of the destination),
Unique offerings (signature experiences or local touches that set the hotel apart),
A slow, luxurious check-out process (no rush, just grace),
Soundproofed rooms,
A proper luggage bench (stylish and functional, with plenty of space),
A discreet, perfectly stocked vanity kit (everything you might have forgotten),
Unique design elements (statement chairs, standout wallpaper, intricate bathroom tiling).
What are the little details or thoughtful touches that make a hotel stay feel impossibly chic to you? I’d love to hear your favorites! Xx
This is making me want to check in to a dreamy hotel rn! If only they could all use this as a checklist when designing the guest experience...
Complimentary Mini Bar, Amankila and Raffles Singapore were the best I’ve seen!