From mirrors that give you an unexpected front-row seat while on the loo to hotels that believe orange juice belongs in a shot glass – these are just a few things that could be tweaked to make travel even better. And before you say it, no, this isn’t a rant – it’s a conversation! Because if even one hotel takes note, we all win.
Johannesburg, South Africa (17 March 2025) – I travel a lot. Sometimes for work, sometimes for fun and sometimes because life is too short to stay in one place. Every trip brings new experiences, new cultures, and, inevitably, new hotels. Some are incredible, with plush robes, dreamy breakfasts and beds so comfortable they could solve half the world’s problems. Others… well, let’s just say they leave me questioning my life choices.
At some point, between checking in and attempting to figure out why the bedside lamp switch is located in the bathroom, I started analysing what makes a hotel stay great… and what makes it baffling. And now? I can’t unsee the things that make no sense.
And please, before anyone jumps in, I know this might look like I’m just moaning. And maybe an opinion piece like this seems a little out of place for Good Things Guy. But the way I see it, this is a good thing! If one hotel reads this and makes even one small change, it could improve the experience for every future guest. This isn’t about complaining; it’s about making good stays even better. Also, you might not agree with some (or any) of these points, and that’s more than okay. These are things I think could be tweaked to make travel even better.
So, as someone who has checked in and out of more hotels than I can count, here are the quirks that could do with a rethink.
1. Better Coffee in the Room
If you’re going to offer coffee, please make it a pleasant experience. A good cup in the morning can set the tone for the day, so consider upgrading from instant sachets (I really dislike these) or off-brand pods (fake pods don’t taste the same as the real thing). A small coffee machine with quality beans or a convenient way to grab a proper cup nearby can make all the difference. Some hotels have started putting proper coffee machines on every floor, so even though you have to leave your room, good coffee is right around the corner.
2. Plugs Near a Mirror
Getting ready should be effortless and having a plug near a well-lit mirror is a small but meaningful detail. Whether it’s for drying hair or applying makeup, good lighting and accessible power make all the difference. I’ve been in more hotels than I can count, where I have had to do the most bizarre things to try to get an angle on some sort of surface while drying my hair… TV screens, standing on the bed and using my phone as a mirror. Like, please just put a plug near a mirror.
3. Mirror Placement Matters
Speaking about mirrors…. they can enhance a room’s design but positioning matters. Facing one directly toward the toilet might not be the most comfortable setup. Not exactly the kind of self-reflection I’m after. A well-placed mirror can contribute to both function and ambience. They are not needed when sitting on a toilet.
4. Thoughtful Bathroom Layouts
Open-plan bathrooms may look fancy but let’s be real – some things need a bit of privacy. A glass-walled toilet? A bathtub in the middle of the room? These aren’t bold design choices; they’re just a bit… impractical. Privacy is key and while open-plan designs can look stylish, practical separation between the sleeping area and bathroom (and the toilet) makes for a more comfortable stay. A well-placed door or partition can balance aesthetics and functionality.
5. Shower Pressure That Works
A great shower can make or break a morning. Balance is key… something strong enough to rinse off the shampoo but gentle enough not to remove a layer of skin. Adjustable pressure options (if available) cater to different preferences and ensure guests feel refreshed (and assist in making us all smell good).
6. A Toilet Brush (Just in Case)
We don’t need to talk about why this is important. We just all know that it is. And I can tell you from experience that 7 out of 10 hotels do not provide these. This was audited by me. I have been on the look out for months now.
7. Convenient Bedside Plugs
We rely on our phones for alarms, messages, and, let’s be honest, a little late-night scrolling. Having plugs on both sides of the bed ensures guests can charge devices without stretching cables across the room. I have had to sleep with my laptop in order to charge my phone and watch. Not ideal.
8. Windows That Open for Fresh Air
South African hotels generally have windows that open, so this is more of an international thing. And I guess that’s because of air-conditioning and safety. However, having an option to let in fresh air can make a room feel more comfortable (it also helps with my sinuses). Even a small, secure window that allows a breeze can enhance the overall experience.
9. Simple, Intuitive Light Switches
No one wants to play a guessing game when trying to turn off the lights. A straightforward setup – where each switch clearly controls a specific light – makes bedtime routines much smoother. I once had to turn off the bed lights in the bathroom and then figure out how to turn the bathroom lights off. That was fun.
10. Soundproofing for a Peaceful Stay
A little extra insulation goes a long way. Reducing noise from neighbouring rooms helps create a more restful environment, allowing guests to enjoy their space without unexpected background noise.
11. Generous Juice Glasses at Breakfast
Why are hotel juice glasses always tiny? A refreshing drink in the morning should feel satisfying, not like a rationed sip. Larger juice glasses save guests from multiple trips to the buffet and ensure a more enjoyable start to the day. I just want a big glass of orange juice (or water) asseblief.
12. Reliable Wi-Fi That Works
In a connected world, good Wi-Fi is essential. Whether guests are working remotely, staying in touch with family, or streaming their favourite shows, a strong, stable connection makes their stay far more convenient. I don’t want to say this, but it’s 2025; if you offer Wi-Fi (which you should), it should be fast, reliable and available in more than just the reception (or next to that one pillar, by the elevator, on the 3rd floor).
At the end of the day, none of these things are about luxury, they’re about thoughtfulness.
The best hotel stays aren’t just about fancy décor or expensive extras; they’re about the little details that make a space feel comfortable, seamless and welcoming. Because when a place gets the small things right, it allows you to focus on what really matters – making memories, relaxing and actually enjoying the journey. And isn’t that the whole point?
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go on a treasure hunt to find the switch for this bedside lamp.
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