The importance of hotel cleanliness protocols cannot be overstated in a world dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a recent survey commissioned by the American Hotel & Lodging Association. In fact, 81 percent of respondents to that survey of travelers who stayed in hotels at least five nights during 2019 now are more comfortable staying in hotels that have implemented enhanced protocols and standards.
The three most frequently cited factors that would improve guests' comfort levels either "a lot" or "some" are a requirement that hotel staff wear face masks (87 percent of respondents), suspension of daily housekeeping of rooms (86 percent) and a requirement that guests wear face masks (85 percent), according to AHLA.
Additional factors include adding transparent barriers at front desks, concierge or valet stations (82 percent); signage for washing hands, distancing and personal protective equipment (80 percent); temporarily closing amenities (77 percent); and floor markings to promote social distancing (77 percent).
Regarding the resumption of travel, about 33 percent of frequent travelers expect to take trips within the next three months, with another 18 percent expecting to do so in three to six months and 25 percent expecting to wait six to 12 months.
The survey was conducted Aug. 11-13 by Morning Consult on behalf of AHLA. Of a national sample of 2,200 adults, 712 were identified as frequent travelers, indicating they spent five or more nights in hotels in 2019.