Checking into a hotel should feel exciting, not stressful. Regardless of why you’re in Utah, a little kindness and consideration help make the stay easier for everyone.
At First Choice Inn at the Swell, we see every small gesture counts, from a friendly hello at check-in to a thank you when you leave. Those moments are what turn an overnight stop into a stay you will remember.
Before You Arrive: Reservation and Communication Tips
A smooth stay begins long before you walk through the lobby doors. Make your reservation early to lock in the room and dates you want. If you book online or through a third-party site, double-check the details so there are no surprises later. Need extra pillows, a crib, or certain breakfast options? Share those requests when you book so we can do our best to have them ready.
Confirm Details and Communicate Early
It helps to look over your confirmation before you travel. Check your dates, rates, and what is included, and take a quick look at our cancellation and check-in policies so you know what to expect. If your arrival time changes or you have a special request, let us know as soon as possible so we can be prepared. Many guests also find that booking directly with us offers more flexibility than going through a third-party site.
Please notify us of any special requests or changes to your arrival time as soon as possible, so we can prepare our staff accordingly. Booking directly through First Choice Inn or by phone often offers greater flexibility than third-party sites. Most confirmations arrive well in advance, giving you plenty of time to clarify details before your stay in Utah.
Managing Special Requests Realistically
If you have specific needs such as pet-friendly rooms, cribs, or accessibility features, communicate them as early as possible. Setting realistic expectations ensures the hotel can prepare appropriately. Availability depends on factors like occupancy, room type, and timing.
For late arrivals, please call ahead to confirm your room and that check-in will proceed smoothly. When plans change, modify or cancel promptly to help both you and the hotel avoid unnecessary complications. Clear and timely communication makes it easier to meet your needs while maintaining positive hotel etiquette.
Hotel Lobby Behavior: First Impressions Count
First impressions start in the lobby. Having your ID and payment handy makes check-in go faster, and a little patience goes a long way.
Keep phone use discreet and conversations at a low volume, as sound carries easily in open spaces. Wear neat attire and store luggage neatly to avoid blocking walkways. Address concerns directly at the front desks. Thanking staff by name adds a personal touch that leaves a lasting impression.
Respecting Shared Spaces and Quiet Hours
Respecting shared spaces and quiet hours ensures everyone in the hotel enjoys a comfortable stay. These practices help ensure every guest enjoys a peaceful environment.
Pool, Fitness Room, and Lounge Etiquette
Shared spaces add to the enjoyment of a hotel stay when everyone treats them with care. At First Choice Inn at the Swell, our heated indoor pool and whirlpool are open from morning until evening so you can relax or recharge whenever it fits your schedule.
To keep the area safe and welcoming, please follow the posted guidelines. Shower before swimming, keep an eye on children, and use proper swim attire. These simple steps help ensure the pool stays clean and enjoyable for all of our guests.
Courtesy in shared spaces extends to fitness rooms and lounges. Wipe down equipment after use, avoid reserving lounge chairs unless in use, and never monopolize equipment. Always keep the area tidy for the next guest.
The same respect applies to business centers and breakfast lounges. Keep voices low, avoid reserving unused seats, and leave the space clean for others.
Maintaining Quiet Hours for Utah Hotel Guests
Most hotels expect guests to keep noise low between late evening and early morning, even if you don’t see any quiet hours. This hotel etiquette is essential for travelers visiting Utah’s national parks who need rest before early starts. Keep televisions at a low volume, avoid loud gatherings, and walk quietly in hallways.
When noise issues arise, contact the front desk instead of confronting guests directly. This hotel etiquette helps maintain a calm, welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy a peaceful stay.
Housekeeping Do’s and Don’ts
Good housekeeping etiquette helps keep your stay cleaner and more comfortable. A few simple habits make things easier for both guests and staff.
If you would like your room serviced, use the “Please Make Up Room” sign. If you prefer privacy, place the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door. If you do not need daily service, let the front desk know so our team can save time and resources. For extra items such as towels or toiletries, the front desk will be happy to arrange them for you.
When housekeeping does arrive, it is helpful to step out or take a break in another area so they can tidy up quickly and thoroughly. If you are staying a little longer, our guest laundry facilities are open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. This makes it easy to refresh your clothes after a few days on the road or exploring Utah’s national parks.
Professional Tipping Guidelines
Following proper hotel etiquette for tipping ensures that staff feel appreciated for their work. Housekeeping staff should receive $1 to $5 per night, paid daily rather than at checkout. Increase gratuities for additional guests, heavy use, or special requests.
A little generosity goes a long way when it comes to tipping hotel staff. For bell service, a couple of dollars per bag is a thoughtful way to show appreciation, both when bags are dropped off and picked up. If you order room service, plan on adding 15 to 20 percent unless a service charge is already included. For smaller in-room deliveries such as extra towels or toiletries, two dollars for the first item and one dollar for anything extra is a good rule of thumb.
These small gestures not only thank the people who make your stay more comfortable, they also help keep the friendly and welcoming service that guests love about staying with us.
Guest Room Etiquette: Treat It Like Home (But Better)
Think of your hotel room as being a guest in someone’s home, but with professional hospitality standards. Use furniture, electronics, and linens with care, avoiding unnecessary rearrangement. Only take complimentary items, such as toiletries or stationery; leave towels, robes, and electronics for the next guest.
Follow the room instructions for safe appliance use and climate controls. Don’t cook with anything but the provided equipment, and never tamper with smoke detectors. Use luggage racks instead of placing bags on beds or sofas to maintain cleanliness.
Report spills or maintenance issues to the front desk immediately, rather than attempting to make repairs yourself. Respect occupancy limits and register visitors at the front desk when required.
Handling Problems Politely and Effectively
Even the best hotels can hit a snag once in a while. What matters most is how it gets handled. If something isn’t right during your stay, let our team know right away—we’re here to help. The more details you share, the quicker we can find a fix.
Give us a little time to work on the problem, and if a room change or another solution is needed, just ask. A kind word and a clear explanation go a long way, and you’ll find we’ll do everything we can to make things right so you can get back to enjoying your trip.
After the matter gets taken care of, offer constructive feedback to support future improvements. A patient and courteous approach often results in better experiences for everyone involved.
Checkout Etiquette: Ending on a Positive Note
Good hotel etiquette ensures a smooth and respectful checkout process. Review your bill carefully and address any questions before leaving. Return keys or keycards as directed, either at the front desk or in the drop box.
Please complete checkout promptly to avoid delays for other guests. Practicing hotel etiquette involves tidying your room by gathering towels, disposing of trash, and checking for personal belongings.
If your stay was enjoyable, please show your appreciation to the staff by leaving a thank-you note or writing a positive review. This hotel’s etiquette not only honors staff efforts but also guides future guests in choosing the best Utah hotel experience.
Enjoy a Thoughtful Stay at First Choice Inn at the Swell
When you stay at First Choice Inn at the Swell, you’ll love our comfortable and practical rooms. Each space includes blackout shades for a good night’s rest, soft bedding, free Wi-Fi, and handy extras like a mini-fridge and microwave. Beyond your room, you can enjoy a hot breakfast each morning, take a dip in the indoor pool, and take advantage of our pet-friendly options and plenty of parking.
We also do our best to create a friendly, respectful environment for everyone. Simple courtesies, like keeping noise down in the halls, help make the experience better for fellow travelers and our team alike. Our goal is for you to leave Green River rested, recharged, and ready for your next adventure in Utah.