Pajamas at breakfast and bare feet in the lobby: How hotels are tackling bad etiquette

Published: Friday, June 27, 2025 at 8:42 am

Hotels Grapple with Guest Etiquette in the Pursuit of Comfort

A recent survey highlights the evolving landscape of guest behavior in hotels, revealing a growing tension between providing a relaxed atmosphere and maintaining a sense of decorum. The survey, conducted by Hotels.com and published by Expedia in March, sheds light on the behaviors most likely to be frowned upon by fellow guests.

The results indicate that walking around barefoot is the most widely criticized behavior, with a significant 94% of respondents considering it inappropriate. Close behind is the wearing of hotel robes in the lobby, which garnered disapproval from 92% of those surveyed. Public displays of affection in the pool also ranked high on the list of undesirable behaviors, with 86% of respondents expressing disapproval.

Hotels are increasingly adopting subtle strategies to address these issues, opting for gentle cues rather than direct confrontation. Reem Arbid, co-founder of The Blue Door Kitchen & Inn, emphasizes the importance of staff demonstrating respectful and discreet behavior, believing that guests will follow suit. She notes that loud phone conversations are another common challenge, and suggests that staff can politely request that guests take calls elsewhere.

Ariel Barrionuevo, managing director of La Coralina Island House in Panama, echoes this sentiment, noting that inappropriate attire, such as pajamas or being barefoot in shared spaces, can be perceived as disrespectful, particularly in high-end establishments. The focus is on creating an environment where guests feel comfortable while also respecting the shared space and the experiences of others.

BNN's Perspective:

The survey results underscore the delicate balance hotels must strike between providing a welcoming and relaxed environment and maintaining a level of decorum. While the desire for guests to feel at home is understandable, it's clear that certain behaviors can detract from the experience of others. A subtle, respectful approach from hotel staff, coupled with clear communication of expectations, appears to be the most effective way to navigate this evolving landscape of guest etiquette.

Keywords: hotel etiquette, guest behavior, inappropriate behavior, barefoot, hotel robes, public displays of affection, hotel lobby, survey, Expedia, Hotels.com, guest experience, hotel staff, decorum, respectful behavior, travel

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