This past week I had a short but busy trip to Texas. Starting in Dallas and then ending in Houston, it was strictly a business trip. I was fortunate to stay in two lovely hotels during my trip, The Fairmont Dallas and the Hotel Zaza Houston. While both are quite different in the overall property and brand style, I enjoyed my stay at both hotels very much. As I travel quite a bit for work, I realize that it’s the little things and/or the “added touches” that really make or break my experience at a hotel. Lucky for me, both properties offered specific amenities or unique services which made for a pleasurable experience. At The Fairmont Dallas, I loved the personalized toiletries, provided by Le Labo, a New York City-based fragrance and beauty product brand. As I entered the bathroom and looked around, I did a double take at the perfectly lined bottles of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion. Each one labeled “For: Olivia Falcione” — how unique!  This was the first time I had seen or even heard about hotel toiletries with such a personal touch. I felt special and appreciated! A great way to kick off my stay at The Fairmont and to make me feel welcomed by the brand and property. Next, I checked into the Hotel Zaza Houston. Upon check-in, the friendly desk attendant explained that they do not provide in-room coffee makers, but from 6–10 a.m. every morning, guests can find a butler pantry on their floor offering hot tea, coffee and a newspaper selection. As someone who typically prefers an in-room coffee maker, I found this to be an even better alternative! Here is why:

1. I didn’t have to go through the trouble of actually making the coffee for myself in my room.
2. I didn’t have to spend money or time on in-room dining service.
3. I didn’t have to leave my floor, let alone the hotel. Better yet, I could even stay in my pajamas, robe and slippers!
4. This also was the first time I experienced this service, and I definitely approve.

It is these types of services and amenities that really make a property stand out to me. They understand what a guest is looking for as well as how to make them feel welcome. While they say everything is bigger in Texas, it was the little things that made this trip memorable. — Olivia Falcione, advertising manager