COMPLETE WITH IN ON AT IN ON AT Types of Hotel. READING There are many types of hotel, big and small. Big hotels, which are part of a 'group', offer guests a standard that does not vary from one location to another. Hotels can be awarded 'Stars' if their facilities match the Tourist Boards specifications. The more stars, the higher the standards. There is also a 'Red Star' accolade awarded for excellent cuisine. People expect rooms with ensuite facilities. There is also a choice of single, double or family rooms to book. Hotels in large busy cities often have triple glazed windows to help reduce the noise of passing traffic. When you stay in a hotel, the facilities are reflected in the price of the accommodation. Many establishments have swimming pools, squash courts, health clubs, gymnasiums and indoor play areas for young family members. Some of these activities can be used by non-residents, providing they pay the subscription fee. There are hotels with golf courses in their grounds. Some have lakes that are offered to guests who wish to fish or take out a boat to fill their leisure time. A good hotel with pleasant helpful staff contributes to making a holiday enjoyable and encourages return visits. Christmas cards are sent to regular guests from the hotel management. A varied choice of fresh food beautifully presented in a dining area with lovely views, all add to the holiday experience. If the guests do not wish to dine in the restaurant, room service is an alternative. A menu is supplied in the room from which guests can order. When the food is ready, a member of staff will bring it to the room. If the guests have to leave early in the morning before the dining room is serving breakfast, an order can be placed the night before leaving and breakfast will be delivered to the room at the desired time. There is always a list of the restaurant opening times in the room. Most hotels ask their guests to vacate their rooms by 10 o'clock on the day of their departure. This is so the staff have enough time to clean the room, make up the bed and generally tidy the area, before the next occupants arrive. New visitors to a hotel do not usually have access to their room until after mid-day. 1) Why are hotels awarded stars? 2) Why do hotels in busy cities have double and triple glazed windows? 3) What facilities are offered to non-residents? 4) What does room service mean? 5) Why are guests asked to vacate their rooms by 10 am on departure day? READING Doorman: Welcome to Hotel SleepWell. May I help you with your luggage? Brandon: No, thank you. We can manage on our own. However, would you tell us where to check in? Doorman: Certainly!! Just walk past the table with flowers and you will see the check-in counter on your right-hand side. There should be someone there to assist you. Brandon: It seems easy enough to find. Thank You. Doorman: You’re welcome. Brandon & Marlies proceed to the reservation desk beyond the table of fresh flowers to be greeted by a cheerful, well-dressed young lady named Gabby. Gabby: Good afternoon! My name’s Abagail, but you may call me Gabby. How may I help you today? Brandon: We would like to check-in. The last name is Jordan. Gabby: Very good. Thank you for choosing Hotel SleepWell. Our computer shows your reservation for a twonight stay featuring a king-size bed at a rate of $90 per night. Your room includes a whirlpool tub, air conditioning, television, and a mini refrigerator. We do require identification from all guests and full payment at time of check-in. Your total amount due is $180. How would you like to pay, cash or credit? Marlies (speaking to Brandon): Honey, let’s just use the debit card this time. We should save our cash for getting around town this weekend. Brandon: Good thinking. Marlies: Gabby, here is my debit card. Does it matter if the surname on my card is different from Brandon’s? Gabby: No Miss. We accept all currency here at Hotel SleepWell. All money is welcomed. Ha-ha Marlies: You’re funny. Are you a comedian? Gabby: No Miss. I just aim to please all our guests. Brandon: (in a very serious tone) Very cheeky! Is there anything else you need from us? Gabby: No, Mr. Jordan. Your room number and complimentary wi-fi password are printed on the back of your receipt. The elevators are around the corner to the left. Again! Thank you for choosing Hotel SleepWell. Enjoy your stay and please feel free to dial 0 on the room phone if you have any additional questions or concerns. I hope you’ll find your weekend here in Galena to be beyond dreams. Brandon & Marlies: Thank you 1 Read the story and answer the questions. 1. What is the first thing Brandon and Marlies need to do after their arrival? 2. What kind of room did Marlies book? 3. What is the total cost of staying in the hotel? 4. How are they going to pay? 5. What can they do if they have any other requests or needs?
