Full-Service Hotels

Full-Service Hotels: Understanding Amenities, Guest Experience and Hotel Tiers

Full-service hotels cater to a specific type of traveler—those seeking a luxurious and convenient experience. These hotels offer a wide range of amenities and services to meet the needs and preferences of their guests. Below, we’ll explore what makes a full-service hotel different from other types of accommodations, including amenities, hotel tiers and the differences between full-service hotels and limited-service hotels.

What is a Full-Service Hotel?

Full-service properties have it all—a comprehensive range of amenities, guest services and luxurious and spacious rooms.

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These hotels typically boast:

 
• On-site restaurants and bars: From casual cafes to fine dining establishments, full-service hotels offer diverse food and beverage services options.
 
• Extensive guest services: Services may include 24-hour concierge, bellhops, room service, valet parking and business centers.
 
• Recreational facilities: Swimming pools, fitness centers, spas and on-site entertainment options are often available.
 
• Meeting and event spaces: Full-service hotels cater to business travelers by offering conference rooms, ballrooms and event planning services.
 
• Upscale accommodations: Guests can expect spacious rooms, luxurious bedding and high-quality hotel amenities.

Full-Service vs. Limited-Service Hotels—What’s the Difference?

In short, full service and limited service hotels serve different guests.

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Full service hotels cater to those looking for a wide range of amenities and services, and their room rates reflect this. On the other hand, limited service hotels are more budget-friendly and designed for guests who prioritize basic accommodations and don't require a full suite of offerings.

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Here's a quick breakdown of full-service vs. limited service hotels:

 
• Full-service hotels: Offer a wide range of amenities and services, including on-site restaurants, luxurious accommodations, room service and concierge. These hotels cater to guests seeking a stay with all the frills.
 
• Limited-service hotels: Provide a more basic level of service and amenities, often at a lower price point. Limited-service hotels may offer a limited on-site food and beverage option, smaller rooms and fewer guest services. An extended stay hotel may fall under the limited service category but will often feature an in-room kitchen.  

3 Hotel Tiers within Full-Service Hotels

Full-service hotels can further be categorized by tiers, reflecting the level of luxury and service offered. Here's a general breakdown of the types of hotels within the full service category:

1. Upscale

These hotels provide a high level of service and amenities, with spacious rooms, luxurious appointments and high-end dining options. Upscale hotels are often located near tourist areas, airports and larger cities.

2. Upper-Midscale

Offering a balance between luxury and affordability, upper-midscale hotels cater to both business and leisure travelers. You’ll typically find these hotels near resort areas.

3. Midscale

Midscale hotels provide a comfortable stay with essential amenities at a moderate price point. Midscale hotels are often situated near downtown areas, highways and airports.

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Examples of Amenities Offered by Full-Service Hotels

Amenities are a major selling point for full-service hotels. While they vary from property to property, common examples include:

 
• 24-hour front desk and concierge service
 
• Airport transportation and shuttle services
 
• On-site restaurants and bars
 
• Business center with printing and copying services
 
• Fitness center and spa
 
• Laundry and dry-cleaning services
 
• Pools
 
• Spas
 
• Room service
 
• Security
 
• Valet parking

FYI: According to a study by Hotels.com, some of the most important hotel amenities include Wi-Fi, family-friendly accommodations (cribs, childcare and adjoining rooms), bathtubs, kitchens, business facilities and complimentary breakfast.

How a Full-Service Hotel Elevates the Guest Experience

A full-service hotel experience prioritizes guest comfort and convenience. Here are some key characteristics:

 
• Personalized service: Guests can expect attentive staff dedicated to fulfilling their needs.
 
• Streamlined operations: From check-in to checkout, the guest experience should be seamless and efficient.
 
• A variety of dining options: Guests can choose from a range of on-site restaurants and bars to suit their preferences.
 
• Relaxation and rejuvenation: Amenities like spas and fitness centers cater to guest well-being.
 
• Meeting and event space: Full-service hotels provide the perfect setting for business or social gatherings.

How Canary Technologies Can Help Your Full-Service Hotel

At full-service hotels, the guest experience matters. Canary Technologies' Hotel Management Software can help you drive efficiency, improve guest satisfaction and increase revenue through features like Mobile Check-In/Checkout, Dynamic Upsells, Digital Tipping, Canary AI, and Guest Messaging and more.

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Ready to learn more about how Canary Technologies can help your full-service hotel thrive? Contact us today for a free consultation.

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