Many hotels aim to provide guests with a comfortable, home-like experience. However, a growing number of guests are taking this too far, behaving too casually in public areas, creating challenges for hotels.

A survey by Expedia revealed that 94% of respondents found walking barefoot in a hotel unacceptable, followed by wearing bathrobes in the lobby (92%) and excessive public displays of affection at the pool (86%). These actions are deemed "inappropriate in a luxury accommodation setting".

Many guests often go shirtless or wear pajamas to the hotel breakfast buffet. Photo: X/Sun

Some hotels opt for gentle reminders rather than strict rules. "If staff members are polite and discreet, guests will usually comply," said Reem Arbid, co-founder of a luxury inn in the US.

Behaviors like loud phone conversations or wearing pajamas in common areas also bother other guests. According to hotel managers, polite communication and providing etiquette guidelines via email or at check-in can improve the situation.

At Kilkea Castle in Ireland, guests are required to wear shirts and shoes in the restaurant. The on-site golf course has even stricter rules, prohibiting collarless shirts and athletic wear.

However, some hotels are embracing the new standards. "We accept pajamas at breakfast and dogs on the bed. Respecting the safety and privacy of others is what matters," said a representative of The Maybourne Beverly Hills hotel in the US.

A guest checks in at the hotel reception desk. Photo: iStock

Another issue is "reserving" poolside lounge chairs. About 60% of those surveyed disapproved of this practice, prompting hotels to devise solutions. Some hotels, like the Marriott in Hawaii, allow guests to reserve only one additional chair. In Cyprus, lounge chairs are assigned at check-in to prevent disputes.

According to hospitality experts, yelling at staff or arguing in public areas are the truly serious problems. Hotel staff are trained to handle these situations by inviting guests to a private area. Some guests treat staff "like their personal servants." However, in response, staff mostly smile through the reprimands and wish guests a good day.

Anh Minh (CNBC)