Staying at a hotel is often a relaxing experience room service, fresh linen, and a peaceful environment. But behind the comfort and luxury, there are rules designed to maintain order and protect the property. While most hotel policies are common sense, violating some of them could result in unexpected fines.

To help you avoid any trouble during your next hotel stay, here are 10 hotel rules that you absolutely need to know.

1. Smoking in a Non-Smoking Room
   Hotels usually designate rooms as non-smoking zones. Smoking inside such rooms can trigger smoke alarms and leave lingering odors. Guests who break this rule often face fines starting from IDR 250,000 to cover deep cleaning and deodorizing. Pro tip: Always check your room’s smoking policy during check-in.
   
   
2. Moving Furniture (Like the Telephone Table)
   It might seem harmless, but moving hotel furniture such as the telephone table can scratch floors or damage wiring. Hotels may charge guests for any resulting damage. Instead: Call reception if you need help rearranging anything.
   
   
3. Placing the Mattress on the Floor
   Lowering the mattress to the floor to accommodate extra guests can damage it due to friction or exposure to dirt. This violates hotel rules and may lead to cleaning or replacement fees.
   
   
4. Taking Hotel Property
   Items like toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and slippers are complimentary. However, towels, blankets, pillows, hangers, robes, and cups are hotel assets — not souvenirs. Taking them home can result in a fine or charge to your card.
   
   
5. Breaking or Damaging Items
   Accidentally breaking mirrors, glasses, or other hotel items may cost you. Damaged goods not only reduce the room’s appeal but also risk injury to others. Always report any accidents to staff immediately.
   
   
6. Bringing Pets Without Permission
   Most hotels in Indonesia do not allow pets in rooms unless clearly stated. Pet fur can trigger allergies and is hard to clean. Always check pet policies and inform the hotel in advance to explore alternatives like nearby pet boarding.
   
   
7. Bringing Strong-Smelling Food
   Durian, salted fish, and similar strong-smelling foods can linger for days. This may render the room unusable for the next guest and lead to deodorizing charges.
   
   
8. Staining the Sheets or Furnishings
   Spills on sheets or upholstery like makeup, coffee, or ink can leave permanent stains. If this happens, notify the staff immediately. Trying to clean it yourself is okay, but if stains are beyond repair, you may be charged for replacements.
   
   
9. Cooking Inside the Room
   Using rice cookers, portable stoves, or even electric grills is generally prohibited unless you're in a serviced apartment. Cooking inside a regular hotel room can trigger fire alarms or worse cause actual fires. Always ask about cooking areas or pantry access.
   
   
10. Losing the Room Key
    Hotel key cards often do more than unlock your room — they can also grant elevator access and security clearance. Losing one may result in a fine or a key replacement fee, depending on the hotel’s policy.
    
    

Staying at a hotel can be a wonderful experience if you understand and follow the rules. From avoiding smoking in the room, not taking hotel property, to keeping the room clean all of these are meant to create a comfortable environment for every guest.

Remember, breaking hotel rules not only causes embarrassment but can also leave you with hefty fines. To make your trip even safer and worry-free, you can also protect yourself with travel insurance. Check out the complete protection offered by Plan B Life Travel Insurance.

Reference : travel.kompas.com