Covid safety at hotels

CLINTON MOODLEY

Guests also have a responsibility to adopt new methods to protect themselves while on holiday

CHECKING into a hotel used to be effortless and thrilling. However, with the third wave of the virus, many travellers are on edge when staying at a hotel. For some, like me, there’s constant paranoia.

“What if I touch something? Is this person too close to me? Did they really sanitise this room?” are just some of the questions that I ask when I check into a property.

Of course, the tourism industry is doing everything in its power to ensure guest safety.

That said, guests also have a responsibility to adopt new methods to ensure their safety.

For example, in the past, staff would bring your luggage to your room. They would stack it neatly in the designated area and be on their way.

While that still takes place in most hotels, it’s advisable to carry your own for your safety and others.

Also, bring a pen and avoid buffets if on offer (it is acceptable if the staff is dishing up for you or it’s individually wrapped).

Do not touch any high-touch points, and wash and sanitise if you do.

And always wear a mask in all public spaces and common areas, regardless of your vaccine status.

Sharmila Ragunanan, group marketing executive for Dream Hotels & Resorts, points out that hotels take extra precautions to safeguard guests.

“Hotels are going above and beyond to maximise guest safety.

“This means training staff to practise good hand hygiene, perform temperature screenings and affording guests the option to request limited or no housekeeping services during their stay,” she said.

Jeanneret Momberg, chief executive of Visit Stellenbosch, said Stellenbosch was the first destination in sub-Saharan Africa to be awarded the prestigious Safe Travels Stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) "This stamp is there to provide travellers with peace of mind that their safety is the leading priority.

“The Visit Stellenbosch team continues to work hard behind the scenes to ensure that all our members are fully compliant with Covid health and safety protocols,” she said.

Travel Savvy owner Jennifer Morris told IOL Travel that if the accommodation doesn’t follow the rules, they do not deserve to host guests.

“Furthermore, flagrant disregard of Covid-safety regulations should be reported to the Labour Department," she advised.

DO NOT touch any high-touch points and wash and snaitis if you do. | ANDREA PIACQUADIO Pexels