NEW YORK, July 20, 2001 - "Service with a smile," reigns supreme as the key to making travelers happy, according to a recent survey conducted by Relais & Chateaux.  When hotel managers were asked to rank the most important attributes of their staff, "never say no," came in second with 35% of respondents ranking this critical to impeccable service.
 

Relais & Chateaux, a group of charming, privately owned hotels and inns, recently asked 20 of their North American members, including renowned properties such as San Ysidro Ranch (Santa Barbara, CA), Planters Inn (Charleston, SC), The Little Nell (Aspen, CO) and Blantryre (Lenox, MA) about the secrets of good service.  Here's what they had to say: The Waiting Game Have you ever wondered how long you should have to wait for hotel services?  According to 40% of members surveyed, a guest should wait no more than five minutes for their luggage to be delivered to their room and five - 10 minutes for fresh towels (72%).  Sixty percent say a guest should wait no more than five minutes to register and about 20 - 30 minutes for their room service to arrive (56%). Exceptional Service According to the Relais & Chateaux group, no guest request is too outlandish to fulfill.  From changing the bed in the room for just one night, to delivering specially-prepared room

From its origins in 1769 as a way station for Franciscan monks, to its days as a citrus ranch, and finally as a guest ranch beginning in 1893, the San Ysidro Ranch is part of history. The name San Ysidro (Spanish for Saint Isadore) honors the patron saint of Madrid who according to legend, was such a kind and caring shepherd that the Lord sent a guardian angel to watch over his flock while he tended to the sick and needy. It is his example of selfless service that is the guiding principle employed everyday at the Ranch.  In 1825, an adobe ranch house was constructed and remains today one of the most unique private dining rooms on the West Coast. A local historical landmark, the "Old Adobe," as it is known today, is the ideal site for those seeking an outstanding meal in an unforgettable environment. Before its opening as a stylish retreat in 1893, the Ranch was a working citrus Ranch, shipping its produce throughout California. Today, the beautiful sandstone building which houses the world class Stonehouse Restaurant and Plow & Angel Bistro, rests on the site of the original citrus packing plant.

Want the best service possible when you check into a hotel?  Then follow these top five tips, offered by concierge desks to ensure top-notch attention:

• Be respectful and kind.  The staff appreciates it and will be more willing to bend over backwards for a kind guest versus a rude and demanding one.
• Ask with a smile, you will receive with a smile.
• Establish a relationship with the manager in advance.
• Make diet/allergies, physical disabilities known ahead of time.
• Don't exaggerate complaints in order to get a discount.