One third of Americans have broken up with a partner during a trip because of their travel habits
Hotels.com finds breakfast buffets, pillow menus and unpacking services are relationship savers
As couples plan their romantic getaways, Hotels.com’s new survey uncovers the biggest icks (aka annoying or cringeworthy traits) among Americans traveling with their significant other include1:
- Doesn’t let me eat or drink from the mini bar because it’s too expensive
- Keeps the room a mess
- Brings their own pillow or bedding with them
- Unpacks immediately
- Always forgets room key and assumes I have it
Hotels.com also reveals that nearly a quarter of travelers (24%) find their loved ones’ travel icks so embarrassing or annoying that it spoils the trip they’re on, and 88% confess their partner’s travel behavior makes them want to take fewer trips together. And some stays are just memorable for the wrong reasons – 1 in 3 (33%) Americans have gone as far as breaking up with a partner on a trip because of their travel habits.
The good news is that for the most part, most Americans (81%) agree that traveling with their partner has deepened their bond and brought them closer together. What’s more, couples can opt for and book hotels with specific amenities to mitigate their biggest icks: more than 40% of travelers champion buffet breakfasts (49%) as good bang for their buck and a pillow menu or sleep friendly amenities (44%) for those who struggle to sleep in a new place. Similarly, daily housekeeping (44%) and unpacking services (44%) have saved the day for couples sharing a room with a messy partner.
“I unpack as soon as I get to my room, so it’s alarming to find out that’s a big ‘no’ for so many people on a romantic weekend. To nip frustrations in the bud, make the most of what your hotel offers, like choosing a room with an unpacking service to get you both out and about, or daily housekeeping if your loved one needs help keeping things tidy. Use the Hotels.com app’s comparison tool too, which lets you compare up to five hotels so both of you can find your perfect somewhere” said Melanie Fish, a Hotels.com spokesperson.
For smooth travels ahead, check out these hotels in popular U.S. destinations perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, complete with amenities to relieve any travel turn-offs:
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas – perfect for stingy diners
Skip the mini bar snacks and head to the Vegas-style breakfast buffet at MGM Grand where there’s something for everyone, and all-you-can-eaters will get a bang for their buck. Still hungry? Come back for more during lunch.
Sheraton Phoenix – perfect for messy partners
This downtown Phoenix hotel still offers daily housekeeping for guests who may need an extra helping hand to keep things tidy. Other amenities include: an expansive fitness center, two restaurants and an outdoor pool.
The Benjamin Royal Sonesta, New York City – perfect for specialist sleepers
No need to pack your own pillow and sheets. This hotel’s Rest & Renew sleep program has many enticing elements including a curated pillow menu, lullabies and 24/7 Sleep Team to make your dreams come true.
The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, Miami – perfect for avoiding unpacking drama
Luxury lovers will enjoy this high-end, beachfront hotel featuring butler service with packing/unpacking services. The hotel also boasts four restaurants, a spa and two outdoor pools.
Virgin Hotels New Orleans – perfect for forgetful folks
This jazzy hotel is known for its highly personalized rooms and high-tech touches. What’s more, if you tend to forget your hotel key, Lucy, your digital personal assistant, will save you with a digital keyless entry.