For most of us, a trip to an attractive tourist destination is a dream opportunity to break away from routine and forget about the rules that apply every day. But does the dress code count among them? Although we do not have to stick to strict norms, there are certain rules that we should follow even on vacation. We answer the question of whether there is a dress code in the hotel and what to remember when packing a holiday suitcase.
Does hotel dress code exist?
We most often go to the hotel for leisure purposes - so it's no wonder that during the stay we want to feel free and comfortable. On the other hand, many people wonder if there is a dress code in it - especially when choosing a luxury hotel in Krynica-Zdroj or other mountain or seaside resort, where even the receptionist's attire is often elegant. However, as the hotel is - at least to some extent - a public space, in the common areas we should follow certain norms and good manners that reflect our social skills and personal culture.
How to dress for breakfast at the hotel?
The vast majority of hotels offer breakfast to their guests included in the room rate. It is usually served in the hotel's restaurant, so in a place where we will come into contact with both the facility's staff and other tourists. Delicious, diverse dishes that await us at the buffet or the lack of need to clean up after a meal certainly have a relaxing effect. And although this does not mean that we can go to breakfast in pajamas or a bathrobe, hotel savoir vivre does not require us to wear formal attire - daily or sporty wear will be perfectly sufficient. If, however, we do not want to change clothes or dream of a lazy breakfast in bed, in many facilities we can order it to the room.
How to dress for dinner at the hotel restaurant?
However, different dress code rules may apply when going to the hotel restaurant for dinner. What clothes to choose for this occasion? Don't worry – if you do not plan to participate in a formal event with a specific dress code during your stay, no one will require you to wear a black suit or cocktail dress. However, if you do not want to make a faux pas, it is still better to leave flip-flops or a bathrobe in the room. In most cases, the optimal attire will be in the style of smart casual, that is, a more elegant but still allowing some freedom variant of everyday casual. You can also opt for an outfit you would choose for going to a similar restaurant in your city - so you can successfully reach for a dress or long trousers and a shirt.
What to wear to the pool or SPA at the hotel?
A pool, sauna complex or the opportunity to use SPA treatments are amenities that we are increasingly paying attention to when planning a vacation. But what hotel savoir vivre rules apply in this case? How to dress for the SPA at the hotel or wanting to swim in the hotel pool? In many cases, there are two options. If lockers are provided in the SPA & Wellness area for guests' use, we can come to it in daily or sporty attire, and wear a swimsuit or shorts in the changing room. Another option is to change in the room and go to the pool or SPA through the common areas in a bathrobe and slippers. In swimwear or even wrapped in a bathrobe, we will not be able to appear in the restaurant - so this option is best used if we are going only to the pool or treatment, and then returning straight to the room.
What shoes to wear around the hotel?
The footwear in which we will walk around the hotel should be primarily comfortable. On a trip, sports shoes - sneakers, sneakers, sandals, or even flip-flops - work out very well. An exception may be visits to restaurants, where, as we mentioned, different dress code rules may apply - although it is rarely necessary for heels or suit shoes to be absolutely necessary. However, if the restaurant is very elegant and we do not know what attire will be appropriate, the reception staff or the service of the establishment will certainly dispel all our doubts.
