Who doesn’t love the feeling of being welcomed with a warm, chewy cookie upon arrival at a hotel? It’s a small gesture that can instantly make you feel at home and set the tone for a wonderful stay. In this article, we’ll explore the hotels that offer this delightful treat, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
DoubleTree by Hilton: The Original Cookie Hotel
When it comes to hotels that give cookies at check-in, DoubleTree by Hilton is often the first name that comes to mind. This iconic hotel chain has been offering its signature warm cookies to guests for over 30 years, and it’s become an integral part of their brand identity.
The story behind the cookie tradition is a fascinating one. In the 1980s, DoubleTree by Hilton was looking for a way to differentiate itself from other hotels and create a memorable experience for its guests. After experimenting with various amenities, they settled on the idea of offering a warm cookie at check-in. The response was overwhelming, and the cookie quickly became a beloved tradition.
Today, DoubleTree by Hilton offers a variety of cookie flavors, including chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and peanut butter. The cookies are baked fresh in-house throughout the day, and guests can enjoy them in the lobby or take them to their room.
What Makes DoubleTree by Hilton’s Cookies So Special?
So, what sets DoubleTree by Hilton’s cookies apart from others? Here are a few factors that contribute to their success:
- Quality ingredients: DoubleTree by Hilton uses high-quality ingredients, including real butter and pure vanilla extract, to create a rich, chewy cookie that’s hard to resist.
- Attention to detail: The cookies are baked fresh throughout the day, ensuring that guests receive a warm, fragrant treat that’s perfect for snacking.
- Consistency: Whether you’re staying at a DoubleTree by Hilton in New York or Los Angeles, you can expect the same delicious cookie experience.
Other Hotels That Offer Cookies at Check-in
While DoubleTree by Hilton may be the most well-known hotel chain for its cookie tradition, it’s not the only one. Here are a few other hotels that offer cookies at check-in:
- Great Wolf Lodge: This family-friendly resort chain offers a warm cookie at check-in, along with a variety of other amenities, including an indoor water park and kids’ activities.
- Hyatt Regency: Some Hyatt Regency locations offer a cookie at check-in, along with other perks, such as a 24-hour fitness center and on-site dining.
Why Do Hotels Offer Cookies at Check-in?
So, why do hotels offer cookies at check-in in the first place? Here are a few reasons:
- To create a warm and welcoming atmosphere: A warm cookie can instantly make guests feel at home and create a positive impression of the hotel.
- To differentiate themselves from other hotels: In a crowded hospitality market, offering a unique amenity like a warm cookie can help hotels stand out from the competition.
- To show appreciation for guests: A cookie at check-in is a small gesture that shows guests that the hotel values their business and is committed to providing a memorable experience.
The Psychology Behind the Cookie
The cookie at check-in is more than just a tasty treat – it’s also a clever marketing tactic. Here are a few psychological factors that contribute to the cookie’s success:
- Dopamine release: The smell and taste of a warm cookie can trigger a release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
- Emotional connection: The cookie creates an emotional connection between the guest and the hotel, making the guest more likely to feel loyal and return in the future.
- Sensory experience: The cookie engages multiple senses, including smell, taste, and touch, creating a memorable experience that guests are likely to recall.
How Hotels Can Use the Cookie to Enhance the Guest Experience
While the cookie at check-in is a great start, hotels can take it to the next level by using it as a way to enhance the overall guest experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Offer a cookie-themed package: Create a package that includes a cookie-making class, a cookie-tasting experience, or a cookie-themed room amenity.
- Use the cookie as a way to personalize the guest experience: Offer guests their favorite type of cookie or create a customized cookie with their name or initials.
- Make the cookie a social media opportunity: Encourage guests to share photos of their cookie on social media, using a branded hashtag and tagging the hotel.
Conclusion
The cookie at check-in is a small gesture that can make a big impact on the guest experience. Whether you’re staying at a DoubleTree by Hilton or another hotel that offers this amenity, it’s a thoughtful touch that shows you’re valued and appreciated. By understanding the psychology behind the cookie and using it as a way to enhance the guest experience, hotels can create a memorable and loyal customer base. So next time you’re checking into a hotel, be sure to look out for the cookie – it might just be the start of a wonderful stay.
What is the significance of hotels giving cookies at check-in?
Hotels that give cookies at check-in are offering a warm welcome to their guests. This gesture is a way to make guests feel special and valued. It’s a small token of appreciation that sets the tone for a pleasant stay. The cookies are often freshly baked and served with a smile, making guests feel at home.
The significance of this gesture goes beyond just a sweet treat. It’s a way for hotels to differentiate themselves from others and create a memorable experience for their guests. In today’s competitive hospitality industry, hotels are looking for ways to stand out and provide exceptional service. Giving cookies at check-in is a unique way to do just that.
Which hotels are known for giving cookies at check-in?
Several hotels are known for giving cookies at check-in. Some popular ones include DoubleTree by Hilton, which is famous for its warm chocolate chip cookies. Other hotels like Great Wolf Lodge and Embassy Suites also offer cookies as a welcome treat. These hotels understand the importance of making a good first impression and use cookies as a way to do so.
It’s worth noting that not all hotels offer cookies at check-in, so it’s always a good idea to check with the hotel beforehand. Some hotels may offer other welcome treats, such as fruit or chocolates, so it’s always a nice surprise to find out what’s in store.
What types of cookies are typically given at check-in?
The types of cookies given at check-in vary from hotel to hotel. Some hotels, like DoubleTree by Hilton, are known for their signature chocolate chip cookies. Others may offer oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, or snickerdoodle cookies. Some hotels may even offer seasonal cookies, such as gingerbread during the holidays.
The cookies are often freshly baked and served warm, which makes them even more delicious. Some hotels may also offer a variety of cookies to cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions. For example, some hotels may offer gluten-free or vegan cookies.
Is the cookie welcome limited to certain room types or packages?
The cookie welcome is not always limited to certain room types or packages. At some hotels, all guests receive a warm cookie at check-in, regardless of the room type or package. However, some hotels may reserve the cookie welcome for guests who book certain packages or room types.
For example, a hotel may offer a “Cookie Package” that includes a warm cookie at check-in, along with other perks like a free breakfast or late check-out. In this case, the cookie welcome is limited to guests who book that specific package.
Can guests request additional cookies during their stay?
While hotels may not always offer additional cookies during a guest’s stay, it never hurts to ask. Some hotels may be happy to provide extra cookies, especially if they have a surplus. However, it’s always best to check with the hotel beforehand to see if they can accommodate the request.
If a hotel is unable to provide additional cookies, they may offer other treats or snacks instead. For example, they may have a selection of teas or coffees, along with pastries or other baked goods.
Are the cookies suitable for guests with dietary restrictions?
Hotels that offer cookies at check-in often try to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. For example, they may offer gluten-free or vegan cookies for guests who require them. However, it’s always best to check with the hotel beforehand to confirm that they can accommodate specific dietary needs.
If a hotel is unable to provide a cookie that meets a guest’s dietary restrictions, they may offer alternative treats instead. For example, they may have a selection of fresh fruit or nuts that are suitable for guests with dietary restrictions.
Can guests take the cookies to-go or are they only available in the lobby?
While some hotels may only offer cookies in the lobby, others may allow guests to take them to-go. It’s always best to check with the hotel beforehand to see if they allow cookies to be taken to-go. If they do, guests can enjoy their cookies in the comfort of their own room or on-the-go.
If a hotel does not allow cookies to be taken to-go, guests can still enjoy them in the lobby or other public areas. Many hotels have comfortable seating areas where guests can relax and enjoy their cookies while taking in the surroundings.