What Do You Need in a Work from Hotel Scenario?

I wrote last week about the fact I’m likely no longer tethered to a specific city for certain jobs — and can work from anywhere. I can travel with my family whether or not I have to work.

“Work from Hotel” packages are popping up here and there. MGM Resorts was one of the first — if not the first — to roll one out. Then Hyatt soon followed.

Each occupation’s remote working needs vary from job to job — and even person to person. Plus People’s expenses differ — as do their reimbursement practices.

Here’s what I realistically and reasonably want to be included in a work-from-hotel package.

Reliable, High-Speed Internet

This is a must for any remote worker. Like, not negotiable. The download and upload speeds have to be consistently fast for file transfers and virtual meetings.

Food Credit

A reasonable credit that covers at least a meal or two for one person would be ideal. I generally work through at least two meal periods when I’m on a job.

Bar Credit

Maybe this can be included in the food credit (because not everyone partakes, of course). But a post-work cocktail — especially after an especially long day — is always something to look forward to. And it gets me out of the room.

Suite Upgrade, if Possible

I’ve spent time photo editing after in hotel rooms at the standard desk or on the bed. And those of us who write are destined to spend time alone in hotel rooms, banging away at our keyboards (it seems to go with the stereotype).

But a room separate from the bedroom is very convenient for work-from-hotel situations. It provides a change of scenery. Plus, it’s nice for people who work while their travel companions are sleeping or watching TV in the bedroom.

One of my favorite work hotels is Delano Las Vegas. Each room is a suite. A view of the Mandalay Bay Beach or Vegas Strip isn’t too shabby for an office window. 🙂

Fridge Stocked with Complimentary Bottled Water and Snacks

This isn’t much of a problem if you stay at Hyatts. 🙂 I drink a lot of water each day. And when I work 14-hour gigs, I need me some snacks. Maybe making this a mini-bar credit would do the trick?

Lounge Access

If a hotel has a lounge, this is a great place to work or simply relax. Guests can grab a quick refreshment before heading back to work. It can also be a nice opportunity for networking

Some of These Are Already Offered

MGM’s “Work from Vegas” package includes several of these options. I appreciate theirs offers an executive assistant. But that doesn’t do anything for me. And people who need personal assistants generally have them already.

Hyatt’s is the better option of the two — though the seven-night minimum stay is a little onerous.

But Don’t Amex FHR or Chase LH&R Cover Most of This?

Most of these credits are available with something like American Express’ Fine Hotels and Resorts or Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection. But some of those hotels are out of people’s price ranges. You likely have dig deep to find a deal that works for your budget. (For what it’s worth, Bellagio and Delano in Las Vegas have generally been pretty good.)

Plus, the problem with certain property credits is they don’t always extend to food purchases. Some properties limit the perk to spa services only. (Wow. $100 credit toward a $200 message. Gee, thanks.)

What Do You Want?

I’d love hear what you need to make Work from Hotel (or somewhere else) a good option for you. Please share your thoughts in the below Comments section!

Featured image: ©iStock.com/Lordn