Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Making the Most of the Concierge
Nearly all upscale hotels have concierges, and many smaller inns offer
concierge services from the front desk. Too often, these people go
underutilized by guests who don't know the full range of services
concierges can provide. Beyond merely giving directions to Navy Pier,
concierges are there to act as guests' problem solvers. The best ones
take real pleasure in helping, and the more challenging the request,
the better. When you're on vacation, why not truly relax, and let the
concierge be your personal assistant during your stay?
House Cars:
Upper-end hotels often have house cars available to drop
off guests in the Loop or elsewhere within 5 miles of the hotel. Busi-
nesspeople use the service most, but any guest can enjoy this perk. If
you want to take the kids to watch the White Sox play at U.S. Cellular
Field, or you need a ride to a restaurant, request a house car through
the concierge desk. There's usually no charge, but you may tip the
driver at your discretion.
Restaurants:
Every concierge will make dinner reservations for guests,
and I recommend having the concierge phone ahead no matter where
you are dining. If a restaurant is booked, the concierge may have more
pull squeezing you in than you would on your own. But don't ask the
concierge for any old restaurant recommendation. (I've been to some
unremarkable, touristy places that way.) It's more effective to name two
or three options and have the concierge tell you more about each one.
Other Services:
You needn't limit requests to restaurant reservations.
Concierges can also book cruises on Lake Michigan, car rentals, or even
spa treatments—whatever requires a phone call. They can buy tickets
to a sporting or entertainment venue or amend airline reservations.
Solutions:
Did a child get sick? Head right to the concierge, who will
make it a personal mission to ensure your kid is seen by a doctor as
soon as possible. Concierges will also oblige less urgent requests, like
reserving doggy day care or finding a last minute gift. You don't even
have to be checked into the hotel. You can fax and e-mail the
concierge with your arrival date and particular request. If he or she
does go beyond the call of duty, gratuities are always appreciated—
although never expected.
library of kids' movies—make sure to request them when you make your reser-
vation. The bright, airy spa and fitness center fill the top two floors—check out
the view from the outdoor deck. The spa has an Olympic-size pool, and one lane
is always reserved for family swim. The 20th-floor health club is also open to
children, with no restrictions. You can obtain child-care services through the
concierge.
The sultry hotel bar—hidden from the lobby behind curved, leather-covered
walls—is a top spot for a romantic evening with your mate. The Lobby is the
best in-hotel restaurant bet for families, with a kids' menu. Don't miss breakfast
at Pierre Gourmet, located just outside the hotel at the corner of Superior and
Rush streets, for some of the best baked goods on the Magnificent Mile. The
