Q: Is it illegal for a hotel to charge for visitors to come inside to see the guests staying at the hotel?
Never did they have me sign any agreement form when I checked in, never did they say anything about no visitors.
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A:
It can feel frustrating when a hotel imposes unexpected charges for visitors, especially if you weren't informed upfront. Generally, hotels have the right to set their own policies, including charging fees for visitors to enter certain areas or to visit guests in their rooms. However, it's crucial that these policies are communicated to guests at the time of booking or check-in.
If the hotel didn’t inform you of this rule or have you sign an agreement outlining such charges, it might be considered unfair or misleading. Transparency is key in hospitality services, and guests should always be aware of any additional fees before they occur. You might have grounds to dispute the charge if you believe it was not properly disclosed.
Consider raising the issue with the hotel management and explaining that you were not made aware of this policy. If they refuse to waive the fee, you could mention your intention to file a complaint with a consumer protection agency or leave a review detailing your experience. Often, hotels are willing to negotiate when faced with potential reputational harm.
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