The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) recently published recommendations on ways guests can make their stays in lodgings safer.  In accordance with those recommendations, a number of hotel chains have announced that they will require that guests wear face masks in indoor public spaces on their properties.

The requirement takes effect on July 27, 2020.  Hotel groups that have signed on include Marriott, Hyatt and Intercontinental Hotel Group.  The requirement takes effect on July 27, 2020.  Here is the announcement from Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson.

I expect other hotels will adopt the same requirement.  For Marriott, this policy applies to all properties in the U.S. and elsewhere.  That seems to be a little overbroad since some countries are experiencing very low rates of infection.  But the goal is to maximize the safety of guests and employees worldwide.  The policies will be enforced with signage and simple verbal requests.  For egregious violations, it is possible that a hotel might ask a guest to leave.

2020-03-19
LAX Marriott Hotel (Marriott photo)

The AHLA makes five recommendations:

  1. Require face coverings in all indoor public spaces and practice social distancing in all common areas.
  2. Choose contactless options, where available, including online reservations, check-ins, and payments.
  3. Consider daily room cleaning, only if necessary. Ask the hotel about your options.
  4. Request contactless room service delivery.
  5. Refrain from traveling if you have, or recently had, any symptoms of COVID-19 or contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Those are very sound ideas.  Those planning travel should consult your hotel about its policies for Covid-19 safety before making a reservation and before embarking on your journey.  Be well!