I agree the challenge with finding electric sockets is primarily an issue with older properties. Where there's just one socket near the bed, it's typically already loaded up powering lamps and a clock-radio. Where there's just one near the desk, it's loaded up with TV, set top box, desk lamp, and possibly refrigerator plugs. When these properties were constructed decades ago there weren't so many in-room devices needing to be powered, nor was there the expectation that guests would want to plug in so many things of their own.

Oddly, while finding suitable plug space for my laptop/phone/etc. is a challenge in older properties, finding a plug for the iron has never been a problem. That's because I care less about the location. It's fine with me to plug in the iron in the bathroom or behind the window curtain, for example. The cord is always long enough to reach space in the hall or room to stand the ironing board. Plugging in my laptop in the bathroom is not so desirable, though at least twice that's what I've had to do....