Recommended concierge requests for your room
 

Hi fellow travelers!

I finally have a job where I get to travel, and I'll be traveling just enough rack up some points at the hotel (Hilton family of brands), airline (US Airways), and rental car (Hertz).

I've always wanted to experiment with asking the concierge for a few things in my room before my arrival, just to see what the process is like and to also feel like an executive while doing it. Just the act of being paid (I get reimbursed) to travel to 3 different locations away from home is a great feeling but I like to feel like a pro and push the limits of what's normally expected.

I intend to send an email to the concierge or front desk and ask for the following:

1. 3 Extra pillows
2. Room temperature set at 77
3. Shades closed
4. 3 cans of NOS energy drink

Do you have any recommended concierge requests? Keep in mind I'm on the company dime and I'm not asking for anything crazy. What are some requests you've made?

I wouldn't trouble the concierge at a business oriented Hilton with requests like your examples (ask about pillows upon check-in, adjust the temperature and window shades yourself, buy drinks at a nearby convenience store or gas station).

Welcome to FT.

Wow lol

Pushing the limits so you feel like an important executive? NO.

You're staying at a Hilton not Mandarin Oriental. Hotel staff are busy, I wouldnt bother them just for the sake of knowing you can do it or for "wanting to feel like an executive".

If you're going to be traveling often, sooner or later you'll find you actually need something the concierge could help you with. It would be annoying if they couldn't help because they were busy closing the shades for an "executive" who is too cool to do it him/herself.

darkaxum, welcome to FlyerTalk!

Although some of the replies above seem strict, there's wisdom in their context. The most important point for a new traveler on reimbursement is to learn and follow the culture of the company or client doing the reimbursement -as to what's wise to claim for reimbursement - and also get used to the experiences of travel.

Thus, pushing the envelope is not the way to go now, but suggest instead that you rack up some experience in traveling on a modest scale. Then, as you get used to the travel expense culture of the firm and your own needs, you can respond as appropriate. Note that many concierge-offered items (beverages, food) are not free at all but are charged at prime hotel prices with added service charge. Thus this advance concierge program has a distinct benefit for the hotel. ;)

Wow. I really hit a nerve. I guess I won't be asking for some of these things. I see your points. The concierge is there for special requests...not at the behest of making me feel like an executive.

However, I won't have time to find a gas-station for the NOS energy drink, since I'll be arriving in my destination late at night (on my upcoming trip), and getting up VERY early the next morning to attend a business function where I might need to be awake and constantly working for almost 48 hours (don't ask).

Is the NOS a good request then?

Good way to get exactly what you ask for, but be assigned to the room from hell next to the elevator and ice machine and just above the trash compactor which runs from 4:30 - 6:00 AM.

Good point. Thanks.

I have no idea what NOS is, but if it isn't something normally found in the hotel, you should be prepared to pay for not only the item but also the time of the hotel employee who has to run around town to find it. I guess the question is: How much is it worth to you vs. the other options to obtain it? Are they 3oz or less and would fit into your toiletry bag? Is it worth it to put it in your luggage and check it? Could you just drink caffeinated beverages instead?

You can probably order energy drinks from room service at twice the cost, plus a 21-23% service charge and room delivery cost. Ask the hotel if you can order them in advance and they will be waiting for you.

On most of my reservations there is a picture at the bottom saying 'Upon Arrival'.
It is not all hotels that offer this service, so I don't know if you have this option.
If you click on the picture, you will see what the hotel offers to have ready in your room - for a fee ( snacks, drinks, flowers etc ) or complimentary ( extra pillows, bathrobe etc ).
I think this is a better way of requesting than contacting the concierge.

Recommended concierge requests for your room
 

You are not a pro traveler to push limits with a concierge (or any staff) - most frequent travelers know the role a good concierge plays and wouldn't push limits (I often call one team in the city if not staying at their hotel - it's about relationships, respect and tipping too) - plus a good concierge is tipped something most corporate policies don't allow reimbursement for. Do read your T&E policy cover to cover to know what is/isn't allowed so you are not out of pocket
as for the NOS you can ask if they know where to find it for you or recommend a 24/7 store to buy it from on your way to/from hotel. I doubt it is in house at a Hilton or other hotel.
glad you are excited to travel but think your expectations are a bit unrealistic

You likely can get 3 Extra pillows during check-in but that's the most you will get.

Seriously, judging from your introduction, I assume you don't have any status with Hilton or any other hotel chains. And if you are heading to a business hotel during weekdays, 90% of the people in the hotel will have higher status and thus viewed by the hotel as more important than you. You can be lucky you aren't getting a room next to the ice machine.

I have a personal concierge with SPG and I would only make special request during special occasion. That means at most twice a year. And even then, you have to understand that the concierge and the hotel is doing you a favor, not something owned to you.

Recommended concierge requests for your room
 

I think you'll find most "road warriors" use the concierge sparingly. I think youre confusing the Concierge at the Hilton with a venue hosting a high-level celebrity. your requests seem more appropriate for an appearance rider than a request of the Concierge at a mid level business hotel.