What are some characteristics a Luxury Hotel should feature? – For the love of luxury

When you pay a great deal of money to spend a few days at a luxurious establishment, no one wants to waste time checking in and checking out. Most hotels have switched to using an iPad to check-in and check-out their guests. Once you've checked in, the hotel staff should swiftly deliver your luggage into your luxury abode.

From high-quality furniture, a well-stocked fridge to a plush interior and a great view, most award winning hotels offer a truly remarkable atmosphere. A top-notch luxury hotel will be able to offer you exactly what you desire including a spectacular view, privacy and tranquillity. A good quantity of soothing bath and beauty products and perhaps a few local treats add to the sense of wellbeing. Other amenities should include free bottled water, ample closet space, those luxurious bath towels and robes, a safe to keep your valuables and an iPod dock.

Luxurious bathrooms have become essential features in a luxury hotel. A luxury bathroom will offer plenty of ventilation, a good sized bathtub or two, his and her sinks and enough counter space to keep your toiletries. Marble tiles, eye-pleasing interior décor, counters that are pristine and unchipped as well as good water pressure are mandatory features. A luxury hotel will provide guests with quality bath and shower gels, soap, shower caps, fluffy robes and terry towels that denote indulgence as well as extra items such as Q-tips, slippers and even a mending kit. You should have sufficient lighting to put on your make up at the spacious mirror stand and a bidet to go with your toilet.

Fine dining is one of the expected delights at luxury hotels. Whether you book your hotel with a chain such as Minor Hotels or go for an individual luxury hotel, you should expect at least one fine dining restaurant (preferably more than one). Expect room service as well as a restaurant or restaurants that offer a lavish fare of fresh and delectable food. Most hotels offer sumptuous breakfasts as part of their room rates. Who would not want a buffet of local and international delights early in the morning to start the day energized?

Luxury travel isn't about merely lounging about in your room or the beach or visiting exotic places. Today's travellers expect a well-equipped gym, babysitting and pet sitting facilities, a lobby for socializing and a concierge to approach when in need. Room service offered by courteous and friendly staff, laundry as well as packing and unpacking services should make the essential features list of a luxury hotel experience.