Generosity

We recently traveled to Spain and Portugal and of course enjoyed wonderful food, wine and the company of great friends. What struck me the most though was the generosity extended by the accommodation hosts.

As hosts ourselves I wanted to observe and see where we excel, or not, and how we could add a little extra. To me, generosity is what differentiates and makes memories that last. In Mairena staying at Las Chimeneas we arrived far earlier than planned. Instead of asking us to wait we were shown to our rooms and offered a light (complimentary) lunch in case we were hungry. In Lisbon, staying at Eurostars Lisboa Parque, our check-in was made pleasurable by Suriya who offered advice on what to see and eat as well as printing our train tickets to make the journey easier. Small things but as a tourist the extras that help us relax.

At Origin House Carool we’ll continue to review the little extras, such as pantry staples or relaxed check-in and out times where available. Meeting our guests on arrival allows us to ascertain how we can help make the most of their stay, advice on where to visit and eat or perhaps provide something that was left behind.

Maybe it’s time to add to some of the tourism buzzwords such as authenticity and sustainability with simple generosity.