In this post, we will explore essential expressions to make request at the hotel, helping you communicate more effectively with hotel staff during your stay.
In the previous post, we explored useful expressions for checking in, and now let’s learn how to make requests. Whether you need extra towels, ask for a room change, or report an issue, knowing the right phrases can make your stay more comfortable. The key to making requests at the hotel is clear communication, especially in a foreign country where language barriers might exist. Learning a few useful phrases in Korean will help you navigate common hotel situations with ease. Let’s dive into some essential Korean expressions for making requests at the hotel!
Request at the hotel #1: Can you keep my luggage before Check-In?
Can you keep my luggage before Check-In?
체크인 전에 짐을 맡길 수 있나요?
[Check-In-jeo-ne-ji-meul-mat-gil-su-in-na-yo]
When you arrive at the hotel before the official check-in time, your room might not be ready yet. However, you might still want to explore the area without carrying your luggage. In such cases, it’s helpful to ask the hotel staff if they can store your luggage until your room becomes available. This request is common among travelers who arrive early, and it’s a polite way to ensure your luggage is safe while you enjoy your day.
You can use this phrase when you’re checking in and you want to leave your bags with the hotel staff. It’s a simple question, and most hotels will be happy to accommodate this request. Some hotels may even provide a luggage storage room where they can safely store your bags.
Request at the hotel #2: Is Early Check-In Possible?
Is Early Check-In Possible?
일찍 체크인 가능한가요?
[il-jjik-Check-In-ga-neung-han-ga-yo]
Sometimes, travelers may need to check into their rooms earlier than the standard check-in time. If you have a very early flight or your flight arrives in the morning, it’s always a good idea to ask the hotel staff if early check-in is possible. While early check-in isn’t always guaranteed, many hotels will do their best to accommodate you if a room is available.
To make the request, simply ask if early check-in is an option. If the hotel is fully booked the night before, they might not have the room ready until the standard check-in time. However, if you’re lucky and the room is available, the hotel may allow you to check in right away. If not, they will likely offer to store your luggage for you, as mentioned in the previous section.
Request at the hotel #3: Can I have more towels?
Can I have more towels?
새 수건 더 받을 수 있나요?
[sae-su-geon-deo-ba-deul-su-in-na-yo]
During your stay, you might find that you need extra towels, whether for a larger group, or simply because you prefer having more on hand. This request is simple and versatile, so you can use it for not only towels but also other items like bathrobes or slippers.
This structure is quite flexible. Simply remember the phrase “~더 받을 수 있나요?” [~deo-ba-deul-su-in-na-yo]and insert the item you need in front of it. It’s a polite way to make sure you have all the amenities you need during your stay.
Here’s how you can ask for more items during your hotel stay:
- Can I have more bathrobes? : 가운 더 받을 수 있나요
[Ga-un-deo-ba-deul-su-in-na-yo] - Can I have more slippers? : 슬리퍼 더 받을 수 있나요?
[Slipper-deo-ba-deul-su-in-na-yo]
Request at the hotel #4: What Time is Breakfast Served?
What Time is Breakfast Served?
조식은 몇 시부터 몇 시까지 예요?
[jo-si-geun-myeot-ssi-bu-teo-myeot-ssi-gga-ji-ye-yo]
Breakfast can be one of the highlights of your stay at a hotel, so it’s important to know the serving hours. Each hotel might have different breakfast hours, so it’s a good idea to ask about the exact time. You can use this question to ask for breakfast details, which can help you plan your morning accordingly.
Some hotels offer breakfast in the form of a buffet, while others may offer a set menu. Depending on the type of hotel, breakfast might be served at different times, especially if you’re staying at a large resort or a boutique hotel.
Request at the hotel #5: The toilet is broken
The toilet is broken.
변기가 고장났어요.
[byeon-gi-ga-go-jang-na-sseo-yo]
Sometimes, things may go wrong with the room facilities during your stay. If you encounter a problem with the room, it’s important to let the hotel staff know immediately. One common issue might be a broken toilet. In this case, simply say “The toilet is broken” in Korean, and the staff will likely respond quickly to fix the issue.
It’s also useful to know how to report any other maintenance problems, such as a broken air conditioner, malfunctioning lights, or an issue with the shower. Most hotels will have a maintenance team that can resolve the problem for you, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Request at the hotel #6: Can I Change My Room?
Can I Change My Room?
방 바꿔줄 수 있나요?
[bang-ba-ggwo-jul-su-in-na-yo]
If you’re not satisfied with your room, whether because of noise, view, or comfort, it’s possible to request a room change. While most hotels try to accommodate requests like this, it’s important to be polite when asking for a room change.
Important Tips for Making Requests
When making requests at the hotel, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First and foremost, always be polite. Korean culture values politeness, especially in customer service situations, and it’s crucial to show respect when speaking to hotel staff.
Additionally, be clear and concise in your requests. Using simple, straightforward language will ensure that the hotel staff understands your needs quickly. If possible, have your request ready as soon as you check in, especially if you know you’ll need something like extra towels or early check-in. This will help you avoid any confusion later on.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to be flexible. Hotel staff will do their best to accommodate your requests, but sometimes circumstances may prevent them from fulfilling all of them. A friendly attitude can go a long way in ensuring a pleasant experience.
Learning how to make requests at the hotel in Korean can make your stay much more comfortable and stress-free. Whether it’s asking for extra towels or dealing with an issue in your room, knowing how to communicate in Korean can help you navigate common hotel situations with ease. Remember to be polite, clear, and flexible when making requests, and your hotel experience will be much smoother.
