Spending more than a few nights away from home in a hotel can be a struggle for some people.
Fear not – we’ve got you covered. From making your room feel more like home to keeping your mind and body healthy, here’s your ultimate guide to surviving a long hotel stay (and actually enjoying it!).
1. Make Your Room Feel Like Home
Even the most luxurious hotel can feel a little impersonal after a few nights. Luckily, small touches go a long way:
- – Create little zones: If you’re working, eating and relaxing in your bedroom, divide the space so each activity has its own spot.
- – Bring comfort items: A small throw, your favourite mug or scented candle can make evenings feel cosier.
- – Special treats: If you don’t usually have baths at home, and there’s a bath in your room, why not treat yourself to one! Or how about treating yourself to an indulgent meal that you wouldn’t usually have – such as our delicious afternoon tea here at The Red Lion Hotel.
It’s amazing how a few homey touches can transform your stay. Our rooms at The Red Lion Hotel designed for your comfort – plush bedding, soft lighting and enough space for you to make yourself at home.
2. Stay Productive (Without Losing Your Mind)
Long hotel stays are usually due to work. Here’s how to keep sane while staying productive:
- – Set a schedule: Decide when you’ll work, when you’ll eat and when you’ll relax. It helps prevent days from blurring together. Avoid working late into the evenings if possible.
- – Use your workspace wisely: Bring a laptop stand, headphones and any other gear to make your temporary office comfy.
- – Breaks matter: Step outside, stretch or explore nearby streets. Even a short walk can feel like hitting the refresh button.
Work-from-hotel tip: Keep your work and relaxation areas separate. It helps you switch off at the end of the day.
3. Eat Well (Without Breaking the Bank)
Hotel food can be convenient, but you can sometimes have too much of a good thing!
- – Mix hotel dining with local spots: Try a local restaurant or independent coffee shop for something different.
- – Stock up on snacks: Nuts, fruit and granola bars are lifesavers for midday cravings.
4. Keep Moving and Stay Healthy
Sitting in a hotel room for days on end is a fast track to cabin fever. Here’s a few ideas to avoid that:
- – Stay active: If your hotel doesn’t have a gym, you could always do some simple exercises in your room such as push-ups, squats and stretches.
- – Explore on foot: Take walks around the local area. Fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders.
- – Mindfulness & self-care: Meditation, journaling or simply listening to music can help keep your mind clear.
5. Avoid Loneliness – Connect & Socialise
Long stays can feel isolating if you’re travelling alone. Here’s how to feel connected:
- – Make use of hotel spaces: Lounges, courtyards and bars are perfect for chatting with staff or other guests. Why not sit and watch a film on your device in the hotel lounge (with headphones of course!) rather than in your room. Even though you’re not talking to people, just being in the communal area of the hotel can lift your mood and make a long stay feel less isolating.
- – Local communities: Join tours or meetups nearby. Many big towns and cities run walking tours which are a great way to meet new people and see the local area.
- – Stay in touch: Thank goodness for video calls! Regular chats with family and friends help maintain your social rhythm.
Even small gestures, like smiling at staff or making a quick comment to a fellow guest, can brighten your day.
6. Entertainment & Mental Escape
Even with productivity and routines, downtime is essential. Avoid boredom with:
- – Streaming and movies: It’s a great opportunity to watch all those films or shows that have been on your list for months!
- – Books and magazines: A long hotel stay is the perfect excuse to catch up on reading.
- – Creative hobbies: Journaling, sketching or learning a new language can be surprisingly absorbing.
- – Games & puzzles: Solo puzzles or mobile games keep the mind engaged when you just want to chill.
Final Thoughts
A long hotel stay doesn’t have to be tiring or lonely. With a few practical hacks, a touch of home comforts, and a good balance of work, rest, and play, it can be surprisingly enjoyable.
Think of it as a mini-retreat: your own space in a new environment, with the freedom to set the rules and make it yours.
So pack smart, explore a little, stay comfy and embrace your temporary home – because long stays at The Red Lion Hotel don’t have to be long struggles.
