Hotel Pool FAQ and Etiquette

To answer your questions :

Do I get changed into pool clothes in my room and go to the pool in the hotel bathrobe? Or can I expect changing facilities there and am expected to use those?

• It all depends of the hotel. I would say that generally speaking, it isn't an issue to go to the pool with the bathrobe but you might find yourself in an uncomfortable situation if you are with a bathrobe in the elevator with ladies in nice evening dresses... Most luxury hotels will have a changing facility next to the pool (but not all!).

Can I expect lockers for my stuff in the pool area or am I supposed to carry that around?

• Lockers are usually provided in very luxury hotels but again you'll find some exceptions where no lockers are available and you need to carry your stuff with you.

What should I bring and what can I expect to find there? (referring to towels, Shampoo, ...)

• I always found towels. For shampoo, it is pretty random. Then, the shampoo provided is rarely high grade so you might want to bring yours.

I am sure the pool use is included in my stay but are there other services that I would likely pay for and if so would that be added to my room bill or should I bring cash/cards/traveler cheques/gold/... ?

• This is right, pool access is usually complimentary but not always. I have seen hotels charging for the sun bed. Meaning, you could use the pool but you had to pay for the sun bed. Some will charge you for the sun shade. On the other side, in Las Vegas, I had the very pleasant experience to get free refreshments (water, ice cream) at the Four Seasons pool! You usually don't need to bring cash with you. Most luxury hotels have the possibility to charge to your room.

How do I find out about the pool dress code? (Bathing cap or not, tight swimwear only or the opposite, ...)

• You will find those details in the hotel directory as well as next to the pool. If there are some restrictions, they will be clearly highlighted. Bathing cap is less and less a requirement nowadays.

1. It is most common to don your bathing attire in your room then cover up on the walk from the room to the pool area. For men, this can be just a shirt/t-shirt if the swim suite is trunks or boardshorts. If you're wearing a Speedo, cover that with shorts as well. Women would normally wear a Sundress or Sarong.

2. I would not expect Lockers at a 5-Star Resort. You would leave any valuables in your room. It is very common, and safe, to leave items on you chair or in a bag under you chair. The risk of theft is minimal.

3. Bring what you need to enjoy time by the pool. A book, phone, sunscreen. A 5-Star Resort would likely provide towels for use by the pool. You would not bring shampoo or anything like that.
4. Use of the pool is included but may have been separated into a Resort Fee. Any upcharge items, drinks, spa treatments, food can either be charged to your room or paid on the spot with a credit card or cash.
5. Look for a sign near the entrance to the pool area. The same may also be in the hotel guide in you room. You can also look at the other people at the pool to determine what is appropriate.

I have had one experience where we got changed in our rooms and went to the spa in robes and slippers. On the way back the only way to the room is to go through the bar area which was now in full swing with a wedding party - very embarrassing :)