This was a “free” night. The receptionist who greeted me was far from welcoming. The family ahead had their bags carried on a bell trolley, I was merely directed to my room.
The room was a huge family room, 2 bunks, a double bed and 2 bathrooms. It was tired, certainly not to 4* standards. I felt it a totally inappropriate room to give to a solo woman booking last minute. It reminded me of society’s expectations upon me. I could just as easily have been escaping a violent partner, I may then serve as another lesson in guilt. Most likely, it was given to me because of the tired condition of the fixtures and fittings and that I wasn’t a paying customer. I collected my tokens like others! And it meant I had no intention of paying for the breakfast, room service or any other discretionary purchases.
The next morning I was woken by housekeeping, well before checkout time. The electricity then went out in my room. The receptionist that recoded my keycard so that I could shower was at least charming and helpful.