Choosing Accommodation for the Perfect Night's Rest
When you're travelling away from home, spending a little time researching your accommodation can go a long way. This is particularly important when the aim of the stay is to maximise your rest. During your search, there are certain features you should look for or request in your accommodations.
Room Location
Upon making your booking, it's worth making one or two requests to ensure your room location helps you optimise your rest. For example, if the place you're staying at has more than one floor, ask to be situated away from the lifts. A lot of activity takes place outside lifts, and some of them make pinging noises. You may also want to request that you're not facing a road or busy street. To combat external noise, don't forget to pack some earplugs.
Blackout Blinds
Natural light usually sends a clear signal to your brain: it's time to be awake. When you're away from home, it isn't unusual to want to spend time resting during daylight hours. You may also want to sleep in to maximise rest. Try finding a setting that has blackout blinds. Blackout blinds allow you to simulate nighttime level darkness at any hour. As an adjunct to them, or if you can't find somewhere offering such blinds, don't forget to pack an eye mask.
Temperature Control
Trying to sleep in a room that's too hot or too cold can feel challenging. When booking your accommodation, make sure it comes with air conditioning that you can cold. Upon entering your room, set it at an optimal level for sleep. Some air conditioning units can be a little overzealous. As such, don't forget to pack a warm pair of socks so you can keep your feet warm while the room adjusts to a comfortable temperature.
Facility Access
It's often easier to relax when you have access to the types of facilities that make your life easier at home. For example, if you prefer taking a bath to a shower, book your accommodation accordingly. If you need WiFi for work or communicating with home, ensure it's available. And if your idea of the perfect morning always involves coffee, ensure the room comes with the right equipment. By focusing on the home comforts you rely on each day, you should make it easier to relax and fall asleep.
Finally, if you have any specific needs, then make sure you contact the place you're staying at to ensure they can be met.