Vacationing, relaxing with a safe new twist

Keeping you safe— and healthy

New sanitation protocols at hotels and resorts reassure guests

Hotels and resorts across Arizona (and indeed, America) have re-created the hospitality experience because of the novel coronavirus. Guests By Debra Gelbart will notice procedures are different now, but enjoyment of their time at a hotel or resort actually may be enhanced, knowing properties are doing everything possible to keep them safe while continuing to offer the amenities that attract them in the first place.

Many resorts in the Phoenix area feature multiple swimming pools and at many of these properties, they will be open. But now you’ll notice social distancing, with families staying together but remaining at least six feet away from other guests. You’ll also see “increased sanitation of highly touched surfaces” near the pools and in the restaurants, for example, said Kim Sabow, president and CEO of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association.

Last month, the AzLTA launched the AZSAFE + CLEAN certification program in an effort to build consumer confidence and awareness about the safety and cleanliness of hotels and resorts in response to COVID-19. AzLTA hotels and resorts that receive the certification will be able to display the AZSAFE + CLEAN certified badge at their property or online. For more information, visit https://azlta.com/azsafe/.

Changes you’ll notice

Hotel-specific best practices include: • Increasing contactless check-in, including mobile check-in and check-out. • Social distancing for guests not traveling together in all communal and meeting spaces. • Increasing no-contact room service delivery. • Frequent cleaning and disinfecting of all areas of the hotel including front desk check-in counters, elevators and elevator buttons, door handles, public bathrooms, room keys and locks, ATMs, guest rooms, gyms and meeting rooms. • Use of personal protective equipment for staff, including masks and gloves. • Use of electrostatic misting devices, infrared lights and even robots for sanitation.

Hotel staff have gone through retraining classes on new best cleaning and social distancing practices, Sabow added. “Some branded properties have partnered with high-profile medical groups for endorsements. Sanitation activities that were once done at night will

COOL facts

The Desert Botanical Garden is home to the world’s largest collection of desert plant s. More than 4,400 species on display throughout the garden’s five family friendly trails.

now take on a higher profile during the day for guests to witness. We have gone from being a high touch experience to no touch.”

“The health and well-being of our employees and guests is of utmost importance to us,” said Katy Powers, managing director and general manager for The Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park. “Our guests can completely relax with the knowledge that we’re taking all necessary precautions and following the guidelines provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, and we’re staying informed on updated directives to provide a safe environment. ”

“We want our guests to have trust in us and our updated protocols, which is why we’ve introduced our ‘Stay Well’ campaign (a package of additional health and safety measures throughout the resort), said John Glynn, director of public relations for the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. “You will see all of our staff in masks and additional sanitization in our public areas. Additionally, there is signage prominently placed throughout the resort, restaurants, pools and spa alerting guests to all the various measures we’re taking to keep them safe and healthy.”

Most properties are requiring staff to wear masks yet allowing individual guest discretion as to whether to wear a mask, Sabow said. “The only exception is in salons or spas where guest services require us to break the six-foot social distancing guideline.” At some properties, she said, guests are receiving a ‘stay safe’ pack at check-in containing two face masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes for use.

Fun, memories are in abundance

“Arizona hotels and resorts are going above and beyond to create an enjoyable, relaxing and safe experience for guests,” Sabow said. “Although changes have been implemented to ensure the health and safety of employees and guests, visitors will still receive world-class customer service and care. We ask that all guests be patient as the industry implements these new safety and sanitation guidelines.” ▪