I recently saw a LinkedIn post from Daniel Kazini, who shared how a hotel won his lifelong loyalty with one simple gesture: handing him a CHF 2 (about $2.20) bottle of water at checkout.

Daniel admitted everything else about the hotel was top-notch, but it was that inexpensive water bottle that locked him in as a lifetime customer, and honestly, I get it. We all want to feel looked after.

Other hotels have gone even further. Kaylie Boogaerts from Checkly mentioned a hotel gave pre-packed brekkie bags to retreat guests with 2-hour shuttle rides to the airport. No one likes boarding a flight hangry, and this hotel clearly knew it.

Hotels spend fortunes on loyalty schemes and upsells, but sometimes all it takes is a sandwich or a bottle of water.

‍Thoughtfulness travels further than a discount coupon.

‍(or it’s just a great way to make you feel guilty for stealing the complimentary toiletries…)