English for Your Life · Travel: Checking into a hotel (Foundation)

1

Survival Phrases

Tip: Always have your reservation number (or booking email) ready on your phone to show the receptionist.

2

Read the dialogue aloud to practice your confidence.

Receptionist: Good afternoon. How can I help you?

Guest: Hello. I'd like to check in, please. I have a reservation under the name Silva.

Receptionist: Certainly. May I see your ID or passport, please?

Guest: Here you are.

Receptionist: Thank you. You're in room 402, on the fourth floor. Here is your key card.

Guest: Thanks. Is breakfast included?

Receptionist: Yes, it is. Served from 7 to 10 AM in the restaurant.

Guest: Great. And what is the Wi-Fi password?

Receptionist: It's on this card here. Do you need help with your bags?

Guest: No, I'm fine, thank you. Where is the elevator?

Receptionist: Just behind you, to the right. Enjoy your stay!

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Situation	Formal (Hotel staff)	Informal (Hostels, Airbnb)
Arriving	I have a reservation.	I'm here for my booking.
Requesting help	Could you please help me...?	Can you help me...?
Wi-Fi	What is the Wi-Fi password, please?	What's the Wi-Fi?
Leaving bags	May I leave my luggage here?	Can I leave my stuff here?

Luggage is more formal and common in hotels; bags is more general; stuff is very informal.

4

I want to make the check-in. → I'd like to check in. (fazer o check-in)
Is included the breakfast? → Is breakfast included?
What is the hour of check-out? → What time is check-out?
Can I leave my suitcase here? → Can I leave my bags here? (Luggage/bags is more natural than suitcase in this context)
I forgot my key. → I've locked myself out. or My key card isn't working.

5

Incidental Deposits: Most hotels ask for a credit card at check-in for extra charges (minibar, room service). This is normal.
Tipping: In the US, it's polite to tip the person carrying your bags ($2-$5). In most of Europe, it's optional.
Do Not Disturb: Use the sign on your door handle if you don't want housekeeping to enter your room in the morning.
Check-out Time: Usually between 10 AM and 12 PM. If you stay later without asking, you might be charged an extra day!

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Prepare your check-in: Write down your name, how many nights you are staying, and one question you want to ask (e.g., about the gym or a map).
Roleplay: Practice the dialogue with a partner or record yourself playing both parts.
Scenario: Imagine your key card stopped working. Write one sentence to explain this at the reception.