- Top hotels have a reputation to uphold in order to serve the elite and keep them coming back.
- But these hotels also have a few well-kept secrets to maintain the 5-star realm.
- These hotels have perks they don't advertise to guests, and you'll get a better stay if you have status, tip well, and stay at the hotel regularly.
- If celebrities are staying at the hotel, that information is kept private, and guests' public behavior is often recorded by the hotel.
If you've ever been curious about what it's like to stay in a 5-star hotel, you're not alone.
And even if you have stayed at one, there's probably a lot of behind-the-scenes happenings that you don't know about.
We did some of our own research and spoke with an owner of several top-rated hotels to find out the best kept secrets of 5-star establishments.
Some perks aren't marketed to the general public.
As a way to deter guests from taking advantage of their free perks, 5-star hotels will keep from advertising all they have to offer, according to Business Insider. Free upgrades and complimentary breakfast and champagne are just a few examples of perks that are fair game, but often not advertised to guests.
To access these extras, make sure to tip well and buddy up with your concierge.
Tipping goes a long way.
Like other services in the hospitably industry, tipping goes a long way in your hotel experience, according to Arik Kislin, co-owner of the Gansevoort Hotel Group and owner of Turks Cay Resort & Marina.
"The more you treat the staff well and compensate them for the services they are providing, the better they will accommodate you," Kislin told INSIDER.
Your status is important.
Before you even arrive, some 5-star hotels will run an online search on you to find out who you are and what level of status you hold.
Those who are VIPs will receive the very best service from staff, while those who hold a lower social status probably won't experience any kind of star treatment.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider