Marketing to Gen X vs Baby Boomers and Gen Y

[gillumhouse]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.

 

[EmptyNest]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

I haven't a clue. It fits on the stand but says "charging isn't supported with this accessory. The new ipod has its own speaker now...puny as it sounds. I may have to get something else if I want to hear it better on my bedside. :-( And of course where I am...it doesn't pick up any FM stations :-( oh well.

 

[Innkeeper To Go]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.

 

[gillumhouse]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.

 

[Don Draper]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.

 

[Innkeeper To Go]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

As long as you get the kind that support the iPhone, you'll be okay. And it's so easy to get the money back quickly. I've raised room rates by $5 a night for iPod-ready rooms and gotten not a single blink about the barely noticable increase. Gets that hundred bucks back in short order!

 

[Morticia]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

We don't seem to get the traveler who needs the docking station. However, like Joey says, 'Absence of proof is not proof of absence.' I do have to say no one has ever asked if we have that before they book.
We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.
If you have a place like Big Lots, they regularly have those on sale for around $30-$50.
What I could use here is room for a huge desk in each room for all the peripherals everyone travels with! When and if electronics are standardized, I will get the 'mother of all docking stations' for the guest rooms. But right now the most important thing is an outlet strip next to whatever is the big, flat surface in the room, so guests can charge everything they bring.
Ahhhh, we were wondering why our electricity bill is going up when bookings are down. THAT may explain it. Guests go out and leave everything charging while they are gone. Even just having the charger plugged in is a phantom draw.
Right now, I am unplugging everything in the inn that does not need to stay on...clocks, guest fridge, router, cc machine.

 

[gillumhouse]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.

 

[JBloggs]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.

I have a $39 docking station with speakers I use in the dining room for guest tunes, and the sound is incredible! Not even Bose. I will show you when I see you next.

 

[Innkeeper To Go]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

We don't seem to get the traveler who needs the docking station. However, like Joey says, 'Absence of proof is not proof of absence.' I do have to say no one has ever asked if we have that before they book.
We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.
If you have a place like Big Lots, they regularly have those on sale for around $30-$50.
What I could use here is room for a huge desk in each room for all the peripherals everyone travels with! When and if electronics are standardized, I will get the 'mother of all docking stations' for the guest rooms. But right now the most important thing is an outlet strip next to whatever is the big, flat surface in the room, so guests can charge everything they bring.
Ahhhh, we were wondering why our electricity bill is going up when bookings are down. THAT may explain it. Guests go out and leave everything charging while they are gone. Even just having the charger plugged in is a phantom draw.
Right now, I am unplugging everything in the inn that does not need to stay on...clocks, guest fridge, router, cc machine.
.

We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.

That's why I always get the hospitality version with the printed instructions right on it. Then guests will know how to just push a button to get that night light to go out completely! Well worth the extra money for those instructions, IMHO.

 

[Innkeeper To Go]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.
.

I always travel with my little Logitech speaker for my iPods. But I'm still always thrilled when I find that I don't need to unpack it!

 

[gillumhouse]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.

I have a $39 docking station with speakers I use in the dining room for guest tunes, and the sound is incredible! Not even Bose. I will show you when I see you next.

.

Cool. Thanks.

 

[EmptyNest]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.

I have a $39 docking station with speakers I use in the dining room for guest tunes, and the sound is incredible! Not even Bose. I will show you when I see you next.

.

The new ipod has its own speaker..but the sound isn't that great. That is why I plugged it into my imation docking station..which I use with my old ipod and it works great. However with this one, I guess I am going to have to do some reading. I think there is a setting for external speakers..but this docking station will not work as a charger for it. I will have to charge with the power pack or on the computer when I upload.

 

[Morticia]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

We don't seem to get the traveler who needs the docking station. However, like Joey says, 'Absence of proof is not proof of absence.' I do have to say no one has ever asked if we have that before they book.
We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.
If you have a place like Big Lots, they regularly have those on sale for around $30-$50.
What I could use here is room for a huge desk in each room for all the peripherals everyone travels with! When and if electronics are standardized, I will get the 'mother of all docking stations' for the guest rooms. But right now the most important thing is an outlet strip next to whatever is the big, flat surface in the room, so guests can charge everything they bring.
Ahhhh, we were wondering why our electricity bill is going up when bookings are down. THAT may explain it. Guests go out and leave everything charging while they are gone. Even just having the charger plugged in is a phantom draw.
Right now, I am unplugging everything in the inn that does not need to stay on...clocks, guest fridge, router, cc machine.
.

We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.

That's why I always get the hospitality version with the printed instructions right on it. Then guests will know how to just push a button to get that night light to go out completely! Well worth the extra money for those instructions, IMHO.
.

We stayed at a place that had the clock dock system but that thing doubled as a night light, too. I put a facecloth over it so I could sleep it was so bright. I should have written down the name.

That's why I always get the hospitality version with the printed instructions right on it. Then guests will know how to just push a button to get that night light to go out completely! Well worth the extra money for those instructions, IMHO.

There's a button to turn the light off? Arrrgh!. There were directions in the drawer but I didn't need to 'use' the thing so I never looked. I had read online complaints from the OWNERS of these things that they couldn't stand the light! I assumed, duh, that THEY would have read the directions!

 

[EmptyNest]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

This is a great point. Also a reminder not to jump on every "bandwagon" that comes along...we've found here that people who are addicted to their gadgets will typically have all the accessories they need to go with the gadgets. We provide free WiFi and plenty of outlets and that's all they need.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.
.

I always travel with my cell phone chargers - both the electrical outlet one and the car charger. I do have a collection of the chargers that were left behind though. Have trotted them out when a guest has forgotten theirs - and they usually will not fit.

I have a $39 docking station with speakers I use in the dining room for guest tunes, and the sound is incredible! Not even Bose. I will show you when I see you next.

.

Ok tech challenged me..finally figured this out. My current ipod speakers work with the new generation 5 Ipod...but only when using the batteries. If you have it plugged in for some reason it thinks you need to charge it and says "this is not a charging station." OH WELL...I have a separate charger and of course it charges when you upload and download Itunes too. Now i just have to find a case with a clip that I can wear on my waistband when I walk rather than stuff it in a pocket..which I sometimes don't have. I don't want to wear it as an armband:-(

 

[Samster]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

I bought the iPod/MP3 docking/clock radios (iHome or something cheaper) because it wasn't that much more to buy them vs. cheap, tinny clock radios. They still have a radio and alarm, you can pick buzzer, radio, or your iPod for your wake-up. They get used and folks comment on them but they aren't necessary. You could probably wait "for the next best thing" and never be totally up to date with technology.
And here's the thing now that I'm noticing - as more people have these Smart Phones, they use them for wake up alarms and music. Having the room clock radio/alarm whatever is almost a back-up to the guest's own technology. If I was spending money on something it would be flat panel TVs for rooms. That makes a BIG impact for guests. All of the new hotels are going to them. (Yeah, yeah, yeah....the whole TVs vs no TV discussion can now begin. lol!)

 

[Samster]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

I somehow managed to get my post up here 3 times....oops!

 

[Samster]

I have had everything from college students to mid late 80s (almost forgot the Biker Boys). I have had several who came here to write. They had breakfast and holed up in their rooms while they were here. When they came up for air they walked the rail-trail. We have had college age couples book the packages.
I have found the tight pockets are the "professionals" whatever their age. I have had lawyers & doctors who seemed to think that every extra effort I went to for their convenience/pleasure was their due. (Example was the horse folks last week - I did charge the $20 escort fee thank goodness that I usually charge to bring in BUT this one, because of weather, I had to go to stable and I stood in the cold to direct traffic if any because we occupied one lane of a 2-lane road to load dogs & horse and then take them to the road to the highway. No tip left in room and no comment written in book either. His e-mail indicated a lawyer.) It is usually the "Joe Blow" making his way who actually appreciates the efforts. I had a young couple here for a funeral and when I went to run the credit card, he told me the amount to run - it was an almost $40 tip and I was charging them $75 + tax as the funeral rate.
Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.
BTW - in the days of raising my family I went as cheap as I could fe MY get-aways - I belonged to the era of Daddy gets the 25 cent cone because he is Daddy while everyone else got a 10 cent cone. I still have a hard time spending money on ME - it just was not done!.

Re iPods - don;t most of them have their OWN iPods? Why would I need to supply them? Asking because I am old - too old to be included in the Boomers even so I have no clue.

Supplying iPod-based tours and specially selected music loaded onto loaner iPods are really nice amenities for folks who are used to using iPods. Done correctly they're tools to help establish a connection to a place. Nice but not necessary.
But to get Gen-X or Gen-Y guests on a regular basis, you do need to be alert to what they're looking for. And yes, they do travel with their iPods. I travel with at least 2 myself and trust me, I'm not that young!
For guests traveling with iPods or iPhones, guest room iPod players, especially those that charge as well as play, are always a great treat to find.
And just like all guests, it's all those thoughtful surprises that delight and bring them back for more!
.

Is there a universal docking station or are they like cell phones - each has its own and will work with no other.
.

You know you would think they'd be absolutely universal but they're not. Almost though. There are some of the older iPod player/clock radios that don't support the iPhones or some of the bigger iPods. But other than that, most of them support them all.
If you want the high end sound, there's nothing better than the Bose Sound Machine but it's pricy. There are several versions of a far-far less expensive iHome clock radio/iPod docking available on American Hotel that have the instructions printed on the clock radio, always nice for guests to have. The sound is not bad at all on them and you can usually find some on sale for under $100. Just make sure what you're buying supports (and charges) the iPhone and it will support everything else.
They'll all usually come with the little cable adapters for folks who travel with MP3 players that aren't iPods but there are fewer and fewer guests who actually need those adapters as the iPod (and iPhone) is just so much more popular.
.

Thank you. i will look around for those. What I hate is that as soon as you get one thing squared away, they are coming up wioth something else.
So you spend $100 per room on a radio/CD/alarm and next week they are wanting the radio/CD/alarm/docking station and it costs $100 or more - and what do you do with the old ones..... It is almost impossible to keep up and keep in the black.
.

oops....triplicate post removed. Sorry............

 

[JBloggs]

iHome is the iPod brand fyi.

 

[Samster]

iHome is the iPod brand fyi..

Yep, I can't remember the knock-off brand of mine and am too lazy now to go upstairs and check. ;-)