The Secret to Picking the Right Hotel for the Right Kind of Trip

Not all getaways are created equal, and neither are hotels. The truth is, choosing the right place to stay can completely shape the experience of your trip. A romantic weekend doesn’t call for the same kind of space as a spontaneous city break with friends or a solo digital detox. Yet so often, travellers pick whatever looks decent or pops up first on Google.

But seasoned travellers know that the hotel is more than a bed for the night. It’s part of the memory. Sometimes it is the memory. So how do you make sure you're picking the right kind of stay for your kind of trip?

Here’s how to get it right every time.

For the Romantic Getaway

You want somewhere that feels special the second you walk in. Think soft lighting plush robes beautiful bathrooms and a breakfast you can linger over. Privacy matters more than proximity to nightlife and the overall vibe should feel like a quiet celebration. Bonus points for a fireplace a bathtub built for two or a view that invites you to just stay in.

Look for:
• Boutique hotels or cottages with charm
• Spacious rooms with thoughtful design
• Dining on-site or walkable cosy restaurants

For the Weekend City Break

Energy location and clever use of space are key here. You're out all day exploring so you don’t need a suite but you do want comfort good coffee and a lobby that doesn’t scream corporate. Design matters because your surroundings set the tone for your stay even if it’s just for 48 hours.

Look for:
• Central but quiet streets
• Great beds and blackout curtains
• Walkability to key sights and independent cafés

For the Solo Escape

When it’s just you the hotel becomes your sanctuary. It’s about calm confidence and a sense of welcome. A beautiful lobby where you feel comfortable reading alone a room with space to journal and big windows that let the light in.

Look for:
• Small friendly hotels or countryside inns
• Thoughtful touches like local tea or hand-picked books
• Peaceful surroundings and slow breakfasts

For the Group Trip

You’ll need space connection and ease. A cramped hotel room and multiple taxis every day won’t cut it. Look for places where you can gather for wine and laughter after a day out ideally with a kitchen or shared lounge.

Look for:
• Holiday homes with multiple bedrooms and shared spaces
• Hotels with adjoining rooms or suites
• Flexible check-in and laid-back policies

For the Work Meets Play Trip

If you’re travelling with your laptop in tow you need good Wi-Fi quiet corners and a desk that’s not wedged between the wardrobe and the minibar. But you also want the option of a post-work walk or a wine bar nearby.

Look for:
• Stays with coworking-style lobbies or in-room desks
• Locations that balance buzz and peace
• Wellness perks like a gym or spa

In the End

The right hotel should support the reason you’re travelling. A beautiful stay isn’t always about luxury. It’s about intention. Whether you’re escaping the noise or chasing it a well-chosen stay is the invisible thread that pulls a trip together.

And that’s where Secret Stays comes in. We offer that feel right not just look right. And come with no commission, so you have more money for your actual trip. Thanks us later. Because when the stay matches the story you’re hoping to write the whole trip just makes sense.