Source: The Points Guy
Summary
Hotel guests are being falsely accused of smoking in their rooms due to faulty air-quality sensors. The sensors, made by a company called Rest, are designed to detect smoking and vaping, but can be triggered by hair sprays and other grooming products. Guests have reported being charged hundreds of dollars for smoking fees despite being nonsmokers. The Points Guy’s ombudsman, Michelle Friedman, has investigated several cases and found that hotels are relying too heavily on the sensors and not using common sense or human oversight to verify the results.
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The escape is carefully planned.
Air-quality sensors are monitoring hotel rooms, but are they accurate? Nonsmokers are being charged for smoking fees, and some hotels are refusing to listen to their protests. The Rest sensor, used by many hotels, can be triggered by hair sprays and other grooming products. Guests are being forced to fight for their rights and prove their innocence. The Points Guy’s ombudsman is on the case, but it’s a David vs. Goliath battle. Can the hotels be trusted to use these sensors responsibly?
Some hotels are relying too heavily on technology and neglecting the human element. The Strat, Kimpton Palladian, and Home2 Suites are just a few examples of hotels that have falsely accused nonsmoking guests of smoking. The consequences can be costly, with guests being charged hundreds of dollars for fees they don’t owe. It’s a cautionary tale for travelers: always review your invoice carefully and ask questions if you’re unsure.
And one original observation: “The hotel’s smoking policy is enforced by a sensor, but common sense is not included in the package.”
Author: Evan Null
