SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – In response to the uncertainties following the COVID19 pandemic, several stories and articles have emerged comparing the safety of hotels and short-term rental stays (such as Airbnb or VRBO). Now more than ever, NYSH&TA feels it is the duty of the Association to use its platform to educate travelers on the new standards set in place by the New York State hospitality industry to make a guests’ stay as safe and comfortable as possible.

Lodging properties in New York State are now implementing new operating guidelines that include enhanced cleaning protocols to protect the wellbeing of guests and employees in response to the pandemic.

Examples of operating guidelines and best practices set forth by NYS hotels include:

  • Increased cleaning and disinfecting of public spaces and communal areas
  • Hand sanitizer (touchless if possible) at hotel entrances and key contact areas such as lobbies, elevator landings, pool & exercise areas, etc.
  • Removing rooms from service for 72 hours after a guest leaves before cleaning
  • Employers are encouraged to take temperatures of employees (policy should be applied equally)
  • Plexiglass installed at front desk to protect the guest and front desk employee

"As New York State begins to ease back in to business, the real hope is that the state’s tourism industry will have a respectable summer and fall tourism season where families can experience all the great state of New York has to offer,” said Mark Dorr, NYSH&TA President. “There have been many articles written about hotels and the ability to sanitize rooms and make sure guests are safe. The new guidelines put in place throughout the State, Nation and World with regard to cleaning ‘best practices’ should leave no doubt that legitimate lodging businesses like hotels, inns and bed & breakfasts will be the best and safest choices for overnight stays this summer.” 

“The NYS Destination Marketing Organization (NYSDMO) is proud to work with our hotel partners throughout the state,” said Don Jeffries, NYSMO President.  “Our hotel partners have been working diligently to implement sweeping safety measures to help promote a clean, safe, and secure experience for guests. The hard work of these hotels and their dedication to providing a safe, and enjoyable experience to our visitors will be vital in rebuilding the tourism and hospitality industry across New York State.”

“We must advocate for our lodging partners during this time of uncertainty,” said Darryl Leggieri, Discover Saratoga President. “Our local hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts are absolutely taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of every guest and their employees. They will be visible, diligent and happy to discuss their protocols to instill confidence that they are taking your well-being seriously.”

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About Discover Saratoga

Discover Saratoga, known as the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau, is a key economic development engine for this community; our mission is to contribute a positive impact on the local economy by promoting and marketing Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County as a world-class destination for meetings, conventions and groups. For more information about Discover Saratoga, please visit discoversaratoga.org.

About The New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association

The New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSH&TA) is a not-for-profit trade organization representing 1,000-member businesses and individuals in the lodging and attractions industry. NYSH&TA's mission is to provide a strong voice for the New York State hospitality and tourism industry, and to protect and enhance the financial welfare of the industry. For more information, call (518) 465-2300 or visit www.nyshta.org.