The hotel industry is known for its unique terminology and codes, which can often leave guests and even staff members perplexed. One such code that has garnered significant attention is “86.” But what does it mean, and how is it used in the hotel industry? In this article, we will delve into the world of hotel terminology and explore the meaning and significance of the code 86.
Origins of the Code 86
The origins of the code 86 are shrouded in mystery, and there are several theories about how it came into existence. One popular theory is that the code 86 originated in the Prohibition era in the United States. During this time, bars and restaurants would use the code 86 to indicate that a customer had been cut off from drinking due to intoxication. The term “86” was allegedly derived from the address of a notorious bar in New York City, Chumley’s, which was located at 86 Bedford Street. When a customer became too drunk, the bartender would discreetly inform the staff that the customer was “86’d,” meaning they were no longer allowed to be served.
Evolution of the Code 86 in the Hotel Industry
Over time, the code 86 evolved and took on a new meaning in the hotel industry. Today, the code 86 is used to indicate that a guest has been removed from the hotel’s premises, either voluntarily or involuntarily. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Disruptive behavior: If a guest is causing a disturbance or disrupting the peaceful enjoyment of other guests, they may be asked to leave the hotel.
- Non-payment: If a guest fails to pay their bill or is unable to provide a valid credit card, they may be removed from the hotel.
When a guest is “86’d,” the hotel staff will typically inform the front desk and security personnel, who will then take steps to escort the guest off the premises.
How Hotels Use the Code 86
Hotels use the code 86 in a variety of ways, depending on the specific circumstances. Here are a few examples:
Front Desk Procedures
When a guest is 86’d, the front desk staff will typically follow a standard procedure to ensure a smooth and safe removal of the guest. This may include:
- Notifying security personnel to escort the guest off the premises
- Canceling the guest’s room key and access to hotel facilities
- Informing the guest that they are no longer welcome at the hotel
Security Protocols
Hotels have strict security protocols in place to ensure the safety of guests and staff. When a guest is 86’d, security personnel will typically be notified to escort the guest off the premises. This may involve:
- Escorting the guest to the front door or a designated exit
- Ensuring that the guest does not attempt to re-enter the hotel
- Providing support to other guests who may be affected by the situation
Consequences of Being 86’d
Being 86’d can have serious consequences for a guest, including:
- Loss of accommodation: If a guest is removed from the hotel, they may be left without a place to stay.
- Damage to reputation: Being 86’d can damage a guest’s reputation and make it difficult for them to book a room at the hotel in the future.
In addition, hotels may also take further action against guests who are 86’d, including:
- Banning the guest from the hotel: In severe cases, hotels may ban a guest from the premises for a period of time or permanently.
- Reporting the incident: Hotels may report the incident to local authorities or other hotels in the area.
Preventing Being 86’d
While being 86’d is not a pleasant experience, there are steps that guests can take to avoid it. Here are a few tips:
- Respect hotel rules and regulations: Guests should always respect hotel rules and regulations, including noise levels and guest policies.
- Be considerate of other guests: Guests should be considerate of other guests and avoid disrupting their peaceful enjoyment of the hotel.
By following these tips, guests can minimize the risk of being 86’d and ensure a safe and enjoyable stay at the hotel.
Conclusion
The code 86 is a mysterious and often misunderstood term in the hotel industry. While its origins are unclear, its meaning is unmistakable: a guest who is 86’d is no longer welcome at the hotel. By understanding the code 86 and its significance, guests can take steps to avoid being removed from the hotel and ensure a safe and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a hotel industry professional, the code 86 is an important term to know and understand.
What is Code 86 in the hotel industry?
Code 86 is a term used in the hotel industry to discreetly indicate that a guest has requested to be relocated to a different room, usually due to a problem with their current room. This code is often used by hotel staff to communicate with each other without alerting the guest or other patrons to the issue.
The use of Code 86 allows hotel staff to handle the situation efficiently and professionally, ensuring that the guest’s needs are met while minimizing disruptions to other guests. By using a coded message, hotel staff can avoid drawing attention to the issue and maintain a positive atmosphere in the hotel.
Why is Code 86 used instead of a more direct approach?
Code 86 is used instead of a more direct approach to maintain discretion and avoid embarrassing the guest or drawing attention to the issue. By using a coded message, hotel staff can communicate with each other without alerting other guests or causing a scene. This approach also allows hotel staff to handle the situation in a professional and efficient manner.
Using a coded message like Code 86 also helps to maintain a positive atmosphere in the hotel. By avoiding public discussions of problems or issues, hotel staff can create a more welcoming and relaxing environment for all guests. This approach is particularly important in the hotel industry, where guest satisfaction and loyalty are key to a hotel’s success.
What types of issues might prompt a Code 86?
A Code 86 might be prompted by a variety of issues, including problems with the room itself, such as a leaky faucet or broken air conditioning. It could also be used in response to guest complaints about noise, disruptions, or other issues that affect their stay. In some cases, a Code 86 might be used to relocate a guest who has been affected by a problem in an adjacent room.
Regardless of the specific issue, a Code 86 is typically used to indicate that a guest needs to be relocated to a different room. This might involve moving the guest to a room on a different floor, in a different part of the hotel, or with different amenities. The goal is to find a room that meets the guest’s needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
How do hotel staff typically respond to a Code 86?
When a Code 86 is called, hotel staff typically respond quickly and efficiently to relocate the guest to a different room. This might involve sending a bellhop or other staff member to escort the guest to their new room, or providing the guest with a new room key and directions to their new room.
In addition to relocating the guest, hotel staff may also take steps to address the underlying issue that prompted the Code 86. This might involve sending a maintenance worker to repair a broken fixture, or taking steps to reduce noise or disruptions in the area. The goal is to resolve the issue and prevent similar problems from arising in the future.
Is Code 86 used in all hotels?
Code 86 is not used in all hotels, and its use can vary widely depending on the specific hotel and its policies. Some hotels may use different codes or terminology to communicate with staff, while others may not use coded messages at all.
However, Code 86 is a widely recognized term in the hotel industry, and it is commonly used in many hotels around the world. Its use is particularly prevalent in larger hotels and hotel chains, where it can be an effective way to communicate with staff and manage guest issues.
Can guests use Code 86 to request a room change?
Guests cannot typically use Code 86 to request a room change, as it is a term used primarily by hotel staff to communicate with each other. If a guest needs to request a room change, they should contact the hotel’s front desk or guest services department directly.
Hotel staff will typically ask the guest for their reason for requesting a room change, and will do their best to accommodate the guest’s needs. In some cases, the hotel may not be able to honor the guest’s request, particularly if the hotel is fully booked or if there are no available rooms that meet the guest’s needs.
Is Code 86 a formal industry standard?
Code 86 is not a formal industry standard, and its use is not regulated by any specific organization or governing body. Instead, it is a term that has evolved through common use and practice in the hotel industry.
Despite its informal status, Code 86 is widely recognized and used in many hotels around the world. Its use is often included in hotel staff training programs, and it is commonly referenced in industry publications and resources.