How a simple drink became the world’s most expensive minibar item
The minibar is the classic staple of any hotel room.
For many travellers, it’s the first part of their short-term accommodation that they want to investigate.
While most decide to opt out of indulging in any minibar treats, as some carry a price tag that could plunge you into bankruptcy, others find it the perfect opportunity to treat themselves.
While most average minibars carry a range of drinks and snacks you could find at most supermarkets, luxurious hotel minibars are far from ordinary.
The Drake Hotel in Toronto has made headlines before for their quirky in-room charges such as $57 hemp candles, and an unusual $440 gold-plated pack for adult travellers.
Trump Tower hotels have famously boasted an extensive “water library” that gives guests a diamond-covered bottle of water for a hefty $43.
While these in-room purchases are certainly extravagant, a hotel in the Netherlands has claimed the crown for the most expensive minibar item.
The Intercontinental Amsterdam includes a minibar service of a bottle of Louis XIII Grand Champagne Cognac, priced at 3500 euros or about $5,672AUD.
The luxurious bottle of alcohol has copped a 70 percent mark-up before making it into hotel fridges.
According to stockists worldwide, even the word “complimentary” doesn’t increase minibar consumption, as many hotel guests carry a deep distrust of minibars, even when they’re free.
This fear of sneaky minibar fees was confirmed by a family staying in a Hilton hotel in Chicago, who were charged $76.50 for simply opening the fridge door.
So next time you’re travelling and staying in a hotel, beware of the hidden fees of the tempting minibars, and treat the elusive snacking machines with suspicion.
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