A Five-Star Guestroom

Is your guestroom ready for guests? The best way to find out is to spend a night in the room. If you aren't particularly comfortable, take some time to spruce it up so you'll be guest-ready by the time your doorbell rings. Here are some tips that may help:

• Put out extra blankets and pillows, and make the bed with high thread count, quality sheets.
• Air out the room and set out fresh flowers before your guests arrive.
• Keep a hamper in the closet so your guests have a place to put their washcloths and towels.
• Stock the room with a variety of books and current magazines. Also have a small reading light and bookmarks nearby. Another nice touch is to have writing utensils and stationery available.
• Provide tissues, fresh soap and have other toiletries available that travelers may forget.
• Clear some drawer and closet space; provide hangers and an area to stow luggage.
• Leave a welcome note and a list of such household information as phone numbers, alarm codes and the schedules of family members.
• Have a dish of candy or mints in the room.