A hotel's amusing and accommodating response to a guest's unusual request has taken social media by storm, going viral on Reddit. Candy Johnson, under her Reddit username parkinglotnachos, shared her experience that has since garnered over 12,000 upvotes. During her stay on October 30, Johnson posted that she had requested a photo of actor Alfonso Ribeiro to be placed in her room at the historic SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark, now known as the Radisson Collection Royal Hotel. The hotel's compliance turned a simple birthday stay into an unforgettable experience.
The viral post includes an image of the actor, best known for his role as Carlton on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," displayed on a marble table accompanied by a slice of cake and drinks. Originally from Long Beach, California, Johnson, who now resides in Sweden, told Newsweek about the inspiration behind her request. A decade-old article about a similar hotel request sparked the idea. Johnson, a longtime fan of the show, seized the whimsical opportunity to blend nostalgia with her celebration.
Upon making the unusual request, the hotel responded with an obliging email, stating they would do their best to meet her desire. Johnson admitted she was skeptical about it coming to fruition and was pleasantly surprised upon arrival. "I laughed for 10 minutes straight," she recalled, when she finally saw the thoughtful surprise. The SAS Royal Hotel, designed by famed Danish architect Arne Jacobsen, offers a unique backdrop that added charm to her stay. As Denmark's first skyscraper, its architectural prestige complemented Johnson's memorable visit.
Johnson's experience underscores broader industry trends as the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) predicts a rise in hotel occupancy rates to 63.6 percent for the year. This marks a significant recovery following 2020's historic lows. The AHLA report emphasizes that essential elements like friendliness and cleanliness continue to propel positive guest experiences. With consumers ranking guestroom cleanliness and friendly staff as top priorities, it's clear service is paramount.
With a rich history that includes moving to San Diego in 1990 and working in a digital marketing startup by 1996, Johnson's journey has been dynamic. Transitioning to a remote work format in 2009, a rarity at the time, she now navigates her role from Sweden. Her trip to Denmark had been carefully planned for months, sparking excitement about staying in a hotel celebrated by Johnson for its designer, Arne Jacobsen.
During her one-night stay, Johnson's visit to Room 606, restored to its original design, stood out as a major highlight. Though she initially requested a corner room, the hotel staff's recommendation led her to a unique room welcoming her with unexpected treats. The space boasted a king-sized bed, a modern bathroom with heated floors, and a breathtaking city view, enhancing the overall experience. If you have travel stories or videos to share, reach out to [email protected] for a chance to be featured in Newsweek.
