Chocolate on pillows?

[Inna22]

I read that a host puts a chocolate on each pillow as a welcome surprise. Very sweet but... I feel like there is always a but... I do not want to place food in bedrooms, and what about allergies. Thoughts?

[Alicia753]

Hi Inna,

A personalized welcome card can be a warm, thoughtful alternative, and it avoids any risks related to food or allergies. Adding a short thank-you note on the pillow or bedside table can be a lovely gesture, making guests feel valued. You could also offer mini comfort items, like a lavender sachet, a travel-sized sleep mask, or a hand sanitizer, all of which feel luxurious without introducing food into the bedroom.

Another option is a small guide or card with a few local recommendations—just enough to orient and delight guests with personalized touches from their host. If sustainability is a theme, a reusable item like a bamboo toothbrush could leave an eco-friendly impression, aligning with conscious travel trends. These ideas will keep your welcome gesture memorable and meaningful, without any food concerns.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Upfish Management

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Inna22 I see many UK hosts who leave a bottle of wine for their guests. Sadly they don't seem to realise that this practice is actually illegal unless they have a licence to serve alcohol. I think chocalates are probably fairly safe as long as they don't contain nuts but we would never have done it as it might attract mice which are hard to keep out of old properties once the weather gets cold.

[Inna22]

@Mike-And-Jane0 I am pretty sure in the US you can give a bottle without a license, as long as you are not selling it.Mice are always an issue but once guests move it, they usually spread food everywhere anyway

[Frances3408]

@Inna22 . In my welcome message I say treats are in the fridge. Given our warm climate that usually includes chocolate and ground coffee. Mostly my guests seem to appreciate the provided breakfast supplies- saves them going to shops first thing in the morning if check in was late. If kids are in a booking it also might be a packet of lollies/popcorn, ice creams in the freezer and marshmellows for the fire pit toasting. 

[Inna22]

@Frances3408 what are your breakfast supplies? Do you mean the coffee or is there anything more?

[Frances3408]

@Inna22 . We provide weetbix, muesli and porridge and long life milk, butter and jam, honey spread portions. For longer stays we add fresh milk, eggs and bacon, bread and sometimes seasonal fruit and veg. Coffee is either pod, espresso or instant plus a variety of teas. 

All our listings have a full kitchen. Most dont use everything but as breakfast is mostly packaged its there for the next booking guest.