Indian YouTuber Ishan Sharma has sparked a conversation about hospitality standards after sharing his recent experience at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Sharma, who has been documenting his travels across the United States, took to X to express his shock at the high cost of basic amenities in American hotels.
My biggest culture shock – American Hotels
They just don’t get hospitality.
Funny how they ask for tips but won’t even give complementary water.
I stayed at 3 star, 4 star AND today 5 star hotel (Caesar’s Palace)
Maybe I’m spoilt with Taj hotels in India.
But basic things… pic.twitter.com/RkB84F69R0
— Ishan Sharma (@Ishansharma7390) August 12, 2024
During his stay at the iconic Caesars Palace, Sharma was taken aback when he discovered that a bottle of drinking water cost $14.99 (₹1,258). His frustration was further compounded by the lack of complimentary services and assistance he encountered. Sharma recounted his experience of checking in at 2 a.m. and being told he would need to purchase a 200 ml bottle of water for the steep price.
“This was my biggest culture shock – American hotels,” Sharma wrote. “They just don’t get hospitality. It’s surprising how they ask for tips but won’t even provide complimentary water.” He contrasted his experience with the hospitality he is accustomed to in India, particularly praising Tata-owned Taj Hotels for their exceptional service.
Sharma’s X post also included a photo of the hotel’s reception area and a screenshot of the exorbitant water price. He expressed his disappointment, stating, “Complete lack of empathy. Unbelievable! Never expected this.”
The Bengaluru-based YouTuber, who has stayed in various 3-star and 4-star hotels during his US trip, described his experience as a stark departure from the warmth and attentiveness he has come to expect from Indian hotels. He noted that even basic services such as helping with luggage and being accommodating were noticeably missing.
Several users on X responded to Sharma’s post, with some suggesting that American hospitality standards are quite different from those in India. One user commented, “Ishan, America understands hospitality differently. It’s been this way for decades across planes, hotels, restaurants, and ships.”
Sharma’s critique has resonated with many, highlighting the cultural differences in hospitality and sparking discussions about expectations versus reality when traveling abroad.