NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
New York, August 2024 — In a series of now-viral posts on X (formerly known as Twitter), an Indian YouTuber recently shared his “disappointment” with American hospitality—or, as he put it, the lack thereof.
“My biggest culture shock – American Hotels,” the YouTuber lamented to his followers. Apparently, the real shocker wasn’t the neon lights of Vegas but rather the absence of complimentary bottled water. At 2 a.m., jet-lagged and weary, he approached the hotel desk, asking for a simple glass of water, only to be informed it would cost him $14.99 for a 200ml bottle. This is where his disbelief reached its peak, considering the hotel room was already setting him back a cool $200 a night. “Complete lack of empathy. Unbelievable!” he exclaimed.
The post quickly gathered momentum, with reactions ranging from supportive nods from fellow travelers to biting reminders of America’s “different” approach to hospitality. One X user succinctly responded, “Indian hospitality standards are by far the highest; Indian brands must take this lead…we can be a global leader in this sector.”
Another netizen, clearly versed in the cultural nuances of international travel, advised, “Ishan, America understands hospitality differently!! Whether it be planes, hotels, restaurants, ships, etc. It’s been so for decades.”
But the conversation didn’t stop there. In perhaps the most complete response, a user explained the intricacies of the American hotel experience. “Tipping starts at 15% and if you get good service, you give 20%. Hotel quality is big; there’s a difference between 3, 4, and 5 stars, and U.S. hotels will elucidate the difference. Helping with luggage? This does not exist. Get over it!” The user further pointed out the relative luxury of safe tap water in American hotels, a concept unfamiliar in many Indian accommodations.
My biggest culture shock – American Hotels
— Ishan Sharma (@Ishansharma7390) August 12, 2024
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
Meanwhile, a more pragmatic voice in the debate noted, “You’ll be even more shocked to hear that $200/night is often considered a budget hotel depending on where you are.”
The underlying message from many responders seemed clear: while Indian hotels might pamper their guests to an almost royal degree, American hotels, especially in tourist-heavy locations like Vegas, operate on a different wavelength—one where loyalty programs reign supreme, and guests quickly learn that every amenity has a price tag.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the U.S., you might want to pack your own water bottle—or better yet, join a hotel loyalty program before you touch down. As one commentator wisely noted, “India will employ this very tactic in 10-15 years… and the very Taj will run into the same problems.”
Caesar’s Palace appears to have taken note of the YouTuber’s complaints. Shortly after his post went viral, he shared an update: “Thank you Caesar’s Palace for the upgrade. I’m glad you heard me.🙏 Really excited for the next few days!✨”
