I thought it might be fun to recap some of the helpful ideas posted on this thread.
A great welcome basket includes ...
A creatively designed 'welcome packet" with a warm welcome letter, a detailed schedule of events specifying exact locations and times, and accurate, test-driven, directions from the hotel to each location. Small photo albums can double as a fun way to present your essential information and as a gracious thank you gift.
Water bottles (at least 2)
For an extra special touch add
personalized water bottle labels.
Snacks (each guest sharing a room should receive one of each item chosen)
2 mornings worth of breakfast foods ie fresh fruit (apple, pear, banana, etc), granola or cereal bars, and cans of juice.
A crunchy or chewy snack ie a small jar of nuts or a few bags of cookies and chips
A few pieces of
lindt chocolate to enjoy at beditme each night.
And finally,
tic tacs or other breath mints.
Travel brochures
Although a bit more time consuming, rather than throwing in a few travel brochures, I prefer to include a list of "must see" local attractions, Jewish museums and special Jewish exhibits. List simply: name of attraction, address, hours of operation, phone number, and website address.
A fresh idea
I recently happened upon a company I wish I had found years ago. It creates
destination specific welcome gifts. The gifts contain city and state specific gourmet food, fun souvenirs, and travel guides. (Yes, I know I dissed the travel brochures earlier, but this time they work!) The company also offers a
"create your own" destination welcome gift option for just about any budget. (Don't forget to add your welcome packet and 2 bottles of water.)
Just one more thing ...
Picking-up gifts at the front desk verses in room gift delivery.
I always prefer that welcome gifts be sitting in the room when my guests arrive, however many hotels do not offer this service and others charge a hefty surcharge, making a lovely touch prohibitively expensive. Over the years, I have learned to let this one go.
Most importantly, be sure to lavish lots of attention on your out of town guests. A big, sincere, thank you hug will mean so much more than the most extravagant welcome gift ever will .
