The Ultimate Four Seasons Booking Checklist
The Ultimate Four Seasons Booking Checklist
Booking a stay at a Four Seasons Resort or Hotel is more than just reserving a room — it’s an investment in an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, a city escape, or a wellness retreat, having a systematic approach ensures your stay is seamless, luxurious, and tailored to your preferences.
To help travelers in 2025, we’ve compiled the ultimate Four Seasons booking checklist, covering everything from timing and rates to room selection, perks, and travel tips. Follow this guide to ensure your Four Seasons experience is effortless from start to finish.
| Step | Action | Notes / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose your travel type and destination | Beach, city, wellness, family — match resort to your goals |
| 2 | Check Four Seasons Preferred Partner rates | Unlock perks like upgrades, credits, and early check-in |
| 3 | Set travel dates strategically | High/low season, events, and flexibility impact rates |
| 4 | Select your ideal room or villa | View, size, privacy, and accessibility matter |
| 5 | Confirm amenities that matter most | Pools, spa, dining, activities, Wi-Fi |
| 6 | Submit special requests & personalization | Dietary needs, celebrations, in-villa services |
| 7 | Plan transportation & transfers | Airport, ground, and on-property options |
| 8 | Check loyalty program benefits | Points, upgrades, early check-in, late check-out |
| 9 | Review cancellation & refund policies | Flexible vs non-refundable rates |
| 10 | Pack essentials & check weather | Clothing, tech, documents, gear |
| 11 | Confirm check-in & arrival details | Check times, notify resort, pre-arrival concierge |
| 12 | Book experiences & activities in advance | Spa, excursions, dining, private events |
| 13 | Budget for on-property spending | Dining, spa, excursions, incidentals |
| 14 | Confirm communication preferences | Email, SMS, app notifications, concierge |
| 15 | Final pre-travel confirmation | Flights, documents, requests, resort contact |
1. Decide Your Travel Type and Destination
Before making any reservations, clarify the type of trip you want:
Beach or Island Escape: Bora Bora, Maldives, Seychelles
City Stay for Business or Leisure: New York, London, Tokyo
Wellness & Spa Retreat: Bali at Sayan, Napa Valley
Family Vacation: Punta Mita, Maui at Wailea
Knowing your travel style helps narrow down resorts, room types, and amenities, ensuring you select a destination that aligns with your goals.
2. Check Four Seasons Preferred Partner Rates
The Four Seasons Preferred Partner Program provides exclusive benefits for travelers booking through affiliated agents, including:
Complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability)
Daily breakfast for two
Resort or hotel credits for dining, spa, or activities
Early check-in and late check-out
Even if you’ve booked directly, checking Preferred Partner availability can save money and add perks.
3. Set Your Travel Dates Strategically
Timing can affect both availability and pricing:
High Season: Summer in Europe, winter in the Maldives and Caribbean
Low Season: Shoulder months often provide lower rates and more flexibility
Special Events: Festivals, sporting events, or holidays may increase rates
Use flexible dates when possible to maximize value and availability.
4. Select Your Ideal Room or Villa
Four Seasons offers a variety of accommodations, from standard rooms to private villas. When choosing, consider:
View: Ocean, city skyline, mountains, or gardens
Privacy: Villas or suites for family trips or romantic escapes
Size: Suites and villas offer more space for long stays or multi-generational travel
Accessibility: Rooms designed for ease of movement if required
Tip: Check floor plans and photos on the official website to ensure the layout suits your needs.
5. Confirm Amenities That Matter Most
Four Seasons properties offer a wide range of amenities. Consider what’s most important:
Pools: Infinity, private, or family-friendly
Spa & Wellness: Yoga, massage, and holistic programs
Dining: Michelin-starred restaurants, room service, private chefs
Activities: Golf, water sports, cultural tours, excursions
Connectivity: Reliable Wi-Fi, workspace for business travelers
Making these choices ahead of time ensures your trip aligns with your expectations.
6. Special Requests & Personalization
Four Seasons is known for personalized service. When booking, communicate:
Dietary restrictions or preferences
Birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon arrangements
Pillow or bed type preferences
In-villa spa treatments or private dining
This ensures the resort can prepare everything in advance, making your stay more seamless and enjoyable.
7. Transportation & Transfers
Consider how you will get to and from the resort:
Airport Transfers: Many Four Seasons properties offer private car, limousine, or helicopter transfers
Ground Transport: Check proximity to city centers or local attractions
On-site Options: Golf carts, shuttles, or bikes for property exploration
Booking these ahead of time often reduces stress and saves time on arrival.
8. Loyalty Programs & Points
If you’re a Four Seasons loyalty member or a frequent traveler with partner programs, check:
Eligible points for your stay
Bonus offers or seasonal promotions
Membership benefits like early check-in, late check-out, and room upgrades
Leveraging loyalty programs can maximize the value of your booking.
9. Review Cancellation & Refund Policies
Even luxury trips can change. Ensure you understand:
Flexible cancellation periods
Refundable vs. non-refundable rates
Policies for changes in travel dates or room types
Being informed helps avoid surprises and maintain peace of mind.
10. Pack Smart & Prepare Travel Essentials
Your Four Seasons experience extends beyond the room. Prepare for:
Weather-appropriate clothing: Tropical, urban, or mountain climates
Tech essentials: Chargers, adapters, and devices for work or leisure
Travel documentation: Passport, visa, ID, and confirmations
Special items: Swimwear, workout gear, or golf equipment
Check the property’s website for dress codes or activity-specific requirements.
11. Confirm Check-In & Arrival Details
Before traveling:
Verify check-in times and early check-in availability
Notify the resort of your estimated arrival time
Prepare any travel documents or confirmations for a smooth arrival
Some Four Seasons properties even offer mobile check-in or pre-arrival concierge services.
12. Plan Experiences & Activities in Advance
Many Four Seasons resorts offer high-demand activities that require advance booking:
Private excursions, yacht charters, or cultural tours
Spa treatments, wellness programs, or classes
Private dining experiences or chef-led cooking classes
Booking early ensures availability and the best possible experience.
13. Budget for On-Property Spending
Even when booking luxury accommodations, consider:
Dining at specialty restaurants
Spa treatments and wellness programs
Excursions or curated experiences
Incidentals like minibar or boutique shopping
Knowing your budget helps you enjoy your stay without surprises.
14. Confirm Communication Preferences
Ensure the resort knows how to best reach you:
Email confirmations for activities, dining, or spa bookings
SMS alerts or app notifications for itinerary updates
Concierge contact for last-minute requests
Clear communication ensures your trip is smooth and stress-free.
15. Final Pre-Travel Checklist
Before departure, double-check:
Flight details and transport arrangements
Resort confirmations and booking numbers
Special requests (room, villa, dietary, activities)
Travel documents (passport, visas, travel insurance)
Contact info for Four Seasons concierge
This final step ensures a perfectly planned and seamless luxury stay.
Why a Booking Checklist Matters
Booking a Four Seasons stay is about more than securing a room — it’s about curating an experience. By following a detailed checklist:
You maximize benefits and perks through preferred partner rates
Ensure customization and personalization for your needs
Avoid last-minute surprises or missed opportunities
Enhance your overall experience, from check-in to departure
Whether traveling for business, leisure, or a mix of both, this checklist guarantees a seamless and unforgettable Four Seasons experience.
