16 Apr ARE YOU PRACTICING PROPER LIMOUSINE ETIQUETTE?
5 RULES OF ETIQUETTE TO FOLLOW IN YOUR CHAUFFEURED VEHICLE
The excitement of riding in a limousine for the first time is palpable; whether you’ve booked the vehicle for your prom, like a party bus, your wedding, a graduation outing or your bachelor party, the luxury of the car and the convenience of having a professional driver are exciting, to say the least.
Many people find themselves wondering, however, about limousine etiquette and the proper ways to behave while they enjoy the use of their vehicle. Here are a few tips for limousine etiquette to follow during your next chauffeured trip.
1. MIND THE UPHOLSTERY
A limousine is luxury vehicle that offers luxury upholstery, and it takes a lot for the transportation company to keep it spotless so its clients (like you!) can enjoy its beauty and sleekness. When you ride in a limo, it’s best not to do anything that could harm the upholstery or leather interior, like putting your feet up or standing on the seats. Minding the upholstery will ensure that it stays beautiful for the next client to enjoy.
2. ONLY BRING APPROVED FOOD AND DRINKS
If you’d like to bring some snacks, hors d’oeuvres, parmesan cheese, drinks or appetizers for limo ride, make sure you clear them with the company beforehand. A limo ride or a limo rental is not like a party bus where you can just eat any party bus snacks on a dance floor. Alcohol, yes, can you drink in limos, especially, can become a slippery slope if your company doesn’t have a permit for such things.
It’s an easy question to ask and an easy rule to follow; simply don’t bring along any food or drinks that are greenlit for use the vehicle. Everything else is just fine.
3. BE KIND TO THE CHAUFFEUR
Of course, your chauffeur wants to do everything in his or her power to ensure that you have a great time. This includes helping you with luggage, holding doors and offering extras like bottled water and advice on restaurants or clubs in the area. Be respectful of your chauffeur’s time and attention; don’t ask him or her to make extra trips that aren’t included in your package. Be respectful of their position, and your trip will go much more smoothly and enjoyably.
4. DON’T LEAVE BEHIND TRASH
Throughout your night or the duration of your event, your limousine can accumulate some trash from foods, drinks and shopping purchases. It’s always best to take your trash with you when your trip is over, instead of leaving it for the chauffeur or company. Leaving the vehicle as clean as you found it is always a plus with a chauffeur who is tired after a long shift. This small bit of courtesy is a great way to become a well-liked repeat customer with any transportation company.
5. AGREE ON BILLING BEFOREHAND
Do your fair share of research on the price for booking your limousine before you enjoy the ride; know the amount you’ll be charged at the close of your event. Get familiar with additional fees, the cost of certain perks and other relevant issues.
If you don’t do this research beforehand, you might not be prepared to pay the sum you’ll be charged, or you might be outraged at the amount deducted from your account.
Record your conversations with reservation specialist and make sure you have an idea as to how much the trip will cost. This will save you tons of stress and anger afterward.
Getting familiar with your company’s policies can help avoid a host of trip-related snafus; beyond that, common decency and respect of property are all you’ll need to have a great trip. From the reservation specialist to the chauffeur, you can be a great customer that is well-liked and one whom the company looks forward to doing business with in the future!
