When it comes to holiday hotel-stays, the smallest details often account for the most in terms of making the experience extra special. And while we continuously expect a certain level of service during a hotel stay, such details can still come as a pleasant surprise!

Most of us have a story - or few - to tell about outstanding service we've received from a hotel: perhaps a member of the hotel staff went beyond their call of duty to deliver impeccable service, or a particular aspect of the hotel's facilities really impressed you. Or, maybe the notable gesture was as simple as taking a few extra steps to make you feel at home or an extra-special greeting to welcome you to the hotel. It could even be a gesture as ordinary as leaving your favourite chocolates under your pillow! Whatever the feature or service, your hotel-stay experience was better because of it.

When such experiences arise, they're certainly worth talking about. After all, if a hotel experience made an impression on you, it might very well do the same for another guest. But how likely is it that your praise will go beyond the ears of friends and family?

These days, it's very likely; and it's just as easy for you to learn about others' travel experiences. That's because a number of online travel resources and leading hotel accommodation providers, now allow past, present and potential customers to access online forums and post travel experiences - enabling you to easily voice opinions and travel recommendations, as well as make informed travel decisions based on other people's encounters. One such service is Homewood Stories, which is operated by the Hilton Group of hotels.

Such sites have proven to be a huge success with both past and potential travellers - and it's not hard to see why. While a hotel's website can inform potential customers of the hotel's facilities through descriptions and images, only an account of a guest who has actually stayed there can relay information from a truly validated point of view. Moreover, hotel guests who have a first-rate experience at their chosen accommodation have a means of informing potential travellers of their recommendations, opinions and travel tips.

So next time you're looking for a hotel stay that stands out, or you simply want to share your remarkable hotel find, you can do so conveniently! After all, knowing what to expect on your next vacation is always worth talking about.