Making Reservations: Booking Tours, Activities, and Services
8 min read
30+ phrases
Making reservations is a crucial travel skill. Whether you are booking a guided tour, reserving a spa appointment, or securing tickets for a show, knowing the right phrases ensures you get what you want at the time you want. This lesson covers all the vocabulary and phrases you need for making and managing reservations.
While many bookings can be made online today, speaking directly with staff often gives you more flexibility and better options. Let us learn how to communicate effectively when making reservations.
Basic Booking Phrases
These fundamental phrases work for almost any type of reservation:
"I would like to make a reservation, please."
The standard way to start a booking request.
"Do you have availability on Saturday?"
Asking if your preferred date is open.
"I need to book for four people."
Specifying the group size.
"What time slots are available?"
Asking about available times.
Tour Reservations
Booking tours and excursions requires specific vocabulary:
You
Hello, I would like to book the city walking tour for tomorrow.
Agent
Certainly. We have tours at 9 AM and 2 PM. How many people?
You
Two adults and one child. Is there a discount for children?
Agent
Yes, children under 12 are half price. That will be 75 dollars total. Where are you staying? We offer hotel pickup.
You
We are at the Grand Hotel. What should we wear?
Agent
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour lasts about three hours.
Guided tour
Tour with a professional guide
Self-guided tour
Tour at your own pace without a guide
Group tour
Tour with other travelers
Private tour
Tour just for your group
Day trip
Excursion returning the same day
Pickup point
Where the tour collects you
Activity Bookings
Whether it is a spa, cooking class, or adventure activity, these phrases help:
"What activities do you offer?"
Asking about available options.
"How long does the activity last?"
Asking about duration.
"Is equipment included in the price?"
Asking what is provided.
"Are there any age or fitness requirements?"
Checking restrictions.
Ticket Bookings
For shows, concerts, museums, and attractions:
You
I would like two tickets for tonight's performance, please.
Box Office
We have seats available in the balcony and the orchestra section. Which would you prefer?
You
What is the price difference?
Box Office
Orchestra seats are 120 dollars each, balcony seats are 85 dollars.
You
I will take two orchestra seats, please. Can I pay by card?
Box office
Where tickets are sold
Admission
Entry fee
Matinee
Afternoon performance
Evening show
Night performance
Sold out
No tickets remaining
Standing room
Tickets without assigned seats
Service Appointments
For spas, salons, and professional services:
"I would like to book a massage for tomorrow afternoon."
Requesting a spa service.
"Do I need to arrive early for my appointment?"
Asking about arrival requirements.
"Can I request a specific therapist?"
Asking for a particular service provider.
Travel Tip
Many popular attractions require advance booking, especially during peak season. Check if timed entry tickets are needed and book a few days ahead to avoid disappointment.
Confirmation and Details
Always confirm the details of your booking:
"Could you confirm the date and time?" - Verifying the booking
"What is included in the price?" - Understanding what you are paying for
"Will I receive a confirmation email?" - Asking about documentation
"What is your cancellation policy?" - Understanding refund rules
"Is there a deposit required?" - Asking about upfront payment
Modifying and Canceling
Sometimes plans change. Here is how to handle modifications:
"I need to change my reservation to a different date."
Requesting a date change.
"Unfortunately, I need to cancel my booking."
Canceling a reservation.
"Is it possible to add one more person to the booking?"
Expanding the reservation.
You
Hello, I have a reservation for tomorrow but I need to reschedule.
Staff
No problem. What is the name on the booking?
You
Johnson. The confirmation number is 4578.
Staff
I found it. When would you like to reschedule to?
You
Is Thursday at the same time available?
Special Requests
Do not hesitate to ask for accommodations:
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for wheelchair users
Vegetarian option
Food without meat
Audio guide
Recorded tour information
Language options
Tours in different languages
"Is the venue wheelchair accessible?"
Asking about accessibility.
"Do you offer tours in languages other than English?"
Asking about language options.
Essential Booking Vocabulary
Confirmation number
Your booking reference code
Deposit
Partial advance payment
Full payment
Complete payment in advance
Waiting list
List for cancellations
No-show
Missing a booking without canceling
Voucher
Document to exchange for service
With these phrases, you can confidently book any activity or service during your travels. In our next lesson, we will cover small talk and social conversation, helping you connect with locals and fellow travelers.