Making a Reservation in English: Polite and Clear Phrases

Basic Phrases for Making a Reservation

For beginner and intermediate ESL learners, these simple phrases are perfect for starting any reservation request. They’re suitable for most settings, from restaurants to hotels:

• “I’d like to make a reservation for…”

• “Could I please reserve a spot/table/room for…?”

• “Is there availability for… (date and time)?”

• “I’m calling to book a… (table, room, etc.).”

• “I’d like to confirm a reservation for…”

Making a Reservation at a Restaurant

When reserving a table, it’s helpful to mention the date, time, and number of guests. Here are some polite ways to make a restaurant reservation:

• “I’d like to reserve a table for [number] on [date] at [time].”

• “Could you please book a table for [time] this evening?”

• “Do you have availability for a table for [number] people tomorrow?”

• “I’d like to make a reservation under the name [your name].”

• “Could we arrange a table for a special occasion?”

Reserving a Hotel Room or Travel Booking

When booking accommodations, it’s essential to give clear details about your dates and room preferences. Here are some phrases to make a hotel or travel reservation:

• “I’d like to book a room for [number] nights from [start date].”

• “Is there availability for a [room type] on [dates]?”

• “Could I reserve a double/single room for my stay?”

• “I’m looking to book a room for [date]. Are there any available?”

• “Can you please confirm my booking for [date]?”

Tips for Making Reservations in English

Here are some helpful tips for beginner and intermediate ESL learners to make the reservation process smooth:

• Be Specific: Mention dates, times, and preferences (e.g., window seat, non-smoking room).

• Use Polite Language: Adding “please” and “thank you” makes your request courteous.

• Confirm the Details: Double-check dates, times, and other details to avoid misunderstandings.

• Ask About Policies: If needed, ask about cancellation or special requirements.

• Take Note of Reservation ID: For hotels or travel, noting the reservation number can help.

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That’s all for today! Use these phrases and tips to make reservations in English with confidence. With these tools, booking tables, rooms, and tickets will be a breeze.

Until tomorrow, happy learning!

Warm regards,

Niaj A A Khan

ESL Expert, ESLA