It used to be that a good concierge was the guy - or gal - who got you tickets to that must-see sold-out play or sent you to the city's best-kept-secret of an eatery. These days, however, the job is being fine-tuned and redefined. From soap concierges to boot concierges, it's a brave new world at the hotel's most frequented desk. - Becca Hensley

Eco-concierge

70 Park Avenue Hotel, New York City

Christal White sees New York City through emerald-colored glasses. Committed to minimizing her personal environmental impact, she inspires others to do the same. She encourages guests to experience the Big Green Apple with pedicabs, directs them to lesser-known green spaces in the urban jungle, and counsels them on how to offset their travel-related carbon emissions. www.70parkave.com

Cultural Concierge

Hotel Seiyo Ginza, Tokyo

Want to close the deal? Let Hiromi Hayashi coach you in the fine art of the Japanese business world. She'll pass on the tools for success, including how to bow properly, what body language to eschew, how to create Japanese business cards, and what the rules are for exchanging them. As part of the hotel's 24-hour concierge service, she also creates itineraries, teaches etiquette, and helps you manage your time. www.seiyo-ginza.com

Teen Concierge