What hotel you stay in could make or break your whole experience. You need to know how to find the right hotel so that your trip is not ruined. The following tips will assist you in finding a great hotel at a great price.
Before you pick out your hotel you’re going to reserve a spot at, check out review sites online like TripAdvisor. These sites will allow you to see previous guests’ experiences at the hotels you are considering. The information provided by patrons of the hotel will help you make a good choice of where to stay.
Find great prices at online travel sites like Orbitz and Expedia. If you are a member of a loyalty program, use that info when checking rates. You might also be entitled to additional discounts through your other organizations, such as AAA or AARP.
To keep your electronics safe when you are out of the hotel room, use the safe that you’ll find in your closet. Your iPad, watch, and other smaller, expensive items can be placed into the safe, then you can rest assured at their safety as you head out for a fun-filled day.
Take a look into organizations you are part of. There are times when an organization will give you great deals on the price of hotels. These discounts are often forgotten about, and they can provide significant savings. That can add up to huge savings over multiple nights. This can also net you a free hotel night.
Be sure you inspect the room you are given at check in before you start unpacking. Is it tidy and sanitary? Does your shower, sink, and toilet work in the right way? Is the room adequately stocked with towels and linens? If you quickly note any problems, let the person at the front desk know so they can help you sort it out or give you a better room.
When can you check in? Some people fail to check when they will be able to access their rooms. They arrive at the hotel but find that their room isn’t ready yet. If you think you will arrive before check in time, call the hotel and ask if you can come.
Don’t think every hotel is pet-friendly. So call ahead and make sure you understand if there are extra fees or a limited number of rooms available. Ask about their pet policy. Many hotels have restrictions on the breed and size of pet allowed on the premises.
If you’re taking a pet to the hotel, do some things beforehand. First, find out if the hotel allows pets. You should bring some plastic bags and cleaning supplies to keep the room clean behind your pet. You should also see if you can get a room near the end part of the hallway to make sure other guests don’t have to put up with pet noise.
Be sure to follow your fitness regimen while staying in a hotel by packing your workout clothes and any other equipment you may need. Jogging around the city before you start your day will add enjoyment to your vacation. Spending time on the road with your own two feet will give you a perspective that you’ll never get while riding in a car.
Do you travel on a periodic basis? If so, consider joining your hotel’s loyalty program. These programs provide perks to those who stay at a particular chain regularly. The rewards can include free room upgrades, free meals and movie or show tickets tickets. The points can add up.
If you are concerned about the environment, you may want to take a “green” vacation. The number of “green” hotels is steadily growing. Some of the newer hotels are certified green. Also, older hotels often make several changes to become eco-friendly. Speak with a travel agent to see if they can help you pick out hotels that care about the environment.
The amount you pay for the hotel room is determined by when you book it. Rooms are typically priced according to availability. Book your room more the day before you need it if you can. This gives you the best prices in reserving hotel rooms. They’ll lower the price to fill the room.
If you are bringing your kids along for the trip, then it’s a good idea to call a hotel in advance and make sure they have working pools. It can prove rather frustrating when you check in to your room with the kids screaming “pool” only to find out it’s closed.
Early Departure
If you book a room during a heavy occupancy period, don’t be surprised if you have a mandatory stay of a few days or more. An early departure charge may be added to your bill if you leave sooner. By booking a room, you are preventing other potential guests from staying in the hotel. Therefore, by leaving early, you are costing the hotel extra revenue. Therefore, some will charge the early departure fee.
You have rights in the event where a hotel needs to “walk” you. Hotels sometimes over-book, and this can leave you without a room. The hotel will attempt to foist you off on another hotel. If you cannot avoid this situation, you need to be booked at a comparable hotel or upgraded room for your troubles.
Whatever you do, don’t open the bottled water. You may be very thirsty upon arrival. That’s what the hotel owners had in mind when they packed the min-fridge with delicious, yet expensive, refreshments. Hotels are entirely aware of this. That’s why they fill your mini-fridge with bottled water that costs ten times as much as it does at the store. Don’t fall for it. Look for free water in the gym or lobby. Better yet, bring some bottles with you.
With a little effort, you can find a great hotel at a great price. You’ve got to learn what to be looking for and when you should be booking. Keep the tips above fresh in your mind when you’re booking your next vacation stay.