Every year, tons of people book their dream vacations. For some, the vacation goes as planned, and a good time is had by all. For others, however, what should be a pleasurable time is ruined simply because they picked the wrong hotel. Don’t let that happen to you. You can prevent it by applying the tips you find below.
When picking a hotel, there is a lot to think about. While price is obviously a factor, you may want to think about room size and amenities as well. Other amenities, such as a swimming pool, an onsite restaurant and free continental breakfast are important to travelers. Try locating a tip that checks off as much of your wish list as is realistic.
Look into club-level rates. While these rooms are more expensive up front, they typically offer a great value. For example, included in the price could be breakfast or dessert, Wi-Fi service or other perks, like drinks and snacks. See what is offered and decide if the extra cost is worth it to you.
Read the reviews before choosing hotels that look less than top notch. Sure there are lots of hotels that don’t look like the Four Seasons, and there are many that are plenty clean to stay in. There are others though that can be very dirty inside. Reading reviews can help you steer clear of the poorer lot of hotels out there.
Do not feel silly when it comes to asking a hotel’s guest representative some questions. If you are looking for quiet and relaxation, you need to ask ahead to be sure you will get it. For instance, is the hotel too close to an airport? Is there construction going on nearby. Know this before booking with a hotel.
To get the best possible rate for a hotel room, book well in advance of your trip. Rates are markedly higher if you just get the room at the desk. In addition to saving you a lot of money, advance booking will also ensure you aren’t left without a room.
Make location a top priority when it comes to searching for hotels. If you are going to be staying in a city and want to sight-see, it may not be wise to stay in a hotel 30 minutes away from all the action. Ask the hotel about attractions close by or look up their location on the Internet.
To keep your physical fitness going when you are on the road, when you check into a hotel, check out the fitness center. Even in gyms where you only see a treadmill or two and a set of dumbbells, you can still get in a bodyweight workout and a cardio routine. It may not be ideal, but it gets you through until you are back on your home turf.
If you plan on using any glasses from the hotel minibar, make sure that you wash them first. Even if they appear to be clean, they may have been wiped with a chemical cleaner. Many housekeeping staff use the same products that they use to clean windows and mirrors on those glasses.
If you forget to bring toiletries with you, the housekeeping staff at the hotel may be able to help. Most hotels provide soap, shampoo and conditioner as a matter of course, but they may also have toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, razors and other necessary items on hand for those who request them. Many even supply hair dryers in the room, so you do not have to bring your own along.
If you are looking for deals on a hotel room, you may have to go straight to the source yourself. Many hotels do not post ads all over the Internet offering discounts. You usually have to find them yourself. Simply call potential hotels and ask them if they have any promotions or discounts.
To save money on a trip when you are traveling with a large family, choose a hotel that offers a free breakfast. Even if it’s just continental fare, you’re saving a significant amount of money by cutting out having to pay for that one meal each day on the road.
If you are traveling with kids, make sure the hotel you book has a working pool. It is extremely frustrating for you and your children to arrive at a hotel expecting a pool and/or other activities only to discover that there are none.
Know whether or not smoking is allowed in your room. There are sometimes rooms designated for people who smoke. If they do, ask for this type of room. If they find you have smoked in a non-smoking area, they may charge you a fine.
Now that you have read this piece, you are much more likely to book great accommodations. Remember to apply these tips as you look for your hotel. You will have a great time on your vacation without having to worry about where you are going to stay. It will be great!
