If you are going to be vacationing any time soon, you are no doubt trying to nail down the details of your trip. Before you choose your accommodations, there are some things that you need to know. Keep reading for hotel advice that will ensure you choose the right one.
After you check prices for hotels online, call the hotel’s direct number. Sometimes you can get a better price when you reserve directly through the hotel rather than through the company’s website or toll-free number. In addition, you can make any special requests during this call, such as requesting a quiet room or a crib.
When going on a trip, it is a good idea to book a vacation package instead of booking each service separately. While it may seem like you are spending a lot more money at once, the reality is that you will be getting a cheaper hotel stay than you would otherwise.
If you are a member of a frequent flyer program or travel a lot, try joining a hotel loyalty program. You can earn points and use them toward your upcoming stays. You can also gain airline miles if the hotel is a partner of a frequent flier program. Check the airline or hotel website to see what you’re qualified for.
When traveling with children, be sure the hotels you choose offer features the kids will enjoy. A playground on site is very helpful. A pool with plenty of shallow area and/or a kiddie pool will provide great play time. Also check to see if the hotel you are interested in offers a child care service.
If you have a AAA membership, look into hotel discounts included. Your membership may entitle you to hotel discounts. You may be able to save upwards of five percent at hotels nationwide. This can add up in time!
Be sure to check for online deals. Most of the time, you can get cheaper deals by taking a few minutes to search for them on the Internet. It is a great way to choose your hotel. You will find deals this way that the hotels won’t tell you about over the phone.
Use social media to your advantage if you want to get fresh deals on hotel stays. Many hotels offer deals and freebies to people that “Like” their page. In addition, giving them praise on social media is a great way to snag an upgrade and/or a special rate that has not been advertised.
To ensure that you don’t leave anything behind when you are checking out of a hotel, make a sweep through the room after you’ve packed your bags. Open every drawer, check down on the floor by each bed, and check every outlet to make sure that you haven’t left any chargers plugged in.
Look around for hotels that are having grand openings. These grand openings often have big savings on hotel rooms. In fact, the savings can be very significant – 20% and often more. It’s a great way to get a top notch hotel stay and then pass on the word to others about the stay!
Never ask for the minibar to be removed from your hotel room. You may think this is a great way to ensure that you don’t partake of the minibar; however, most hotels charge for this service. Instead, if you may be tempted to drink alcoholic beverages, purchase your favorite beverage at a package store.
Be aware that many hotels charge for using the hotel’s Internet. You can avoid this fee by visiting a local coffee shop or restaurant that offers free Internet. If you must use the Internet at the hotel, do only what you have to do online and get off quickly to save the most money.
Resist the temptation to indulge in your hotel’s bottled water! You are very likely to be tired and thirsty when finally arriving to a hotel. Finding a cold bottle of water in the little refrigerator may present a temptation. Hotels take advantage of guests by charging ridiculous amounts for bottled water. You might be able to get free bottled water in the hotel gym. The best idea, however, is to bring your own.
Before you book a hotel room, research the area the hotel is located at. Is it a safe area? Is the crime rate high? Does the hotel have their own security measures? Ask if they have 24 hours front desk service or if the hotel has security cameras or security guards.
Now that you have come to the end of this article, you know a thing or two about vacation hotels. You should be ready to pick a great hotel based on what you just read. It won’t be long before you are headed to your destination to have some fun!
