Booking a hotel room can be a scary experience, especially if you have had a bad experience before. By then, it is usually too late to back out. So that is why you need to prepare properly by doing research. So here are some tips to help you find the hotel room of your dreams.
Use websites like Orbitz and Expedia for great prices. If you are in a hotel loyalty program, put your information in. You can also get additional discounts from any organization you are apart of, such as the AAA or the AARP.
Prior to beginning a hotel search, try thinking about what accommodations you want and can afford. Figure out if the hotel’s location is more important than its price or if you limited to hotels under a certain price range. Also consider whether you need one that has items like spas and fitness centers or just a beautiful view.
It can be hard to know how to select good hotels. Joining a travel club can be a very smart choice if you do a lot of traveling. Your travel club will provide you with hotel guide materials. Representatives can answer your questions, help you choose hotels and even help you plan and book your reservations.
When staying in a hotel, it is wise not to bring valuables. If you do have valuable jewelry, documents or other items be sure to stay at a hotel that has a safe in the office. By making good use of this amenity, you can keep your personal belongings secure and enjoy peace of mind.
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.
If you’re training for a marathon and have a weeklong business trip planned, there’s no reason to let your running slip. Look online for local running groups in the city where you are going to stay, and join them for their social runs. If there aren’t many groups, look for local running stores, as they also offer social jogs.
Be sure you know the cost associated with hotel transfers when booking a room. A transfer can sometimes come with a substantial hidden cost. Ask the hotel representative ahead of time to make sure you get the most savings.
Avoid using the hotel phone to make long distance phone calls. If you don’t have a cell phone or the Internet, buy a calling card to keep with you during your trip. Hotels usually have Wi-Fi, so you can call using Skype. This is much cheaper than paying for a bunch of long distance calls from your hotel room.
Review the pet policy at the hotel. If you fear pets or have allergies to them, make reservations at hotels that have a strict no pets policy. Hotel floors and linens can glean unpleasant odors from pets. While some hotels charge fees for pets, they don’t always charge a lot. Some hotels use the paid fees to clean the hotel more thoroughly.
If you are a parent who needs a roll-away or a crib in their hotel room, then you’ll need to call prior to making your reservation and find out if they are available. Your hotel may not have these things or may have only a few, so it is smart to reserve in advance. Additionally, you may need to pay an extra fee. You can always discuss the possibilities with the hotel clerk or manager on the phone before you book your room.
As you probably know, a bad hotel experience can be a nightmare. So it is important to do your research before you book so you will get a room that is right for you. So use the information from above to help you find the hotel that suits you perfectly.