Hubby and I occasionally travel and stay in various hotels. The amenities and therefore the amount of money we will spend, depends upon the type of trip we are taking, and what luxuries I’d like while we are there.
I always try to upgrade without spending extra! The most important tip is to ask.
On a recent trip I needed wireless internet access which meant I could work from the hotel on my laptop. The price of the hotel went up in the area we were looking at, but it was worth it to me. Then I found a hotel that offered high speed in the rooms, not just in the common areas, so I was able to work from the comfort of my bed, not just at certain times I was willing to go to a common area – another huge plus and worth the extra cash.
Then, the hotel we finally choose had a free shuttle within five miles of the hotel. This meant we didn’t need to rent a car – a huge savings for a three day weekend.
The hotel we choose also had a coffee shop, enabling us to do a quick and much cheaper breakfast than the hotel restaurant. All worth a lot of money to us in convenience and savings.
We also got a special rate, – available to us only because I asked! So we got to stay in a $270.00 a night hotel for only $95.00! What a deal.
Here are a few questions to ask when talking with reservations to help get you the best rate:
1. Do you offer a special rate on Friday or Saturday nights? Many of the business hotels will.
2. Do you have discounted rooms? (yes they’ll find you one if you ask!)
3. Do you offer bereavement rates, (we were traveling for a memorial service)
4. Is a better rate offered on the internet? Can you match it?
5. Are there any coupons I can apply to our room?
6. Are you affiliated with a mileage program.
When you arrive, remember to ask about coupons to restaurants in the area and within the hotel, and discounts for local attractions.
These will help you get the best rate – save money – and enjoy your stay!
Tips for luxury living
A great blog about using Priceline
Funny – and not so funny, Hotel Stories