While you can find a lot of good deals online, third-party travel websites don’t always have the best communication with hotels. It’s not uncommon for those reservations to get lost or mixed up. You can avoid the runaround if you deal directly with the hotel. And, nowadays, most hotels will match the prices you find online. Skip the hotel chain’s 1-800 number and call the property where you’ll be staying for the best rates and room availability. Requests could include a crib or rollaway bed, smoking or non-smoking room, or a room with a special view. If you wait until check-in to make requests, it will be a matter of first-come, first-served and you could lose out. Most hotels will offer discounts that aren’t advertised, such as corporate rates, AAA and AARP discounts, or their own specials—if you ask. Sometimes, for just a little more money, you can get a much nicer room. Talk to the front desk clerk to see what rooms are still available and if they would be willing to work a deal with you. More than likely, they’d rather give you a discount than have an empty room. Resort fees aren’t indicated in the advertised room rate and could add $20 a day to your stay for things you might not even use, like a fitness center, pool or daily newspaper delivery.Hospitality expert Jim Inglis shares some money-saving tips for your next vacation.
Professor Jim Inglis has served as Valencia’s program director for hospitality and tourism for
15 years and also teaches housekeeping and front desk operations. He has more than 20 years of hotel management experience, having worked for Hilton and the Choice Hotels group. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association and the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association.
Don’t rely on third-party websites.
Call the hotel directly for the best results—and rates.
Make any special requests upon reservation.
Ask for discounts.
The best time for an upgrade is at check-in.
Beware of hidden resort fees.
Is your hotel room clean? Valencia's Jim Inglis tells you how to be sure.
How to Get the Most out of Your Hotel Stay
Hospitality expert Jim Inglis shares some money-saving tips for your next vacation.