The U.S. has thousands of hotels that range in prices, sizes, and features. A good hotel room can make a trip memorable, while a bad one can turn it into a disaster. You will be able to use the following information to help ensure you select the right hotel.
Compare prices at websites like Orbitz and Expedia to ensure that you receive the best available rate. Always remember to give your loyalty program information to the clerk when you book your room or search for prices. You can also get additional discounts from any organization you are apart of, such as the AAA or the AARP.
When thinking about selecting a hotel, there are quite a few salient points to consider. Price is one factor, however you may also need your hotel to be close to a particular destination. Amenities that you might personally want or need include a swimming pool or gym, on-site restaurant, continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi or local calls. You want to secure a room at a hotel that provides the things you desire.
Take advantage of online hotel searching tools. These websites can help you quickly find the best value. They can provide you with an idea of the average rate charged by each hotel, so you will have a good idea as to whether or not the deal you are being offered is good. They also help you decide the dates for your vacation and the activities you'll want to partake of.
Check online for great hotel deals. Often, the reservations clerk will not advise you that a better deal is available online. This is why it's up to you to search for these discounts. Check out websites such as Jetsetter, RueLaLaTravel, and SniqueAway.
When can you check in? Many people show up before check-in time only to find out their room isn't ready. Call the hotel desk and find out if your room has been prepared if you know that you'll be arriving early.
If you belong to the AAA, see what kinds of discounts the hotel offers. Your membership may entitle you to hotel discounts. There are discounts at hotels around the country of 5 percent or more. Over multiple nights, that five percent will really add up.
If you want to get your daily runs in while on vacation, make sure to bring your running gear with you. In this way, you can simply suit up and enjoy your workout as usual while on the road. Even if your route takes you through the street of a city, at least you will get a glimpse of the area you are visiting.
If you care about the environment, then you may be interested in taking a “green” vacation. The great thing is there are plenty of green hotels you can select from. Some new buildings are certified as green. Some older hotels simply choose a variety of eco-friendly practices to be environmentally aware. Speak with a travel agent to see if they can help you pick out hotels that care about the environment.
The time you book the room will change how much you'll pay. The prices are based partly on availability. When possible, you can often get a good price if you book a room at the very last minute. This will get you a great price on your room. They'll lower the price to fill the room.
Sign up as an AAA member to make hotel arrangements easier when you are traveling. Members of AAA get discounts at lots of hotel chains which more than makes up the membership to AAA, plus it is easier to rent a car anywhere you go. Those with youngsters will be grateful for the free car seats.
Call ahead of arrival to see if the pool is open to keep the family happy. There is nothing worse than having to tell your excited kids they cannot swim.
If you are worried about bed bugs, start your inspection in the bathroom. This is where you are least likely to find bedbugs. This makes it an ideal spot to put your luggage as you check out the rest of your room for bedbugs. Kids and pets can safely wait there too.
Understand the smoking rules in your hotel, especially if you smoke. Most hotels have designated smoking rooms. If this applies to the hotel of your choice, request that type of room specifically. Some hotels charge large penalties if they find that smoking occured in a room not designated for it, so make sure you follow the hotel's smoking rules.
GUests should be aware whether or not the hotel allows pets. If you're fearful of pets or have an allergic reaction to them, it would be in your best interest to make reservations at hotels that have a strict no pets policy. Pet odor lingers. Some hotels charge extra fees for pets, but some do not charge much. The fee may cover the cleaning, and it may not.
Checking in early may not be available. Make your plans accordingly if you do not want to spend hours waiting in the lobby. The room has to be cleaned ahead of your check in. Check with the front desk if you arrive early, but do not be angry if they can't get you in early.
People are often stuck with a less than ideal hotel because they did not do their research first. This approach is gambling, and can hurt you. Use the tips here to find the best deals on great rooms.
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