Getting the best service and prices at hotels many times requires a bit of work on the guest's part. There are few dependable standards within the industry, and those that speak up tend to have more enjoyable experiences than those that simply accept what is handed to them. Here are five tips about booking a room that can help you on your next stay.
1. Call Direct
Many hotels, especially larger chains, have a customer service center that deals with all of their bookings. That means you'll get a set price with little deviation. Get the number of the receptionist at the specific location and be ready to negotiate. Give them a reason to offer a better deal. Do you operate a travel or personal blog and you'd be willing to give them a write up? Are you in town on business or are scouting corporate meeting locations? Make them want your business, and you'll get a better rate.
2. Prearrange
Need to check in early or checkout late? Is a strong in-room internet connection a must? Are you on business and need a quiet room? Don't wait until you check-in to ask for favors. If they are at capacity or rooms are scarce, it's going to be difficult or even impossible to move you or provide certain perks. You may also get charged for leaving late or showing up too early and demanding to be let in. By giving the staff a fair warning, they can ensure your stay is more pleasant.
3. Call Smart
A front desk gets busy during the check-in and check-out time frame. Most guests arrive sometime in the morning and leave around noon. Between 10am and 1pm maids are usually cleaning. You'll be lucky if you aren't on hold for twenty minutes before speaking with someone, as a current guest is going to receive preference at the desk over your call. If you don't want to be rushed, wait until the late afternoon or early evening to ring. Most receptionists run late hours anyways.
4. Internet Advantage
Most people are now well aware that the cheapest prices for rooms are available through internet aggregator websites, but where do you think these sites get the money to offer their services? They charge hotels a fee to advertise with them, and since the prices are already low, you can bet there isn't too much profit in it. As a favor to yourself and hotels everywhere, call up and ask if they will honor a price you've found directly with an additional 10 to 20% discount or any freebies you desire such as free internet or a complimentary breakfast. It's a win-win.
5. Request Clean Linen
This sounds like an odd tip. After all, aren't all guests supposed to be provided with fresh sheets, towels, and a comforter? In theory, yes, and they usually are. But it is the practice of some locations or cleaning staff to neglect to wash the top blanket and just do the sheets. It won't kill you, but it isn't a pleasant thought either.
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