Find great prices at online travel sites like Orbitz and Expedia. If you belong to http://www.sfgate.com/luxuryhomes/ a hotel's loyalty program, be sure to input that information when checking rates. You may also be able to get discounts through AAA or AARP.
To make sure that you don't have an allergic reaction to the soaps and shampoos that you find in hotel rooms, bring your own, particularly if you have sensitive skin. While it's nice to find the freebies, the rash that sometimes results is quite unpleasant. Take along your own things to keep things clean.
When you are staying at a hotel, it is a good idea to leave a small tip for the housekeeping staff. It is best to tip daily instead of waiting until the entire trip has come to an end since there is a chance that the same person will not be assisting you every day.
When booking a hotel stay, always check the Internet. There are many travel sites located online that let you compare prices for hotel located in the city of your choosing. Additionally, you can save a lot of money by booking your stay during the weekdays. Weekend rates tend to be higher than weekday stays.
Avoid using the phone in the hotel to make any calls. If you do not have a mobile phone, it would be a good idea to purchase a prepaid phone to make calls during your stay. The only exception should be if free local calls are included in the room rate.
If you forget to bring toiletries with you, the housekeeping staff at the hotel may be able to help. Most hotels provide soap, shampoo and conditioner as a matter of course, but they may also have toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, razors and other necessary items on hand for those who request them. Many even supply hair dryers in the room, so you do not have to bring your own along.
When traveling with children, be sure the hotels you choose offer features the kids will enjoy. A playground on site is very helpful. A pool with plenty of shallow area and/or a kiddie pool will provide great play time. Also check to see if the hotel you are interested in offers a child care service.
If you want to save some serious money on your hotel reservations, get the price bundled with something else. This is typically done through an online travel site. When bundled with airfare, hotel room rates drop dramatically, sometimes by over half the list rates that are publicly advertised elsewhere on the Internet.
If you want to keep your regular running routine, pack your GPS and running clothes. Enjoy a morning jog each day while on vacation. Even if you're running down the city streets of roads, it will give you a new perspective of the city that you're visiting.
Do not always assume that staying on the club floor of a hotel is a great way to waste money. While you may have to pay for this upgrade, you will end up saving more money in the end. This is because things like drinks, appetizers and free breakfast are part of the deal, and these things are very expensive when purchased separately.
To keep your incidentals at a minimum, especially when you are staying at a hotel outside the US, ask about the cost of wireless Internet before you check in, and especially before you log in the first time. Some hotels don't disclose the costly per-minute costs of Internet access, but they will certainly show up on the bill.
To keep your incidentals at a minimum, especially when you are staying at a hotel outside the US, ask about the cost of wireless Internet before you check in, and especially before you log in the first time. Some hotels don't disclose the costly per-minute costs of Internet access, but they will certainly show up on the bill.
Going green is a growing trend so it is no surprise that hotels are going green as well. Fortunately, many green hotels exist nowadays. Many new hotels are constructed to meet green standards, earning green certification. Other older hotels will just provide green options for you. Check online or ask a travel agent for help.
If the hotel you in which you are staying has a pool, find out what the policy is with regard to pool towels. Some hotels supply towels in the pool area or at the front desk. Others allow you to use the bath towels. Still others expect you to supply your own pool towels. Ask about this when making reservations, and pack accordingly.
If you want to save money when booking a hotel room, call the hotel directly. Tell them you're interested in receiving a good deal. Let them know of any discount you may qualify for. This can include government rates, senior rates, auto association cards or rates for business travelers.
To avoid the unpleasant surprise of a costly pet deposit when you check into a hotel, ask about pet policies and fees when you book the room. That gives you the flexibility of choosing a hotel that is more pet-friendly and keeps you from having a huge fee that you pay just because it's too inconvenient to switch hotels at the last minute.
If you plan to use the telephone provided in your hotel room, know what to expect as far as charges. Some hotels offer free local calls, but others charge for each call. In addition to any long distance charges, the hotel usually adds an extra fee. Use your cell phone to make calls from your hotel room when possible.
What do you look for in a hotel? Do you stay in budget-friendly places, or do you prefer the high-end establishments? No matter your luxury choice, this article has served up some great tips for making sure you end up in a comfortable hotel that suits you just fine. You want to feel like you're staying at a home away from home.
