Saturday, April 27, 2013

How do I request certain accommodations at a hotel?

Q. I recently booked a hotel with Hotwire. Since I only knew of the hotel after booking, it is not guaranteed that I will have the choice of bed that I want. I would prefer a king size to 2 double beds. How should I go about requesting this? Are there any tips/tricks to getting me what I want? Also, I am scheduled to check in on April 30 - when should I call, sooner or later? Thank you!

A. Most discounted hotel reservations are usually "you get what you get" kind of a deal, and can't really change much in terms of your accommodations. I find that if you actually take the time to call the hotel at which you're staying, you can request what kind of sleeping arrangements you'd like and they'd note it on your reservations. Once you get there, smile big and be friendly. Sounds obvious, but don't discredit the friendly and pleasant traveler. Mention when you check in that you had called in advance about the sleeping arrangements and if what you want is available. Do it nicely enough, and they may accommodate you. And if they don't have what you want, you can ask them if they'd let you know when something IS available and if they could move you. If you ask him to do this, make sure to ask if there is a fee for moving.

Another big tip, check in as close to your check in time as possible. The chances of you getting the room you want'll be greater.

Call as soon as you can!
Have fun!

What to consider about when making a hotel reservation online?
Q. I am going to book hotels for my Thailand trip next month, I've found some reservation websites already, but their room rates are quite varied. I wonder should I just make booking with the one offering the lowest rates. Are there any other issues that should be taken into consideration.

A. In my experience, it's Ok to book one with the lowest price. The prices are veried because the agents get different discount from the hotels - the more roomnights they sell, the bigger discount they get and they pass the bigger discount to customers to gain their competitive edge. After booking online, you will get reply email from the agent. You can make sure what you really want from them before making a payment.

Don't forget to review comment from their customers, this will give you some idea of how good or bad they are.

Have a great time in Thailand.

How do you get a corporate discount card for hotels?
Q. What sort of id is used to receive the discount rate for the self employeed person. Is there a card you can get (not a credit card) to receive this discount or do you just use your id/business cards?

A. To be honest, I have never had a hotel ask for any sort of ID. When checking in, (or making a reservation), I just stated that I am here on business.

If you travel alot, consider getting a AAA card. It allows you greater discounts, and I have used the roadside as well.

PS, should they require some sort of ID for a corporate rate, just show them a business card. That should do the trick as will.

Good Luck!!




Powered by Yahoo! Answers

No comments:

Post a Comment