Traveling with a Group? Consider Renting a House

With downsizing economy and rising costs taking vacation with friends of family may seem to be a little too pricey. In such a situation, hotel alternatives such as rental houses and villas can be a good option to help you get a better stay experience. Sites such as vrbo.com, ownerdirect.com can help you find perfect option to fit in your family or the group you are traveling with.

These alternatives offer you more space than the traditional chain hotels. And with amenities such as a full kitchen, you don’t have to compromise with what’s available at your hotel’s restaurant. Everyone gets his or own personal space without being worrying about sharing your bathroom, in case you opted for a hotel.

You can easily hang out with other fellow travelers, anywhere you want; poolside, in the living area or just relax with homemade margaritas on the rooftop terrace. With such flexibility, rental homes are definitely a good option to traditional hotel room. Try renting on your next trip!

Hotels Offer Relief from Stress of Summer Travel

Booming Construction Brings Out Bargains

When Pat Economos of La Grange Park, Ill., went looking for a quick golf getaway this summer, the first thing she did was call the Wisconsin resort she’d stayed at more than a decade ago. Back then, it cost $90 per person per night, which included a room, dinner and breakfast and unlimited golf.

This summer, however, the semi-retired purchasing agent was shocked to discover the rate was $250 per person — that is, until she inquired about midweek prices and was offered a nightly rate of $110. “I’ve always been budget minded,” she says, “and two nights midweek are costing us less than one night on the weekend.”

Welcome to the world of lodging and hospitality circa summer 2008, where being flexible and inquisitive may provide some relief from high gas prices, exorbitant airfares and continuing economic uncertainty. Assuming you can afford to get where you’re going, there are even some deals to be had once you get there.

Read the story about how hotels are offering bargain prices as a result of booming construction and the weaking demand that’s pushing the occupancy rates down.

- source : msnbc.com

Tips for Avoiding Hidden Hotel Fees

Researching for Hidden Hotel Fees

Hotels these days charge travelers of some extra fees which they might not be aware of. The most common fees includes the charges providing airport shuttle, Bellhop/housekeeper gratuities – often known as the service charges, Cancellation fees, Internet charges, Parking, Taxes and other local charges. Here are a few tips to help you avoid these hidden charges:

Do Your Research
Except the taxes, it might be difficult to find out which fees will be charged at a particular hotel or resort before you book. Most of the fees mentioned above is not listed on the hotel sites. So, be sure that you search multiple sites for a better idea of what exactly you’ll pay.

Ask Ahead of Time
Call the hotel and ask what fees will apply to your stay — and whether any of them can be waived ahead of time. Instead of calling the 800 reservations number, call the hotel directly and note the names of any staff members you speak with and which fees they agree to waive.

Don’t Tip Twice
Before you leave a tip for your housekeeper, make sure the hotel isn’t already charging you a housekeeping gratuity fee.

Stock Up
Bring your own snacks and resist the temptation of the minibar of edible “gifts” the hotel offers.

Use Your Cell Phone
Hotel telephone charges can be pricey, so, it’s better to use your own cell phone.

When in Doubt, Ask
Before using the hotel gym, or an extra towel at the pool, ask for any charges, if applicable.

Allow Plenty of Time at Checkout
Don’t just sign the hotel bill in a hurry. Allow yourself plenty of time to check the charges and dispute any that seem unfair.

Know Your Rights
Federal law requires that all hotel fees be clearly disclosed. This usually happens in the fine print — so read the terms and conditions of your reservations agreement carefully.