Are you looking for a luxurious resort vacay without breaking the bank? Well, look no further! We sourced some insider hacks to help you land that perfect hotel deal.
Scout for soft openings : New hotels are generally keener to please, so check out hot new properties online , and pick up the phone!
Make use of booking websites : Use sites like Trivago and TripAdvisor to help you pick and choose the best deals. You can compare offers and prices across hotels to select what suits your pocket while also satisfying your sense of wanderlust.
Time your trip right: Off-season traveling can be more of a boon than a bane. Big city hotels have lower occupancy on the weekend, so that’s when your chances of getting an upgrade are higher. Leisure properties are usually very busy on weekends, so try and travel mid-week.
Research and call the hotel in advance: Check out the property online, and identify the rooms and suites you like. Then write an email or make a phone call to request one of those rooms, even if they are not available on the website. Remember, cancellations happen all the time.
Spell out exactly what you’re looking for: Don’t vaguely say, ‘May I have a better room?’ It is much better to ask for a room with a view, or a bigger suite, or whatever it is that you’re looking for.
Don’t just book the cheapest room: Go for a mid-range suite. This way, you can be bumped up to a deluxe deal later.
Check in between 3 to 5 pm: Hotels give out most rooms during this period, so the front office is surer of cancellations and availability.
Dress to impress: No need to turn up in a tuxedo, of course. Just present yourself well-it will earn you more points than a sloppy, bedraggled appearance.
Be Nice: Hotel staff have to deal with some really pesky and nasty customers. Strike a difference with your politeness. If the manager does award you an upgrade, let them know you’d be happy to commend them in the Feedback Form.
Play the emotional card: Tell the staff you’re visiting on a special occasion. Talk about how you love the hotel, and that it’s your third visit here (they’re not going to pull out records). It works like a charm. Just don’t tell them you read it here.
Turn a glitch to your advantage: Baggage reached your room late? Faucet leaking? Request the management to upgrade your room, in exchange for a No Complaints.
Keep an eye on this space for more such tips and tricks. Happy vacationing!
