HOW TO SAVE ON HOTELS

I remember when my husband and I called up to reserve a room in one of Shimla’s finest hotels, we got two different offers. We were supposed to reach Shimla on 12th March. Hence, my husband called on 7th to book a room for us. When he called, he was quoted a rate of $102. After discount, he got the reservation done for $92. Minutes later, I called them up not mentioning that my husband had already booked a room and was quoted $92 and after discounts, the deal was made for $82. Half an hour later or so, my husband called up and cancelled the reservation he made as we got a better deal.

What we didn’t know is that if we would have called up the next morning, we would have been offered 72$ for the same room on the same night. So from our trips, we have learnt a great deal about hotel deals.

Because hotels have developed smart systems for predicting demand, they no longer need to negotiate with you. What they want is ‘Occupied rooms during weak periods.’ This means to travel before and after peak season. That’s the best way to get all the benefits of great weather and activities at significantly reduced prices. And because we travelled before the peak season, we were offered lesser price each day for the same room.

Another important fact is that sometimes, calling up or checking the website of Tourism Department for the state or country which you are travelling to will not only give you the best hotel deal but also gives you amazing ideas to plan out you tour in the best possible way.

Another strategy is to try the toll free number first. Reservationists at the hotel’s toll free or 800 number tend to be most aware of promotional deals, which provide the most significant savings. This is especially true for international travel. For example, A non-promotional rate quoted by a hotel were $104; for the same date, an 800 reservationist found us the promotion which got us our room for $60.

Next is to call hotel too. Sometimes, the hotels itself gives you the best deal.

Another strategy is to always ask for a lower rate or discounts. As hotels always hope that when they offer their first price, the person will say ‘okay’. By asking for discount, you’re encouraging the reservationist to give you the best rate.

Also note that cheaper rooms sell out first. That’s why sometimes we are offered different prices on multiple calls. As when these rooms sell out, the prices go up even though the prices haven’t actually been raised. Cancellations, currency conversions (for international travel) and the type of room or view requested may also account for different rates.

Another lesson that myself and my husband learned is that we are better on our own than asking a travel agent with whom we haven’t worked before. It is because a lot of them guaranteed us their rates to be the lowest which weren’t in fact. Although these rates are no lower than what you could get yourself, an agent whom you know and trust, will often both secure the best rate and save you time.

Another important fact is that by taking a minute or two to establish a good rapport with the reservationist can be the easiest way to get a better deal.