There are many websites dedicated to booking hotels. The first step in finding the best deal is to determine where you want to go, and what kind of vacation you are planning. The variety is staggering, from five star spas to backpackers' hostels, and everything in-between. The amenities offered are also numerous; Wi-Fi, parking, pool, exercise room, in-room coffee, mini-bar, restaurant, airport shuttle. Decide which you want, and don't pay for what you don't need. You may want five star luxury after hiking the mountains all day, or you may want a wilderness experience. If you will be out all day sightseeing or attending seminars, perhaps you are only looking for a room with a comfortable bed and hot shower. You may prefer a bed and breakfast, where you can chat with locals over a good breakfast, and get insider tips on what to see and where to go.
Once you have narrowed down the kind of accommodation you want, check out discount travel sites for a good overview of what is available. Check several, because you will find the same property will be listed at different prices on different sites. It's a good idea to go to the website of the chain, if you are looking at a franchised hotel, to see the posted price. You have something to compare the discount travel sites prices.
If you can travel off-peak, you will find better rates at most hotels. You will also find more choice. Tourist destinations fill up quickly during peak months, so the sooner you can make your plans, the better. If you can stay mid-week you will probably find lower prices at hotels. You might find discounts for more than a couple nights' stay. Some offer fourth night free or a percent off if you book more than three nights. Plan your holiday to take advantage of these discounts if you can.
Travel review sites or forums are a good source of information from other travelers about their experience at a particular accommodation. These are usually honest and unbiased. You can discover some hidden gems there. You can also get an idea from that feedback about the friendliness of the management, cleanliness and overall condition. Discount travel sites often have e-letters that are sent out periodically to let you know about specials on flights and hotels. It is a good idea to sign up for a couple of these. They will allow you to take advantage of sales before they sell out. Discount travel sites want your repeat business, and will do their best to book you the lowest price.
Discount travel sites can sometimes offer a better price if you book flight and hotel together. These packages sometimes will cost less than airfare alone. Add a rental car, and you've organized your holiday in one stop. Compare sites and check for hidden fees. Some add a booking fee onto the prices, so know what you are paying for before you buy. Some add a fee for cancellation, so check that out, too.
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