A hotel is kind of a home.  Yes, it is not where you want to really be, but you are there or are going there.  So how do you get the best deal?  Here are a few ideas:

1. Call the hotel.  That’s right call the hotel using their number rather than the 800 number.  And for goodness sake don’t believe the website rate.

2. Ask for a discount.  Everytime I’ve asked I received one.  Ask to split the difference.

3. How about phone calls, ask for a lower rate, if you are going to be calling a lot.

4. The “No Vacancies” is usually untrue.  With few exceptions I have always gotten a room.  The have “out of order” rooms which may be okay for you.  Ask.

5. Guaranteed rooms are not guaranteed.  Giving them your credit card information merely give the illusion that they will hold the room. 

6. Tip the housekeeper every day.  Even talking to them will improve service.  $2-3 a day is fine.  Also reduces possibility of burglarizing.

7. Your bags are not necessily safe with the bellhop.  Losses are not usually secured by the hotel.

8. Hotel rooms are not sanitized.  Some things never get cleaned, TV remotes, telephones, clock radios, etc.

9. Take your cell-phone recharging cord home with you, when you leave.

10 The concierge may really be only an employee, who is assigned this responsibility.

Coach     http://coach-charles.com

Adapted from an article by Bottom-Line/Personal,  November 1, 2007