1. Someone can get the same room as you for half the price
The last vacant rooms are usually rented at a cheaper rate. But most hotels don't want to show such prices publicly because there may be a chance that someone will book the room at full cost, at the last moment. Consequently, room rates are displayed on blind booking sites, where prices are low, but the hotel's name is only shown after payment. All you see is the number of stars and the type of room. Rates after 6pm are also cheaper than in the morning.
2. It's possible to bargain when booking a room
Hotels pay reservation systems up to 30% in commission fees. Calling a hotel directly will entitle you to a significant discount, especially if it is a small, independent hotel.
3. Hotels offer free services
When you check in, ask the receptionist about the free services you can get. Some hotels provide their guests with bottled water, irons and hair-stylers, as well as phone chargers and board games. They can also book you a taxi for free, as well as book tickets for a concert or even a table in a restaurant. They can also wake you up at a precise time or call a doctor for you. It's usually also possible to bring a hot breakfast right to your room.
4. They can send you to another hotel without your consent
Hotels often overbook. They allow people to book more rooms than available as a guarantee that all rooms will be occupied, even if someone cancels a booking. Should this occur, if you are asked to move to another hotel, you have the right to demand one of a higher class or additional services, such as a free tour.
5. The room is not always perfectly clean
As you would expect, you won't be the first guest who stayed there. Be attentive to the things that were used before you. Fold and remove the blanket and use disposable cups - dishes are often rinsed in the sink when cleaning.
6. The rooms are not the same
When you want to choose a room, the receptionist may reply with their usual phrase: 'All our rooms are the same.' But according to Jacob Tomsky, who has worked in the hotel business for many years and has also written a book about hotel secrets says that the rooms are different. There are rooms with better views, bigger bathrooms, better TVs and a corner room is normally more spacious. Tipping $20 to the receptionist will entitle you to a better room as well as a bunch of different bonuses including late check-out, free movies or a free minibar.
7. Receptionists suggest establishments that pay them
Looking for a place to grab a bite? Don't ask the receptionist. They'll tell you the place that will pay them for their recommendation, even if it's an expensive establishment and the food is tasteless. For reviews of places to eat, it's best to look online.
8. Complaining is profitable
If you are ever presented with an occasion to complain, be it noisy neighbors or a lack of services that are beneficial to you, do so, since hotels do not want to have their ratings lowered because of negative reviews. They will likely offer you additional services or discounts. Talk politely, ask who exactly will solve the problem, and call the administrator by their name.
9. Mini-safes are not safe
A mini safe in the room isn't insured against theft. If you have valuable things ask the receptionist to put them in the hotel safe and give you a receipt. This safe is usually insured and is available to a smaller number of employees than your room.
Does ‘Buy One Get One Free’ Actually Make You Spend More
Find out why 'buy one get one free' isn’t actually such a big discount, and what to consider before buying more than you originally planned to.
Invest in This Smart Hack to Get Cheap Flights
Looking to go on a vacation but can't afford flights? Try this impressive hack.
The Ultimate Guide to Obtaining or Renewing a US Passport
Obtaining or renewing a US passport is not the most straightforward affair. Thankfully, this detailed guide is here to help!
Take In Sweden's Beauty and History - 10 Must See Spots
Sweden boasts breathtaking nature, a rich history, excellent transport, and friendly people. Here are 10 must-see spots in the Scandinavian country.
Hidden Features in Everyday Objects We Bet You Don’t Know
Do you know why toothbrushes have blue bristles? Or why notebooks have margins? Learn about the secret practical features of 30 everyday objects.
What an Amazing HD Tour of the Great Wall of China!
This drone tour of the Great Wall of China doesn't disappoint at all. In fact, the HD footage is so crystal clear that it's (probably) better than going there!
Are These the Most Beautiful Streets in the World?
There's something so charming and beautiful about these streets that are surrounded by trees. Take a look at these stunning streets.
This Stunning Island Is Often Called the Eighth Continent
Madagascar is an island of outstanding beauty that's worth a visit. From stunning national parks, to picture-perfect beaches, here are its top 10 attractions.
Our World is an Incredible Place – 12 Breathtaking Images
There’s something awe-inducing about things that dwarf us and make us feel small.
Stave Churches Are Among Norway's Most Precious Treasures
Throughout the middle ages, dozens of wooden churches were erected. Today many of them can still be found standing proud in beautiful Norwegian villages.
The 15 Best Places in the World for a Road Trip!
The 15 best global destinations for having a fun road trip!
First-Class Travel Looks Very Different on These Airlines
First-class air travel is one of the most luxurious modes of transport you can take, but the experience differs from airline to airline. Take a closer look.
The World is Full of Wonders, Here are a Fascinating Few...
From the mysterious sailing stones of death valley to red tides, ornage moons and ice circles - our world is full of these bizarre phenomena! Here are 13 of the most interesting wonders of this planet!
Wait For the Bus Under These Odd but Amazing Shelters
These bus shelters have the strangest designs, but you can’t deny they look amazing!
Learn 42 Different Politeness Rules From Around the World!
Here's everything you need to know about the various principles of politeness that exist in different countries. It's both fascinating and a handy travel tool!
Two Weeks of Spanish Magic: The Recommended Itinerary
If you've always wanted to see all that Spain has to offer, this itinerary will make for a true full of opportunities to make good memories!
Touch Down in These Incredible Island Airports!
Here are some of the most fantastic island airports that you could be landing in on your next exotic vacation!
Visit the Most Beautiful Monasteries in the World!
These monasteries are beautiful in both the spiritual and the architectural sense.
Why Are Countries Named the Way They Are? This Map Tells!
Have you ever wondered why the countries of the world are named the way they are, and what on Earth they might literally mean? Wonder no more...
The Isle of Sky: Fly Above the Emerald Beauty of Scotland
This video takes us, by 4k drone, to a beautiful tour over Scotland.
The Uncompromising Beauty of the Southern Pole...
In this video you can see the storm of color that is the Aurora Australis, streaking across the skies of the most southern point on our globe.
11 Unique Museums to Visit in the City of Prague
we've compiled a list of the top 11 must-visit museums in Prague!
These Abandoned Places Look So Majestic in Their Loneliness
Exploring these gems in their current state will still promise to be quite the adventure.
For Each US State, There is a Sight You Shouldn't Miss!
If you could only tell a visitor to do one thing in your state, what would it be? Did it make our list? This is the ultimate travel guide on things to do in each state.
Welcome to the Ancient and Secret City of Petra...
The Lost City of Petra, as you can see from these photographs, really is an amazing place.
I've Never Seen Gardens as Beautiful as the Japanese Ones
These Japanese gardens will leave you just wishing for a calm walk in such a beautiful place.
Hop Aboard the LONGEST Train Journeys in the World
Check out this list of the longest train journeys of the world that every travel enthusiast would love to embark on.
Experience the Thrill of Riding the World's Fastest Train
Japan's upcoming maglev trains are supposed to be the world’s fastest. But are they really worth the hype?
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
These Photos Could Only Be Taken in India...
India is an enormous, diverse and complex place. Some of the sites you'll see in this fascinating country are unlike those you'll see anywhere else. Take a look
Visit 9 of the Most Unusual Towns in the World
A village of Dwarves? A city covered in trash? a whole town underground? These strange places will amaze you!
10 Must-See Amazing and Unfamiliar Sites across France
France is filled with familiar and loved sites such as the Eifel Tower, but there are quite a few that are just as spectacular just not as know, here are 10 of them.
Welcome to Rick Stanley’s World of Inventive Clocks
Rick Stanley’s makes the most inventive clocks, using everything from bottles to bicycles.
Everyone Should Visit These Gorgeous Romanian Castles
We have curated a list of the top nine most remarkable castles and fortresses in Romania and their fascinating histories.
What's the Dirtiest Place on the Plane?
If you were asked what the dirtiest place on the plane was, what would you answer? The next study is going to surprise you and change your mind about dirty places.
The 10 Attractions that’ll Make You Want to Fly to Monaco
The French Riviera awaits you in a tiny but wonderful city-state which will provide you with an exceptional holiday that you would not expect in France ...
Living in a Medieval Castle Is Nothing Like You'd Imagine
Welcome to one of the most unusual homes in the world - a proper Medieval castle in Germany.
16 Wonderful Places That Come to Life in the Spring
If you love the spring, and love seeing the field full of colorful flowers, then these places will be just perfect for you,
18 of the Coolest Little Towns in the Good Ol' US of A
The US is more than Chicago, LA, and New York. For a true taste of Americana, visit these 18 cool towns.
The World's Most Epic Mountains in Stunning Pictures
Few sights in the world are as breathtaking as the Himalayan mountains. Take a look at the world's most epic mountains in pictures. A truly stunning sight!
See the Sights of Europe With Our 20-Country Collection!
This collection of 20 countries will let you you drop in on each of them through the posts below and see what is most gorgeous about that country.
This Dutch Tulip Garden is the Most Magnificent on Earth...
Take an exclusive look at the most beautiful tulip garden on the planet - the world-famous Keukenhof - through 15 stunning photos
Aren't Tuscany's Landscapes Absolutely Magnificent?
Tuscany is one of Italy's highlights, take a look at it's stunning countryside here.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
Discover How Truly Stunning Our Planet Is in 22 Pictures
Our planet is full of wonderful spots. Check out how truly stunning it is in these 22 photos.
Photos Of Yesterday & Today: A Changed World
The world keeps changing around us. And these pictures of different places from the past and the present show us how much that is true.