When it comes to travel
reservations, it never hurts to ask. Many a traveler has received an upgrade to
a better room or a lower price just by asking. If you don't ask, you'll never
know if it was possible, and you could lose out on a nice perk.
Even if you've booked a great online deal, check the rates again before you leave on your trip. If the rates have gone down, call the hotel and ask if they'll match the lower rate.
Is it your birthday or anniversary? Sometimes if you mention that, you'll get a complimentary upgrade. You increase your chances of an upgrade if you arrive later in the day. That way, you can benefit from any cancellations the hotel has received earlier in the day.
Always smile and be nice to the desk clerk. It's not her fault if the computers are acting up or the rooms didn't get cleaned on time. Let her know that you appreciate her efforts on your behalf. If another customer has just reamed her out, she might just reward you with an upgrade.
By the same token, if you have a problem with your room, complain nicely. Hotel staff put up with a lot of bitchiness from customers. If you complain in a calm manner, letting the staff know that you know it's not their fault that the toilet keeps running or the ventilation system has two settings - Antarctica or Sahara - you may just find yourself moved to a better room or have your night comped.
These tips also apply to car rentals and in (very) rare instances, flights. Just remember what your grandma used to tell you -- you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
Even if you've booked a great online deal, check the rates again before you leave on your trip. If the rates have gone down, call the hotel and ask if they'll match the lower rate.
Is it your birthday or anniversary? Sometimes if you mention that, you'll get a complimentary upgrade. You increase your chances of an upgrade if you arrive later in the day. That way, you can benefit from any cancellations the hotel has received earlier in the day.
Always smile and be nice to the desk clerk. It's not her fault if the computers are acting up or the rooms didn't get cleaned on time. Let her know that you appreciate her efforts on your behalf. If another customer has just reamed her out, she might just reward you with an upgrade.
By the same token, if you have a problem with your room, complain nicely. Hotel staff put up with a lot of bitchiness from customers. If you complain in a calm manner, letting the staff know that you know it's not their fault that the toilet keeps running or the ventilation system has two settings - Antarctica or Sahara - you may just find yourself moved to a better room or have your night comped.
These tips also apply to car rentals and in (very) rare instances, flights. Just remember what your grandma used to tell you -- you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
2 comments:
I'd say this was just common sense, but I think your advice is more like graciousness. Thank you for reminding us about this simple courtesy. Even if being nice doesn't get a material upgrade, you have to feel better about your self. Win win.
Being nice and friendly do bring you unexpected benefits sometimes. Best way to cut your overall travel costs! Spend less, see more of the world!
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