Every great vacation needs a great home base where you can put up your feet and relax after a long day exploring. Sometimes your hotel room may even be a destination in and of itself. Whether you need a base of operations for an exciting trip to a new city or just a cozy getaway for pampering yourself and sleeping in, it all starts with booking the perfect hotel room.
Of course, "perfect" isn't a one-size-fits-all adjective. Everyone's ideal hotel room is a little different, and getting the one most suitable for you or your family can sometimes take a little bit of effort. These three tips will help ensure that you can book a room that's a perfect complement for your next trip.
1. Pick a Booking Option to Fit Your Needs
Booking systems can vary between individual hotels and booking sites. Some may allow you to select individual rooms, while others may simply let you select a general category. Sometimes, booking online may mean you can only select a room tier, but the hotel will choose the additional details when you arrive.
Ultimately, all of these systems have their place, but knowing which option fits your needs is crucial. If you absolutely need certain room features or want to guarantee a specific location, you may need to book directly with the hotel or even call them. On the other hand, booking through travel sites or even an agency may offer better prices. Choose the option that's most suitable for your goals and needs.
2. Know How to Make Special Requests
Special requests often include a wide range of options that may not be available through booking systems but that hotel staff will often grant when possible. For example, you can often request to stay in a room away from the elevator or on a specific floor. However, knowing how to make these requests can save you frustration and time.
In general, you should call ahead as early as you can to make your quests. Hotels cannot honor a request if it's impossible or would require moving another guest, so giving them a heads up is the best way to improve your chances of success. Also, realize that some requests may include added fees, so always ask if there will be an additional charge for honoring your request.
3. Keep Your Options Open
Booking early often means that you can get free or no-cost cancellation. Before making your reservation, check your hotel's cancellation policies and try to book early enough to keep your options open. If something comes up or your plans change, you won't have to worry about paying a high price. More importantly, you'll be able to switch reservations if you find a better room later.
Booking a great hotel room doesn't have to be challenging. Knowing how to select the right booking option while requesting the features you need will ensure you can book a hotel that perfectly meets your needs.
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