5 Ways To Choose Your Hotel

By Erica Johnson

You are planning a holiday abroad for your family, and want
everyone to have a good time. You surf the internet for hotel
descriptions, but from the pictures that you see and what you
read, all hotels project a perfect image of themselves. How can
you tell which ones are better? You have never been there and
know no one at your destination. At the same time, you don’t
want a hotel room that will bust your budget. How do you choose?

Check Independent Hotel Ratings
Well, the first step you can take is to visit hotel search
engines for guest ratings for hotels represented by the search
engines. In addition to pre-negotiated rates with individual
hotels, most agents ask for ratings and comments from previous
guests. Reading their comments will give you a fair idea on what
to expect from the hotels located in your destination. Be sure
to read a few comments in order to get a fair overview. Certain
incidences described may only be rare occurrences that may
already have been corrected.

Hotel Chains and Facilities
Are they part of an international hotel chain? Most
international chains have stringent standards that are adhered
to as well as a standard theme across all chains. They may have
similar facilities (health clubs, spas, business centers, etc)
which are important to maintain the hotel’s high standards.
Other things you can look out for include concierge, shuttle
services to the city, airport transfers as well as good laundry
services.

Location
Perhaps one of the most critical things when selecting a hotel
is its location. Hotels that are near to shopping areas, train
stations or the city center charge higher rates as compared to
those located elsewhere. Analyze a map of the area before you
book to determine the nearest shopping areas or access to trains
which will give you much convenience in moving around. Also,
check with the hotel if they have any large tour groups coming
in at the same time. Hotels charge higher rates during high
occupancy periods and do not have the flexibility of late
check-outs. These are important aspects which, if overlooked,
may affect your tour schedule as well as your impression of the
hotel’s level of hospitality.

Rates and Discounts
Hotel rates are a huge factor when it comes to choosing a hotel.
However, paying more does not necessarily mean that you will
receive an equivalent level of service and standards. One of the
ways to maximize on prices would be check if they are part of an
alliance with flights or car rental companies, which offer
discounts to customers of their allies. Sometimes, credit card
companies offer their cardholders exclusive rates to special
hotels which can be pretty attractive. Additionally, if it’s
possible to use your frequent flyer points to redeem hotel
discounts, this could help reduce hotel costs as well.

Boutique Hotels
Finally, apart from chain hotels, boutique hotels may are great
alternatives for romantic getaways for couples or families
seeking hotels of a more distinctive theme. Many boutique hotels
have fewer rooms but offer more value added services such as
spas within the bedroom, breakfasts in bed or even in-room
massages. In the end, your choice of hotel really depends on
what you want out of your holiday.

You may visit Hotels Search EU PTY LTD to find the most trusted
hotels at top destinations across the world.

About the Author: Both Erica Johnson & her husband David love to
travel, ski and meet people from different cultures. They have
traveled all continents to experience hospitality, adventure,
sports, exotic foods, learn new languages and understand
history.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=4968&ca=Travel