These days, hardly anyone is surprised to get nailed by airline fees. But, now hotels are also cashing in on extra charges. Here’s what you need to know.
According to a report from New York University, hotels will earn about $2.25 billion from extra fees and surcharges this year. That’s up six percent from the previous year, and about double from a decade ago.
Here’s why this is happening. Hotels need competitive pricing to get your business. So they advertise the lowest possible rate, and then add on the fees after you book.
We’re talking about everything from daily resort charges, a cost to use beach towels, and even something called a “mandatory bellman fee”… even if you didn’t use the bellman! Plus, don’t assume that money is going into his pocket.
My advice is to call BEFORE you book, and negotiate certain costs into your rate—like parking or Internet—to avoid hotel fees.
Plus, if a hotel fails to disclose its fees upfront, you can simply ask them to remove them at checkout.
For more information, visit the Hotels & Accommodations Archives.
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