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.
Eastern Europe Is Full of Hidden Gems!
Don't overlook Eastern Europe when planning your next vacation. It has some stunning destinations to offer.
Uncover the Ancient Mysteries of Easter Island's Monuments
Join a team of archaeological scientists and engineers as they attempt to uncover how the gargantuan Moai statues were constructed by our ancient ancestors.
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.
10 Unexpected and Spectacular Places to Visit in Russia
From the coasts of the black sea to the mountains of Siberia, here are 10 extraordinary places to visit in Russia, that prove the country is a gem for travelers
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.
8 Shopping Tricks That Will Save You Money
Learn to save more money with these secret tips.
Angkor Is a Place You Must Try and See in Your Lifetime
Cambodia may be a long way away, but don't worry, we're bringing the wonders of Angkor straight to you. Discover this architectural marvel here.
15 Photos That Show Why Japan is an Amazing Place to Live
Take a look at these pictures which show why Japan is light-years ahead of the rest of the world.
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
10 Stunning Wonders You Need to See Before They Disappear
The Earth is full of amazing places and wonderful species, but soon enough, we may not get the chance to see them ever again.
What 16 Different Countries Consider the BEST Comfort Food
Here is a list of the most indulgent dish from 16 different countries around the world, all of which are widely considered to be comfort foods
Winter is Breathtakingly Beautiful in these Magical Towns
These towns are transformed with the touch of snow.
This Man Ran a Marathon Every Single Day of the Year!
Meet Gary McKee, the man who ran 365 marathons in a year!
This Scottish Viking Festival Is a Fiery Sight to Behold
Once a year, an epic Viking festival takes place in the Shetland Islands (170 km north of mainland Scotland). It really is a sight to behold!
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.
Visit the Most Beautiful Monasteries in the World!
These monasteries are beautiful in both the spiritual and the architectural sense.
Welcome to the Most Colorful Town in the Entire World
Whoever thought that the most colorful town in the world would be a little settlement of 5,000 people in the heart of Colombia!? Here it is in all its glory.
12 Picturesque Festive Locations for the Winter Holidays
The 12 cities we list in this article have one thing in common - they are the leaders of winter holiday decorations and celebrations
Utrecht is the Netherlands’ Underrated Gem
If you’re looking for a big city with the vibe of a quaint small town, Utrecht may be the perfect choice for you. 10 of the city's best locations.
Welcome to the Most Densely Populated Island on Earth
What happens when you cram 800 people in 13,000 square meters? Apparently, heaven on earth. Welcome to Santa Cruz del Islote...
These 10 Countries Are Smaller Than Most Cities
Countries can range in size from large and heavily populated places like Russia to microstates that run less than a square mile from end to end. These countries are the smallest in the world.
10 of North America’s Most Stunning National Parks
North America has so many gorgeous national parks with breathtaking views. Discover 10 of the most stunning parks this nature-rich continent has to offer.
This Dreamy Town in France Will Take Your Breath Away
This is one of France's most beautiful towns!
The Most Beautiful Places Time Has Forgotten...
These gorgeous places are surprisingly abandoned, which makes them even more mysterious and beautiful.
Japan's 9 Most Underrated Destinations You MUST Visit
Have you visited any of these underrated destinations in Japan?
How Grocery Stores Collect Your Data Without You Knowing
You are sharing much more data than you know at the local supermarket.
The Most Unusual Christmas Characters Around The World!
Let’s meet the holiday season's most interesting characters from around the world.
8 Island Cities that Are Wonderful Places to Visit
These densely-populated islands are intriguing, and each boasts a unique history.
This Beautiful Palace Appears to Hover Over the Water
When you see this palace, you'll want to stay there at least once in your life. In addition to its exquisite architecture, it appears to float on water.
You Better Move Your Shop, the Train is Coming.
This is pretty unbelievable, yet has become routine to these folks..
I Would Be So Happy in One of These Beautiful Little Towns
When you get out of the big cities and start visiting the small ones, you realize you've missed some of the most beautiful places..
Watch Your Step: The World's Most Treacherous Staircases
These dangerous staircases will make your stomach drop.
The Most Exclusive and Extraordinary Hotels in the World
Behold a collection of the most unparalleled and exceptional hotels on Earth, like an underwater hotel, or a hotel made completely out of ice
The Dominican Republic is a Truly Epic Caribbean Paradise
If a stunning Caribbean destination sounds like a perfect holiday retreat to you, then take a look at this list of places to visit in the Dominican Republic.
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful Isles in the World
This video will take you all around Koh Samui with the help of a drone.
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.
12 of the Most Unusual Border Crossings in the World
Borders are usually thought of as boring, dreary places, but that thinking definitely doesn't apply to these highly unusual border crossings around the world.
You Won't Believe That These Train Routes Actually Exist!
While most train journeys around the world are typically boring and uneventful, these terrifying ones more than make up for them!
9 Small American Towns that Are Prettier than a Postcard
The beauty of rural America is often overlooked, but there are some absolutely breathtaking small towns in the US.
Traditional Japan's Best-Kept Secrets: 13 Cozy Villages
Join us on a beautiful journey of Japan’s most charming villages and towns.
8 Gorgeous Places Just Outside Rome You Should See...
You shouldn't limit yourself to the regular tourist spots of Rome. Here are 8 destinations close to Rome you'll love to visit.
11 of the Most Affordable Beach Vacations Around the World
Looking for a budget vacation this summer? Try these affordable beach trips.
10 Beautiful Landscapes that Make Austria a Traveler's Gem
10 incredible photos that will make you want to book your next flight to Austria.
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
Tour 20 of the World's Finest Wine Regions Right Now
Where does the most delicious and refined wine in the world come from? From these 20 sensational wine regions all over the world. Take this fine wine tour.
These Step Pyramids are the Most Impressive in the World
Curiously, step pyramids were important to many ancient cultures that constructed them for a variety of reasons. Take a look at some of most impressive ones.
Every City in the World Needs These Futuristic Innovations
We just discovered these amazingly futuristic things from other countries and wanted to share them with you.