Tips & Advice
Do hotels allow pets in their rooms?
Some hotels allow pets in their rooms, but many do not. There are sites available that list pet-friendly hotels in various cities, and these can help you select a hotel that allows pets. Some of these hotels charge a non-refundable deposit for all pets, and there may be limitations on the number of pets you can host in your room, as well as what type of pet. Also, some pet-friendly hotels won't accept pets that weigh more than a certain amount.
Can guests prepay for a hotel room?
Guests can typically prepay for hotel rooms. You can do this whether reserving a room directly from a hotel or via an online booking site. Prepaying often brings notable cost savings. Many hotels offer discounts to guests who choose to prepay for their hotel rooms, and these discounts can slash your costs by as much as $50 per night.
Can a hotel manager or staff enter a guest's room without permission?
A hotel manager or staff has the right to enter a guest's room without permission. This is typically done to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. It's customary for a hotel's housekeeping staff to knock before entering a room, and they will leave and return later if a guest is currently in the room.
What is the best room in a hotel called?
The best room in a hotel is often called the presidential suite or royal suite if the hotel is a high-end establishment. At independent hotels, the best room is often called the honeymoon suite. Also, a suite will typically offer more space than a standard hotel room. Many suites offer dining, office and kitchen facilities.
Can a hotel room be booked for someone else?
A hotel room can be booked for someone else. This is often done in situations where the person staying in the hotel room will not be responsible for handling payment. In cases like this, it's important for the person handling the payment to let the hotel know the name of the room's occupant.
Do hotels accept debit cards?
Some hotels accept debit cards. In cases like this, they'll often withdraw a fully refundable amount each day from the card to pay for incidentals, such as food and drinks from the minibar. Others will accept cash, as long as you provide checking account information. However, there are many hotels that will only accept credit cards.
Do hotels charge per day or per night?
Hotels typically charge per night. This is because many people spend their daytime hours at a hotel away from the property, but they will typically return to the hotel at night for a place to sleep. Many hotels have a morning check-out, and if you miss the check-out, you could get charged for another night. Some hotels, typically near airports, offer “day rooms,” meaning you have the use of the room until the evening.
How can someone make a hotel reservation?
To make a hotel reservation, share your check-in and check-out dates with your online travel agent or hotel guest service representative. You'll need to confirm the number of guests in your party, and you'll also need select a room type. Room types are available to accommodate everyone from singles to families to honeymooners. Once you've confirmed that a room of your choice is available, you'll need to provide credit card information to complete the reservation.
How can someone cancel a hotel reservation?
To cancel a hotel reservation, let your online travel agent or hotel guest service representative know that your plans have changed. Keep in mind that many hotels charge a fee if a reservation is cancelled within a certain window. While some hotels charge a fee if a reservation is cancelled within 24 hours of the check-in date, others may require you to cancel up to seven days in advance to avoid cancellation fees.
Do hotels charge guests at the time of booking?
Yes and no. Many hotels place a hold on your credit card at the time of booking. While this isn't technically a charge, it will reduce the amount of available credit on your card. The amount placed on hold is often equal to the cost of a one-night stay at the hotel. The hold is released after you've checked out and paid, or if you cancel your reservation.
