Traveling and Hotels
Traveling and hotels are a big part of the travel experience. While there is much to love about hotels, they’re not without their drawbacks. For one thing, hotel amenities often come with a price tag. Guests may be surprised to learn that things like parking, WiFi, and breakfast are not always free at hotels. It’s important to know what to expect before you book a room at a hotel so you’re not shocked when you see the final bill.
Another way to save money on a hotel is by traveling during the off season. Many hotels raise their rates during the high season. If you can be flexible with your dates, it’s possible to find discounts for lodging and other travel-related expenses like flights and day tours.
Airbnb is another option for travelers looking to save money on lodging while still enjoying the perks of a hotel stay. While it’s not as regulated as a hotel, Airbnb hosts must meet minimum requirements including providing basic cleaning services and ensuring that their rental is safe for guests. Additionally, some hosts offer additional amenities such as kitchens, laundry machines, and outdoor seating. If you’re considering Airbnb for your next trip, be sure to research the options in your destination before booking a room.
When it comes to choosing a hotel, repeat travelers can usually anticipate fairly consistent quality from brand to brand. But novice travelers may have more trouble, especially with the recent spike in hotel rates. That’s because hotel prices have been rising faster than inflation overall, according to NerdWallet data. Inflation in other consumer goods such as pretzels on airplanes and small shampoo bottles at hotels are being passed along to travelers, along with higher worker wages and real estate costs for hotel owners.
It’s also helpful to read reviews of a hotel before booking. Some travel-booking websites offer sorting filters for price, rating (quality), and other criteria such as distance from the beach or airport. You can even use the map view to move around on a map and only open up hotels in that area that match your criteria.
Lastly, some hotels have “package” deals that include accommodations and other travel-related expenses such as meals and entertainment. While these deals may be a bit more expensive than individual hotel rooms, they may make the entire trip cheaper. Ultimately, it’s up to the traveler to decide whether or not these packages are worth the extra expense.
If you’re unsure of what type of accommodations to choose for your next trip, consider talking with a travel specialist. There are plenty of travel agencies and online booking websites that specialize in finding great deals for travelers. And if you’re interested in a career in travel, UNOH offers an associate degree in Travel & Hospitality Management. The program includes courses in hospitality, tourism, leisure management, and business. It’s a perfect degree for anyone who loves to plan events and help people have a positive travel experience.