Traveling and hotels can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be quite the hassle. From choosing the right location to finding the best deals, there are plenty of things that need to be considered when booking a hotel.
Luckily, many of these issues can be resolved with some careful planning. Seasoned travelers generally agree on a few unwritten rules when it comes to accommodation, and knowing these can make all the difference in a trip that is both comfortable and enjoyable.
1. Read Reviews But Don’t Overrely On Them
While reading hotel reviews is a great way to get an idea of what to expect from a property, you should never rely on them to make your decision. While some of the information you’ll find in these reviews is valid (such as a hotel that doesn’t offer free WiFi or parking), many of them are completely false. And some of them are simply written by people who have very different expectations than you do. Instead of reading reviews, visit the hotel’s website and check out their amenities. It’s a lot easier to spot any red flags that might be there than it is to sift through the many positive comments.
2. Think About How Much Time You’ll Spend At Your Hotel
While staying in a cheap hotel might sound like the best idea at the time, it might not be worth it in the long run. If you have to spend hours commuting to the main sights or the airport, that’s going to cut into the rest of your vacation. And if you’re on a tight schedule, spending too much time in transit will make it even harder to enjoy the experience. Instead, try to book a hotel that’s located near the places you want to see and spend most of your time at.
3. Think About How Much You’re Willing To Splurge On Your Hotel
The cost of hotels varies greatly. They can range from small “mom-and-pop” joints with a few rooms all the way up to big resorts with hundreds of rooms. And they can also differ in quality. While repeat travelers can often rely on consistency when it comes to the brand they choose, first-timers can use filtering options on booking websites to only view properties that meet certain price or quality thresholds.
4. Look For A Hotel That’s Loyalty-Based
Many hotels now have loyalty programs that give guests points for every stay, which can then be redeemed for future stays or free rooms. If you’re a frequent traveler, this can be one of the best ways to save money on your accommodations. Just make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully to understand exactly how these programs work.
When it comes to travel, there are so many unforgettable memories that you can create. Whether it’s taking photos or buying souvenirs, these are the moments that will stay with you forever and make your trip truly memorable.