Doesn't Hurt To Ask!

[omegaet]

Even with all of the issues going on in the US, some of us still need to travel for business. One approach I have recently been taking, especially during the past two months or so, is to inquire about special rates and added perks for selecting a specific hotel.

I always book directly with the hotels..no using toll-free numbers or booking on-line. I have been asking to speak with the Front Desk Manager or Assistant Manager rather than dealing with booking clerks.

Frankly, I have been amazed at how easy it is to reach someone in management with the authority to make decisions.

Once I have the individual on the phone, I lay out the facts that I would prefer to stay at their hotel, but lower rates for similar or slight higher grade accommodations seem to be available at one of their competitors.

I ask them if they have the latitude to make a rate adjustment and to include additional inducements for me to stay with them. Some stutter and stammer a bit but most come around very quickly and ask if I can hold on while they do some checking. If they refuse to show some flexibility, I thank them and move on to another selection.

Recently, this approach has rewarded me with upgrades to suites (at their special convention rate), entrance into Concierge Lounges (often free Happy Hour cocktails and snack and a morning breakfast). I even snagged a certificate for a free massage (apparently included in one of their special weekend packages).

This is not the time to be timid or reluctant in politely encouraging a little something extra from hotels (occupancy is obviously lagging in many of the nicer establishments and an empty room does nothing for their bottom lines).

Just a suggestion.this may not be comfortable for everyone, but the approach has been rewarding for me.

Anyone else taking a similar approach or doing anything differently to save money or enhance their travel?

[CMDAVILACLI]

Hi Omegaet,

Your commentsare spot on! I, too, often call hotels directly to see what they can offer me rather than just accepting what is on the web or through a centralized system. It is amazing what a simple call can result in. Particularly now with less travelers on the road, hotels and resorts really do want to fill those vacant rooms. I am currently looking at a weekend trip, next weekend, for my brother, husband and son (a fishing trip in the San Juan Islands - I love the islands... but not the least bit interested in fishing in the cold, wet weather, so I'm staying home!). I've been calling around to some of the hotels/B&B's anddue to the season,plus the lack of customers, some of the rates are up to 50% off what is showing on the web and definitely lots of enticements thrown in (food vouchers, spa treatments etc).

So as Omeagaet says, make those direct phone calls... all "they" can say is NO.

cmdavilacli

[bonniejoy03]

Great suggestion and one that I haven 't used but will start. Years ago, it was so expensive to call but now with cell phones and didn't plans, it typically is a free call. I will try this in the future with my travels. Thanks for the tip.

[travel2fun]

CMDAVILACLI and omegaet, I guess I haven't been doing this enough. I keep falling into the Internet trap when making hotel reservations. Now I think I will take a page out of your play book and make a few direct phone calls. Might as well push a little harder and see if I can pry out some goodies.

[omegaet]

Just to follow up to my original post and to amplify on the information in the New York Times article mentioned in michaels thread

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/28/business/worldbusiness/28luxury.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

After returning from the stay at the hotel, where I received the generous upgrade, spa services and deeply discounted rate, I dropped the Managing Director an email (nice title.not just a General Manager) and expressed my appreciation for the Suite, entrance to the Concierge Lounge, the Spa Service and the Convention Room Rate.

I also acknowledged several members of the staff, by name, who exhibited excellent service during my stay.

To my surprise, within a day or two, the Managing Director sent me an email and encouraged me to visit them again, whenever I plan to be in the same city. He suggested that I notify him personally and he would take every step possible to ensure I received equivalent accommodations, available premium services and the same preferential rates. The unusual aspects of this communication, is that I have no prior experience staying at the property and no elite status in their loyalty program.

This is unusual, at least in my recent experiences. I assume it is a sign of the times in the upscale hotel business and I, for one, intend to explore and exploit every opportunity available to enhance my stays with more perks at the lowest possible rates. Nothing lasts forever.were in an unusual economic cycle which is hitting the upscale propertiesand all of us might as well benefitwhenever we can. They may not want to advertise or even initially admit there are deals to be had....but if we are bold enough to speak directly with them and push a little harder, we can enjoy an upgraded experience....and probably for a lot less money!

Good luck and good hunting!

[bonniejoy03]

WOW...I am totally impressed. Great suggestion. We had done this to a smaller extent. The concierge at the Fairmont Washington DC was wonderful (the one I corresponded with and the one directly in the lobby.) When Fairmont sent a survey as to our experience, we thanked them by name. I believe the concierge was very thankful and helped us again on our 2nd stay. We are planning to go back in December so will see if we are "still remembered!"

[jsattapr2]

bonniejoy03, the real question for you is do you plan to call the Fairmont and negotiate for a better rate or an upgraded suite for your December visit?

[bonniejoy03]

I guess it will not hurt! Would you call the concierge to help or directly to the hotel's reservation/front desk?

[travel2fun]

bonniejoy03, The Fairmont in Washington has over 400 rooms. Depending on you intended days of arrival and departure, they must have some upgraded rooms that will go unused. I would call the hotel and ask for the Front Desk Manager and simply ask if it would be possible to provide you with an upgraded room or suite for the same rate you have been quoted, since you are a return guest.



Why not be a little forward?

[bonniejoy03]

OK...now the question of the day.....If you won an auction at a really great price, would you still request an upgrade? We are heading out soon with an LL package and I felt a little "shy" to ask. And if you DID ask, would you ask before you left or upon check in? Thanks for any input......