Travelers at present are offered with more booking options than ever before. On-line journey businesses (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, offering deals and comparisons throughout hundreds of properties. Nonetheless, a growing number of seasoned vacationers are choosing to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can provide unique advantages that third-party platforms simply can’t match.
Higher Rates and Perks
One of many biggest misconceptions in the travel world is that OTAs always provide the bottom prices. While they usually advertise exclusive deals, many hotels assure the most effective rate on their own websites. Some even provide value matching or discounts for guests who book directly.
Past value, booking directly usually comes with added perks. These might embody free breakfast, room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, or complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. These extras can significantly enhance your stay and are usually reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.
Greater Flexibility
One other key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels provide more generous cancellation and modification policies when you book through their site. With OTAs, changes can be more complicated and typically incur higher charges, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel also makes it simpler to customize your stay. Want a crib in the room? Desire a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly fairly than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Unique Affords
For those who’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program can be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings will be redeemed free of charge nights, upgrades, or different benefits. Most chains—resembling Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.
Hotels also tend to promote their greatest presents directly on their websites or through e mail to subscribers. These unique packages might embrace seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that aren’t available through OTAs.
Better Buyer Service
When you book through a third-party site and something goes wrong—akin to overbooking or a cancellation—it could be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels often have limited ability to make adjustments or difficulty refunds for OTA bookings, meaning you’ll have to go through the third party’s customer service, which can delay solutions.
Booking directly gives you a direct line of communication with the hotel staff. If any problems arise, it’s simpler and faster to discover a resolution. Hotels typically prioritize guests who book with them over those who come through OTAs when it comes to upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Might Be Helpful
That said, OTAs do offer benefits in particular situations. They’re excellent tools for evaluating prices, areas, and amenities throughout a number of properties at once. Some also bundle deals with flights or automobile leases for added savings. For those who’re booking a trip on short discover or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful person reviews and rankings that simplify the choice process.
In uncommon cases, third-party platforms might need access to special rates throughout high-demand periods or offer loyalty points through their own programs, resembling Expedia Rewards. However, it’s always price checking the hotel’s direct website before making a remaining decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels often leads to higher service, added perks, and more versatile terms. While OTAs might be useful for comparability and planning, savvy vacationers more and more turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Before locking in your subsequent stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you might be shocked at what you find.
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