Travelers as we speak are introduced with more booking options than ever before. On-line travel businesses (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, providing offers and comparisons across hundreds of properties. However, a growing number of seasoned vacationers are selecting to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can offer distinctive advantages that third-party platforms simply can’t match.
Better Rates and Perks
One of many biggest misconceptions in the travel world is that OTAs always offer the lowest prices. While they typically advertise unique deals, many hotels guarantee the best rate on their own websites. Some even supply worth matching or reductions for guests who book directly.
Beyond worth, booking directly typically comes with added perks. These would possibly embrace 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 beneficiant cancellation and modification policies while you book through their site. With OTAs, changes can be more complicated and generally incur higher charges, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel also makes it easier to customize your stay. Need a crib within the room? Desire a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly somewhat than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Unique Affords
In the event you’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program might be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings can be redeemed without spending a dime nights, upgrades, or other benefits. Most chains—such as Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.
Hotels additionally tend to promote their finest gives directly on their websites or through electronic mail to subscribers. These exclusive packages could embody seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that are not available through OTAs.
Better Buyer Service
Once you book through a third-party site and something goes improper—corresponding to overbooking or a cancellation—it can be harder to resolve the problem quickly. Hotels usually have limited ability to make modifications or situation refunds for OTA bookings, meaning you may have to go through the third party’s customer service, which can delay solutions.
Booking directly provides 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 that come through OTAs when it involves upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs May Be Helpful
That said, OTAs do offer benefits in particular situations. They’re glorious tools for comparing costs, places, and amenities across a number of properties at once. Some also bundle deals with flights or automotive rentals for added savings. In the event you’re booking a visit on brief notice or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide helpful consumer reviews and scores that simplify the decision process.
In uncommon cases, third-party platforms might have access to special rates during high-demand intervals or provide loyalty points through their own programs, resembling Expedia Rewards. However, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a ultimate decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels typically leads to higher service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs can be useful for comparability and planning, savvy vacationers increasingly turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Earlier than locking in your next stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you is likely to be shocked at what you find.
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