Travelers today are presented with more booking options than ever before. Online journey agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, offering offers and comparisons throughout hundreds of properties. Nonetheless, a rising number of seasoned vacationers are selecting to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can offer unique advantages that third-party platforms merely can’t match.
Better Rates and Perks
One of many biggest misconceptions within the journey world is that OTAs always supply the lowest prices. While they often advertise unique offers, many hotels guarantee the very best rate on their own websites. Some even provide price matching or reductions for guests who book directly.
Beyond price, booking directly usually comes with added perks. These may include 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 normally reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.
Greater Flexibility
One other key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels supply more generous cancellation and modification policies once you book through their site. With OTAs, changes could be more complicated and generally incur higher charges, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel additionally makes it simpler to customize your stay. Need a crib in the room? Need a specific floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly slightly than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Unique Offers
In the event you’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program can be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings will be redeemed at no cost nights, upgrades, or other benefits. Most chains—corresponding to Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.
Hotels additionally tend to promote their finest affords directly on their websites or via email to subscribers. These exclusive packages could include seasonal reductions, bonus nights, or dining credits that aren’t available through OTAs.
Higher Customer Service
Whenever you book through a third-party site and something goes improper—such as overbooking or a cancellation—it might be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels usually have limited ability to make adjustments or difficulty refunds for OTA bookings, meaning you will have to go through the third party’s customer service, which can delay solutions.
Booking directly offers you a direct line of communication with the hotel staff. If any problems come up, it’s easier and faster to find a resolution. Hotels typically prioritize guests who book with them over those that come through OTAs when it comes to upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Would possibly Be Useful
That said, OTAs do supply benefits in specific situations. They’re wonderful tools for evaluating costs, places, and amenities throughout a number of properties at once. Some additionally bundle offers with flights or automobile rentals for added savings. In case you’re booking a visit on brief notice or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful person opinions and ratings that simplify the decision process.
In uncommon cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates during high-demand periods or supply loyalty points through their own programs, such as Expedia Rewards. Nonetheless, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a closing decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels usually leads to higher service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs can be useful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers increasingly turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Before locking in your next stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you may be surprised at what you find.
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