Travelers as we speak are offered with more booking options than ever before. Online travel 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 provide distinctive advantages that third-party platforms merely can’t match.
Better Rates and Perks
One of the biggest misconceptions within the journey world is that OTAs always supply the lowest prices. While they usually advertise unique offers, many hotels assure the perfect rate on their own websites. Some even offer worth matching or discounts for guests who book directly.
Beyond price, booking directly typically 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 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 if you book through their site. With OTAs, changes could be more sophisticated and typically incur higher fees, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel additionally makes it simpler to customize your stay. Want a crib in the room? Want a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly quite than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Unique Offers
If you’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program might be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings can be redeemed totally free nights, upgrades, or different benefits. Most chains—similar to 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 via e-mail to subscribers. These exclusive packages might embody seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that aren’t available through OTAs.
Higher Customer Service
Once you book through a third-party site and something goes incorrect—akin to overbooking or a cancellation—it can be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels often have limited ability to make changes or challenge refunds for OTA bookings, that means you could have to go through the third party’s customer support, which can delay solutions.
Booking directly gives 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 involves upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Would possibly Be Helpful
That said, OTAs do provide benefits in specific situations. They’re glorious tools for comparing prices, locations, and amenities across multiple properties at once. Some additionally bundle deals with flights or automobile leases for added savings. When you’re booking a trip on quick notice or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide helpful consumer evaluations and scores that simplify the choice process.
In rare cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates throughout high-demand periods or offer loyalty points through their own programs, resembling Expedia Rewards. Nevertheless, it’s always worth checking the hotel’s direct website before making a last decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels usually leads to raised service, added perks, and more versatile terms. While OTAs might be helpful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers increasingly turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Earlier than locking in your subsequent keep, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you is perhaps surprised at what you find.
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