Hotels Online
Hotels: Questions and Answers
Below is a list of frequently asked questions when searching for the perfect hotel room online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Hotel Rooms Online
What is the process for ordering hotel reservations online over the Internet?
Making hotel reservations has never been easier than it is today using online ordering systems. The systems will ask you a series of questions such as dates, locations, options, etc., and then show you available bookings. You may then select from the options and complete the ordering process.
How do I know that my reservations online went through?
Online ordering systems for hotel reservations will always display a receipt page that you may print at the end of the transaction. This gives you the pertinent phone numbers, dates, and locations as well as the amount paid. You will also be emailed a confirmation and receipt in most cases.
If I ordered online and received a receipt page and email confirmation, do I need to call the hotel to confirm my reservation?
Even if you just ordered your hotel reservations online, you can always call the hotels to confirm your reservations.
Should I confirm my reservations before I leave for the hotel?
It is always recommended that you call the hotel to confirm your reservations about 3 to 5 days prior to your arrival at the hotel.
What happens if the online hotel reservation system is not working and I need to make the reservations right away?
Most online hotel reservation websites will list a telephone number to serve their customers during periods of system-outage due to maintenance or upgrades of the web-based ordering system. This allows you to complete your reservation in a timely manner and gives you someone to call if you experience difficulty with the automated system.
Why can’t I get a reservation for a hotel for a Saturday night?
In high occupancy areas, many hotels will not accept reservations for Saturday nights made more than one or two days in advance, or not at all.
Consumer Safety and Information
Credit and Debit Card Blocking - www.ftc.gov
Blocking often occurs when you use a credit or debit card to check into a hotel or rent a car.
Hotel Room Tax - www.sbr.gov.bc.ca
Provides information about the 8% component of the Hotel Room Tax.
Lodging away from home - www.bls.gov
Price Change for Lodging away from home in the Consumer Price Index.
General Tips - www.consumeraction.gov
This link provides tips on how to get the best deal when planning travel, as well as safety precautions to consider.
DOT - airconsumer.dot.gov
Aviation Consumer Protection.
Recommended Hotel Websites
Hilton - offers lodging worldwide.
Marriott International- offers hotel directory and travel agent services. Includes information on gift certificates, senior living communities, and executive apartments.
Best Western International- worldwide chain with hotels throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Hotel Sites on the Internet
Doubletree Hotels - http://www.doubletree.com/ Upscale chain with locations throughout the US, and in Monterrey, Mexico and Lima, Peru. Accepts Hilton reward points.
Other Hotel Websites
Hotels Toll Free Numbers
Reviewed Luxury Hotel on the Internet
Visit our Shopping Guides and Credit Card Fraud sections for useful information.



