Vacationers immediately are introduced with more booking options than ever before. Online travel companies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, providing deals and comparisons throughout hundreds of properties. Nevertheless, a growing number of seasoned travelers are selecting to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can provide unique advantages that third-party platforms merely can’t match.
Higher Rates and Perks
One of many biggest misconceptions within the travel world is that OTAs always provide the bottom prices. While they typically advertise exclusive deals, many hotels guarantee the best rate on their own websites. Some even offer worth matching or discounts for guests who book directly.
Past value, booking directly usually comes with added perks. These might 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
Another key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels provide more generous cancellation and modification policies while you book through their site. With OTAs, changes may be more complicated 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. Need a crib within the room? Need a specific 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 Exclusive Provides
If you happen to’re a frequent traveler, becoming a member of a hotel’s loyalty program may be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings might be redeemed without spending a dime 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 greatest provides directly on their websites or by way of email to subscribers. These unique packages might include seasonal reductions, bonus nights, or dining credits that are not available through OTAs.
Higher Customer Service
When you book through a third-party site and something goes mistaken—resembling overbooking or a cancellation—it will be harder to resolve the difficulty quickly. Hotels typically have limited ability to make modifications or subject refunds for OTA bookings, which means you may 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 come up, 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 involves upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Would possibly Be Useful
That said, OTAs do provide benefits in particular situations. They’re wonderful tools for comparing costs, places, and amenities across multiple properties at once. Some additionally bundle deals with flights or automotive rentals for added savings. When you’re booking a trip on brief notice or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide helpful person critiques and scores that simplify the choice process.
In rare cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates during high-demand intervals or offer loyalty points through their own programs, akin to Expedia Rewards. Nevertheless, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a final decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels usually leads to raised service, added perks, and more versatile terms. While OTAs could be useful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers increasingly turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Earlier than locking in your next keep, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you could be shocked at what you find.
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