Travelers as we speak are presented with more booking options than ever before. Online travel companies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search outcomes, offering deals and comparisons throughout hundreds of properties. Nonetheless, a growing number of seasoned travelers are choosing to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can offer distinctive advantages that third-party platforms simply can’t match.
Higher Rates and Perks
One of the biggest misconceptions within the journey world is that OTAs always supply the lowest prices. While they often advertise exclusive deals, many hotels assure the very best rate on their own websites. Some even offer value matching or discounts for guests who book directly.
Past price, booking directly typically 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 normally reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.
Greater Flexibility
Another key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels supply more generous cancellation and modification policies when you book through their site. With OTAs, changes can be more sophisticated and typically incur higher fees, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel also makes it simpler to customise your stay. Need a crib in the room? Need a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly fairly than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Exclusive Gives
If you’re a frequent traveler, joining a hotel’s loyalty program may be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings might be redeemed totally free 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 best offers directly on their websites or via email to subscribers. These unique packages could embrace seasonal discounts, 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 wrong—equivalent to overbooking or a cancellation—it might be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels usually have limited ability to make modifications or concern 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 arise, it’s easier 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 May Be Helpful
That said, OTAs do supply benefits in particular situations. They’re wonderful tools for evaluating prices, areas, and amenities throughout multiple properties at once. Some additionally bundle offers with flights or automotive leases for added savings. If you happen to’re booking a trip on short discover or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful person reviews and scores that simplify the choice process.
In rare cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates throughout high-demand periods or provide loyalty points through their own programs, comparable to Expedia Rewards. However, it’s always worth checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a ultimate decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels usually leads to higher service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs will be helpful for comparability and planning, savvy travelers more and more 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 stunned at what you find.
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