Travelers at this time are introduced with more booking options than ever before. Online travel businesses (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, providing offers and comparisons across hundreds of properties. Nonetheless, a rising number of seasoned vacationers are choosing to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can supply distinctive advantages that third-party platforms merely can’t match.
Better Rates and Perks
One of the biggest misconceptions in the travel world is that OTAs always provide the bottom prices. While they usually advertise exclusive offers, many hotels assure one of the best rate on their own websites. Some even supply value matching or reductions for guests who book directly.
Beyond value, booking directly often comes with added perks. These may embody 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 offer more generous cancellation and modification policies whenever you book through their site. With OTAs, changes may be more complicated and generally incur higher fees, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel also 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 Affords
If you’re a frequent traveler, becoming a member of a hotel’s loyalty program will be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings might be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, or other benefits. Most chains—resembling Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.
Hotels additionally tend to promote their greatest offers directly on their websites or through email to subscribers. These exclusive packages could embody seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that aren’t available through OTAs.
Higher Buyer Service
While you book through a third-party site and something goes improper—comparable to overbooking or a cancellation—it will be harder to resolve the issue quickly. Hotels usually have limited ability to make adjustments or challenge refunds for OTA bookings, meaning you might have to go through the third party’s customer support, 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 involves upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Would possibly Be Useful
That said, OTAs do offer benefits in particular situations. They’re wonderful tools for comparing costs, places, and amenities across a number of properties at once. Some additionally bundle offers with flights or automotive rentals for added savings. For those who’re booking a trip on short discover or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful person evaluations and scores that simplify the decision process.
In rare cases, third-party platforms might have access to particular rates throughout high-demand intervals or supply loyalty points through their own programs, resembling Expedia Rewards. Nonetheless, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a ultimate decision.
The Bottom Line
Booking directly with hotels typically leads to better service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs can be useful for comparison and planning, savvy vacationers more and more turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Before locking in your subsequent stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you might be stunned at what you find.
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