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TRAVEL: EASY WAY TO TRAVEL WITH LESS CONVENIENCE AT A LOWER PRICE. SHOP FOR CRUISES, AIRLINES TICKET, HOTEL RESERVATION, DISCOUNT RENT-A-CAR. GET IT ALL
RIGHT HERE.... ---- FORTUNE: National Association Of Securities Dealers - NASD / FINRA. LEARN MORE... BEFORE YOU START INVESTING ANY MONEY: LEARN THIS FIRST!
RIGHT HERE.... ---- FORTUNE: National Association Of Securities Dealers - NASD / FINRA. LEARN MORE... BEFORE YOU START INVESTING ANY MONEY: LEARN THIS FIRST!
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KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.COM
Expert Advice
To determine which car-sales tactics can be the most
harmful, we culled advice from the experts at Better
Business Bureau, J.D. Power and Associates, and AAA to
come up with the best strategy to avoid getting ripped off.
One important note: These scams aren't huge conspiracies
that trick prospective drivers out of thousands of dollars.
Instead, they're small corners cut, intimidation applied or
minor untruths told that add up to one toxic car-buying
experience.
Hidden fees, for instance, could mean a
difference of a couple hundred bucks, at most.
But a couple hundred dollars is a lot for many consumers.
The scam is easy to avoid: Just read carefully over any
invoice or contract before you sign it (alarms, extra
cleaning, "prepping," rust-proofing, fabric protection and
paint sealant are all common but unnecessary add-ons that
sometimes appear on the invoice unknown to the buyer).
And consider doing the VIN (Vehicle Information Number)
etching yourself. Dealers charge hundreds of dollars to do
it, but a home-etching kit costs as little as $20.
The same attention to detail goes for
less-than-honest negotiation tactics. "Finance managers"
will often start the process by talking about monthly
payments rather than the total cost of a vehicle. But by
stretching the payments over a long period of time,
long-term loans coax people into buying cars they can't
afford--and the car will have almost fully depreciated by the
time it's paid for. Instead, choose the shortest-term car
loan available.
"Consumers should do some research on
the vehicle or vehicles they are interested in purchasing or
leasing," J.D. Power's Tews says. "They should talk to the
loan officer at their bank or credit union before going to the
dealership so they know how much they can spend and
understand their financing options and can compare them
to the options provided by the captive provider."
A general rule of thumb is that a car
payment should cost no more than 12% to 15% of your
after-tax monthly income. Don't mention any price at all
until you've selected a vehicle to buy, and then ask the
salesperson for his or her very best offer. Don't discuss
add-ons like warranties or trade-in prices until you've
agreed on the price for the car itself--that will only muddle
how much you're actually paying for it.
The good news is that these days, buyers
have substantial negotiation power at their
fingertips--which will help with fending off a bait-and-switch
or a lemon sale. Online sources like Autotrader.com, Kelley
Blue Book and the National Automobile Dealers Association
can significantly narrow down the list of what type of car
might work best and provide a reasonable price range. And
the Better Business Bureau Web site lists accredited car
dealers by region as well.
If all else fails, use common sense, Gerhard says. If
something seems amiss, walk away. There will always be
another car, another day.
To determine which car-sales tactics can be the most
harmful, we culled advice from the experts at Better
Business Bureau, J.D. Power and Associates, and AAA to
come up with the best strategy to avoid getting ripped off.
One important note: These scams aren't huge conspiracies
that trick prospective drivers out of thousands of dollars.
Instead, they're small corners cut, intimidation applied or
minor untruths told that add up to one toxic car-buying
experience.
Hidden fees, for instance, could mean a
difference of a couple hundred bucks, at most.
But a couple hundred dollars is a lot for many consumers.
The scam is easy to avoid: Just read carefully over any
invoice or contract before you sign it (alarms, extra
cleaning, "prepping," rust-proofing, fabric protection and
paint sealant are all common but unnecessary add-ons that
sometimes appear on the invoice unknown to the buyer).
And consider doing the VIN (Vehicle Information Number)
etching yourself. Dealers charge hundreds of dollars to do
it, but a home-etching kit costs as little as $20.
The same attention to detail goes for
less-than-honest negotiation tactics. "Finance managers"
will often start the process by talking about monthly
payments rather than the total cost of a vehicle. But by
stretching the payments over a long period of time,
long-term loans coax people into buying cars they can't
afford--and the car will have almost fully depreciated by the
time it's paid for. Instead, choose the shortest-term car
loan available.
"Consumers should do some research on
the vehicle or vehicles they are interested in purchasing or
leasing," J.D. Power's Tews says. "They should talk to the
loan officer at their bank or credit union before going to the
dealership so they know how much they can spend and
understand their financing options and can compare them
to the options provided by the captive provider."
A general rule of thumb is that a car
payment should cost no more than 12% to 15% of your
after-tax monthly income. Don't mention any price at all
until you've selected a vehicle to buy, and then ask the
salesperson for his or her very best offer. Don't discuss
add-ons like warranties or trade-in prices until you've
agreed on the price for the car itself--that will only muddle
how much you're actually paying for it.
The good news is that these days, buyers
have substantial negotiation power at their
fingertips--which will help with fending off a bait-and-switch
or a lemon sale. Online sources like Autotrader.com, Kelley
Blue Book and the National Automobile Dealers Association
can significantly narrow down the list of what type of car
might work best and provide a reasonable price range. And
the Better Business Bureau Web site lists accredited car
dealers by region as well.
If all else fails, use common sense, Gerhard says. If
something seems amiss, walk away. There will always be
another car, another day.
Car Dealer Scams To Avoid
It helps to know what you may face before hitting the
showroom. That way, you'll be prepared to avoid the
stress of being ambushed by a team of salesmen or
accosted by a loan shark. And you'll have more
confidence in the face of undue pressure to seal the deal.
Top Car Dealer Scams To Avoid
1. The Ambush
Beware of being shuffled among a never-ending team of
auto pros--you shouldn't have to talk to the sales guy out
on the lot, the sales manager, the finance manager, the
floor manager and the used-car manager just to buy a
car. Pick one to deal with and stick with him.
2. The Confiscation
Whatever you do, don't give up the keys to your current
vehicle--even if the "used-car manager" asks for them
to asses the car for its trade-in value, even if the "sales
manager" asks for them as collateral while you take a
test drive. If negotiations should go amiss, it's
impossible to walk out on the deal if you have no way to
start your car.
3. The Bum Rush
Salesmen love to hurry you into a deal today. They'll try
all kinds of things: On-the-spot delivery, haggling over
details, one-time offers. Don't let them pressure and
bully you into an impulse buy. Show up knowing what
kind of car you need and what you can afford to pay--and
if they can't provide that, leave.
4. The Buried Bill
Read over final invoices carefully before signing
anything, in order to make sure you're not charged for
something you didn't request. Alarms, extra cleaning,
"prepping," rust-proofing, fabric protection and paint
sealant are all common add-ons that sometimes appear
on the invoice unknown to the buyer. Hint: Consider
doing the VIN (Vehicle Information Number) etching
yourself. Dealers charge hundreds of dollars to do it, but
a home-etching kit costs as little as $20.
5. The Bait and Switch
Dealers may advertise one model in the paper, loaded
with extras for a reasonable price, but then have only a
lesser model (with less overall value) on the lot when
interested parties show up to buy the one they saw in
the paper. Best way to avoid this trap: The minute you
realize the con, walk away.
''Auto Finance Tips: Learn more about
financing a vehicle, Money Saving Tips''--
It helps to know what you may face before hitting the
showroom. That way, you'll be prepared to avoid the
stress of being ambushed by a team of salesmen or
accosted by a loan shark. And you'll have more
confidence in the face of undue pressure to seal the deal.
Top Car Dealer Scams To Avoid
1. The Ambush
Beware of being shuffled among a never-ending team of
auto pros--you shouldn't have to talk to the sales guy out
on the lot, the sales manager, the finance manager, the
floor manager and the used-car manager just to buy a
car. Pick one to deal with and stick with him.
2. The Confiscation
Whatever you do, don't give up the keys to your current
vehicle--even if the "used-car manager" asks for them
to asses the car for its trade-in value, even if the "sales
manager" asks for them as collateral while you take a
test drive. If negotiations should go amiss, it's
impossible to walk out on the deal if you have no way to
start your car.
3. The Bum Rush
Salesmen love to hurry you into a deal today. They'll try
all kinds of things: On-the-spot delivery, haggling over
details, one-time offers. Don't let them pressure and
bully you into an impulse buy. Show up knowing what
kind of car you need and what you can afford to pay--and
if they can't provide that, leave.
4. The Buried Bill
Read over final invoices carefully before signing
anything, in order to make sure you're not charged for
something you didn't request. Alarms, extra cleaning,
"prepping," rust-proofing, fabric protection and paint
sealant are all common add-ons that sometimes appear
on the invoice unknown to the buyer. Hint: Consider
doing the VIN (Vehicle Information Number) etching
yourself. Dealers charge hundreds of dollars to do it, but
a home-etching kit costs as little as $20.
5. The Bait and Switch
Dealers may advertise one model in the paper, loaded
with extras for a reasonable price, but then have only a
lesser model (with less overall value) on the lot when
interested parties show up to buy the one they saw in
the paper. Best way to avoid this trap: The minute you
realize the con, walk away.
''Auto Finance Tips: Learn more about
financing a vehicle, Money Saving Tips''--
Where Does the Car Dealer Make Money?
"Follow the money," is good advice for someone trying to
understand the hidden side of any business. Nowhere is this more
important than on a car lot. Rows of shiny new cars on a dealer's
lot make consumers believe that's where the big money is. But if
you follow the trail of dollars, it leads in a surprising direction. And
knowing where the profit is will make you a better shopper.
Invoice as Guidepost
The pricing of cars is a complicated process. To simplify things,
consumers have been told to look at the invoice price of a car and
assume that's what the dealer paid for the car. Offer a small
amount over the invoice and you have a great deal. While invoice
provides a valuable reference point, both holdback and dealer cash
increase the dealer's profit with financial sleight of hand.
Used Car Cash Cows
While most people ogle the new vehicles on a car lot, the used cars
are far more profitable for a dealer. One dealer reported, "In my
experience...$5,500 markup on a used car would be considered a
nice profit." While that seems high, the point is that used cars have
the potential to make the dealer far more profit than new cars,
Salesmen and Internet Managers
While the dealer tries to make as much profit as possible, the
salesman is trying to get his slice of the pie as a commission.
These two desires actually go hand in hand. The salesman's job is
to boost the dealer's profit by being a savvy negotiator so his
percentage of the commission will be greater.
In "Confessions of a Car Salesman" Chandler
Phillips wrote, "Commissions were based on the 'payable
gross' to the dealership and were applied in three tiers. If the
payable gross was from $0 to $749, our commission was 20
percent of the profit; from $750 to $1,249 the commission was 25
percent of the profit. Above $1,250 the commission was 30 percent
of the profit. In other words, the higher the profit for the dealership,
the higher the commission I would earn."
Phillips observed, "Naturally, the salespeople tried to hit that point
where the commission was bumped to the higher percentage. That
might mean moving you into a higher-level vehicle. It might mean
increasing the profit by financing sleight of hand. In both cases, this
smiling salesperson, with the personable air, didn't have your best
interests in mind."
The F&I Room
Once the price of the car has been established by negotiations with
a car salesperson, the buyer is routed into the F&I (finance and
insurance) office. This is the last place the dealer can make money
before the consumer leaves the car lot.
As described by Nick James in "Confessions of an Auto Finance
Manager," the F&I manager poses as a financial advisor who is on
your side while arranging a loan. However, they are really there to
make extra profit for the dealership by increasing interest rates,
selling extended warranties and add-ons such as fabric protection
and paint sealant.
How much does the F&I room contribute? In a typical
deal, an average of $947 is generated in the finance and insurance
office, according to F&I Magazine. The National Automobile Dealers
Association (NADA) estimated that 28.5 percent of the profit from
selling a new or used vehicle came from F&I.
The Service Bay
If an aggressive car buyer is able to get a rock-bottom price, the
dealer knows there is still profit to be made when the car is
serviced. It's so profitable that, in economic hard times, the service
bay has kept many dealerships afloat.
Here, too, commissions play a big part in getting the service staff to
boost sales. The service advisor, who positions him or herself as a
trusted advisor" is actually receiving a commission on all the parts
and services you agree to.
"Follow the money," is good advice for someone trying to
understand the hidden side of any business. Nowhere is this more
important than on a car lot. Rows of shiny new cars on a dealer's
lot make consumers believe that's where the big money is. But if
you follow the trail of dollars, it leads in a surprising direction. And
knowing where the profit is will make you a better shopper.
Invoice as Guidepost
The pricing of cars is a complicated process. To simplify things,
consumers have been told to look at the invoice price of a car and
assume that's what the dealer paid for the car. Offer a small
amount over the invoice and you have a great deal. While invoice
provides a valuable reference point, both holdback and dealer cash
increase the dealer's profit with financial sleight of hand.
Used Car Cash Cows
While most people ogle the new vehicles on a car lot, the used cars
are far more profitable for a dealer. One dealer reported, "In my
experience...$5,500 markup on a used car would be considered a
nice profit." While that seems high, the point is that used cars have
the potential to make the dealer far more profit than new cars,
Salesmen and Internet Managers
While the dealer tries to make as much profit as possible, the
salesman is trying to get his slice of the pie as a commission.
These two desires actually go hand in hand. The salesman's job is
to boost the dealer's profit by being a savvy negotiator so his
percentage of the commission will be greater.
In "Confessions of a Car Salesman" Chandler
Phillips wrote, "Commissions were based on the 'payable
gross' to the dealership and were applied in three tiers. If the
payable gross was from $0 to $749, our commission was 20
percent of the profit; from $750 to $1,249 the commission was 25
percent of the profit. Above $1,250 the commission was 30 percent
of the profit. In other words, the higher the profit for the dealership,
the higher the commission I would earn."
Phillips observed, "Naturally, the salespeople tried to hit that point
where the commission was bumped to the higher percentage. That
might mean moving you into a higher-level vehicle. It might mean
increasing the profit by financing sleight of hand. In both cases, this
smiling salesperson, with the personable air, didn't have your best
interests in mind."
The F&I Room
Once the price of the car has been established by negotiations with
a car salesperson, the buyer is routed into the F&I (finance and
insurance) office. This is the last place the dealer can make money
before the consumer leaves the car lot.
As described by Nick James in "Confessions of an Auto Finance
Manager," the F&I manager poses as a financial advisor who is on
your side while arranging a loan. However, they are really there to
make extra profit for the dealership by increasing interest rates,
selling extended warranties and add-ons such as fabric protection
and paint sealant.
How much does the F&I room contribute? In a typical
deal, an average of $947 is generated in the finance and insurance
office, according to F&I Magazine. The National Automobile Dealers
Association (NADA) estimated that 28.5 percent of the profit from
selling a new or used vehicle came from F&I.
The Service Bay
If an aggressive car buyer is able to get a rock-bottom price, the
dealer knows there is still profit to be made when the car is
serviced. It's so profitable that, in economic hard times, the service
bay has kept many dealerships afloat.
Here, too, commissions play a big part in getting the service staff to
boost sales. The service advisor, who positions him or herself as a
trusted advisor" is actually receiving a commission on all the parts
and services you agree to.
..TERM INSURANCE ADVANTAGES, TERM
INSURANCE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE. Buy the
term, and invest the difference.
.. INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: Investing & Money
Management Basics. FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS,
TOOLS & RESOURCES. LEARN MORE...
INSURANCE PRODUCTS: How to make profits with
the insurance companies?
..RICH GUIDE, WHY AREN'T RICH?
BUILDING FINANCIAL WEALTH, OBTAIN FINANCIAL
FREEDOM, BECOME A RICH PERSON; YES YOU
CAN...
..RULE OF 72: The compound interest and
financial success. Rule Of 72 is the most
important and simple rule of financial success.
..MILLIONAIRE: How To Make Your First $1
Million? The Millionaire's Mindset
..FORTUNE: BEFORE INVESTING IN THE STOCK
MARKET LEARN THIS FIRST!...
..GOVERNMENT: Government's general
information; Local, State, and Federal.
Housing Finance Authority of Miami dade,
Monroe, Broward, and Palm Beach County
..EMPIRE: THE ABC's OF INVESTMENTS, Ways to
Save. THE TRIANGLE OF SUCCESS...
..INVESTORS: CREATIVE FINANCING:
TOP 10 CREATIVE FINANCING TECHNIQUES AND
STRATEGIES TO FIND MONEY TO INVEST!
The Five C’s of Credit: LEARN MORE..
CREATIVE FINANCE CAN AND WILL MAKE ALL THE
DIFFERENCE WHEN AN INVESTOR DECIDES TO
INVEST IN REAL ESTATE...
..HOME INSPECTION: HOW TO GET THE BEST OUT
OF IT..
Top 10 home-buying mistakes to avoid!
HOW TO USE HOME INSPECTION REPORTS TO
NEGOTIATE SALE PRICE?...
...ACCOUNTING: The Basics of Accounting...
...TAXES: THE FUNDAMENTAL OF TAXES. THE
MORE YOU KNOW, THE LESS YOU PAY...
...ANALYTICS: Top 9 Real Estate Financial
Calculator Problems every investors should
know about...--
-- BUILDING WEALTH
RICH GUIDE: WHY AREN'T YOU RICH? BUILDING
FINANCIAL WEALTH, OBTAIN FINANCIAL
FREEDOM, BECOME A RICH PERSON; YES YOU
CAN... Learn More!
Financial Education - Financial Knowledge
Everything You Need To Know About Finance.
Dubai- The World Largest, Biggest, Tallest,
Greatest of Almost Everything. Learn more about
this magnificent place and as well as other
countries.
COPYRIGHT-- What is Copyright? The Basics
About Copyright Registration. The procedure for
copyright registration.
Do I need copyright protection? How do I
register? Learn More!
..Dealership secrets revealed. Before you buy a
car; read this first... CAR BUYER'S WINNING PLAN!
..AUTO LOANS: Read this first before taking a car
loan. What to avoid when financing a car..
INSURANCE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE. Buy the
term, and invest the difference.
.. INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: Investing & Money
Management Basics. FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS,
TOOLS & RESOURCES. LEARN MORE...
INSURANCE PRODUCTS: How to make profits with
the insurance companies?
..RICH GUIDE, WHY AREN'T RICH?
BUILDING FINANCIAL WEALTH, OBTAIN FINANCIAL
FREEDOM, BECOME A RICH PERSON; YES YOU
CAN...
..RULE OF 72: The compound interest and
financial success. Rule Of 72 is the most
important and simple rule of financial success.
..MILLIONAIRE: How To Make Your First $1
Million? The Millionaire's Mindset
..FORTUNE: BEFORE INVESTING IN THE STOCK
MARKET LEARN THIS FIRST!...
..GOVERNMENT: Government's general
information; Local, State, and Federal.
Housing Finance Authority of Miami dade,
Monroe, Broward, and Palm Beach County
..EMPIRE: THE ABC's OF INVESTMENTS, Ways to
Save. THE TRIANGLE OF SUCCESS...
..INVESTORS: CREATIVE FINANCING:
TOP 10 CREATIVE FINANCING TECHNIQUES AND
STRATEGIES TO FIND MONEY TO INVEST!
The Five C’s of Credit: LEARN MORE..
CREATIVE FINANCE CAN AND WILL MAKE ALL THE
DIFFERENCE WHEN AN INVESTOR DECIDES TO
INVEST IN REAL ESTATE...
..HOME INSPECTION: HOW TO GET THE BEST OUT
OF IT..
Top 10 home-buying mistakes to avoid!
HOW TO USE HOME INSPECTION REPORTS TO
NEGOTIATE SALE PRICE?...
...ACCOUNTING: The Basics of Accounting...
...TAXES: THE FUNDAMENTAL OF TAXES. THE
MORE YOU KNOW, THE LESS YOU PAY...
...ANALYTICS: Top 9 Real Estate Financial
Calculator Problems every investors should
know about...--
-- BUILDING WEALTH
RICH GUIDE: WHY AREN'T YOU RICH? BUILDING
FINANCIAL WEALTH, OBTAIN FINANCIAL
FREEDOM, BECOME A RICH PERSON; YES YOU
CAN... Learn More!
Financial Education - Financial Knowledge
Everything You Need To Know About Finance.
Dubai- The World Largest, Biggest, Tallest,
Greatest of Almost Everything. Learn more about
this magnificent place and as well as other
countries.
COPYRIGHT-- What is Copyright? The Basics
About Copyright Registration. The procedure for
copyright registration.
Do I need copyright protection? How do I
register? Learn More!
..Dealership secrets revealed. Before you buy a
car; read this first... CAR BUYER'S WINNING PLAN!
..AUTO LOANS: Read this first before taking a car
loan. What to avoid when financing a car..
How To Guard Your Wallet
"There is a built-in conflict of interest when buying a car,"
says Weintraub. "Of course you want to believe the clean-cut
guy in the nice suit with a sparkle in his eye. But while many
dealerships out there want to give the consumer a good
experience, who knows if what they are telling you is true or
not?"
Instead of questioning the dealer's integrity, understand the
flow of money. Remember these points:
Dealer profit is based on the car but also on related products
and fees.
A salesman's commission is dependent on the percentage of
profit.
A car's invoice price is a useful reference, but other
behind-the-scenes monies are in play.
The salesman, F&I manager and service advisor are all
commission-based positions.
Information and negotiation are always the keys to getting a
good deal.
"There is a built-in conflict of interest when buying a car,"
says Weintraub. "Of course you want to believe the clean-cut
guy in the nice suit with a sparkle in his eye. But while many
dealerships out there want to give the consumer a good
experience, who knows if what they are telling you is true or
not?"
Instead of questioning the dealer's integrity, understand the
flow of money. Remember these points:
Dealer profit is based on the car but also on related products
and fees.
A salesman's commission is dependent on the percentage of
profit.
A car's invoice price is a useful reference, but other
behind-the-scenes monies are in play.
The salesman, F&I manager and service advisor are all
commission-based positions.
Information and negotiation are always the keys to getting a
good deal.
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Hotel Secrets You Need to
Know
Hotel receptionists spill their best secrets – from
how to score a discounted room to how to get that
Wi-Fi charge waived from your bill!
----
. The 1-800 reservations number will
probably send you to a central office with set rates.
If you call the hotel directly instead, you can
negotiate.
----------
2. Hotels can pay a commission of up
to 30 percent to online booking sites.
So offer me 20 percent less than the online price,
and we both come out ahead.
------------
3. Independently owned hotels are far more
likely to give you a discount. Some chains balk at
dropping the rate.
-------------
4. If you show up at 11 a.m. and check-
in time is 2 p.m., please don’t be upset if your
room isn’t ready. I can’t make the housekeepers go
any faster. And you don’t want them to rush.
-----------------
5. Don’t ask me for an upgrade when
other guests are within earshot. Want a
more spacious room without paying more? Request
a corner room or a handicapped one.
--------------
6. Some concierges get kickbacks for
sending you to pricey tourist traps. If
you want an unbiased recommendation, ask me.
Know
Hotel receptionists spill their best secrets – from
how to score a discounted room to how to get that
Wi-Fi charge waived from your bill!
----
. The 1-800 reservations number will
probably send you to a central office with set rates.
If you call the hotel directly instead, you can
negotiate.
----------
2. Hotels can pay a commission of up
to 30 percent to online booking sites.
So offer me 20 percent less than the online price,
and we both come out ahead.
------------
3. Independently owned hotels are far more
likely to give you a discount. Some chains balk at
dropping the rate.
-------------
4. If you show up at 11 a.m. and check-
in time is 2 p.m., please don’t be upset if your
room isn’t ready. I can’t make the housekeepers go
any faster. And you don’t want them to rush.
-----------------
5. Don’t ask me for an upgrade when
other guests are within earshot. Want a
more spacious room without paying more? Request
a corner room or a handicapped one.
--------------
6. Some concierges get kickbacks for
sending you to pricey tourist traps. If
you want an unbiased recommendation, ask me.
Things Hotels Don't Want You
to Know...
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MONEYWISERS
Staying in a hotel can be fun, right? You can swim in
the pool, try out all the free toiletries, order room
service -- and someone else will even make your
bed in the morning. A weekend getaway can be very
relaxing.
WWW.TWITTER.COM/MONEYWISERS
But there are things about hotel life that can
sometimes make your stay less enjoyable, like high
prices or rooms that aren't exactly spic and span.
---------------
A-1. Never fear, we've got some tricks
for you to try. Being aware of these 10
things -- which hotels would almost certainly
prefer to keep under their hats -- can save you
money, help you avoid unpleasant surprises and
give you have the best hotel stay possible.
WWW.MONEYWISERS.BLOGSPOT.COM
----------
B-2. It's Pretty Easy to Find Hotel
Discounts on the Web...
The advent of the Internet has meant great things
for travelers looking to save a bit of money on
hotels. At the very least, it's easier to compare the
rates on different dates, or see which days of the
week are generally less expensive.
Certain Websites automatically show you the rates
of different hotels based on how much you're willing
to pay and what amenities you need, in addition to
the dates of your trip.
If your travel plans are flexible, check out the
"deals" section of the Web site -- you can often get
higher savings by combining airfare, hotel
accommodation and other amenities.
WWW.TWITTER.COM/MONEYWISERS
--------
C-3. You Might Be Able to Get a Better
Rate..
If you've got a specific hotel or chain in mind, don't
call the 800 number to make a reservation. Instead,
do a little research about their published rates, and
then call the hotel front desk directly.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.COM/moneywisers
----------------
D-4. Ask what specials the branch has
right now, and whether it honors discounts like
AARP or AAA. The clerk will be able to tell how many
reservations the hotel has for that particular block
of time, and if it's not very full, the branch probably
will be to give you a better rate to ensure a
reservation.
If you're a member of that hotel's rewards club, be
sure to mention that -- if you aren't, ask about
signing up to see if that lowers the price even more.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.COM/frugalstyle
-----------------
E-5. Take Advantage of Free
Amenities (and Watch Out for Ones
that Aren't)...
It's easy to spend a lot more than the flat nightly rate
at the average hotel, between the minibar, parking
and who knows what else.
-------------------
F-6. Take advantage of the free
amenities, like continental breakfast,
and see if there are any deals to be had on the rest.
For example, if you notice that the parking lot is full,
ask the staff if they'll give you a discount on the
daily rate.
Some hotels charge a "daily amenities fee" that
covers a wide variety of services, like access to
Wi-Fi, complimentary cocktails, printing and
newspaper delivery.
If your hotel charges a fee like this, be sure to ask
for a list of the included amenities when you check
in. That way, you can be sure to take full advantage
of what you've already paid for.
--------------
G-7. Your Room Isn't as Clean as It
Looks...
One of the side benefits to staying in a hotel is that
it comes with service. You don't have to make your
bed, vacuum or clean the bathroom -- someone else
does everything for you. But as tidy as it might look,
is it really clean?
It's important to remember that hundreds of people
pass through an average hotel room over the
course of a year, and that it's practically impossible
to erase all evidence of a room's prior occupants.
On the whole, that's nothing to worry about. But
there are a few places in your hotel room that merit
a bit more caution.
------------
H-8. Drinking glasses, for example --
you might not want to trust that they've been
properly cleaned. Housekeeper..
A little tip for housekeeping could get
you some great service.
Hotel housekeepers have some of the most
underappreciated jobs in the hospitality business.
They are also among the lowest paid, according to a
Market Watch report.
So, leaving a tip for the person cleaning your room
is a nice way to supplement his or her income. Most
housekeepers probably won't give you
exceptionally poor service just because you don't
leave a tip, but you might get exceptionally good
service if you do. Depending on how expensive the
hotel is, and how messy you're leaving the room,
anywhere from $2 to $5 is appropriate.
J-10. Remember to leave a tip every
day, as opposed to just when you're
checking out. You might have different
housekeepers over the course of your stay, and you
want to tip all of them equally.
Also, be sure to leave your tip on the pillow, or on
the table with a clearly marked note. That way the
housekeeper knows it's for him or her, and not just
change you've left on the table
-------
K-11. Your Valuables Aren't
Necessarily Safe in Your Room...
Remember that you're not the only person who has
access to your hotel room. Nearly every member of
the hotel staff is able to enter your room without
your knowledge.
So, when you leave the room for any significant
amount of time, don't leave anything valuable
behind. Some hotel rooms come equipped with
small safes, but not all of them are insured against
theft.
If you do need to travel with valuables, ask the hotel
management to place the items in the hotel safe,
and to provide you with a receipt. The main hotel
safe will be insured, and it's accessible to a much
smaller number of staff members.
-------------
L-12. Room Rates Are Sometimes
Cheaper at Night...
If you haven't made a reservation, you might be able
to score a lower rate if you time it just right. After 5
or 6 p.m., you have a shot at getting a cheaper room
if the hotel still has vacancies.
Some hotels do have policies that prevent them
from discounting rooms, even if that means losing
business. But you might be able to get a nicer room
or suite for the rate of the average double room if
you ask.
On the other hand, if it's 9 or 10 p.m., the hotel is
much less likely to cut you a deal because the clerk
knows that you don't have as many options. So,
timing is everything.
--------------
M-13.There Still Might Be Rooms
Available, Even if the Sign Says 'No
Vacancies'...
You're desperate for a last-minute hotel room, and
the "no vacancy" sign is lit up. That means
absolutely every room in the hotel is full, doesn't it?
Well, not necessarily. In some cases, a room will be
marked as booked in the hotel computer because of
a maintenance issue.
Ask the desk clerk if there are any rooms with more
cosmetic problems, as opposed to a room with a
non-functioning toilet.
If it's a simple matter of a stained rug or scratched
table, you might be able to persuade the clerk to let
you have the room. If you ask nicely, they might
even discount the room because of the (marginally)
substandard quality.
N-14. Your Bed Has Bed Bugs...
Beware: Bed bugs are on the rise. These pervasive
insects are causing major problems in hospitals,
apartment buildings and -- you guessed it -- hotels.
Just because a hotel is expensive doesn't mean it's
immune, either; bed bugs are difficult to spot, and
they spread quickly.
------------
O-15. Before you book a room, check
out the Bed Bug Registry. This free
service keeps track of bed bug incidents at all
different kinds of locations, including hotels. The
reports are dated, and in some cases feature
responses and updates from hotel staff.
So, you can judge for yourself whether the problem
has been dealt with appropriately -- and if you feel
good about staying there.
-----------------
P-16. In Hotels Don't Believe
Everything You Read...
Hotel reservations are usually made sight unseen.
So, you have to rely on the information the hotel
offers through its Web site.
And of course, those Web sites are designed to
make you want to stay at that particular location, so
they might not be entirely honest.
Travel columnist and former hotel employee Amy
Bradley-Hole advises potential hotel guests to do
their homework, first. If a hotel is listed as "minutes
away" from a particular attraction or location, what
does that really mean?
Plot it out on Google Maps to see if that translates
to "60 minutes on foot" or "10 minutes in a cab."
Figuring that out before you book can save you an
unpleasant surprise once you arrive
to Know...
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MONEYWISERS
Staying in a hotel can be fun, right? You can swim in
the pool, try out all the free toiletries, order room
service -- and someone else will even make your
bed in the morning. A weekend getaway can be very
relaxing.
WWW.TWITTER.COM/MONEYWISERS
But there are things about hotel life that can
sometimes make your stay less enjoyable, like high
prices or rooms that aren't exactly spic and span.
---------------
A-1. Never fear, we've got some tricks
for you to try. Being aware of these 10
things -- which hotels would almost certainly
prefer to keep under their hats -- can save you
money, help you avoid unpleasant surprises and
give you have the best hotel stay possible.
WWW.MONEYWISERS.BLOGSPOT.COM
----------
B-2. It's Pretty Easy to Find Hotel
Discounts on the Web...
The advent of the Internet has meant great things
for travelers looking to save a bit of money on
hotels. At the very least, it's easier to compare the
rates on different dates, or see which days of the
week are generally less expensive.
Certain Websites automatically show you the rates
of different hotels based on how much you're willing
to pay and what amenities you need, in addition to
the dates of your trip.
If your travel plans are flexible, check out the
"deals" section of the Web site -- you can often get
higher savings by combining airfare, hotel
accommodation and other amenities.
WWW.TWITTER.COM/MONEYWISERS
--------
C-3. You Might Be Able to Get a Better
Rate..
If you've got a specific hotel or chain in mind, don't
call the 800 number to make a reservation. Instead,
do a little research about their published rates, and
then call the hotel front desk directly.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.COM/moneywisers
----------------
D-4. Ask what specials the branch has
right now, and whether it honors discounts like
AARP or AAA. The clerk will be able to tell how many
reservations the hotel has for that particular block
of time, and if it's not very full, the branch probably
will be to give you a better rate to ensure a
reservation.
If you're a member of that hotel's rewards club, be
sure to mention that -- if you aren't, ask about
signing up to see if that lowers the price even more.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.COM/frugalstyle
-----------------
E-5. Take Advantage of Free
Amenities (and Watch Out for Ones
that Aren't)...
It's easy to spend a lot more than the flat nightly rate
at the average hotel, between the minibar, parking
and who knows what else.
-------------------
F-6. Take advantage of the free
amenities, like continental breakfast,
and see if there are any deals to be had on the rest.
For example, if you notice that the parking lot is full,
ask the staff if they'll give you a discount on the
daily rate.
Some hotels charge a "daily amenities fee" that
covers a wide variety of services, like access to
Wi-Fi, complimentary cocktails, printing and
newspaper delivery.
If your hotel charges a fee like this, be sure to ask
for a list of the included amenities when you check
in. That way, you can be sure to take full advantage
of what you've already paid for.
--------------
G-7. Your Room Isn't as Clean as It
Looks...
One of the side benefits to staying in a hotel is that
it comes with service. You don't have to make your
bed, vacuum or clean the bathroom -- someone else
does everything for you. But as tidy as it might look,
is it really clean?
It's important to remember that hundreds of people
pass through an average hotel room over the
course of a year, and that it's practically impossible
to erase all evidence of a room's prior occupants.
On the whole, that's nothing to worry about. But
there are a few places in your hotel room that merit
a bit more caution.
------------
H-8. Drinking glasses, for example --
you might not want to trust that they've been
properly cleaned. Housekeeper..
A little tip for housekeeping could get
you some great service.
Hotel housekeepers have some of the most
underappreciated jobs in the hospitality business.
They are also among the lowest paid, according to a
Market Watch report.
So, leaving a tip for the person cleaning your room
is a nice way to supplement his or her income. Most
housekeepers probably won't give you
exceptionally poor service just because you don't
leave a tip, but you might get exceptionally good
service if you do. Depending on how expensive the
hotel is, and how messy you're leaving the room,
anywhere from $2 to $5 is appropriate.
J-10. Remember to leave a tip every
day, as opposed to just when you're
checking out. You might have different
housekeepers over the course of your stay, and you
want to tip all of them equally.
Also, be sure to leave your tip on the pillow, or on
the table with a clearly marked note. That way the
housekeeper knows it's for him or her, and not just
change you've left on the table
-------
K-11. Your Valuables Aren't
Necessarily Safe in Your Room...
Remember that you're not the only person who has
access to your hotel room. Nearly every member of
the hotel staff is able to enter your room without
your knowledge.
So, when you leave the room for any significant
amount of time, don't leave anything valuable
behind. Some hotel rooms come equipped with
small safes, but not all of them are insured against
theft.
If you do need to travel with valuables, ask the hotel
management to place the items in the hotel safe,
and to provide you with a receipt. The main hotel
safe will be insured, and it's accessible to a much
smaller number of staff members.
-------------
L-12. Room Rates Are Sometimes
Cheaper at Night...
If you haven't made a reservation, you might be able
to score a lower rate if you time it just right. After 5
or 6 p.m., you have a shot at getting a cheaper room
if the hotel still has vacancies.
Some hotels do have policies that prevent them
from discounting rooms, even if that means losing
business. But you might be able to get a nicer room
or suite for the rate of the average double room if
you ask.
On the other hand, if it's 9 or 10 p.m., the hotel is
much less likely to cut you a deal because the clerk
knows that you don't have as many options. So,
timing is everything.
--------------
M-13.There Still Might Be Rooms
Available, Even if the Sign Says 'No
Vacancies'...
You're desperate for a last-minute hotel room, and
the "no vacancy" sign is lit up. That means
absolutely every room in the hotel is full, doesn't it?
Well, not necessarily. In some cases, a room will be
marked as booked in the hotel computer because of
a maintenance issue.
Ask the desk clerk if there are any rooms with more
cosmetic problems, as opposed to a room with a
non-functioning toilet.
If it's a simple matter of a stained rug or scratched
table, you might be able to persuade the clerk to let
you have the room. If you ask nicely, they might
even discount the room because of the (marginally)
substandard quality.
N-14. Your Bed Has Bed Bugs...
Beware: Bed bugs are on the rise. These pervasive
insects are causing major problems in hospitals,
apartment buildings and -- you guessed it -- hotels.
Just because a hotel is expensive doesn't mean it's
immune, either; bed bugs are difficult to spot, and
they spread quickly.
------------
O-15. Before you book a room, check
out the Bed Bug Registry. This free
service keeps track of bed bug incidents at all
different kinds of locations, including hotels. The
reports are dated, and in some cases feature
responses and updates from hotel staff.
So, you can judge for yourself whether the problem
has been dealt with appropriately -- and if you feel
good about staying there.
-----------------
P-16. In Hotels Don't Believe
Everything You Read...
Hotel reservations are usually made sight unseen.
So, you have to rely on the information the hotel
offers through its Web site.
And of course, those Web sites are designed to
make you want to stay at that particular location, so
they might not be entirely honest.
Travel columnist and former hotel employee Amy
Bradley-Hole advises potential hotel guests to do
their homework, first. If a hotel is listed as "minutes
away" from a particular attraction or location, what
does that really mean?
Plot it out on Google Maps to see if that translates
to "60 minutes on foot" or "10 minutes in a cab."
Figuring that out before you book can save you an
unpleasant surprise once you arrive
7. Sometimes my boss makes me lie,
like when the elevator’s not working and I
tell you someone is coming to fix it soon. I know it
won’t be fixed until Monday, because the
manager doesn’t want to pay the repairman’s
weekend rate.
--------
8. Don’t call between 9 a.m. and 1 p.
m. with a special request. Chances are I’
ll have a long line of guests waiting to check out
or in and will just want to get you off the phone.
------------
9. My official job description: errand
runner, toilet plunger, bow-tie tier, towel
deliverer, and chef (that free continental
breakfast doesn’t appear from above). I’ve also
sprinkled rooms with rose petals and dealt with
dead bodies. All for about $10 an hour.
-------------
10. We love it when you steal the
soap, shampoo, and lotion. That’s why
we put our logo on them. But pillows,
bedspreads, and irons? We’re billing your credit
card.
--------------
11. Keep it down. Even the best
hotels aren’t totally soundproof, and I’m the
one who has to send the security guard up to
knock on your door when someone complains.
----------------
12. It’s a lot easier for me to remove
Wi-Fi charges from your bill at checkout than to
agree to waive them in advance
-------------------
13. No, we don’t have an hourly rate.
You don’t want to be at a hotel like that anyway.
-------------------
14. Most of us are happy to help. If
you ask us to, we’ll tell callers you’re not
registered at the hotel, or tell you where to park
so you can’t see your car from the interstate. But
we’re also talking behind your back about what
you might be hiding
-------------
like when the elevator’s not working and I
tell you someone is coming to fix it soon. I know it
won’t be fixed until Monday, because the
manager doesn’t want to pay the repairman’s
weekend rate.
--------
8. Don’t call between 9 a.m. and 1 p.
m. with a special request. Chances are I’
ll have a long line of guests waiting to check out
or in and will just want to get you off the phone.
------------
9. My official job description: errand
runner, toilet plunger, bow-tie tier, towel
deliverer, and chef (that free continental
breakfast doesn’t appear from above). I’ve also
sprinkled rooms with rose petals and dealt with
dead bodies. All for about $10 an hour.
-------------
10. We love it when you steal the
soap, shampoo, and lotion. That’s why
we put our logo on them. But pillows,
bedspreads, and irons? We’re billing your credit
card.
--------------
11. Keep it down. Even the best
hotels aren’t totally soundproof, and I’m the
one who has to send the security guard up to
knock on your door when someone complains.
----------------
12. It’s a lot easier for me to remove
Wi-Fi charges from your bill at checkout than to
agree to waive them in advance
-------------------
13. No, we don’t have an hourly rate.
You don’t want to be at a hotel like that anyway.
-------------------
14. Most of us are happy to help. If
you ask us to, we’ll tell callers you’re not
registered at the hotel, or tell you where to park
so you can’t see your car from the interstate. But
we’re also talking behind your back about what
you might be hiding
-------------
15. Always request clean linens when
you check in. We wash the sheets every day,
but blankets often only get washed once a week.
And the bedspreads? If there’s no visible stain, it’
s maybe once a month.
------------
16. In this economy, everything is
negotiable. If your hotel offers a hot breakfast
buffet as well as a free continental breakfast, ask
if you can get the hot breakfast with your room.
Very rarely will we tell you no.
--------------
17. If you travel frequently, use the
same hotel each time. Get to know the
staff. Regulars are recognized and treated as VIPs.
You could get free upgrades, discounts, and more.
------------
18. Never use the long distance. Unless
you want to pay $10 for a 5-minute call, it’s best to
specifically ask for it to be turned off. We’ve had
situations in which housekeepers have made calls
from a guest’s phone.
------------------
19. If you request a king bed, there’s
no guarantee. No matter how confident the
reservations agent sounds, call the hotel directly
and make the request again a few days before you
travel. Then do it again on the day of. If we still
don’t have one when you get there and you’re
nice about it, we may comp your breakfast or
upgrade you to a suite.
----------------------
20. Don’t act like you own the place.
Our policy is to automatically upgrade people if we’
ve got the space – but I’m not going to do it if you’
re snarky.
you check in. We wash the sheets every day,
but blankets often only get washed once a week.
And the bedspreads? If there’s no visible stain, it’
s maybe once a month.
------------
16. In this economy, everything is
negotiable. If your hotel offers a hot breakfast
buffet as well as a free continental breakfast, ask
if you can get the hot breakfast with your room.
Very rarely will we tell you no.
--------------
17. If you travel frequently, use the
same hotel each time. Get to know the
staff. Regulars are recognized and treated as VIPs.
You could get free upgrades, discounts, and more.
------------
18. Never use the long distance. Unless
you want to pay $10 for a 5-minute call, it’s best to
specifically ask for it to be turned off. We’ve had
situations in which housekeepers have made calls
from a guest’s phone.
------------------
19. If you request a king bed, there’s
no guarantee. No matter how confident the
reservations agent sounds, call the hotel directly
and make the request again a few days before you
travel. Then do it again on the day of. If we still
don’t have one when you get there and you’re
nice about it, we may comp your breakfast or
upgrade you to a suite.
----------------------
20. Don’t act like you own the place.
Our policy is to automatically upgrade people if we’
ve got the space – but I’m not going to do it if you’
re snarky.
THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT DO...
Top 10 Don'ts When Staying in a
Hotel.. WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIALGROUP.
BLOGSPOT.COM
1. Don't yell at the staff. Ever.
2. Don't tell anyone your room number. (A
desk agent should point to your room number and not
announce it to the world.)
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KNOWLEDGEFINANCIALGROUP
3. Don't get bent out of shape when the
night desk agent asks to see your "new
friend's" identification. Additionally, do not let a
hotel employee into your room if he does not have an ID.
WWW.FEMKONSA.BLOGSPOT.COM
4. Don't blame hotel staff for stealing your
stuff. My personal experience is that the guests
eventually find 99% of the items that they report stolen
from their rooms. However, it is your right to ask the
manager to call the police to file a police report.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FEMKONSA
5. Don't order from room service if you
notice that the pages are dirty and torn.
Also don’t order if the menu reads "Winter Menu" when
it's spring.
6. Don't use the bathroom washcloths to take off your
makeup or shine your shoes.
7. Don't throw anything in the room garbage if you don't
want the hotel staff to know about it, including insulin
needles (or any needle). Properly dispose of them.
8. Don't abuse the privilege of late
checkout. If you really need to stay past 1 p.m., ask for
the manager.
9. Don’t leave your luggage unattended in a hotel lobby
— even for a second.
10. Don't be embarrassed! Call the hotel
after you’ve checked out, and the staff will send
you your forgotten sex toys. Just as they would send
your baby blanket back to you. Promise.
Top 10 Don'ts When Staying in a
Hotel.. WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIALGROUP.
BLOGSPOT.COM
1. Don't yell at the staff. Ever.
2. Don't tell anyone your room number. (A
desk agent should point to your room number and not
announce it to the world.)
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KNOWLEDGEFINANCIALGROUP
3. Don't get bent out of shape when the
night desk agent asks to see your "new
friend's" identification. Additionally, do not let a
hotel employee into your room if he does not have an ID.
WWW.FEMKONSA.BLOGSPOT.COM
4. Don't blame hotel staff for stealing your
stuff. My personal experience is that the guests
eventually find 99% of the items that they report stolen
from their rooms. However, it is your right to ask the
manager to call the police to file a police report.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FEMKONSA
5. Don't order from room service if you
notice that the pages are dirty and torn.
Also don’t order if the menu reads "Winter Menu" when
it's spring.
6. Don't use the bathroom washcloths to take off your
makeup or shine your shoes.
7. Don't throw anything in the room garbage if you don't
want the hotel staff to know about it, including insulin
needles (or any needle). Properly dispose of them.
8. Don't abuse the privilege of late
checkout. If you really need to stay past 1 p.m., ask for
the manager.
9. Don’t leave your luggage unattended in a hotel lobby
— even for a second.
10. Don't be embarrassed! Call the hotel
after you’ve checked out, and the staff will send
you your forgotten sex toys. Just as they would send
your baby blanket back to you. Promise.
Principal Things You Need to Do
When entering into a Hotel Room...
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BUYHEREMARKET
A. Check for Bedbugs..
Scrutinize your mattress, bed frame, and headboard—
you're looking for small brown stains. Bedbugs are hard
to see (they hide during the day and can run away quickly
when disturbed), but they leave behind brown
bloodstains when they process the blood of their
victims. Be sure to check under the sheets and mattress
pad, too
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/VISIONAIREBIZ
B. Sanitize...
Your room may look clean, but that doesn't mean it's
sanitary. Hotel cleaners may scrub the bathroom, but do
they take the time to wipe down common safe houses for
germs, such as remote controls, light switches, and
doorknobs? Give these items a quick cleaning with an
antibacterial wipe to stay healthy during your visit.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/VISIONAIREBIZ
C. Check Hiding Spots...
Before letting your guard down in your locked hotel
room, check these hiding spots to make sure you really
are alone: under the bed, in the closet, and in the
shower. An intruder could have slipped in before you
and could be lying in wait—or something more gruesome.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FEMKONSA
D. You think I'm being alarmist? Maybe, but
Snopes lists a number of actual incidents in which
guests checked in to a hotel, complained about a
horrible odor in their room, and later discovered a
human body hidden under the bed or mattress.
They had literally been sleeping on top of a corpse. Now
who's the alarmist?
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL
E. Make Sure Temperature Controls Work...
Your room temperature may seem fine now, but it could
become unbearably hot or cold once you're trying to
sleep.
If you wait until nighttime to discover that your climate
controls don't work, you may be stuck if there's no
maintenance staff on call to fix the problem and no
vacant room for you to switch to.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.BLOGSPOT.COM
F. Remove the Comforter...
Sheets and pillowcases: easy to wash. Bedspreads? Not
so much. So some hotels just … don't. Even between
guests. According to Reneta McCarthy, a former
housekeeping manager for a major American hotel chain,
it is possible that a hotel bedspread might only be
changed four times a year.
And you're not even safe with a duvet that has a
removable cover:Tthat if there is a top sheet between
the duvet and the bed, the cover might not be washed
between guests. So before you get into bed, take off the
dirty bedspread!
G. Unplug or Reset the Alarm Clock...
An absent-minded or mean-spirited guest may have set
the bedside alarm clock for 4:00 a.m. Make sure the
alarm has been turned off when you arrive in your room,
lest you be awoken or startled by an unexpected noise.
H. Unfamiliar clocks may be tough to figure out, so if you
have a cell phone, you can use that as an alarm clock
instead. In that case, just unplug the bedside clock
completely.
I. Put the ‘Do Not Disturb’ Sign on the
Door...
Unless you want housekeeping or a turndown service
barging in on you unexpectedly, put the "Do Not Disturb"
sign on your door as you enter. Just remember to take it
off the doorknob in the morning if you want your room
cleaned.
J. Study The Fire Escape Map...
It's unlikely that you'll ever need it, but you need to have
a plan for how you will get out of the hotel in the case of
an emergency. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with
the fire escape route from your room—it could save your
life.
When entering into a Hotel Room...
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BUYHEREMARKET
A. Check for Bedbugs..
Scrutinize your mattress, bed frame, and headboard—
you're looking for small brown stains. Bedbugs are hard
to see (they hide during the day and can run away quickly
when disturbed), but they leave behind brown
bloodstains when they process the blood of their
victims. Be sure to check under the sheets and mattress
pad, too
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/VISIONAIREBIZ
B. Sanitize...
Your room may look clean, but that doesn't mean it's
sanitary. Hotel cleaners may scrub the bathroom, but do
they take the time to wipe down common safe houses for
germs, such as remote controls, light switches, and
doorknobs? Give these items a quick cleaning with an
antibacterial wipe to stay healthy during your visit.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/VISIONAIREBIZ
C. Check Hiding Spots...
Before letting your guard down in your locked hotel
room, check these hiding spots to make sure you really
are alone: under the bed, in the closet, and in the
shower. An intruder could have slipped in before you
and could be lying in wait—or something more gruesome.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FEMKONSA
D. You think I'm being alarmist? Maybe, but
Snopes lists a number of actual incidents in which
guests checked in to a hotel, complained about a
horrible odor in their room, and later discovered a
human body hidden under the bed or mattress.
They had literally been sleeping on top of a corpse. Now
who's the alarmist?
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL
E. Make Sure Temperature Controls Work...
Your room temperature may seem fine now, but it could
become unbearably hot or cold once you're trying to
sleep.
If you wait until nighttime to discover that your climate
controls don't work, you may be stuck if there's no
maintenance staff on call to fix the problem and no
vacant room for you to switch to.
WWW.KNOWLEDGEFINANCIAL.BLOGSPOT.COM
F. Remove the Comforter...
Sheets and pillowcases: easy to wash. Bedspreads? Not
so much. So some hotels just … don't. Even between
guests. According to Reneta McCarthy, a former
housekeeping manager for a major American hotel chain,
it is possible that a hotel bedspread might only be
changed four times a year.
And you're not even safe with a duvet that has a
removable cover:Tthat if there is a top sheet between
the duvet and the bed, the cover might not be washed
between guests. So before you get into bed, take off the
dirty bedspread!
G. Unplug or Reset the Alarm Clock...
An absent-minded or mean-spirited guest may have set
the bedside alarm clock for 4:00 a.m. Make sure the
alarm has been turned off when you arrive in your room,
lest you be awoken or startled by an unexpected noise.
H. Unfamiliar clocks may be tough to figure out, so if you
have a cell phone, you can use that as an alarm clock
instead. In that case, just unplug the bedside clock
completely.
I. Put the ‘Do Not Disturb’ Sign on the
Door...
Unless you want housekeeping or a turndown service
barging in on you unexpectedly, put the "Do Not Disturb"
sign on your door as you enter. Just remember to take it
off the doorknob in the morning if you want your room
cleaned.
J. Study The Fire Escape Map...
It's unlikely that you'll ever need it, but you need to have
a plan for how you will get out of the hotel in the case of
an emergency. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with
the fire escape route from your room—it could save your
life.
How to Negotiate with a Hotel
The demand for hotel services has steadily increased
these past few years, tilting the negotiating leverage
in favor of preferred properties rather than the event
planning clients.
This has put extra pressure on event planners to find
ways to negotiate with hotel sales to lower some of
those expenses.
Depending on an event planner's circumstances,
these tips will help achieve some measure of savings
with guest rooms, meeting services, and catering.
-------------
Leverage multiple meetings at same
location. One of the more effective strategies to
saving money is to hold the bulk of your events
throughout the year at the same property. Hotel sales
managers are looking to achieve certain revenue
numbers that they are likely to show more flexibility to
a client who they know will return throughout the year
vs. a one-time client.
----------------
Leverage total number of guest rooms
for the event. Hotel sales managers will show
flexibility on meeting room space costs and even
catering expenses if they know that an event will
incorporate a block of rooms. Guest rooms offer a
greater profit margin than any other event service.
----------------------
Leverage additional discounts on guest
rooms. Sales managers will also discount guest
rooms or provide their clients with the lowest rate at
that time.
Event planners should compare the prices that sales
managers provide against any corporate contract
already established with that hotel -- especially if it's a
chain -- to secure the best price.
-------------------
Negotiate food and beverage
requirements. Many planners will cut costs by
adjusting this category, and hotel managers are happy
to assist. The menus are designed to be adjusted to
meet anyone's budget.
However, in my experience, it's better to identify your
preferred food and beverage needs, and request
discounts as the price exceeds budget. Hotel
managers understand: event planners are in the
business of keeping their guests happy, and so is the
hotel.
----------------
Negotiate the audio/visual expense. A/V is
an area where hidden expenses can quickly add up,
and sometimes can be negotiated, but not always.
Renting LCD projectors varies from venue to venue,
and can be priced quite outrageously.
As long as your venue doesn't demand unionized
labor, be bold and suggest discounting here, even
quoting your own preferred fee. And ask for some
expense items to be waived, if possible. Hourly rates
on labor are non-negotiable.
Venues are aware of client frustrations with A/V fees
and are outsourcing operations to third party
companies instead; eliminating any negotiating
responsibility.
--------------------
Leverage total event spent at the hotel.
Sales will provide an event planner with
costs for each expense item and/or
service separately. This "line item" approach
favors the hotel or venue and not the client.
As this occurs, an event planner should compile the
total investment in their program at a property, and
discuss reductions based on the total amount of
money being spent on all services.
At the end of the day, the hotel sales manager knows
how much money they would like to receive in
exchange for their services. For those who tally their
costs and address the bottom line, more savings will
follow.
---------------------
Be extremely flexible on time, space
and dates. Hold a program during non-peak dates
and watch how flexible the hotel sales manager will
become. Also, if a planner is flexible on their space
requirements, hotel sales is likely to find them a spot
and an optimal price.
While an event planner is searching for that one
space during a small window of time when the hotel
has everything else otherwise booked and doesn't
anticipate selling that space, this creates an
opportunity for both parties.
The demand for hotel services has steadily increased
these past few years, tilting the negotiating leverage
in favor of preferred properties rather than the event
planning clients.
This has put extra pressure on event planners to find
ways to negotiate with hotel sales to lower some of
those expenses.
Depending on an event planner's circumstances,
these tips will help achieve some measure of savings
with guest rooms, meeting services, and catering.
-------------
Leverage multiple meetings at same
location. One of the more effective strategies to
saving money is to hold the bulk of your events
throughout the year at the same property. Hotel sales
managers are looking to achieve certain revenue
numbers that they are likely to show more flexibility to
a client who they know will return throughout the year
vs. a one-time client.
----------------
Leverage total number of guest rooms
for the event. Hotel sales managers will show
flexibility on meeting room space costs and even
catering expenses if they know that an event will
incorporate a block of rooms. Guest rooms offer a
greater profit margin than any other event service.
----------------------
Leverage additional discounts on guest
rooms. Sales managers will also discount guest
rooms or provide their clients with the lowest rate at
that time.
Event planners should compare the prices that sales
managers provide against any corporate contract
already established with that hotel -- especially if it's a
chain -- to secure the best price.
-------------------
Negotiate food and beverage
requirements. Many planners will cut costs by
adjusting this category, and hotel managers are happy
to assist. The menus are designed to be adjusted to
meet anyone's budget.
However, in my experience, it's better to identify your
preferred food and beverage needs, and request
discounts as the price exceeds budget. Hotel
managers understand: event planners are in the
business of keeping their guests happy, and so is the
hotel.
----------------
Negotiate the audio/visual expense. A/V is
an area where hidden expenses can quickly add up,
and sometimes can be negotiated, but not always.
Renting LCD projectors varies from venue to venue,
and can be priced quite outrageously.
As long as your venue doesn't demand unionized
labor, be bold and suggest discounting here, even
quoting your own preferred fee. And ask for some
expense items to be waived, if possible. Hourly rates
on labor are non-negotiable.
Venues are aware of client frustrations with A/V fees
and are outsourcing operations to third party
companies instead; eliminating any negotiating
responsibility.
--------------------
Leverage total event spent at the hotel.
Sales will provide an event planner with
costs for each expense item and/or
service separately. This "line item" approach
favors the hotel or venue and not the client.
As this occurs, an event planner should compile the
total investment in their program at a property, and
discuss reductions based on the total amount of
money being spent on all services.
At the end of the day, the hotel sales manager knows
how much money they would like to receive in
exchange for their services. For those who tally their
costs and address the bottom line, more savings will
follow.
---------------------
Be extremely flexible on time, space
and dates. Hold a program during non-peak dates
and watch how flexible the hotel sales manager will
become. Also, if a planner is flexible on their space
requirements, hotel sales is likely to find them a spot
and an optimal price.
While an event planner is searching for that one
space during a small window of time when the hotel
has everything else otherwise booked and doesn't
anticipate selling that space, this creates an
opportunity for both parties.
Things to Do Immediately After
Your Flight Is Canceled or
Delayed..
Travelers, don't let a travel interruption turn into a
vacation nightmare.
Even after spending countless hours carefully
plotting every step of your journey, an unexpected
delay or cancellation can derail your well-laid-out
vacation plans. But a minor roadblock doesn't have
to result in travel disaster.
Taking a few extra precautions to dodge delays,
knowing your air travel rights and arming yourself
with insider tricks can help you stay calm and carry
on when anxiety-provoking situations arise.
-------
Know your air travel rights.
If your flight is canceled, your carrier will provide
you with "a seat on the next available flight on that
airline or a refund,"
While airlines are not obligated to compensate
passengers for delays and cancellations based on
federal regulations, carriers will often rebook
passengers for no additional fee, even for
nonrefundable fares – or offer a full refund.
Depending on the carrier, you may also be able to
get rebooked to your final destination with another
airline. Check your carrier's customer agreement –
also known as a contract of carriage .
-------
Check if your credit card offers
trip delay protection.!!!
Don't overlook the built-in travel benefits your
credit card issuer may provide
Immediately file a claim with the airline after your
flight is delayed or canceled, he says. Also keep in
mind that with trip interruption coverage, if your
flight is delayed for an eligible reason, such as a
weather-related delay or a mechanical issue, you
may be entitled to compensation.
The catch: You must have used the credit card to
book your seat, Anthony adds. Also, make sure to
keep your boarding pass and travel documents on
hand as proof of your claim for a disrupted flight.
-------
Stay proactive.
"Gate agents and airport staff are swamped, so I
always call the airline's customer service to get
rebooked on the [next] flight," the author behind
the budget travel advice site Nomadic Matt.
"It's quicker and easier than dealing with the long
line of customers and a gate agent who is busy
trying to shrink that line as fast as possible,"
. Another option: Rebook your flight with the airline
directly using its affiliated app.
Major carriers such as United and Delta make it
easy to peruse alternative flight options and modify
your reservation in the event of a delay on their
apps.
--------
Your Flight Is Canceled or
Delayed..
Travelers, don't let a travel interruption turn into a
vacation nightmare.
Even after spending countless hours carefully
plotting every step of your journey, an unexpected
delay or cancellation can derail your well-laid-out
vacation plans. But a minor roadblock doesn't have
to result in travel disaster.
Taking a few extra precautions to dodge delays,
knowing your air travel rights and arming yourself
with insider tricks can help you stay calm and carry
on when anxiety-provoking situations arise.
-------
Know your air travel rights.
If your flight is canceled, your carrier will provide
you with "a seat on the next available flight on that
airline or a refund,"
While airlines are not obligated to compensate
passengers for delays and cancellations based on
federal regulations, carriers will often rebook
passengers for no additional fee, even for
nonrefundable fares – or offer a full refund.
Depending on the carrier, you may also be able to
get rebooked to your final destination with another
airline. Check your carrier's customer agreement –
also known as a contract of carriage .
-------
Check if your credit card offers
trip delay protection.!!!
Don't overlook the built-in travel benefits your
credit card issuer may provide
Immediately file a claim with the airline after your
flight is delayed or canceled, he says. Also keep in
mind that with trip interruption coverage, if your
flight is delayed for an eligible reason, such as a
weather-related delay or a mechanical issue, you
may be entitled to compensation.
The catch: You must have used the credit card to
book your seat, Anthony adds. Also, make sure to
keep your boarding pass and travel documents on
hand as proof of your claim for a disrupted flight.
-------
Stay proactive.
"Gate agents and airport staff are swamped, so I
always call the airline's customer service to get
rebooked on the [next] flight," the author behind
the budget travel advice site Nomadic Matt.
"It's quicker and easier than dealing with the long
line of customers and a gate agent who is busy
trying to shrink that line as fast as possible,"
. Another option: Rebook your flight with the airline
directly using its affiliated app.
Major carriers such as United and Delta make it
easy to peruse alternative flight options and modify
your reservation in the event of a delay on their
apps.
--------
Ask about meal or hotel credits.
When you're faced with a severe delay of four
hours or longer, ask about meal or hotel
vouchers. "If the airline is authorized to give them
to passengers, they will,"
Keep in mind you shouldn't expect vouchers to
be doled out if you're stalled for reasons outside
the airline's control like weather-related
disruptions.
However, in the event of a mechanical delay, the
airline will typically cover meal, transportation
and lodging costs. The individual rules are
specified in the carrier's contract of carriage.
------------
Use social media to your
advantage.
Turn to Twitter and Facebook to dodge
headaches and benefit from prompt customer
service.
Because the platform is public, it's an effective
platform to get the airline's attention. Anthony
also suggests reaching out to your specific
carrier on Twitter if you're in a bind or need
assistance.
I would always try to reach the Twitter team if
possible. Just make sure to exercise good
manners when utilizing social media.
While it's appropriate to detail any issues you're
experiencing, venting your grievances in a rude
or verbally abusive tone will not help social
media response teams resolve the dilemma faster.
--------------
Download the right tools.
You never know when a delay will strike. To stay
prepared, download a flight-tracking app like
FlightAware and rely on valuable tools like
AirHelp, which gives passengers the power to
check if they're eligible to receive compensation
for a delay or cancellation.
If you believe you could be eligible for
compensation, you can punch in information
about your trip along with your flight number on
AirHelp's mobile app or website; then, if eligible,
the company will file a claim on your behalf.
"To make this process easier, AirHelp’s mobile
app has a simple Boarding Pass Scanner that
allows you take a picture of your pass and
automatically uploads all the necessary flight
details to file a claim through our
When you're faced with a severe delay of four
hours or longer, ask about meal or hotel
vouchers. "If the airline is authorized to give them
to passengers, they will,"
Keep in mind you shouldn't expect vouchers to
be doled out if you're stalled for reasons outside
the airline's control like weather-related
disruptions.
However, in the event of a mechanical delay, the
airline will typically cover meal, transportation
and lodging costs. The individual rules are
specified in the carrier's contract of carriage.
------------
Use social media to your
advantage.
Turn to Twitter and Facebook to dodge
headaches and benefit from prompt customer
service.
Because the platform is public, it's an effective
platform to get the airline's attention. Anthony
also suggests reaching out to your specific
carrier on Twitter if you're in a bind or need
assistance.
I would always try to reach the Twitter team if
possible. Just make sure to exercise good
manners when utilizing social media.
While it's appropriate to detail any issues you're
experiencing, venting your grievances in a rude
or verbally abusive tone will not help social
media response teams resolve the dilemma faster.
--------------
Download the right tools.
You never know when a delay will strike. To stay
prepared, download a flight-tracking app like
FlightAware and rely on valuable tools like
AirHelp, which gives passengers the power to
check if they're eligible to receive compensation
for a delay or cancellation.
If you believe you could be eligible for
compensation, you can punch in information
about your trip along with your flight number on
AirHelp's mobile app or website; then, if eligible,
the company will file a claim on your behalf.
"To make this process easier, AirHelp’s mobile
app has a simple Boarding Pass Scanner that
allows you take a picture of your pass and
automatically uploads all the necessary flight
details to file a claim through our
Remember: Different rules apply
for delays overseas.
When traveling overseas, there are different
European Union regulations in place. Fliers should
familiarize themselves with EU Regulation 261/2004,
the rules for long delays and cancellations.
In Europe, if you arrive more than three hours later
than your original arrival time, you may be entitled
to compensation, Zillmer says.
The amount you may be entitled to receive in the
event of a delay in the EU (anywhere from 50 to 600
euros) is based on a few factors, including your
flight distance and delay length. "You have far more
bargaining chips on international flights, and trips
that include a stop in the EU,"
------------------
Negotiate with your carrier.
If your flight is canceled and you think you may be
entitled to compensation, "don't sign anything or
accept any offers, including future travel offers, or
other freebies and discounts," until you have vetted
all of your options, "If you do, you could be waiving
your right to further compensation down the line,"
While U.S. airlines are not required to provide you
with freebies, many carriers aim to aid
inconvenienced fliers as part of their customer
service initiatives and loyalty programs, he explains.
"You'd be surprised how often gate agents and
other airline representatives are receptive to your
complaints,"
---------------------
Consider investing in travel
insurance.
"It’s hard to say whether purchasing travel
insurance is beneficial or not because every
circumstance is different,"
. In some instances, your policy could prevent you
from being eligible to claim compensation at a later
date, so it's key to review the fine print of both your
carrier and your selected travel insurance company
to understand the policy conditions and what's
included – and what isn't.
While you should always read the fine print,
investing in travel insurance can be a wise move,
especially if you're continuing onward. For
instance, in a case where your delayed flight causes
you to miss your cruise, you can file a claim for
reimbursement.
--------------------
Hold onto your documents.
When you arrive at your final destination, make sure
to keep copies of your boarding pass and other
travel documents.
"Many airlines will reject a legitimate claim for
disrupted flights if you don’t have these documents,
so it’s important not to toss these documents until
you’ve successfully completed your journey
without any hiccups," .
He suggests holding onto receipts in the event the
delay winds up costing you. "You may be able to
recover expenses caused by flight delays, including
missed reservations for [your] hotel or car rentals,"
for delays overseas.
When traveling overseas, there are different
European Union regulations in place. Fliers should
familiarize themselves with EU Regulation 261/2004,
the rules for long delays and cancellations.
In Europe, if you arrive more than three hours later
than your original arrival time, you may be entitled
to compensation, Zillmer says.
The amount you may be entitled to receive in the
event of a delay in the EU (anywhere from 50 to 600
euros) is based on a few factors, including your
flight distance and delay length. "You have far more
bargaining chips on international flights, and trips
that include a stop in the EU,"
------------------
Negotiate with your carrier.
If your flight is canceled and you think you may be
entitled to compensation, "don't sign anything or
accept any offers, including future travel offers, or
other freebies and discounts," until you have vetted
all of your options, "If you do, you could be waiving
your right to further compensation down the line,"
While U.S. airlines are not required to provide you
with freebies, many carriers aim to aid
inconvenienced fliers as part of their customer
service initiatives and loyalty programs, he explains.
"You'd be surprised how often gate agents and
other airline representatives are receptive to your
complaints,"
---------------------
Consider investing in travel
insurance.
"It’s hard to say whether purchasing travel
insurance is beneficial or not because every
circumstance is different,"
. In some instances, your policy could prevent you
from being eligible to claim compensation at a later
date, so it's key to review the fine print of both your
carrier and your selected travel insurance company
to understand the policy conditions and what's
included – and what isn't.
While you should always read the fine print,
investing in travel insurance can be a wise move,
especially if you're continuing onward. For
instance, in a case where your delayed flight causes
you to miss your cruise, you can file a claim for
reimbursement.
--------------------
Hold onto your documents.
When you arrive at your final destination, make sure
to keep copies of your boarding pass and other
travel documents.
"Many airlines will reject a legitimate claim for
disrupted flights if you don’t have these documents,
so it’s important not to toss these documents until
you’ve successfully completed your journey
without any hiccups," .
He suggests holding onto receipts in the event the
delay winds up costing you. "You may be able to
recover expenses caused by flight delays, including
missed reservations for [your] hotel or car rentals,"
| Buyheremarket.blogspot.com |
| Visionairebiz.blogspot.com |
Finding the Right Web Host
We have rigorously tested each of these web hosts.
To measure uptime and server response time, we put
up identical web sites at each hosting service we
review, and have monitored all of them every five
minutes continuously for more than three years.
To measure web hosting quality, we signed up for
each service and then went about doing the things a
normal user would do.
We tested WordPress installations, shopping cart
programs, and site builders. We also contacted
technical support at each web host to determine the
quality of customer service.
We have rigorously tested each of these web hosts.
To measure uptime and server response time, we put
up identical web sites at each hosting service we
review, and have monitored all of them every five
minutes continuously for more than three years.
To measure web hosting quality, we signed up for
each service and then went about doing the things a
normal user would do.
We tested WordPress installations, shopping cart
programs, and site builders. We also contacted
technical support at each web host to determine the
quality of customer service.
How to Create a Website
After you've set up your web hosting account, you can
decide how you want to build a website. Most web hosts
offer you a way to build a site right in your web browser.
There are also site-building programs from companies like
Adobe, Apple, and Microsoft (as well as free options) that
provide greater flexibility.
If you want an easier start, try creating a blog. Most web
hosts allow you to do this in just a few clicks, and you can
incorporate it into a more full-featured site later, when
you're ready
After you've set up your web hosting account, you can
decide how you want to build a website. Most web hosts
offer you a way to build a site right in your web browser.
There are also site-building programs from companies like
Adobe, Apple, and Microsoft (as well as free options) that
provide greater flexibility.
If you want an easier start, try creating a blog. Most web
hosts allow you to do this in just a few clicks, and you can
incorporate it into a more full-featured site later, when
you're ready
Web Hosting Reviews & Ratings
View Full Comparison Chart
Services: Our Ratings: Bottom Line:
Hostmonster Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Great balance of price, features and support: includes exclusive
discount of over 40%
HostGator Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Reliable web host with a 25% exclusive discount (code:
NEXTADVISOR), good for beginners; particularly strong for advanced
users
FatCow Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Low cost plan with good reliability; easy shopping cart creator;
green host; 60% exclusive discount
Network Solutions Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Mediocre service as well as some quirks keep it from being a gold
standard; offers Windows hosting
GreenGeeks Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Reliable green web host, free domain privacy, but clunky beginner
tools; better for intermediate and advanced users
BlueHost Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Nice service and features, exclusive discount, but it's a pricier
version of Hostmonster
1&1 Web Hosting Rating: stars
Read Full Review
A good bargain with strong tools and Windows hosting, but the
outsourced support is only average
Lunarpages Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Easy online site builder for beginners but tricky control panel; solid
Windows hosting option
iPage Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Inexpensive one-year plan with exclusive discount; geared towards
beginners and intermediates
Myhosting.com Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Very basic web host at a reasonable price; lacks features and
options for intermediate and advanced users.
Yahoo! Aabaco Small Business Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Aabaco retains Yahoo!'s integrated web builder and other features,
making it great for beginners; support quality and newness are small
concerns to keep in mind
Just Host Rating: stars
Read Full Review
A mid-priced option with decent features but poor customer support
and policies
Dreamhost Rating: stars
Read Full Review
For intermediate to advanced users; fast data transfer and free
domain privacy but very limited support
HostPapa Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Green hosting and domain privacy are pluses, though interface was
challenging and support uneven
InMotion Web Hosting Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Adequate web hosting but needs upgrades; limited MySQL
databases, advanced features.
Register.com Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Discounted first year; frustrating limitations for advanced users,
counterintuitive for beginners
Website Building Reviews & Ratings
View Full Comparison Chart
Services: Our Ratings: Bottom Line:
GoDaddy WebBuilder Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Limitless editing options; online menu builder is handy for restaurants;
easy-to-customize templates; ability to add or edit HTML coding
Wix Rating: stars
Read Full Review
HTML 5 drag-and-drop editor; free and paid plans; hundreds of
templates; highly customizable features in its app market
Weebly Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Many detailed features for setting up an online store on your website;
drag-and-drop editor makes page building easy; stellar customer service
Squarespace Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Unlimited bandwidth and storage with all of its plans; extensive options
for e-commerce; top-notch customer service
Yola Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Sleek templates; decent editing tools; outstanding customer service and
30-day money back guarantee; mobile optimization only available on select
plans
Jimdo Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Clean, user-friendly interface; forever-free plan has little to no advanced
features; excellent customer service; lacking in additional customization
tools
Voog Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Simple website builder; somewhat limited template selection;
multilingual capabilities; lacking in some of the features that similar services
offer to users
Web.com Rating: stars
Read Full Review
SEO and e-commerce only available on select plans; design templates
and other tools are extremely dated; plans are on the expensive side
WebStarts Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Fairly easy to use; not all plans include mobile optimization; standard
website building features come at a hefty price tag with this provider
Lunarpages Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Building tools and site as a whole aren't user-friendly; old templates and
fonts offer limited customization; poor customer support and help tools
Travel Sites Reviews & Ratings
View Full Comparison Chart
Services: Our Ratings: Bottom Line:
Expedia Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Bright, inviting interface offers users a pleasant experience and options
for a tailor-made vacation; features some of the lowest prices available for
flights and hotels
Hotwire Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Simplistic approach to booking the basics; uncluttered interface and low
prices offered to travelers looking for a quick and efficient reservation
process
Orbitz Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Intensive and interactive forum for the experienced traveler; low prices
are available for those willing to do some digging
Priceline Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Geared toward travelers with some flexibility; allows users without
concrete travel dates to place bids and enjoy marginally lower prices
CheapAir Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Simple and clear-cut approach to travel and booking services at fair
prices; customizable deals and focused results but few filter options
Booking.com Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Lodging options only available for booking; helpful and clear-cut
approach to online hotel reservations
TripAdvisor Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Somewhat cluttered interface and overwhelming number of pop-up offers
are distracting from an otherwise helpful and thorough travel site
Travelocity Rating: stars
Read Full Review
User-friendly and simple service with standard search features and filters;
helpful for those looking to book more than one reservation simultaneously,
but somewhat lackluster in specific search tools
Hotels.com Rating: stars
Read Full Review
Simplistic approach to booking hotel reservations; highly specific search
filters are a singular bright spot in an otherwise frustrating booking process