Saturday, April 19, 2008

Can't hurt to ask

Sean is away speaking at a conference this weekend. It was sort of a last minute deal so there was not time to be frugal about making hotel arrangements. I looked around on Expedia, Orbitz and Priceline. The lowest quote they were giving for the hotel of choice (indoor pool and hot breakfast) was $85. The "regular" price was $99. He is taking some of the older girls, so waffles and a swim were a must for a fun weekend. I really didn't want to do the bid thing since there were some less than appealing options that might result.

Sean encouraged me a few hours before he left just to give the hotel a direct call and inform them of the conference. Did they have a discount rate for those participating?

They had no idea there was a conference, but were more than generous in offering a room for $60. Wow, didn't expect that!! One simple question was worth $25.

I'm glad I asked.

8 comments:

Amanda said...

That is awesome! Good for you! That's 25 more dollars in waffles - YUM! :)

Tisha Alexander said...

Wow, $60 for an indoor pool and hot breakfast is a STEAL! Great job!

Sarah said...

That's really cool! I've had pretty good luck getting 1/2 price or better deals with Priceline. There are some websites with helpful information on how to get the best bid and bid more than once within 24 hrs. Give me a call the next time you need to book a room.

A slight bummer is they can upgrade you. I recently wanted a nice 2.5* hotel with free breakfast and internet and got a 3* without both.

Carlie Faulk said...

Good job! Never be afraid to ask!!

Another thing to think about - we always stay at a Sheraton hotel. Hubby earns points with his work. I pay the base price (usually 85.00) and use my points to upgrade to a penthouse with free breakfast. We get a $229.00 room for only 85.00. Plus we earn more points.

If you're hubby travels alot you might check into it. I always thought it was a waste of time, but it really adds up over time.

Unknown said...

that is so great, Monica. It's also a good reminder to ask about stuff like that. We've gotten burned before...one time sticks out in my mind. We went to St. Louis for one night and when we got there, parking for just overnight was 25 dollars. (They didn't mention that when we booked.) I wonder what would have happened if we'd asked them to waive that when we made the reservation.

I'm glad Hannah had fun. Baylee had a great time too.

TTYS - Sniz

Wani said...

Don't ya love it when that happens!?! Its amazing the money we can save if we only ask!
BTW - this is Hannah Stahlhut's sister - the one that saw you and your kids at Chick-fil-A during the free breakfast deal. sigh... I miss free breakfasts on Wednesdays. mmmm... chicken minis.... sounds good!

mindi said...

Wow - great idea!! I always have to call to get a military discount - but it's worth it :)

Mary@notbefore7 said...

Wow - good for you all! What a great deal. It never does hurt to ask!