MissLJBeauty

Have you ever made a big mistake when booking a hotel? You're not alone. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of stories online of people having a nightmare stay at their hotel because they were hoodwinked or didn't research their destination thoroughly.

But can you really avoid booking dire hotels, ruining your stay, and wasting your money? In some cases, you can't, and you can do everything right and still end up with a nightmare experience. But there are things you can do to limit this happening and ensure you get exactly what you need, and these tips can help.

Book What You Need

Don't just book based on price alone or location; book the hotel you need based on your requirements. Do you need a hotel set up for long-stayers or equipped with amenities to make it feel like a home from home? More like an apartment than a hotel room? Then look for options that can accommodate this, like upscale East Market Apartments. But if you only need a bed to sleep on after a concert or a West End show, for example, then you need a more simple central hotel offering a comfortable bed in a convenient location.

Research

Research is not just important; it's crucial to avoiding accommodation disasters. Check out review sites such as TripAdvisor and the hotel's website, read travel blogs or features, and find everything you can about where you're planning to stay. This thorough research will not only make you feel more secure but also ensure you're fully prepared for your stay. Because the more you know, the better idea you can form to decide if it's right for you. Especially if you're travelling further afield or for longer durations.

Your research can uncover the quality of the hotel, the amenities included, the location, any hidden fees or charges you might be subject to, and any issues previously encountered by guests.

Pay Full Rates

Where possible, always try to pay full rates. Sure, getting a good deal is a bonus, but generally, people who pay full rates in reputable establishments don't get bad rooms or poor service. So, instead of haggling at the price or looking for the lowest accommodation for your budget, look at paying the full rates or booking directly with the hotel. This can ensure you get the best room possible and may even come with additional perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.

Types of Room

Don't just look at the one type of room available; look at all the different options. It might be that smaller, cheaper rooms aren't really all that, and you might end up disappointed. Booking a better room or looking at what other rooms are available, if applicable, can help you avoid booking something that will ruin your trip.