Vacationers right this moment are offered with more booking options than ever before. Online travel businesses (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search results, providing offers and comparisons across hundreds of properties. Nevertheless, a rising number of seasoned vacationers are choosing to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can offer unique advantages that third-party platforms simply can’t match.

Higher Rates and Perks

One of many biggest misconceptions within the journey world is that OTAs always offer the lowest prices. While they usually advertise unique offers, many hotels assure one of the best rate on their own websites. Some even supply worth matching or reductions for guests who book directly.

Beyond value, booking directly often comes with added perks. These may include free breakfast, room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, or complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. These extras can significantly enhance your stay and are usually reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.

Greater Flexibility

One other key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels offer more beneficiant cancellation and modification policies while you book through their site. With OTAs, modifications can be more sophisticated and typically incur higher fees, especially if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.

Direct communication with the hotel also makes it easier to customise your stay. Want a crib in the room? Desire a particular floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly rather than through a third-party portal.

Loyalty Rewards and Exclusive Presents

In case you’re a frequent traveler, becoming a member of a hotel’s loyalty program can be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, or other benefits. Most chains—reminiscent of Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.

Hotels also tend to promote their greatest affords directly on their websites or by way of electronic mail to subscribers. These exclusive packages could include seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that are not available through OTAs.

Higher Customer Service

Once you book through a third-party site and something goes incorrect—equivalent to overbooking or a cancellation—it may be harder to resolve the difficulty quickly. Hotels often have limited ability to make changes or issue refunds for OTA bookings, which means you could have to go through the third party’s customer support, which can delay solutions.

Booking directly gives you a direct line of communication with the hotel staff. If any problems arise, it’s simpler and faster to find a resolution. Hotels typically prioritize guests who book with them over those who come through OTAs when it comes to upgrades and problem resolution.

When OTAs Would possibly Be Useful

That said, OTAs do provide benefits in particular situations. They’re excellent tools for evaluating prices, places, and amenities across a number of properties at once. Some additionally bundle offers with flights or car leases for added savings. In case you’re booking a visit on quick discover or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide useful consumer reviews and ratings that simplify the choice process.

In uncommon cases, third-party platforms may need access to special rates throughout high-demand intervals or supply loyalty points through their own programs, comparable to Expedia Rewards. Nonetheless, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a last decision.

The Backside Line

Booking directly with hotels usually leads to raised service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs can be helpful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers increasingly turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Earlier than locking in your next keep, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you could be stunned at what you find.

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