Something I don't get about expensive vs cheap hotels

[bobsmith1492]

I've stayed at some very comfy hotels in the $40 range with breakfast and internet included. As they say, YMMV

 

[shortylickens]

OK, based on what I saw: BMW's are more expensive in a given class, but have more stuff as standard. However, Lexus seems to have more customizable options in a given class, and the upgrades are cheaper. So if you know exactly what you want you could end up with the Lexus being cheaper and a better deal for the money.
Honestly I think it would have more to do with personal preference than flat out getting ripped off.

 

[kalrith]

OP, I hear you! I'll stay at a nice hotel every once in a while, but I enjoy staying at some place like the Holiday Inn with everything included, sometimes even a breakfast buffet.

 

[K1052]

Thing is, when you travel enough, you pick up status and a lot of the little crap like internet or breakfast become free.

I'm pretty loyal to Starwood hotels, though, because for the most part they have always gone out of their way to treat me well at their properties. Even now that I'm not traveling for work anymore and no longer have status, they're still really good about finding rooms for me if I call in on a fully booked hotel. Sometimes they hold a few back on the club level or have a wait list, but they always do whatever they can for you.

Close second are the Fairmont properties.

/thread

Loyalty programs are how you get the most out of hotels. If you travel with any regularity you'll achieve status.

Even the base level of the Fairmont President's club gives you free internet and some other amenities that they charge a la carte for. Heck, it got me upgraded from a standard room to a casita the size of my condo at their Mayakoba property.