Travel Lodging

38. Compare and Reserve your lodging online.

Numerous websites have negotiated low hotel rates and secure online reservations. They are worth your while, especially during high season. Youth hostels are a good alternative for students.

Apartment-hotels generally give you more space, a small kitchen unit and are cheaper, especially adapted for families.

39. Confirm the checkout time to avoid being billed for late checkout.

Most hotels post a departure time when guests must vacate their rooms and advising the front desk immediately if there is a problem with this is prudent. Late checkouts are often permitted if approved by the hotel management in advance.

Another way to ensure you get what you paid for is, when you are booking and or checking into a hotel, to request approval for late arrival/departure just as a precaution.

40. Staff and employees on location where you are staying are wonderful sources of information.

Do not hesitate to strike up a conversation or ask questions. This offers you with yet another avenue to secure valuable travel information and local tips and perspective. Asking for instructions, directions, advise and help will often be met with an eagerness to serve.

Staff enjoy being of assistance to their guests and meaningfully contribute in any way, shape or form, that they can.

Remember your thoughtfulness for the room attendance, valet and bellhop (if applicable) with appropriate tips and a little note if you so choose to show your appreciation. If they are still there on any repeat visit, they will be sure to remember you!

41. Securely leave your bags at your lodging AFTER you check out...

site see the pick them up when you're ready to leave. Make sure that you luggage is left in a safe place under lock and key and is clearly identified with your name.

You could even tie the handles of your bags together with a piece of string with a sheet of paper with your name visible... to avoid inadvertent misplacing of your bags.