Question about making hotel reservations online??

Question

When you make a hotel reservation online do they charge you the full amount when you make the reservation? Or so you make the payment when you check in? Also is it safe to make a reservation online? Meaning, am I actually going to have a room when I get there or should I follow the online reservation up w/ a phone call? Thanks =]

Answer 1

Hi. Making an online resevervation from a known site (Lastminute.com, Ebookers.com or Expedia.com) is very safe. Normally they take the money up front but sometimes they ask you to pay the hotel when you check out. Either way the hotel will take a copy of your credit card and passport for the room / extras (phone calls, room service, mini bar, etc.). If you book online, definitely shop around for a good deal. Booking in advance will save you money. You will also get emailed confirmation of your booking (and usually a voucher tat you give to the hotel when you check in) but it is always best to call the hotel up and check that they have your booking (can take 24 hours to transfer to their own systems so leave it a day or so before you call). The benefits of calling the hotel is it gives you peace of mind but you can then also check your room preferences such as asking for a double or a twin or a smoking / non-smoking room and the view you have.

At the time of booking, you will be told if you are prepaying for the room or if you have to pay when you check out. A word of advice: even if it costs you a little more, please try to book a room that includes breakfast otherwise you will pay a lot for this at the hotel or you will end up having to find your own breakfast at locals cafes outside.

I hope this helps but if there is anything else, just shout.

Have fun!