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How to Choose the Best Hotel for Your Next Trip?

Team AckoFeb 27, 2024

Choosing the right hotel for your vacation can be complicated. You can end up spending a lot of time selecting a place and then paying an exorbitant amount to book it, only to be disappointed upon visiting it. However, with certain cautionary steps, you can avoid such a scenario. With this guide, you will be equipped to find a hotel that is ideal for your needs so you can have an enjoyable and memorable trip.

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Contents

Picking the best hotel for your next trip
Be mindful

Picking the best hotel for your next trip

Here are six pointers to help you choose the best hotel for your next trip.

1. Researching hotels and reading reviews

When researching hotels, it is important to look at a variety of sources. Some review-based travel websites can provide unbiased reviews from real customers, and it is beneficial to filter these reviews to those from recent stays. Star ratings can also provide insight into the quality of the hotel. Applicable elite programs offer exclusive discounts and benefits, while online booking sites present great deals on hotel stays. Collecting information from all these sources can help you make an informed decision while booking a hotel.

2. Online booking sites

Online research can make it easy to compare prices and find suitable accommodation. Usually, online booking sites have filters, star ratings and guest reviews which can also be useful while looking for a place to stay. To further optimise your search experience, consider checking out any credit card benefits and loyalty programs offered by these sites as well.

3. Guest reviews

When selecting a hotel, reviews from other travellers should be checked thoroughly. Independent review sites are useful for discovering a good hotel for your needs. Read reviews in detail and check the reputation of the hotel you want. For example, a website like TripAdvisor has filters to show positive ratings. It's important to consider your preferences before searching; if you aren't sure what you need, it will be hard to pick the right one. Although it can be tricky, research and exploration of reviews can help you find an ideal accommodation.

4. Star ratings

When looking for a hotel, it is essential to factor in the star rating system. Ratings may range from one to five stars, with one being the lowest and five being the highest. Not all systems are equal, so comparing ratings between travel websites and associations is a must. Location can greatly affect the rating, as hotels in busier areas are less likely to receive lower scores. To make sure you get the best of both worlds, finding a hotel that meets your needs while having the highest possible rating, reading reviews from other travellers on independent websites is highly advised.

5. Elite programs

Joining a hotel loyalty program can help you save money and make the most of your stay. Such programs often provide upgrades, free food and drinks, etc. Early check-in and late check-out, priority access to special events, etc., may be added perks. Before choosing a hotel stay, review the related loyalty programs and their associated benefits to see if they match any of your needs. Additionally, weigh the annual membership fee with how often you'll be travelling to gain rewards from it before making a decision. Lastly, some credit cards withhold rewards specifically for hotel stays; investigate that possibility too.

6. Hotels to consider

When choosing a hotel to stay at, there are different categories available.

Luxury hotels feature services and amenities such as concierge services and spa treatments.
More budget-friendly options are offered by budget hotels that have basic amenities and services.
Business travellers may prefer hotels with amenities such as conference rooms and business centres.
Some hotels offer rewards and discounts.
Credit cards can give bonus points or discounts when booking certain hotels.

There is a category of hotel suitable for every traveller's needs.

Luxury hotels

When selecting a hotel, you may want to opt for a luxury hotel. These types of hotels are famous for offering quality service, amenities, and general comfort. They usually have concierge services, room service, exclusive clubs and spa access, and bigger rooms with high-end features such as designer toiletries and comfy beds. Plus, luxury hotels normally provide distinguished dining experiences too. When researching these options online, it is wise to read reviews from other guests concerning the quality of the services.

Budget hotels

When on a budget, budget hotels can be considered. Generally, these may have fewer amenities as compared to luxury hotels. However, basic requirements like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioners and comfortable beds are often present. Also, their rates can prove cost-effective in comparison to other types of hotels; this is beneficial for long-distance or extended trips. Before deciding on a budget hotel, guest reviews must be checked, and an online comparison should be made to review amenities and prices offered by various hotels. Credit card benefits such as bonus points and discounts should also be taken advantage of while making bookings.

Business travellers needs

When booking a hotel for business, it is helpful to check amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and in-room workstations. Search for highly rated hotels and read reviews. Elite programs or credit card benefits can provide cost savings. Doing research ahead of time helps to find the right hotel for your requirements.

Receive benefits with hotel stays when paying with a credit card

Credit cards can provide many advantages for hotel stays, such as upgrades, discounts or even free rooms or flights. Rewards programs found on credit cards make it possible to acquire points which can be exchanged for free nights. Elite status with certain hotels allows exclusive lounge access and early check-in. It is essential to compare different offers before deciding on the right hotel credit card or travel credit card according to needs.

Be mindful

When deciding on a hotel for your next trip, take time to research online booking sites, guest reviews and different types of hotels. Think about what is important to you and remain mindful of your budget. Such an approach allows you to make an informed decision and find the right hotel for you.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.

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