If you’re traveling this summer, you might want to budget some extra money because hotel fees have gotten out of control. As Business Insider discovered, one resort in Hawaii is now charging a $50 convenience fee just for checking in. That’s crazy!
Hotel fees are really nothing new. It all started with resort fees years ago. This was an extra fee that resorts charged to cover things like the use of beach chairs, swimming pools, fitness centers, etc. It wasn’t long after that regular hotels started charging an ancillary fee, although most do not offer any special amenities.
Now, properties are getting even more brazen with their charges. One angry business traveler told The Wall Street Journal he found three unexpected charges added to his bill from a four-night stay at a conference resort in Arizona – a $10 bellman gratuity charge, a daily $3 charge for maid gratuity, and a $22 credit card processing fee. Making matters worse, this patron did not use bell services and left a cash tip for housekeeping.
Travelers are becoming increasingly aggravated by these extra fees and charges, especially when they come as a surprise. Many are demanding properties be more transparent about fees and feel this practice is shady, saying the price you are ultimately charged does not match advertised prices.
Have you ever encountered an unexpected fee at a hotel or resort? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and let us know if you think properties should stop nickel and diming guests and just increase the room rate so consumers know exactly what the final cost will be.
