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Beware the Hotel Surcharges

Not too long ago, we reported that hotels were making serious cash off business travelers through "billing mistakes."

Now comes a report that hotels will make about about $1.4 billion this year, just by tacking on fees to room rates.

The New York Times reports that the surcharges are so out of control, one analyst for the hospitality and leisure industries can't keep track of them all.

Common surcharges?

• $2.50 to $5 for a mini-bar "restocking fee", even if you just take one can of soda.
  
• $2 or more per bag stowed at the bell desk.
  
• $5 or more for room service in addition to an automatic gratuity of 17 percent or more.
  
• Set fees for room safes (whether they are used or not.)
  
• Additional fees for holding an incoming package for a guest and even for bellhop service.
  
• $12 fee for maid service.
  
• $5 for the first page of a fax.

Related Stories:
·   Hotels Binge on Surcharges [NY Times]
·   Bizness Travelers Getting Gypped [HotelChatter]