HotelChatter

Travel Agents Are Your Friends
Turns out the rumor of the travel agents demise are highly exaggerated, according too...travel agents! Book your hotel through a well-connected travel agent, says Veith, an agent with hi-end travel specialist Virtuoso.

Reserve Your Rewards
"Always ask the reservation department if there are any sales or perks," says Veith. "Often times general reservations will only tell you about rack rates and do not tell you about the fifth night free or the bed and breakfast plan. Those reduced rate packages can have great value for little extra money."

It Never Hurts to Ask
If the hotel isn't full, says Veith, they just might accommodate you. "It never hurts to ask at check-in if there may be any complimentary upgrades."

Cause for Celebration
Mentioning a special occasion (anniversary, wedding, birthday) can land you perks like a bottle of wine, fruit plate, or small gift. Yeah, kind of like when they sing to you at the Olive Garden. In our experience, the more you involve hotel staff in your vacation the more perks you're apt get. A friend of HotelChatter recently proposed to his girlfriend and left the engagement ring with the maître'd until it was time to pop the question. I'm sure that got him a few upgrades!

Come Back, Often
Many resorts and cruise lines offer special amenities for repeat guests; find out if you are eligible and sign up. Perks range from T-shirts to discounts and parties, says Veith.

All About the Benjamins
Yes, the age-old advice is still true: if you tip the concierge, you'll see results. "They can create miracles for you if you treat them well," says Veith. "Those reservations at the table on the water may all of the sudden become available."