by Kaitlyn Hamilton

Created on: July 13, 2008

The internet has made finding last minute vacation deals a breeze these days. If you ever discover that you suddenly have some free time on your hands and you want to take a vacation, then I recommond a little internet research.

First, you need to figure out where you want to go and what you want to do while you are there. If there is a particular attraction you want to see or an area you want to be near, then suggest going to Google.com and typing in the city and attraction you wish to be near followed by the word "hotel" or "lodging". This is sure to pull up several options if there are any available at all.

Once you have located a few possible hotels, motels, ins, or rental properties nearby look to see if there are any customer reviews or comments about the properties of interest. Also, type in the address into Google to see what types of business or attractions pop up in the general area.

Once you have narrowed your search down to three or four possible properties, go to each of their websites, if available, and see if there are any internet specials for the dates you would like to stay. Before you book, also go to different internet sites such as Expedia.com, travelocity.com, hotels.com, hotwire.com, sidestep.com, orbitz.com, eztrip.com, or any of the other dozens of sites available. If you aren't sure where to find them, then go to Google.com and type in the words "hotel discount" and I can assure you that plenty of options will come up for you.

Pay close attention to more than just the price of the room though. You want to find out if there is free parking, free breakfast, free shuttle service to your local attractions, or any other features that might be of interest to you. Don't forget to look at their package deals that include meals and entertainment. Also, look for star ratings and customer comments on these websites as well. After all, is it really a bargain if you stay in the cheapest hotel but are unhappy because of poor service, unclean conditions, or possible safety issues?

There is one last trick that you can try before booking. If you are looking at possibly staying with a major hotel chain, call their 800 number for reservations. Ask the agent to quote you the lowest rate available. I was previously a reservation agent for Days Inn, Ramada Inn, and Howard Johnson (all part of Cendant). If you asked for the lowest rate available they were required to research and give you the lowest discounted rate available to you through their computer system. For those of you who don't know, reservation agents are sales clerks no different than sales clerks at a car lot. If you don't ask for the discounted rates, they will quote you the highest rate possible so they will make more commission. Also, don't be shy. Tell the agent right away if you are a senior citizen or if you have AAA, AARP, or any other discount cards. It never hurts to ask!

Once you have done your research on the internet and by phone, then it is time to make your decision. Just don't risk your safety by staying in a high crime area for the sake of saving a few dollars. It never pays. If you do a little research and take the time to make a few phone calls, then I'm sure that you will find a comfortable and safe place to stay at a reasonable price.

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