Traveling is a game with rules that are constantly changing. The airlines have led with more and more ways to charge you. However they aren’t the only ones. Hotels are changing their rules and practices and there are now things you as a traveler need to know that they would just as well not tell you.

1. You will get the best room rate if you call the local phone number instead of the 800 number. Calling the local number you will reach the hotel manager on duty and he (she) can negotiate room rates. The 800 number will take you to a centralized national call center with computer rates and no ability to negotiate.

2. Rooms are more expensive in the morning. The best time to make a reservation is right after 6 pm when hotels wipe out all the no-show reservations that were unsecured with a credit card. They then offer those rooms at bargain prices. Note: In high occupancy cities like New York and Chicago, the deadline is 4 pm.

3. Everything is negotiable. Think phone charges are over priced? What about parking? Some hotels have considerable latitude in negotiating these charges but you must ask for it.

4. Your bags aren’t safe with the bellhop. Luggage can be stolen right off the luggage carts in the lobby. This is especially true of smaller bags like laptops and briefcases. They are often left unattended and despite being left in the possession of the bellhop, hotels generally assume no responsibility. Better to check your bags in the locked luggage storeroom.

5. Rooms are available even when a hotel has no vacanacies. In any large hotel, a few rooms usually are listed as "out of order" at any given time. The problems might be something as simple as a stain on the carpet or a chair that has been sent out for repair. If you are desperate for a last minute room in a hotel that claims to ahve none available, tell teh manager that you are willing to take an out-of-order room that has only a minor problem.

6. Hotels rooms are infested with germs. Certain items in hotel rooms never get cleaned. The biggest trouble spots are the TV remote, telephone, and clock radio. Moreover, although the linens are cleaned daily, the blankets and bedspreads are cleaned only every few months. Ask for clean blankets, etc. as soon as you arrive. Take antibacterial wipes and use liberally.

7. A thief takes only one credit card, not your entire wallet. Crime is common in hotels. The latest wrinkle is thieves now only take one credit card instead of your entire wallet leaving everything else untouched -- much harder to notice. Don’t leave your wallet unattended and take only those cards you will need. Use the hotel safe if uneasy about leaving anything valuable in your room.

8. The lost and found can be a great resource for cell phone users. If you forget your cell phone recharging cord, don’t buy a replacement. The hotel’s lost and found will likely be able to accommodate you since chargiong cords are the most often left behind. They’ll lend you one if asked.

Source: Bottom Line