Customers Frustrated with Hotel Rewards Programs Should try Vacation Rentals
December 27, 2006. Travelers who signed up for hotel reward programs have begun to voice their frustrations with recent spikes in the cost to redeem their reward points. As the New York Times' "Practical Traveler" pointed out, the recent rise in lodging costs has increased the amount of points needed to earn a free stay. In many cases, however, the changes have outpaced the true increase in hotel room rates.
National average daily room rates have increased by about 14 percent in the last six years, according to Smith Travel Research, a firm that examines lodging industry information. The Hilton's awards program, however, has required up to 33 percent more reward points, according to the article. A Hilton spokesperson told the Practical Traveler that the seemingly unfair hike comes from an increase in specific demand for certain types of hotels and rooms.
Whatever the case, the story highlights the need for consumers to be aware when staying at hotels for the sake of reward points programs.
Vacation rentals offer a great alternative to the large hotel chains. They may not have frequent user programs, but their advantages lie in amenities, quality and spaciousness. We recommend using companies such as VacationRental.org, which require rentals to meet a standard of excellence.
