Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
4
Sleeping
In common with many cities, Seattle's sleeping options are plentiful and
varied. Want to drive up to a motor inn and park your car where you
can see it through the window? You can do that. Rather slink up in a
limo and look down your nose at the overworked bellhop? You can do
that too, as well as everything in between.
Room Rates & Fees
Unless otherwise indicated, the prices listed in this topic are for a double room, not in-
cluding tax or extra fees such as parking, breakfast or internet access. Note that the
prices quoted are what you can expect to pay in peak season - generally May through
August. However, it is important to be aware that prices can vary wildly depending on
day of the week and whether there are festivals or events going on in town. Seattle hotel
rooms are also subject to a room tax of 15.6% (less for most B&Bs and historical prop-
erties) that will be tacked on to the final bill. The rates listed here don't include tax.
Essentially all downtown hotels charge extra for parking, if they have it. It's been said
that half the population of Portland, OR, consists of people who couldn't find a place to
park in Seattle and, searching in ever-widening circles, eventually wound up in Portland,
where they stayed. Many hotels downtown don't offer parking but can direct you to paid
lots nearby. Our reviews note whether parking is available; usual rates start at around
$20 a night. If there's no icon in the review, you're on your own. Look for street meters
and paid parking garages downtown, or off-street parking elsewhere.
FINDING DEALS
Many downtown hotels participate in Seattle Super Saver Packages, a program run by
the Convention & Visitors Bureau. Room prices are generally 50% off the rack rates
from November through March, with substantial discounts all year, and they come with
a coupon book that offers savings on dining, shopping and attractions. For more details,
see the website:
www.visitseattle.org
. Alternatively, the Seattle B&B Association has a
searchable list of affiliated B&Bs.
FREE EXTRAS
Everyone likes a freebie. It's par for the course to offer free high-speed wireless internet
service in Seattle hotels these days. Most establishments also have a computer terminal
