Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» Some midrange places may ask for a cheque or cash deposit into a bank account to secure a reservation. This is usu-
ally more hassle than it's worth. Some places honour phone reservations - call to re-confirm the day before you arrive,
especially during high tourist seasons.
» Some budget options won't take reservations as they don't know when people are going to check-out; call ahead to
check or just turn up around check-in time.
» Other places will want a deposit at check-in - ask for a receipt and be wary of any request to sign a blank impression
of your credit card. If the hotel insists, consider going to the nearest ATM and paying cash.
» Verify the check-out time when you check-in - some hotels have a fixed check-out time (usually 10am or noon),
while others offer 24-hour check-out. In some places, check-out can be as early as 9am.
Seasons
» Rates given are full price in high season. For places like Goa and Kerala high season is basically one month before
and two months after Christmas; in the hill stations it's usually from around April to July.
» In areas popular with foreign tourists, there's an additional peak period over Christmas and New Year; make reserva-
tions well in advance.
» At other times you may find significant discounts; if the hotel seems quiet, ask for one.
» Some hotels in places like Goa largely shut during the monsoon period. Certain hill stations close down during winter.
» Many temple towns have additional peak seasons around major festivals and pilgrimages.
Taxes & Service Charges
» State governments slap a variety of taxes on hotel accommodation (except at the cheaper hotels), and these are added
to the cost of your room.
» Taxes vary from state to state. Even within a state, prices can vary across price ranges, with more expensive hotels
levying higher taxes.
» Many upmarket hotels also add an additional 'service charge' (usually around 10%).
» Rates quoted in this topic include taxes, unless noted.
» Some upscale restaurants may add a service charge (between 10% and 13%) on meals.
Budget & Midrange Hotels
» Apart from some traditional wood or stone guesthouses in remote mountain areas, most budget and midrange hotels
are modern-style concrete blocks with requisite creature comforts. Some are charming, clean and good value; others less
so.
» Room quality can vary considerably within a hotel so try to inspect a few rooms first; avoid carpeted rooms at cheaper
hotels unless you like the smell of mouldy socks.
» Shared bathrooms (often with squat toilets) are usually only found at the cheapest lodgings.
» Most rooms have ceiling fans and better rooms have electric mosquito killers and/or window nets, though cheaper
rooms may lack windows altogether.
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