Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
a private bathroom. Unless otherwise noted, breakfast is included, hotel
staff speak English, and credit cards are accepted.
There's almost always Wi-Fi and/or Internet access available, either
free or for a fee. “Wi-Fi only” means there's no public computer available.
Most Scandinavian business hotels use “dynamic pricing,” which means
they change the room rate depending on demand—just like airlines change
their fares. This makes it extremely difficult to predict what you will pay. For
many hotels, I list a range of prices. If the rate you're offered is at or near the
bottom of my printed range, it's likely a good deal. Check several hotel web-
sites to see what they're offering, or email establishments that don't have an
online reservation system and ask for their best prices. Comparison-shop and
make your choice.
As you look over the listings, you'll notice that some accommodations
promise special prices to my readers who book directly with the hotel or pro-
prietor. To get these rates, you must mention this topic when you reserve,
and then show the topic upon arrival. Rick Steves discounts apply to readers
with ebooks as well as printed books. Discounts may not apply to promotional
rates.
In general, prices can soften if you do any of the following: offer to pay
cash, stay at least three nights, or mention this topic. You can also try asking
for a cheaper room or a discount, or offer to skip breakfast.
Many places keep an odd misfit room (100 kr cheaper than the others)
lashed to a bedpost in the attic, but will only tell you if you ask. Backpacker
places have a range of rooms, blurring the distinction between “hotel” and
“hostel.” Money-conscious travelers should consider doubles in hostels and
rooms in simple hotels with shared baths—a respectable option in clean and
wholesome Scandinavia.
Atriple is much cheaper than a double and a single. While hotel singles are
most expensive, private accommodations have a flat per-person rate. Hostels
and dorms always charge per person. Families can get a price break; normally
a child can sleep free or for very little in the parents' room.
