Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
fore breakfast is served), most establishments are happy to let you help yourself to cereal,
fruit or juice, and coffee; ask politely if it's possible.
Most places stock rooms with an electric kettle, along with cups, tea bags, and coffee
packets (if you prefer decaf, buy a jar at a grocery and dump the contents into a baggie for
easy packing).
Making Hotel Reservations
Reserve your rooms several weeks in advance—or as soon as you've pinned down
your travel dates. Note that some national holidays merit your making reservations
far in advance (see
here
).
Requesting a Reservation:
It's easiest to book your room through the hotel's
website. (For the best rates, always use the hotel's official site and not a booking
agency's site.) If there's no reservation form, or for complicated requests, send an
email (see below for a sample request).
The hotelier wants to know:
• the number and type of rooms you need
• the number of nights you'll stay
• your date of arrival
• your date of departure
• any special needs (such as bathroom in the room or down the hall, twin beds vs.
double bed, etc.)
Mention any discounts—for Rick Steves readers or otherwise—when you
make the reservation.
Confirming a Reservation:
Most places will request a credit-card number to
hold your room. If they don't have a secure online reservation form—look for the
https
—you can email your card number (I do), but it's safer to share that confiden-
tial info via a phone call or two emails (splitting your number between them).
Canceling a Reservation:
If you must cancel your reservation, it's cour-
teous—and smart—to do so with as much notice as possible, especially for smaller
family-run places. Be warned that cancellation policies can be strict; read the fine
print or ask about these before you book. Internet deals may require prepayment,
with no refunds for cancellations.
