If you are a Diamond member with a hotel loyalty program, you may wonder if you still have to pay resort fees when booking a stay. Resort fees have become a controversial topic in the travel industry, as they are often added on top of the nightly rate and can significantly increase the cost of a stay. So, do Diamond members have to pay resort fees? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on the hotel and the specific terms of your membership.
Some hotels do offer perks to Diamond members that may include waiving resort fees as part of the benefits. However, this is not guaranteed at all properties, and it’s important to check the terms and conditions of your membership and the hotel’s policies before booking. If the hotel does not waive resort fees for Diamond members, you may still be required to pay them as part of your stay.
Overall, while being a Diamond member may come with some benefits, it does not automatically mean that you will not have to pay resort fees. It’s always best to check with the hotel directly to confirm their policies and any potential discounts or perks that may be available to you as a Diamond member.
FAQs:
1. Are resort fees mandatory when booking a hotel stay?
Yes, resort fees are typically mandatory at many hotels, regardless of your membership status. These fees cover amenities and services that the hotel provides during your stay.
2. Can I negotiate or waive resort fees as a Diamond member?
While some hotels may offer perks to Diamond members, such as waiving resort fees, it’s ultimately up to the hotel’s discretion. It’s worth asking if they can offer any discounts or benefits during the booking process.
3. Are resort fees included in the nightly rate?
No, resort fees are typically not included in the nightly rate quoted when booking a hotel stay. They are added on as an additional charge at the time of booking or upon check-in.
4. Are resort fees refundable if I do not use the amenities?
Resort fees are usually non-refundable, even if you do not use the amenities or services that they cover. It’s important to consider this when booking a hotel stay.
5. Can I dispute resort fees if I was not informed of them before booking?
It can be challenging to dispute resort fees if they were disclosed in the terms and conditions at the time of booking. Always make sure to read the fine print before confirming your reservation.
6. Can I use loyalty points to cover resort fees?
Some hotels may allow you to use loyalty points to cover resort fees, but this is not guaranteed at all properties. Check with the hotel’s loyalty program for more information on using points for fees.
7. Are resort fees taxable?
Resort fees are usually subject to local taxes, which can vary depending on the location of the hotel. Make sure to account for any additional taxes when budgeting for your stay.
8. Can resort fees be waived for special occasions or events?
Some hotels may offer discounts or waive resort fees for special occasions or events, especially for loyal customers or members with higher status. It’s worth reaching out to the hotel directly to inquire about any potential exceptions.
9. Are resort fees the same at every hotel?
Resort fees can vary widely between different hotels and properties, so it’s essential to check the specific fees for each location when booking a stay. Some hotels may have higher or lower fees depending on their amenities and services.
10. Can I negotiate the amount of resort fees when booking a stay?
While it may be possible to negotiate certain aspects of your stay, such as room upgrades or additional perks, resort fees are typically set rates that are non-negotiable. It’s best to confirm the total cost of your stay, including fees, before booking.
11. Can I request a breakdown of resort fees before booking?
It’s a good idea to request a breakdown of resort fees before booking a stay, so you know exactly what amenities and services are covered. This can help you better understand the value of the fees and plan accordingly.
12. Are there any ways to avoid paying resort fees?
Some travelers may be able to avoid paying resort fees by booking through certain channels or during promotional periods. However, these opportunities can be limited, and it’s essential to consider the overall value of the stay when making your decision.