Use these tips to get the best hotel rate by calling on the telephone:
Call the front desk directly instead of calling the general reservation line. Individual hotel managers may have more flexibility to bargain than a reservationist does. Some people say Sunday is the best day to call.
Use these phrases, questions and tips to facilitate your discussion:
- Be polite but persistent.
- Ask: "Is that the best you can do?"
- Ask: "Do you have any specials that I should know about?"
- Say: "That's more than I can spend."
- Say: "If you can't lower the price, can you give me an upgrade?" "How about a parking discount?"
- In January, 2011 Consumer Reports Money Advisor suggests using the magic words: "cheapest, non-refundable rate."
- Mention better deals you've found elsewhere, especially if they're from a similar property.
More: How we choose hotels | Easy ways to get a good rate | Get the lowest rate possible online | Beware hotel hidden charges



