Travelers frequently ask
why hotels are willing to offer such substantial discounts through their
advertisements in the green RoomSaver Guide. The answer is two fold.
Advertising
in the RoomSaver offers hotels across the country broad
exposure reaching millions of travelers worldwide. Hotels set their
prices based upon supply and demand. They naturally charge higher rates
during traditionally busy periods, but also are eager to offer discounts
when decreased demand will likely leave a large number of rooms unoccupied.
A hotel room is a perishable commodity - if not sold tonight, that revenue
can never be regained. As a result, hotels rely upon advertising and
often offer more affordable room rates to attract travelers when expecting
to have large numbers of rooms available.
Travelers
also notice that the rates advertised in the green Guide are generally
lower than available through any other source: newspaper ads, other
online discount travel sites or auctions. RoomSaver's participating
hotels rely on the traveler who does not make advance reservations to
fill those remaining rooms on a same day "walk-in" (without
a reservation) basis. These travelers appreciate the freedom to control
their travel schedule and the flexibility and price advantage that a
last minute hotel selection can provide. Unlike typical seasonal promotions
or online travel auctions, travelers using these valuable coupons can
select from a comprehensive listing of hotels and choose the one whose
rates and amenities match their individual needs.
These
low rates are generally not offered through any other means and are
available only when a valid green Guide coupon is presented at the time
of check-in. There is no guarantee that the discount rate will be available
unless the hotel expects that a number of rooms might go unoccupied.
In
some cases, hotels may agree to honor the advertised rate for advance
bookings, so travelers are encouraged to call the hotel directly if
that option is important. Discount rates may not be available during
peak travel seasons or special event periods.