how to book a hotel online w/ good price

[minnie4me]

I need to book hotels in 2 different cities this summer. I am not sure which online service to go with, ie: hotels.com. I want to be able to pick the hotel myself, especially in Pittsburgh, as I want it to be within walking distance of PNC park. The other is for a one night stay in Orlando (need to be able to get to/from MCO w/out renting car). I need them to be clean !! Doesn't have to be luxury, but more business class type.
Thanks !!

 

[Calliaz]

I suggest using Trip Advisor to find a hotel. You can also use their search feature to check multiple online agents for prices. Before you book, I then recommend going directly to the hotel website. I find that 90% of the time the best price is available directly and there are better and easier cancellation policies. Once you find the best price, check policies and booking fees before making your reservation.

 

[budbeerlady]

I find my best deals on travelzoo.

 

[puffkin]

Hotwire is great for MCO. Even though you are doing it blind (ie not knowing the hotel name before paying) you can usually figure out which hotel it is before paying. I frequently get the Radisson or the Hyatt for $60 plus tax by picking a 4*. Those are pretty much the only two that show up and both are great.

 

[Green Tea]

If you want a specific hotel, the hotel's own website is usually the best deal. You get your credit for frequent traveller points if you are a member, the price is generally the same as anyone else, and you can cancel if needed with no fees and there is not booking fee. Unless I'm going with Priceline, I book directly with the hotel. Travel zoo will alert to great sale codes, and then you book directly with the property.

 

[minnie4me]

puffkin, how far away from airport are the two hotels?

Has anyone ever stayed right at MCO, is it worth it?

 

[Ladybugsy]

I'm going to be trying priceline for an Atlanta stay for the 7-10 of April. I'm hoping all goes well. I need 2 rooms and it looks like I can get up to about 60 percent off the rack rate...I'll let you know!

 

[jackie101]

sign up for hotels.com. They tell you what hotel it is. We have used them a few times. I always check the hotels web site to compare the prices. You can also cancell after you book