With rising prices across all aspects of life, budding travellers and staycationers are looking for ways to get the most out of their holidays. We sat down with 2 hotels to discuss some simple tips and tricks to get the most out of your stay.
1. When to book
Some hotels offer lower rates depending on which day you book. Over at The Zetter Townhouse in Clerkenwell, central London, general manager Cameron Bownes explains prices are much cheaper on a Sunday in comparison to a Saturday booking.
Bownes says: “This means you can enjoy the Sunday and then jump on the train to work on the Monday.”
The Townhouse also has off-season periods around the beginning of the year, and in July and August, when room prices are typically lower so you can enjoy some luxury and save a bit of money too.
2. Where to book
It may seem enticing to book through a comparison site, but are you really getting the best deal? James Bishop, general manager of the Coach and Horses in Bolton By Bowland, Lancashire, says to always book direct because they will continually have the best rates.
Much like Bishop, Bownes agrees that a direct booking is always best, with The Zetter Townhouse even offering discounts to booking.com genius members. Remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment though.
3. Looking out for promotions
How can you find out the best deals when going direct? Lots of hotels have exclusive offers available but where can you find them?
Bishop says: “We like to reward our mail subscribers with regular flash sales and promotions. Once the mailer has gone out and we’ve given our subscribers the first chance to take advantage of any promotions, we then share the offer across our social media platforms. You can sign up to our mailer via our website.”
Bownes says you can find various deals throughout the year announced on their Instagram as well as partaking in an annual Cyber Monday event where rooms and packages are available at discounted prices.
4. How to upgrade your hotel stay
It’s no secret that hotels offer services outside of supplying you with a bed and shower. At The Coach and Horses, you will find Molton Brown toiletries in the bathroom, along with a luxury bathrobe, coffee machines in the bedrooms and, if you are in a dog-friendly room, they will provide some dog treats and dog beds.
The Zetter Townhouse offers all amenities in rooms with luxurious toiletries as well as giving personal touches to your stay with indulgent chocolates, bottles of champagne or even a free round of cocktails in the wonderful Wilhelmina’s Lounge. These are available for special occasions or to regular guests.
Getting upgrades on your room isn’t as difficult as you might think. Bishop says: “As we only have 7 bedrooms, we can only offer upgrades if there is availability to do so. If you book and the hotel isn’t at full occupancy, we will always upgrade your room.”
Bownes also told us how easy it is to get an upgrade: “Simply ask nicely. No elaborate lies necessary. Just ask ‘I don’t suppose you have an upgrade?’”
5. Making the most of your stay
Choosing the right time of year to visit can be imperative to your getaway’s success. At The Zetter Townhouse, Bownes explains that the period between Christmas and new year is a great time to stay. With it being a quieter period, it means you get more time to relax with access to a dedicated staff member.
The Coach and Horses is located in the beautiful village of Bolton-by-Bowland so in the spring and summer months you can enjoy wonderful walks and cycling trips and similarly enjoy cosying up next to a log fire in the colder months.
While visiting these hotels, it’s always recommended to ask about local places to dine.
Bishop says: “We have excellent relationships with the local restaurants and bars close by. We’re always happy to make recommendations on places to visit when you stay.”
Bownes and his team are also happy to offer advice on where to eat such as Luca or St John.
Staying in a hotel doesn’t just have to be a case of having somewhere to rest your head. The teams are always on hand to ensure you have the most pleasurable experience possible, whether that be by having room service and a bottle of wine sent to your room or having them help plan your evening. Why not try the hotel hacks above to see how much more you can enjoy your next stay?
