When you book a hotel room, you may be surprised to see an additional charge on your bill called a resort fee. This fee is becoming more and more common in the hotel industry, and it can be frustrating for travelers who feel like they are being nickel-and-dimed.
But can you refuse to pay a resort fee? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Resort Fee?
A resort fee is a daily charge that hotels add to the cost of your room. This fee covers amenities that the hotel offers, such as access to the fitness center or pool, Wi-Fi, and even local phone calls. The idea behind the resort fee is that it allows hotels to advertise lower room rates while still making money from these additional charges.
Can You Refuse to Pay?
If you’re unhappy about paying a resort fee, you may wonder if you can refuse to pay it. The short answer is no – if the hotel has clearly disclosed the resort fee at the time of booking, then you are obligated to pay it.
Why Can’t You Refuse?
When you book a hotel room, you enter into a contract with the hotel. This contract includes all of the terms and conditions of your stay, including any additional fees like the resort fee. By booking the room, you have agreed to these terms and conditions.
What if You Were Not Informed About the Fee?
If you were not informed about the resort fee at the time of booking, then you may have some grounds for dispute. However, this can be difficult to prove unless you have documentation (such as an email or website screenshot) that shows that there was no mention of the resort fee when you booked your room.
What Can You Do About It?
While you may not be able to refuse to pay the resort fee, there are a few things you can do to try and minimize the impact of this additional charge:
- Research hotels carefully before booking to see if they charge a resort fee.
- Ask about the resort fee when you check in so that you know exactly what you’re paying for.
- If you feel that the resort fee is unfair or unreasonable, speak to the hotel manager and see if they are willing to waive it or reduce it.
The Bottom Line
While it can be frustrating to see an additional charge on your hotel bill, the reality is that resort fees are becoming more common in the industry. If you book a room with a hotel that charges a resort fee, then you are obligated to pay it. However, by doing your research and speaking up if necessary, you may be able to make the most of your hotel stay without breaking the bank.