Are you planning a vacation and wondering if you have to pay resort fees? Resort fees have become an increasingly common practice in the hotel industry, but many travelers are not sure what they are or whether they are required to pay them. In this article, we’ll explore what resort fees are, why hotels charge them, and whether or not you have to pay them.
What Are Resort Fees?
Resort fees, also known as amenity fees, destination fees, or facility fees, are additional charges added to your hotel bill. These fees are separate from the room rate and cover a variety of services and amenities that the hotel offers. Some common amenities that may be included in resort fees include:
- Pool access
- Gym access
- Wi-Fi access
- Parking
- Beach chairs and umbrellas
- Newspapers
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Hotels charge resort fees for several reasons. First, they allow hotels to advertise lower room rates while still making a profit. By separating the cost of amenities from the room rate, hotels can make their rates appear more competitive.
Secondly, resort fees help hotels offset the cost of providing amenities. Maintaining a pool or gym requires staff and equipment, which can be expensive. Charging a resort fee allows hotels to cover these costs without raising their room rates.
Do You Have to Pay Resort Fees?
The short answer is yes, you typically have to pay resort fees if they are charged by the hotel where you’re staying. Most hotels disclose their resort fee policy on their website or during the booking process. However, some travelers have reported being surprised by these charges upon check-in.
If you do not want to pay resort fees, you may be able to find hotels that do not charge them or negotiate with the hotel to have them waived. However, this can be difficult, especially if the hotel has a strict policy on resort fees.
Conclusion
In summary, resort fees are additional charges added to your hotel bill for amenities and services provided by the hotel. While they are an unpopular practice among travelers, they are legal in most places and are becoming increasingly common. If you want to avoid resort fees, be sure to research the hotel’s policy before booking or consider staying at a hotel that does not charge them.