If you’ve ever stayed at a hotel, you may have come across a “resort fee” on your bill. This additional charge can be frustrating, especially if you weren’t aware of it beforehand.
But is it legal for hotels to charge a resort fee? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Resort Fee?
A resort fee is an additional charge that some hotels add to your bill. It’s intended to cover the cost of amenities that are available to guests, such as access to the pool, fitness center, or Wi-Fi. The fee can vary from hotel to hotel and may be charged per night or per stay.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Hotels typically charge resort fees because they want to offer guests access to certain amenities without raising their room rates. By charging a separate fee, they can keep their advertised prices lower while still providing these extra services.
Is It Legal for Hotels to Charge Resort Fees?
The legality of resort fees has been a topic of debate in recent years. Some consumer advocates argue that these fees are deceptive and should be included in the advertised room rate. Others argue that hotels have the right to charge separate fees for additional services.
In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued guidelines for hotels regarding resort fees. According to these guidelines, hotels should include all mandatory fees in the advertised room rate and disclose any optional fees upfront.
However, these guidelines are not legally binding and do not have the force of law. Currently, there are no federal laws regulating resort fees. Some states have passed laws requiring hotels to disclose any mandatory fees upfront, but these laws vary from state to state.
How Can You Avoid Resort Fees?
If you’re looking to avoid resort fees, there are a few things you can do:
- Research hotels before booking: Look for hotels that do not charge resort fees or include them in the advertised room rate.
- Join loyalty programs: Some hotel loyalty programs waive resort fees for members.
- Negotiate with the hotel: If you’re booking directly with the hotel, try negotiating to have the resort fee waived.
The Bottom Line
While resort fees may be frustrating, they are currently legal in most states. However, hotels should disclose these fees upfront and include them in the advertised room rate. As a consumer, it’s important to do your research before booking a hotel and to be aware of any additional fees that may be charged.
8 Related Question Answers Found
When you book a hotel room, you may be surprised to find an additional charge on your bill called a “resort fee.” This fee can range from a few dollars to over $50 per night and is intended to cover the cost of amenities and services offered by the hotel. However, many travelers are left wondering whether it’s legal for hotels to charge this fee. The Legality of Resort Fees
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