If you’ve ever stayed at a hotel or resort, you may have noticed an additional charge on your bill called a “resort fee.” These fees can range from a few dollars to over $50 per night, and they often leave guests wondering what exactly they’re paying for. In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of resort fees and what they typically cover.
What are Resort Fees
A resort fee is a mandatory daily charge that hotels and resorts add to their rooms in addition to the advertised room rate. These fees are typically charged on a per-night basis and are meant to cover additional services and amenities that are not included in the room rate.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees
Hotels charge resort fees for several reasons. First, they allow hotels to advertise lower room rates while still generating revenue from additional services. This can make their rooms more appealing to budget-conscious travelers who are looking for a good deal.
Second, resort fees help hotels cover the cost of providing services and amenities that guests expect but may not be willing to pay for individually. For example, a hotel may include Wi-Fi, pool access, and fitness center use in its resort fee, even if some guests may only use one or two of these amenities.
What Do Resort Fees Typically Cover
The services and amenities covered by resort fees can vary widely between hotels. However, some common items included in resort fees may include:
- Wi-Fi
- Pool Access
- Fitness Center Use
- Towels and Beach Chairs
- Newspapers
- In-Room Coffee or Tea
- Parking
- Tennis Court Access
It’s important to note that not all hotels offer the same services and amenities in their resort fees. Some hotels may include more items than others, while some may have higher resort fees to cover more expensive services.
How Can You Avoid Paying Resort Fees
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to avoid paying resort fees if you’re staying at a hotel or resort that charges them. However, there are some things you can do to minimize the impact of these fees:
- Research hotel fees before booking your stay
- Choose a hotel that doesn’t charge resort fees
- Join the hotel’s loyalty program to receive perks and discounts
- Negotiate with the hotel for a lower rate or waive the resort fee
Conclusion:
In conclusion, resort fees are additional charges that hotels and resorts add to their rooms to cover additional services and amenities. While they can be frustrating for guests who aren’t aware of them, they allow hotels to offer lower room rates while still generating revenue from extra services. If you’re planning a stay at a hotel or resort, it’s important to research any potential resort fees beforehand so you can budget accordingly.