Are you planning to stay at a resort for your next vacation? If so, you may come across a term called “resort fee”.
It’s important to understand what this fee covers and why it’s charged. In this article, we will explore what’s included in a resort fee.
What is a Resort Fee?
A resort fee is an additional daily charge that hotels and resorts add to your bill when you stay at their property. This fee is usually not included in the advertised room rate and can vary significantly depending on the property and location.
What Does the Resort Fee Cover?
The items covered by a resort fee can vary from one hotel to another, but generally, these fees cover certain amenities or services that the hotel provides to its guests. Here are some of the most common items that are included in a resort fee:
- Wi-Fi: Most hotels provide complimentary Wi-Fi access as part of their resort fee.
- Parking: Some hotels offer free parking for guests, while others charge an additional fee.
- Newspapers: Many hotels provide complimentary newspapers to guests every morning as part of their resort fee.
- Pools and Fitness Centers: Access to on-site pools and fitness centers are often included in the resort fee.
- Towels and Beach Chairs: If the hotel has a beach or pool area, they may provide complimentary towels and beach chairs as part of their resort fee.
- Coffee/Tea: Some hotels offer complimentary coffee or tea in the lobby each morning as part of their resort fee.
- Bottled Water: Many hotels provide complimentary bottled water in guest rooms as part of their resort fee.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Hotels charge resort fees to cover the cost of providing amenities and services to guests. These fees help hotels offset the costs of maintaining their facilities, providing staff, and offering various services. Resort fees also allow hotels to advertise lower room rates while still generating revenue from additional charges.
How to Avoid Paying Resort Fees?
It’s not always possible to avoid paying resort fees, especially since they are becoming more common in many popular travel destinations. However, here are some ways you can try to minimize these fees:
- Book Directly: Some hotels may waive the resort fee if you book directly with them instead of through a third-party website.
- Bargain: You can try negotiating with the hotel to have the resort fee waived or reduced.
- Avoid Amenities: If you don’t plan on using any of the amenities covered by the resort fee, ask if it can be removed from your bill.
- Stay at Alternative Accommodations: Consider staying at alternative accommodations such as vacation rentals or Airbnb properties that do not charge resort fees.
In Conclusion
Resort fees are an additional daily charge that hotels and resorts add to your bill when you stay at their property. These fees cover certain amenities or services that the hotel provides to its guests. While they may be frustrating for travelers, understanding what’s included in a resort fee can help you plan and budget for your next vacation appropriately.