Las Vegas is known for its glitz, glamour, and over-the-top luxury. However, when you book a hotel room in Sin City, you may be surprised to find an additional charge on your bill – the dreaded resort fee.
But why do Las Vegas hotels charge resort fees? Let’s take a closer look at this controversial practice.
What is a Resort Fee?
A resort fee is an additional daily charge that hotels often add to their guests’ bills. This fee covers amenities and services that are not included in the room rate, such as Wi-Fi access, fitness center use, pool access, and more. In Las Vegas, resort fees can range from $10 to $45 per night, depending on the hotel.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
There are several reasons why hotels in Las Vegas and other tourist destinations charge resort fees. The first reason is that it allows them to advertise lower room rates. By separating out the cost of amenities and services into a separate fee, hotels can make their room rates appear more affordable than they actually are.
Another reason is that it helps hotels cover the cost of providing these amenities and services. While some guests may not use all of the amenities included in the resort fee, others may use them extensively. By charging a daily fee to all guests, hotels can ensure they are adequately compensated for providing these services.
Controversy Surrounding Resort Fees
While many hotels defend their use of resort fees as necessary to cover the cost of providing amenities and services, others argue that they are deceptive and unfair. Some guests feel that they are being nickel-and-dimed by these additional charges and would prefer to pay one upfront price for their room.
In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny of resort fees by consumer advocates and government agencies. In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent letters to several hotel chains warning them that their use of resort fees may be illegal and deceptive. The FTC argued that hotels should include all mandatory fees in their advertised room rates to prevent consumers from being misled.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Las Vegas hotels charge resort fees to cover the cost of providing amenities and services to their guests. While some guests may feel that these fees are unfair or deceptive, others appreciate the ability to pay for only the amenities they use. As the debate over resort fees continues, it remains to be seen whether hotels will change their policies or if consumers will simply have to accept them as a necessary part of traveling to tourist destinations like Las Vegas.