New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is known for its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and luxurious hotels.
However, if you have stayed at a hotel in NYC, you may have noticed an additional fee on your bill called a “resort fee.” In this article, we will discuss why NYC hotels charge resort fees and what they cover.
What are Resort Fees?
Resort fees are additional charges that hotels impose on guests for amenities and services that are not included in the room rate. These fees are often mandatory and can range from $10 to $50 per night. The fees are usually not disclosed upfront when making a reservation, which can lead to frustration among guests.
Why do NYC Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
NYC hotels charge resort fees for various reasons. First and foremost, these fees allow hotels to offset the cost of providing amenities and services that guests expect but are not included in the room rate. For example, NYC hotels often provide access to fitness centers, pools, and other recreational facilities that require significant upkeep and maintenance.
Additionally, resort fees help hotels generate more revenue without increasing their base room rates. This is especially important during peak travel seasons when demand for hotel rooms is high.
What do Resort Fees Cover?
The amenities and services covered by resort fees vary by hotel. However, some common items include:
- Wi-Fi: Most NYC hotels offer Wi-Fi as part of their resort fee.
- Newspapers: Some hotels provide complimentary newspapers to guests as part of their resort fee.
- Gym Access: Access to fitness centers or gyms is often included in the resort fee.
- Pools: Use of pools or poolside amenities may be included in the resort fee.
- Business Services: Some hotels provide business services such as printing and faxing as part of their resort fee.
How to Avoid Resort Fees?
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to avoid resort fees when staying at a hotel in NYC. However, there are a few things you can do to minimize them.
One option is to book your stay at a hotel that does not charge a resort fee. While these hotels may be harder to find, they do exist.
Another option is to join the hotel’s loyalty program. Many hotels waive resort fees for their loyal customers or offer discounted rates.
Finally, you can try negotiating with the hotel directly. If you do not plan on using any of the amenities covered by the resort fee, you may be able to convince the hotel to waive it.
In Conclusion
NYC hotels charge resort fees to offset the cost of providing amenities and services that guests expect but are not included in the base room rate. These fees help hotels generate more revenue without increasing their base room rates. While they can be frustrating for guests, there are ways to minimize them, such as booking at a hotel that does not charge a resort fee or joining the hotel’s loyalty program.