If you’ve ever booked a stay at a resort, you may have noticed an additional charge on your bill labeled as a “resort fee.” This fee can range from a few dollars to upwards of $50 per night, and it can leave many travelers wondering why they are being charged extra. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind resort fees and why they have become such a common practice in the hospitality industry.
What is a Resort Fee?
A resort fee is an additional charge that some hotels and resorts add to their daily room rate. This fee is supposed to cover the cost of amenities and services that are provided during your stay. These amenities can include things like Wi-Fi access, pool towels, fitness center access, and more.
Why Do Resorts Charge Resort Fees?
The main reason resorts charge resort fees is to increase revenue. By adding an extra charge to each guest’s bill, they can generate more income without raising their room rates. This can be particularly appealing during times when demand for rooms is low but operating costs remain high.
Resorts also argue that the resort fee allows them to provide additional amenities and services that guests might not otherwise use or be willing to pay for individually. For example, they may offer free use of water sports equipment or access to a private beach club. Charging a resort fee allows them to offset these costs while still providing added value to guests.
Are Resort Fees Legal?
Yes, resort fees are legal in most parts of the world. However, there has been some controversy in recent years about how these fees are advertised and disclosed to guests. In many cases, resorts will advertise one price for their rooms but then add on the resort fee later in the booking process.
This practice has led some consumer advocates to argue that it is deceptive and unfair. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also taken notice of this issue and has warned hotels and resorts to be more transparent about their resort fees. In response, some states have passed laws requiring resorts to disclose resort fees upfront.
How Can You Avoid Resort Fees?
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to avoid resort fees entirely. However, there are a few things you can do to minimize the impact on your budget.
First, do your research before booking your stay. Look for resorts that don’t charge resort fees or that have lower fees than others in the area.
You can also try negotiating with the hotel or resort at check-in. Ask if they can waive the resort fee or reduce it for your stay. If you’re a member of their loyalty program or have a special reason for staying (such as a special occasion), they may be more willing to work with you.
The Bottom Line
Resort fees may be an annoying extra charge for travelers, but they are here to stay (at least for now). Understanding why resorts charge these fees can help you make informed decisions when booking your next vacation. Just remember to factor them into your budget and look for ways to minimize their impact on your wallet.