Is upgrading worth it?
Planning my upcoming trip to San Francisco I discovered the difference between a deluxe boutique hotel and a regular no frills budget hotel is currently only a matter of $50-$100US per night. With such a small difference, I wondered why someone would get a $99 special at a budget property when they could be lapping it up in a luxury boutique with a fabulous downtown location, excellent amenities and deluxe service.
What makes someone spend more on a hotel whether it be $50 a night or $500? Is it the name? The amenities? The room? The service? The experience? And is it always worth it?
Deciding to spend an extra $50 per night can sometimes seem like a lot, but take into consideration a few things such as the location of the hotel. If it's where the action is, chances are, you don't need to rent a car or take as many cabs. That often can make up for the cost of upgrading. If you require help, a doorman and bellman become necessities, often budget properties leave you on your own. In a new location or if you have limited time, dining can often be challenging as finding a place to eat that's nearby can be hard. If a hotel has room service or a restaurant, that can be a time saver. Sometimes the extra's included with more expensive properties make the upgrade worth it. Sometimes they don't.
Before the Banff Springs Hotel invested millions into a remodel in 2002, tourists would pay anything to stay under the name of the hotel, only to find the rooms small and uncomfortable and the hotel services lacking. The extra $200Canadian a night didn't make up for what the hotel lacked, and more often than not, people went away disappointed. However, glamour has returned to the hotel and upgrading is once again worth it as the service, the views and the style are unparalleled in the area. It's truly a destination hotel and worth the extra cost whether it's for one night or four.
Recently I stayed at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria British Columbia, Canada. Generally budget hotels, smaller properties and bed and breakfasts would be my preference for visiting this city as I usually spend more time outside the property than in. Also, I generally only visit for one night and full service, deluxe hotels aren't required. However, I chose this hotel as I wanted a relaxing weekend experience where I would be looked after, not have to wander for services instead of just a room with a bed.
While the Fairmont Empress did deliver on many levels from a massage in their new Willow Stream Spa to swimming in the indoor pool and scrumptious traditional afternoon tea to the perfect martini in the Bengal Lounge, the room itself was just a room. Granted it had an unobstructed view of the Inner Harbour which allowed viewing of spectacular sunsets but the room itself was not worth the price. The amenities lacked, the furnishings tired, and no duvets or fluffy pillows. What made the room worth the cost was use of all the facilities combined with renowned personal service that helped me to escape my normal routine and let me indulge myself into the regal world that was The Empress.
Discarding high priced hotels automatically can take away from an opportunity of having a unique experience. But before upgrading to that more expensive hotel, ask yourself if paying more means you'll get more - either in the hotel, room or in an experience.
