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Check their customer service record. Are their ratings from independent rating organizations and are they objective ?
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Make sure that they are consistent. If they belong to a franchise, how does the entire organization rate ?
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Look closely at their features. How will those features benefit you ?
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Do they have partnership agreements that can save you money in other areas. Most hotels have partnerships with airlines, rental car or credit card companies.
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Will they credit your frequent flier or frequent guest programs with points ?
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Consider a hotel chain's locations. Do they have locations where you want to travel ? How about international locations ?
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Where is the individual hotel that you're considering located? Is their "airport" location really near the airport ?
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Evaluate each property individually. When were the rooms last updated or renovated? Will the hotel's features benefit you? Does it meet your needs for an overnight stay or a longer vacation? Does it have business or meeting rooms available in case you need them? Is the particular property that you are interested in located in a safe part of town? How about major construction going on in the area near the hotel? Will there be any large groups staying there during your visit that could be a negative for you?
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What extra services are offered? Does the hotel provide concierge, shuttle or laundry services ?
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Are they willing and able to honor any special requests that you may have ?
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Do they offer a VIP or Frequent Visits Club ?
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Are any of the groups that you belong to affiliated with this chain and entitle you to special deals ?.
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How generous are they in offering special rates or honoring coupons or discounts? Which hotel or chain offers the best overall deal for you ?