The fine print

Are you familiar with the term fine print? Are you one of those who don’t read their reservation completely and get surprised upon arrival? So, after this text you will definitely read closely those small letters at the end.

Before I start writing, there is always something that motivates me to do it. Usually, people around me, situations they experienced and troubles that made them feel stressed and uncomfortable on their trips.

Also, in previous texts we discussed the process of reservation, types of accommodation etc. The purpose of this one is to put the accent on details.

First of all, in the picture below you can see the heading of one reservation process. Beside the hotel name, you will find some extra information in which property is informing you about certain conditions and regulations. As well, you can see this fine print section (not always). It’s very likely that you will find some interesting facts which will help you organize better.

In this case, fine print says:

“Please note that guests must present the credit card used to make the reservation on arrival. If you are not the owner of the credit card used to make the reservation, please contact the property in advance.”

Just send the email containing this information and you don’t have to worry about it any more. I usually try to find the property email using Google, however, there’s always an option within the Booking.com that allows you to contact the property at any time.

“Cots and extra beds are subject to availability and must be confirmed with the hotel in advance. Supplements are not included in the total reservation and must be paid separately at the hotel.”

This is very important for parents with small children. The basic reservation price includes only costs for number of adults you entered in search dialog.

“Please note, when booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional charges may apply.”

This is common for almost every property.  When booking for big group, or when booking for a period longer than 30 days, you have to make a special request and contact the property.

“Please inform Hotel Ronda Lesseps of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.”

Why do you have to do this? First of all, some accommodation types don’t have 24/7 service. In the case of late arrival, they will leave you specific instructions.

“Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.”

Finally, property reminds you about previous information. You can show passport or your national ID card.

Beside the fine print section, read the others as well. In case you think some information are missing, don’t hesitate to contact the property and double check with them. Also, in the fine print section, expect additional information such as: check-in and key collection instructions, swimming pool working hours (if applicable), room category and bed size availability, parking lot availability, restaurant working hours, pets policy, availability and usage of WiFi and many other.

Therefore, read carefully, and pay attention on details.