Ask for the upgrade – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

When checking in, always ask for an upgrade. That question costs nothing and may result in a great room.

Always smile and never appear demanding. Asking the simple question of a room upgrade — and letting them know you understand it may not be possible — keeps the clerk in an accommodating mode.

Just a simple request of an upper floor or a room with a great view is a request the clerk can easily arrange. Alternatively, you may end up in a suite.

Upgrading guests costs management nothing (assuming the hotel is not at capacity) and creates goodwill.

Make the most of rush hour – Road trip tip

by Gadling Staff on

Taking a road trip can be loads of fun. However, navigating through unfamiliar places can be daunting. Add rush hour traffic to it, and the road trip can go from a blast to extremely stressful — fast.

Don’t get sucked in and stressed out! Use the time to include some extras in your trip. Don’t just sit in the car, sucking on fumes: Consider sightseeing, stopping for a bite to eat at a restaurant you’ve never been to, visiting a historic landmark, or taking a walk in the park.

Stops are inevitable on a road trip, so rather than get frustrated by them, use them wisely, and find rush hour relief.

Ask for “out of service” rooms – Hotel tip

by Gadling Staff on

No vacancy? Not always. If the hotel you really want to stay at is completely booked, try discretely asking whether or not they have any “out of service rooms” they could rent to you.

“Out of service” is the industry term for a room that, while vacant, has been set aside for repair. Hotels won’t offer this up front, so you’ll have to inquire politely.

Obviously you’ll want to determine exactly what the problem is — but minor things like a carpet tear or stain can be overlooked easily for a reduced fee and a comfortable night in the hotel of your choosing … particularly if the location is prime.

Eat green apples – Cruise tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you start to feel the effects of seasickness while on a cruise, ask room service to send you a plate of green apples and crackers.

Both of these foods help settle your stomach when the movement of the ship proves to be too much for your motion sickness medication to handle.

Check your insurance – International travel tip

by Gadling Staff on

One the most important — and overlooked — things to do before traveling abroad is to check into your medical insurance coverage.

Call your insurance company to see if you and your family are covered overseas. This is especially important for destinations where disease and illness is more common, or for trips where a lot of physical activity occurs. If your medical insurance doesn’t extend internationally, consider purchasing supplemental insurance for the time you’re abroad.

Also, before leaving home, write down all your insurance information and carry it with you at all times. It’s also a good idea to make copies for any family member traveling with you. Finally, consider providing copies for family or friends staying at home … in case of emergency.