Resort Fees
Exploring the origins, impact, and future of resort fees in the travel industry.
Episode Highlights
- **Introduction to Resort Fees:**
- Overview of the episode's focus on the frustration caused by resort fees.
- Brief history of how resort fees started in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- **Historical Context:**
- Initial introduction in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii.
- Expansion into more hotels and cities over the decades.
- Evolution from covering amenities to becoming an additional revenue stream.
- **Consumer Impact:**
- How resort fees disrupt budget planning for families.
- Lack of transparency leading to consumer frustration and legal scrutiny.
- Federal Trade Commission's role in investigating deceptive pricing practices.
Key Discussion Points
- **Why Hotels Charge Resort Fees:**
- Bundling of amenities and services.
- Revenue generation without raising advertised room rates.
- Market positioning and competitive pricing strategies.
- Offsetting operating costs.
- Avoiding commission fees paid to third-party booking platforms.
- **Types of Hotels Charging Resort Fees:**
- Originally resorts and destination hotels in tourist-heavy areas.
- Expansion to urban hotels in cities like New York and San Francisco.
- No universal regulation, but emphasis on transparency and disclosure.
- **Consumer Advocacy and Legal Actions:**
- Lawsuits against deceptive practices.
- Increased consumer awareness leading to clearer disclosures.
- Federal and local regulations requiring all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront.
Tips for Travelers
- **Avoiding Resort Fees:**
- Research and contact hotels before booking.
- Book through channels that include fees in the total price.
- Look for packages or promotions that waive resort fees.
- Confirm fee details before arrival.
- Negotiate or express concerns during check-in.
- Review your bill at check-out and dispute unauthorized charges if necessary.
Legislation Update
- **No Hidden Fees Act:**
- Supported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).
- Aims to establish a single standard for transparent fee displays.
- Passed the House and awaits Senate approval.
- Potential impact on competitive pricing and hotel practices.
Personal Insights
- **Rob's Perspective:**
- The impact of resort fees on travel agents.
- Potential pitfalls of federal regulation.
- The importance of a comprehensive standard for fee transparency.
- Statistics from the AHLA indicating the prevalence and cost of resort fees.
- Recap of the history, current practices, and potential future of resort fees.
- Encouragement for listeners to stay informed and proactive in avoiding hidden fees.
- Thanks for tuning in to Episode 159 of The Family Vacationer.
- Invitation to join the next episode for more travel insights and tips.
Additional Resources
- **Links to Relevant Articles and Websites:**
- Federal Trade Commission guidelines on resort fees.
https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/foia/frequently-requested-records/hotel-pricingresort-fee
- AHLA's stance on resort fees and related legislation.
https://www.ahla.com/news/house-passes-no-hidden-fees-act-major-ahla-legislative-priority
Have Show Ideas? Contact Rob at rob@thefamilyvacationer.live
