Save Money with Priceline

I enjoy traveling and I also enjoy staying at a 4-5 star hotel when I travel. But I don't like paying 4-5 star prices. So what do I do? First I check hotel prices using sites like Cheap Hotels or Hotel Accommodations. I search for the going rate for the hotel(s) I'm looking at so I can get a good idea on price. Then I go to Priceline and "Name my Own Price". I start at 50% off the going rate. Always start very specific, like "4 star, downtown location". This gives you flexibility to include 3 stars and expand your area if you have to. I have found that if I take my time and plan ahead, I can usually get a downtown location in a major city for as low as $50 per night. That could be as low as 75% off the list prices. I would like much more to stay at a 4 star hotel downtown than take my chances on a motel in the suburbs. I know what I am getting with the 4 star hotel and I can use public transportation to get around the city. So don't think you can't get a luxury hotel at a great price. These hotels always have excess capacity, especially on weekends (unless a convention is in town). So next time give Priceline a try.

Mike M