Travel Advisors Act to Protect Clients From Resort Fee Surprises
Skift Take
Not only are resort fees an annoyance for hotel guests, but they put the onus on travel advisors to make sure clients are aware of what their stay will actually cost. Some advisors are fighting back by steering clients toward properties that don't charge the fees.
As more hotels, including those far removed from resort locations, slap resort fees on everything from fitness center access to housekeeping service, many travel advisors are taking on a new duty: ensuring that clients don’t go into sticker shock at the front desk.
“I break down every charge for my clients beforehand, letting them know that hotels are now doing what the airlines do when they charge for seat assignments or checked luggage,” said Diane Bean, owner of Off On Vacation Travel in Bangor, Maine. “I don’t want any unwanted surprises for them.”
Observing that “resort fees are unfortunately another reality of today’s travel booking landscape,” Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, co-owner of Valerie Wilson Travel in New York, also emphasized the importance of briefing clients about any unforeseen charges they may find on their hotel tab.
“Transparency and clarity for the client is crucial so they fully understand what they are paying for and why,” she said.
