Travel Deal of the Day (May 27, 2008)

To lounge or not to lounge? At many three, four and five star hotels, the top level of the hotel contains a concierge lounge with a variety of amenities not available elsewhere in the hotel - including complementary food and alcohol, concierge services and expedited check-in and check-out privileges. Because of the extras available on the concierge level, it can often be a good idea to stay on that level.

The Deal:
The extras available on a concierge level of a hotel can make a trip much more enjoyable and can potentially reduce the cost of a trip. Here are some ways to obtain access to the concierge level for free or for a low fee:

(1) If you are an “elite” member of a frequent guest/stay club, make sure the hotel knows your membership status. Being an elite member often entitles you to complementary access to the concierge level.

(2) Even if you are not an elite member of a frequent guest club, if you are a return guest to the hotel, make sure the hotel knows that fact. If you are a very frequent guest, the hotel may be tracking your stays and may offer to upgrade you. If the hotel is not aware of your stay history, you should ensure the hotel knows about your loyalty to the hotel.

(3) Notify the hotel about any special occasion you are celebrating while at the hotel – you can often obtain access to the concierge level because you are celebrating a special occasion.

(4) When checking rates for your hotel stay and when checking in, verify the cost of upgrading to the concierge level. At some hotels, concierge lounges offer three full meals a day plus dessert and free drinks. If the extra cost of concierge lounge access is small, it may be worth the money – especially in high cost locations or if you are traveling with a large family.