Anyone use Hotwire for Orlando hotels? About This Page:

[coastgirl]

Dh is thinking of taking a risk with Hotwire for our first night, just one night, mostly b/c he's curious if Hotwire bargains are for real. He's being quoted half price off a rack rate of $125 somewhere 3-star "Maingate". Now 3 star can mean many things, and the comparable brands they list--Radisson, Doubletree--sound ok to me. But STILL. I am a control freak, and feel like I'm buying a pig in a poke. Any experience with this?

Thanks for your help!

[CarolinesMom]

I have done it with Expedia before. I have had some good luck, but one time I had some bad luck. Unfortunately, there is no way to know until you get there!

[statelady01]

We used Hotwire for an airport hotel back in 2004. I think it listed a 3 star- and we paid $65, getting the Crowne Plaza for that rate. We were pretty happy and agreed with the rating.

Good luck!

[songbird]

I've used Priceline. Good price, Courtyard Marriott. Just look at your cancellation penalties, or other stipulations.

[Colexis Mom]

Make sure you look at www.biddingfortravel.com They have some good clues as to which hotels are which depending on the amenities shown [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/luck.gif[/img]

[Huntermom]

I've used Priceline in Orlando and got two rooms at the airport Hyatt for $50. each. As Marnie, said, check out BiddingforTravel.com before you bid to see what's coming up and at what price. Overall, I think Priceline is better and less expensive. I use it frequently when we travel and don't have a strong preference where we stay-especially if we want to stay at the airport at either end of our stay.

I have never been dissatisified and feel the star rating is pretty accurate. I've never stayed in less than a 2 1/2 star though. My best bargain was $25./night for a Doubletree at the airport in Seattle when I was meeting my middle guy after camp. We actually stayed six nights and I kept the room when we wandered off overnight to see other parts of the Northwest.

I've used Hotwire less often and find they are a little more expensive. Again, I haven't used it for a special vacation, just a night or two when picking up one of the boys from school or if we go to a family event.

Diane