So, I was looking for a deal and came across hotwire and priceline. At first I didn't understand the priceline bidding process. But it's pretty easy once you get the hang of it. So I was looking at aruba from 1/11/10 for 9 nights. On Sunday I put in a $95 bid for 4* then 3.5* then 3 star, all the while hoping for the marriott. Rejected. Monday I put in a bid for 120 and was again rejected. By the way, you have to wait 24 hours before you bid again. Tuesday I put in a bid for $140 for 4* and 3.5* and $120 for 3*. Rejected. Tonight, (Wednesday) I put in a bid for $160 for 4* and 3.5*, and just for a goof I put in $140 for a 3*. Well guess what? I get the 3* for 140. I figure AT WORST it would be the holiday inn sunspree. Instead I get the Divi village resort. WHAT THE??? That is not even listed as a hotel on the list. I had been hearing about all these deals like $120 for the Westin so I thought I was going to get a deal. Well I checked the regular price for the Divi Village Resort and it was $150 a night! Wow, I saved 10 bucks a night!!!! Some discount huh? I am never going to use priceline again. what a pain in the rear and what a waste of time. If you want to avoid some mistakes, here is my best advice: 1) When you know when you want to go, start bidding. Don't wait til the last minute like I did. I am such a moron. 2) Don't believe all the hotel listings on this site. There was no mention of any Divi Village resort on the list of priceline hotels. 3) Bid only for the 4* or 3.5* and underbid if you have the time to spare. I am so pissed off, now there is nothing I can do. I am stuck. What a waste of my time.
