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Personally, if Priceline/Hotwire didn't exist, i'd probably still be staying at brands like Hilton, Shertaon, Hyatt, AmeriSuites (dependent upon city and cost... some areas are ridiculously expensive and i would refuse to pay so much just on priciple). Therefore, i typically bid on the higher rated hotels and view Priceline as an opportunity to get a similar hotel for much less. I know other people that would never stay at the above mentioned brands at regular rates, but use Priceline as an opportunity to increase their hotel class (and therefore wouldn't bid on lower level hotels since they're trying to increase the class they typically stay at). For example, i have a relative that typically stayed at Days Inn type properties. Since i've introduced her to Priceline, they stay at MUCH nicer hotels, and usually at a price equal to or less than they used to pay. I think the biggest factor is that people typically feel "safer" bidding the higher stars since the actual hotel is unknown. There's a certain level of expectation at the 3* and higher rated properties, and people want that comfort level since they're not selecting a specific hotel.

Funny you should ask, because he asked me last week if his status enabled him to delete your posts! There are currently no special privleges associated with the member levels, but when i had an extra one time use "bonus money" link available, i was going to offer it to the first Member with 'x' number of posts, so there could be benefits down the road. I had recently visited a cruise related board that offers "ship dollars" which increase everytime you post. You can then purchase additional features on the board by spending your ship dollars. I thought it was an interesting idea, but i think that features make the board easier to use, and why disadvantage a new(er) member. The funny part of the story is that somebody <jokingly> posted, "How do i exchange my "ship dollars" for an onboard credit on my cruise. The administrator thought the poster was serious and nearly had a heart attack, trying his best to explain that hey had no monetary value. It was good for a laugh.

I think this board will have the same friendly attitude and approach down the road as it does today. The board has attracted a good base of "genuine people", and as this board grows thru word of mouth, it will attract like-minded individuals.

I'll admit it <again>... that too made me smile!!

Thanks for the kind words (it's appreciated). None of it would be possible without the support of our users who post their results here... so the kudos go to all of you who make it possible for me to have some fun with this project. PS- does anybody look at the calendar link near the top of the board? <i've been tracking our progress>

"the-other-bulletin-board" ...which i will admit made me smile! Maybe we should make "TOBB" an official term/acronym here :)

Welcome to BetterBidding! We're glad you're here. Could you provide the star rating for the Embassy Suites, and if you happen to recall, the amenities that were listed too. This will assist us in identifying the property when it comes up again in the future. Feel free to post whatever prior "wins" you remember as well, and i'll add them to the 'Hotel List by City.' Thanks again for posting, and we look forward to seeing you again at the board soon. PS- they play football in August?!? :) Enjoy the game!!

Key Biscayne and Coral Gables are NOT re-bids zones as they each have hotels that are 3* or higher. When bidding 3* in Downtown, you need areas that do not have 3* or higher (in other words, zones that only offer 2.5* and lower). Based upon the rates you supplied, i would think that Priceline probably has inventory at the Miami Hyatt Downtown, which often goes for $27/nite, and this is where i would start my bid. If that's unsuccessful, the next likely candidate is the Sheraton at $40 (but of course, no guarantees, as hotels can be added to this area at any time). I've stayed at this hotel and i think it's great for a one nite pre-cruise stay. Feel free to ask any additional questions you have. If you move forward, let us know how it goes and your results. Good Luck. If you'd like me to "walk you thru" the bidding process via Instant Messenger (AOL or Yahoo) so you can ask any questions along the way, let me know. PS- for anyone reading this in the future, be sure to check the re-bids zones yourself before each bidding cycle to make sure no hotels have been addded which would make the zones no longer a "free re-bid" If you have questions, please ASK!

Congratulations on your "win" and welcome to the board! It would be great if you could also post the dates of your stay and the tax information. Thanks for taking the time to share your results and contributing to the board, the time you took in doing so is very much appreciated. Have a great trip.

I know nothing about Worldspan or CRS(??) either, but i would think that the hotels input various datapoints (prices) and then designates which users (Priceline, Expedia, Orbitz, Hotwire) are able to view each datapoint. This would prevent anyone not using a "priceline log-in" from viewing the priceline rate. It woudl also explain how companies like Expedia and Orbitz sometimes have different prices from each other, access to different hotels, etc... all based upon the what information they're "entitled" to view. This is all just a guess, but from a programming point of view, i don't think it would be too difficult to do.

Glad to have you here... welcome aboard! Thanks for taking the time to post. I don't know if this trip is for business/pleasure, or how full your schedule is, but you may want to check out this thread which has discounts on some very good, 'nicer', restaurants (my favorite being Brasserie 8 1/2) Up to $30 off dinner at select NYC restaurants Thanks again for posting, and have a great stay in the Big Apple.

WillTravel is correct, you can start a totally new bid after 72 hours. Once you decide what you want to do (regarding splitting up the bid or not), feel free to post your strategy (or ask for one) before you bid.

As far as a starting bid, the best scenario is if there is a prior winning bid (even better if it shows taxes!!) so that you can figure out what's been accepted in the past (and Priceline's actual cost of the taxes are shown). Other than that, you can sometimes get a "feel" for these things depending upon how crowded/expensive of a city it is, class of hotels available, etc. (although it's more difficult with overseas reservations like this). Of course, you're encouraged to just ask for help here and usually somebody will have experience in the area or at least have a suggestion. For your Amsterdam stay, i checked and we've had a winning 4* hotel in the Aiport zone ($70) and a 4* win in City Center ($85). Looking at the airport hotel, i noticed that there is a rate change during your stay. The first nite is ~$165(US$) and then goes down to ~$100(US$). It's possible that your bid MAY have been rejected because it wasn't high enough for the first nite, but would have been high enough for the 2nd and 3rd. You can consider splitting your bid, bidding the 1st nite separately than the 2nd and 3rd nites, but you run the risk of having to switch hotels after the first nite if your bids "win" different properties. Be sure to read this before splitting your bid: Should I Split My Bid? If you'd rather not split your bid, you may want to try bidding as high as $85 since there is a prior win at the Marriott City Center at that level (although it's only one reported win, it doesn't likely that it would result in a bad overbid since $76 was already rejected in this zone). Although the Marriott's website also shows a rate change after the first nite. Hope this helped a little bit. There are quite a few "world travelers" on this site and i would encourage any of them to add any info/insight that they may have. When you decide if you need a hotel in Italy, let us know and we'll start to research that as well. As always, thanks for your support and using the links at the top of the page.

This list is NOT a complete list of all hotels that Hotwire offers in this area, it is ONLY a compilation of hotels that have already been reported on this forum. Hotels are added/removed by Hotwire all the time, and star ratings can change at ANY time. As well, the geographic boundaries of an area are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to look at the Hotwire map before purchasing. In light of the above, you MAY get a hotel that is NOT on this list, or get a hotel on this list but at a star level you didn't expect (if the star rating has changed). Lastly, this board (and its members) are here to assist you, if you have a question or are unsure of something, please ask before purchasing (since Hotwire stipulates NO cancellations/refunds)! However, by using this board you agree that you do so at your own risk! (in other words, NO WHINING allowed!!) (READ the ENTIRE thread as there may be more hotels for your city below the first post) CLICK FOR: OR Acapulco 3* Fiesta Inn Acapulco Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Childrens Activities, Business 3* Fiesta Americana Condesa Acapulco Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Tennis, Business 4.5* Las Brisas Acapulco Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Restaurant, Complimentary Breakfast, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Golf, Tennis, Business 4.5* Camino Real Acapulco Diamante Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Spa, Childrens Activities, Laundry 3* Hotel Emporio Acapulco Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Tennis, Business CLICK FOR: OR Cancun 4.5* Riu Palace Peninsula Amenities: <none supplied by user> (may be: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, All-Inclusive) 4* Fiesta Americana Condesa (previously 4.5*) (SOUTH zone) REVIEW Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Childrens Activities 4* Grand Oasis Oasis Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Oceanfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Oceanfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Hyatt Regency Cancun Amenities: Resort, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Wheelchair Accessible 4* Presidente Inter-Continental (ZONE: Hotel Zone - Convention Center) Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Childrens Activities, Tennis OR Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Children Activities, Golf, Tennis, Business 4* Vacation Club International Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Business, Laundry 3.5* Crown Paradise (SOUTH zone) All-Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Grand Oasis Viva Beach Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Spa 3.5* Hotel Royal Solaris Caribe (SOUTH zone) All-Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Golf, Tennis 3* Xbalamque Resort and Spa (previously 3.5*) Amenities: Resort, Restaurant, Pool, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Spa CLICK FOR: OR Cancun (City Center) 5* Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention Center) Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Childrens Activities 4* Dreams Resort All-Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Beverages, A la Carte Dining, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Children's Activities, Tennis, Golf, Laundry, Restaurant, Business OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Riu Palace Las Americas (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention Center) All-Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Activities, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Activities, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Internet, Room Accessible 3.5* Grand Oasis Palm (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention Center) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Childrens Activities, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3.5* NH Krystal Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Riu Cancun Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Laundry, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Wheelchair Accessible 3* Ambiance Villas and Club (aka - Beachscape) (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention Center) Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Laundry, Childrens Activities 3* Holiday Inn Arenas (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention Center) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis 3* Oasis Palm (ZONE: Hotel Zone-Convention) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking 3* Sotavento Hotel and Yacht Club Amenities: Boutique, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry 2.5* Hotel Del Sol Amenities: Oceanfront, Complimentary Breakfast, Smoke Free, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry, Golf, Free Parking, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible 2.5* Mayafair Design Hotel Amenities: Boutique, Near Beach, Hi-Speed Internet, Tennis Cancun (Isla Mujeres) 4* Privilege Aluxes (previously 3.5*) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Smoke Free, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Spa 3* Hotel Bahia Chac Chi Amenities: Oceanfront, Complimentary Breakfast, Pool, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry 3* Hotel Bucaneros Amenities: <none shown by Hotwire> 3* Ixchel Beach Hotel Amenities: Boutique, Oceanfront, Restaurant, Pool, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry CLICK FOR: OR Cancun (North) 4.5* Aqua Live Cancun Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Le Meridien) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Complimentary Breakfast, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking 4.5* Le Meridien (previously 5*) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Aqua Cancun) OR Amenities: All Inclusive, Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Smoke Free, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Childrens Activities, Golf, Tennis 4* Grand Park Royal Cancun Caribe Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Childrens Activities OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible 4* ME Cancun Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Beverage, ala Carte Dining, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Beverage, ala Carte Dining, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Secrets The Vine Cancun Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Oceanfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Smoke Free, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Spa, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Blind Accessible, Deaf Accessible, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, Roll-in Shower, All-Inclusive 4* The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Amenities: Condo, Resort, Beachfront, Studio, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Smoke Free, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Spa, Childrens Activities, Kitchen, Daily Housekeeping, A/C, Laundry (in room), Free Parking, 24hr Front Desk CLICK FOR: OR Cancun (Playa del Carmen - Playacar) 5* Fairmont Mayakoba Amenities: Deaf Accessible, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, Roll-in Shower 5* Occidental Royal Hideway Playacar (ZONE: Playa del Carmen North) All-Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Free Parking, Travel Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, All-Inclusive 4.5* Azul Fives Amenities: Condo, Resort, Beachfront, 1BR, Kitchen, Free Parking, Daily Housekeeping, A/C, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, 24hr Front Desk, Childrens Activities, Golf, Tennis, Laundry, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Spa 4* Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Laundry, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Encanto Paseo del Sol All Suites Resort Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Boutique, 2BR, Kitchen, A/C, Daily Housekeeping, Front Desk, Pool, Smoke Free, Laundry (in room), Golf OR Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Kitchen, Smoke Free, Daily Housekeeping, A/C, Laundry (in room), Pool, Front Desk, 24 Hour Front Desk, Golf, Boutique, Condo 4* Grand Riviera Princess Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Suite, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Spa, Childrens Activities, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities 4* Hacienda Real by Canto Amenities: Restaurant, Pool, Smoke Free, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry 4* Sandos Playacar Beach Resort All Inclusive Amenities: Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Laundry 3* Ocean Maya Resort by H10 Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Pool, Tennis, Spa 3* Riu Lupita Amenities: Near Beach, Food and Beverages, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Golf, Tennis 2.5* Holiday Inn Express Amenities: Near Beach, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf 2.5* Real Playa del Carmen Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Daily Activities, Evening Entertainment, Water Sports, Restaurant, Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry, Tennis CLICK FOR: OR Cancun (North Riviera Maya - Puerto Morelos) 4.5* Azul Sensatori by Karisma Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4.5* Cieba Del Mar Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Tennis, Spa 4.5* El Dorado Royale (Adults Only) Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Oceanfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4.5* Valentin Imperial Maya All Inclusive (ZONE: Riviera Cancun - Puerto Morelos) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities 4.5* Secrets Silversands (Adults Only - All-Inclusive) Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Room Accessible, Handicapped Parking 4* Hotel Marina El Cid Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Activities, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Laundry, Golf, Spa 3.5* Ocean Coral Turquesa All-Inclusive Amenities: Near Beach, Food and Beverages, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry 3* Ocean Breeze Riviera Maya Amenities: Near Beach, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Wheelchair Accessible Cancun (Riviera Maya) 4* Occidental Xcaret Amenities: Resort, Food and Beverage, Evening Entertainment, Complimentary Breakfast, Fitness, Restaurant, Spa, Beachfront, Water Sports, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Pool, Tennis 4* Omni Puerto Aventuras Beach Resort (ZONE: Puerto Aventuras - Tulum) Amenities: Resort, Boutique, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis 3.5* Barcelo Maya Beach Resort (ZONE: Puerto Aventuras - Tulum) All-Inclusive Amenities: Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Spa 3.5* Gran Bahia Principe Coba All Inclusive (ZONE: Puerto Aventuras - Tulum) Amenities: Resort, Suite, Near Beach, Food and Beverage, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Fitness, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3* Grand Oasis Riviera Maya Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Restaurant, Business CLICK FOR: OR Cancun (South) 4* GR Solaris All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, a la Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Golf, Restaurant, Business, Complimentary Breakfast OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Golf, Restaurant, Business, Complimentary Breakfast OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Bathroom Accessible 4* Gran Melia Cancun Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Hilton and possibly Westin) OR Amenities:Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa (believed correct awaiting user confirmation... same as Hilton) 4* Hilton Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa (same as Gran Melia) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Gran Melia Cancun) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa (same as Omni and Westin) 4* Omni Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa (same as Hilton and Westin) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Westin Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (awaiting user confirmation) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa (same as Omni and Hilton) 3.5* Crown Paradise Club (previously 3*) All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Laundry, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Royal Solaris Caribe All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3* Hotetur Beach Paradise Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Laundry, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis CLICK FOR: OR Cozumel 3.5* Allegro Cozumel All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Hotel Melia Cozumel All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Wyndham Resort and Spa Amenities:Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Laundry, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Tennis, Spa 3* Hotel Cozumel and Resort Amenities: Beachfront, Near Beach, Oceanfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Childrens Activities 3* Reef Club Cozumel (maybe be 3.5*) Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, a la Carte Dining, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Tennis, Restaurant Guadalajara 4* Presidente Inter-Continental Amenities: <none supplied by user> (may be: Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business) Huatulco 3.5* Barcelo Huatulco Beach Resort All-Inclusive Amenities: Near Beach, Food and Beverages, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Tennis Ixtapa 4* La Brisas Ixtapa Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Golf, Tennis CLICK FOR: OR Los Cabos 3* Villa Del Palmar Resort and Spa (previously 4*) Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Kitchenette, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Childrens Activities OR Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Kitchenette, Childrens Activities, Golf, Tennis, Business Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas) 4.5* Pueblo Bonito Pacifica (Adults Only) Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness (same as Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach) 4.5* Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach (previously 5*) Amenities: Suite, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness OR Amenities: Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness (same as Pueblo Bonito Pacifica) 4.5* Villa La Estancia (previously 5*) Amenities: <none supplied by user> (may be: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Tennis, Business, Laundry) 4* Pueblo Bonito Blanco Amenities: Beachfront, Studio, Kitchen, Free Parking, Daily Housekeeping, A/C, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Front Desk, Tennis, Spa, Kitchenette, Condo 4* Pueblo Bonito Rose Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Tennis, Kitchenette, Spa, Childrens Activities 4* Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, All-Inclusive 4* Villa Del Arco Beach Resort and Grand Spa Amenities: Condo, Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Studio, Kitchen, Daily Housekeeping, A/C, Pool, Restaurant, Front Desk, Hi-Speed Internet, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Villa De Palmar Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Kitchenette, Spa, Childrens Activities 3.5* Riu Santa Fe All Inclusive Hotel Amenities: Resort, Oceanfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities CLICK FOR: OR Los Cabos (The Corridor) 4.5* Fiesta Americana Amenities: Resort, Near Beach, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* Dreams Los Cabos Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Hi-Speed Internet, Tennis, Golf, Spa 4* Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf Resort Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities 4* Melia Cabo Real All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, Roll-in Shower, All-Inclusive 4* Sheraton Hacienda Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Activities, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking 4* Westin Resort and Spa Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Free Parking, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, Roll-in Shower OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking, Roll-in Shower 3* Vistazul Suites and Spa Amenities: Boutique, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Spa CLICK FOR: OR Los Cabos (San Jose del Cabo) All Inclusive 3.5* Grand Baja Amenities: Resort, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities 3.5* Presidente Inter-Continental Los Cabos (previously 4*) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Tennis, Golf, Spa, Childrens Activities OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Tennis, Golf, Spa, Childrens Activities 3.5* Royal Solaris (previously 4*) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Golf, Restaurant, Business, Complimentary Breakfast OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Golf, Restaurant, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Complimentary Breakfast, Free Parking, Travel Accessible, Handicapped Parking Manzanillo 3* Tesoro Resort All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Oceanfront, ala Carte, Water Sports, Food and Beverage, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities Merida 4* Hyatt Regency Amenities: Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Tennis CLICK FOR: OR Mexico (Mexico City) 5* Galleria Plaza Amenities: Restaurant, Pool, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Spa 4.5* Presidente Inter-Continental Amenities: <none supplied> 4.5* W Hotel Mexico City Amenities: <none supplied> 4* Sheraton Centro Historico Amenities: Shuttle, Restaurant, Hi-Speed Internet 2* Hotel San Francisco Amenities: Restaurant, Business Mexico (Riviera Maya) 4* Allegro Playacar by Occidental Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Activities, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool (believed incomplete) 4* Bahia Principe Tulum All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Spa, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Restaurant, Business CLICK FOR: OR Puerto Vallarta 4* Barcelo Jolla de Mismaloya Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Spa, Kitchenette OR Amenities: Resort, Suite, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Golf, Spa 4* Dreams Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Tennis, Spa 4* Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Towers Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Spa, Tennis OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Westin) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Free Internet, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking, Blind Accessible, Travel Accessible, Room Accessible, Bathroom Accessible, Handicapped Parking 4* Westin Resort and Spa (previously 4.5*) Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities (same as Sheraton Buganvilias) OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa, Childrens Activities, Free Parking 3* Hola Puerto Vallarta Club and Spa All Inclusive Amenities: Beachfront, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Complimentary Breakfast, Pool, Tennis, Food and Beverages, Water Activities, Daily Activities, Fitness, Restaurant, Spa 2* Emperador Hotel and Suites Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Pool CLICK FOR: OR Puerto Vallarta (Nuevo Vallarta) 4* Marival Grand and Club Suites All Inclusive Amenities: Beachfront, Premium Beverages, Business, Childrens Activities, Daily Activities, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Fitness OR Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Fitness, Pool, Restaurant, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 4* RIU Palace Pacifico All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Hi-Speed Internet, Laundry, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Marival Resort and Suites Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, Premium Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Laundry, Golf, Tennis, Spa 3.5* Riu Vallarta Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverages, ala Carte, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Complimentary Breakfast, Childrens Activities, Restaurant, Pool, Fitness, Business, Golf, Spa 3.5* Samba Vallarta Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, Premium Drinks, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Fitness, Childrens Activities, Hi-Speed Internet, Restaurant 3* Royal Decameron Costa Flamingos Resort All Inclusive Amenities: Resort, Beachfront, Food and Beverage, ala Carte, Water Sports, Evening Entertainment, Daily Activities, Pool, Childrens Activities, Tennis, Restaurant

I think Mexico hotels were only recently added at the beginning of February, so info may be slim. However, in a Hotwire advertisement they list the following as a "featured partner": 4.5* Presidente Inter-Continental Cancun Keep in mind this is only one possibility, there may be other 4.5 star hotels that they've partnered with in the area. I did just run a search though for a random date in June, and a 4.5* property ($72 or $74, i forget) in Cancun came up, with one of the amenities being "children's activities". I then looked at the hotel above thru Expedia and they list "children's programs." So, this does NOT mean that it's the same hotel, but it definately keeps it in the "running". Let us know how you progress with this and if you learn any add'l information.

Just to add 3 comments to the above: 1) I usually try to raise my re-bids by at least $3 to give me better chances (unless i have prior evidence of winning bids getting accepted at prices less than $3 more), especially if i don't have other re-bid options. This is not to say that you should do the same, i'm just mentioning my own strategy/technique. 2) The 2* Queen Anne was won for $26/nite, although taxes show a cost of $27/nite, so this might be an instance where i bid at $26 and if rejected, only raise my bid by $1 to $27. 3) Keep in mind that rebid zones often change when you start looking at lower quality hotel properties (fewer rebid zones) and higher quality hotel properties (more rebid zones). If the $31 re-bid you mentioned above was done today, you'll have to wait 72 hours from today to start your bidding over again. If you did it yesterday, the 72 hour clock started with your last rejected bid yesterday. If you chose to lower the star level to 2* you could bid it right away; as well, if you decided to switch zones and go for the 4* mentioned above, you could bid that right away too if you only select that new zone. You do have some time, so no rush, just making sure you're aware of your options. Thanks for using our links:)

You're quite welcome, glad you were successful. Based upon a tax rate of 12.5%, Priceline's cost is $69, so you did GREAT! That's the good thing about having so many re-bids is that you have the luxory of low-balling and working your way up to a more realistic bid. Looks like you were able to cut your back-up rate by more than 1/2, and certainly did better than the Orbitz/Expedia rate of $249/nite!! ($212 rate available for seniors) Have a safe trip.

At the 4* level, lots of re-bids available so this should be easy (as it doesn't appear that the area is sold out at all). If you're unsure of how re-bids work, give this a read: Re-bidding Explained. If you're still unsure, post back and ask any questions you have. From your post i imagine that the Inner Harbor is your first choice so we'll try for that only. (unless you're thinking other-wise, at which point repost and i'll edit the strategy). I would begin with 4* and Inner Harbor (only): Bid $50 (probably too low, but worth a shot) If rejected, i would then continue to add re-bid zones, raising my bid by $5 each time, until i reached the maximum amount that i wanted to spend. I don't what maximum bid you have in mind, but i wouldn't be going over $90 (and i DON"T think it will take that much). If you hit the $90 mark (or whatever your upper limit is) stop at that point and post back... i won't go into more detail at this point because i don't think it'll be necessary. Feel free to post any questions you have regarding any of the above. I look forward to hearing how it works out! Thanks in advance for using the links at the top of the page.

No need to spend more time on 'homework'... just ask for help at the board OR (if you enjoy doing research) post your strategy here before implementing to confirm that it's the best approach. I don't understand your question in the last line (i think you might have left out a word or two).

Congratulations on your first "win". The taxes are used to figure out Priceline's cost of the room, which presumably, is the lowest price they will accept for the room, and is explained in further deail HERE. In summary, you divide the taxes per nite by the tax rate to get Priceline's cost. Since taxes in Fort Lauderdale area 11%... 4.07 / .11 = $37 So Priceline's cost for this room was $37, a slight overbid on your part, but MUCH better than anything you could have gotten on your own through a "traditional" booking. Thanks for returning and posting your winning info... these boards don't work without it!

Squeegee, As posted in THIS THREAD (last post) djohannnw is a non-US resident. For UK residents, this post contains the Bonus Money Link As far as i know, US residents can't use it. Apparently there was some HK bonus, but i think that may have ended in March (but i'm not sure).

I've actually had better luck when bidding early if i expect peak occupany.... it can't hurt and it could help. If you're sure of the plans i would be start bidding it now, but that's just me.

I don't know the area, but looking at a map on Mapquest it appears to be just north of the Inner Harbor. IF this is correct, it appears that the following zones get you 'close' (and i don't know which would be best): Carlyle - Cross Keys Baltimore Inner Harbor Baltimore Downtown Waterfront Townson Mt. Vernon To find out which is best (assuming nobody from this board chimes in) i would call the hospital or a friend in the area and ask them which of the above areas is closest. Since you may not have 4* hotels in each area, i'd ask them about all 5 areas in case you're unsuccessful with your first choice. (but it appears to me that they're all within a few miles of the hospital) To get an another perspective, click the Expedia link at the top of the page. In the airline search box, click on HOTEL to switch to the hotel screen. Then click on the link "hotel" where it says "Show More Hotel Options". On the next screen on the top right, there is an option to search near an address. Put in the address and city and it will show you hotels by distance from the address you select. (sounds confusing getting there, but it isn't) Once you select a zone(s), i'll try to advise on a bidding strategy and starting price. I would begin this SOON, in order to make sure you have a few bidding opportinities in case you're not successful on your first try.

Thru the Orbitz link above i found the Best Western (the 3* i referenced above for $79/nite) and that may be an better option than the Days Inn for an extra $2/nite. The Radisson is $124/nite. Why is this high season? Given these rates, i think the suggested bidding strategy has a decent chance. Let us know how you make out.

I got 2 words for that.... NICE!!