I have much experience with Priceline, and none with Hotwire, but I just wanted to let this poster know that this is a rampant problem (in my opinion) with the hotel industry and has been for at least the last 5 years. We first encountered this on a trip to Hawaii in 2002. It is not specific to Hotwire, and the only thing is that they probably should state it more clearly. The New York Times & Wall Street Journal have both had articles about this practice and in the beginning you could contest it, especially if they did not disclose it at check-in. Now, however, since the practice is so widespread, I think that is becoming difficult to do. I agree that it's not so heinous if they strip some of these services out, and you only paid if you used them, but I resent being told it is mandatory, even if you never park a car, use the pool, etc.! I can't understand why this isn't illegal, since it's effectively a rate increase if it is mandatory, and should be included in the rate. Maybe if more people complained they would be forced to eliminate this practice, but as long as they can keep getting these 'fees' they will do so.