RadarRick

I have used all the sites before....Expedia, priceline, kayak, Hotels.com, etc. So I know how to work the different sites. Using PL I prefer to use 4 or 3.5 stars because the amenities usually covers the basics I would prefer. My concern is that after I use those sites in years past I always find out later someone knew a tip, or a better way to get a better deal. My reason for asking first on this site is that you provide tools and research that can give you a leg up. Just want to know should I continue bidding ($80 a night) or do I really need a different strategy. First I would have no problem with PL and their policy of only 'one' bed on name your price..... BUT I would prefer at least two beds (one being a sofa bed alright too). If I have to pay extra for parking and breakfast (as well as taxes, fees and to a lessor extent cost of parking to board the metro) it will all be part of my decision to 'book' that hotel in that area. I am also looking for a hotel in the greater DC area, but I really prefer to stay in Annapolis but if I can find a $100 3 star hotel in DC I have to let my wallet talk. So I have to keep this in mind as I am a family and budgets do have to be taken into account. $100 a night is about my max budget for 9 nights. Obviously 4 star or 3.5 first, but will accept a clean, safe, secure 3 star also. I could go a little higher for a good reason (free parking, free continental breakfast), or maybe cut my stay to 8 or 7 days thus reducing my total bill. Since I prefer to stay in Annapolis I will have to drive to the metro daily so (downtown area preferred) but will accept further out also. Thanks for your reply. RR

GREAT SITE.... Kudos to all that support this site and provide advise. I have been trying to use PL and HW for several weeks to find a location in Annapolis. I have been bidding PL at $80 and 3.5. I will be driving from Morgantown, WV (4 hour drive). I prefer a hotel/rental with free parking and it would be nice to have a free breakfast thrown in. A frig/microwave would be great also. I am looking for strategy as well as knowledge. Here are the specifics. 4 total, 2 adults and 2 kids (5 & 15). Prefer 2 beds. I actually have a 6 month old (in March) also but don't need a bed for him. Friday, March 30 thru Sunday, April 8, 2012 (total of 9 nights). I could accept 8 or 7 nights if I can get the 'right' property. This is the DC blossom festival time, so I am not sure this effects Annapolis at all. A majority of my visit will be touring DC sites, but like the 'old town' feel of Annapolis to rest and relax at night. Have friends who lived here years ago, visited several times but never had to hotel here before. Wouldn't be agaimst something closer to DC but as with any family price and all the other variables (value, clean, safe, secure, etc.) come into play. I have seen the 3.5 stars (Westin or Loews) going for 80-90 dollars on average, some as low as $70. Do I need to change strategies and not try and book all 9 days at once? Be patient and keep trying? Am I too early in my request? What do you suggest? RR