Interesting thought...I'm not in the know to answer your question, but I've found several articles indicating that priceline usage is up, by quite a bit it seems too. Current economic conditions don't stop us from traveling, we just shop differently :)
Here's one: http://www.travelpulse.com/Resources/Editorial.aspx?n=52057
Back posting this one too. Don't worry, now that I know about you guys I'll be going through your PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links in the future :)
Tried a lowball offer around $60. Unsurprisingly declined.
Played around with permutations on areas with no 4* hotel. Up to $70 was declined, then I tried $76 and was accepted.
Subtotal for 2 nights: $152.00
Taxes and service charges: $31.70
Total: $183.70
Booked 3/15/09
Sorry, joined the boards after I made these two purchases! First time using PRICELINE too.
First bid accepted at $78.
3 nights subtotal was: $234.00
Taxes and service fees= $45.43
Total= 279.34
Booked 3/10/09
Current best rate for hotel is $150 a night through a click through ad on their web page.
2* Merced Travelodge
in Hotwire Hotels - California (all other cities)
Posted
This is a new hotel for your hotel lists. Travelodge Merced Yosemite or Merced Yosemite Travelodge (It is listed as both in different places)
I couldn't get anything to bite on Priceline, not even when I bid $36 on a 2 star, which is what Hotwire had.
Amenities listed: Free Breakfast, Pool
1 Night stay, May 30-31.
1 room.
$36 + 10.70 = 46.70
I probably should have done more research and booked directly from the hotel. Travelodge and HOTWIRE have the same price, but the hotel charges less in terms of tax and fees. Hotwire made an extra $7. I don't think they'll let me use the dispute the low price guarantee since they have the same list price... Oh well, I saved a lot on the rental car on PRICELINE, so I can live without the $7.
I actually remembered to use the HOTWIRE link from here! Woo hoo.