Priceline Hotel: What's the story with Vegas and Priceline??

[reserve]

I've been on 3 recent Vegas trips, two in the middle of summer, one this past week and another coming up next month. They are quick trips and this past one was Sunday through Tuesday. I know Vegas always has some sort of conference, but this past year it seems as though Priceline has really been skimpy on the discounts. I was able to book the Trump the last couple of years for $50-$60 no problem at peak months. Now I can't touch the Trump for less than $90/night, even when they show on Hotels.com they are $103. Something doesn't add up and I am curious if anyone else notices this. I will say that I only search for 5 stars and have the system down quite well. Since they have done the two and out rule it seems that there have been a ton of changes. Is there anywhere else to go??

[jen_m78]

I've noticed this. I don't understand it and it is starting to make me really concerned. I called a Priceline rep the other day because I was confused on why they were guaranteeing the "best rate" and their rates were $200+ more than booking through the hotel directly. The woman told me that they have limited inventory and their prices increase as supply goes lower. Obviously understandable but still interesting

[thereuare]

I've been on 3 recent Vegas trips, two in the middle of summer, one this past week and another coming up next month. They are quick trips and this past one was Sunday through Tuesday. I know Vegas always has some sort of conference, but this past year it seems as though Priceline has really been skimpy on the discounts. I was able to book the Trump the last couple of years for $50-$60 no problem at peak months. Now I can't touch the Trump for less than $90/night, even when they show on Hotels.com they are $103. Something doesn't add up and I am curious if anyone else notices this. I will say that I only search for 5 stars and have the system down quite well. Since they have done the two and out rule it seems that there have been a ton of changes. Is there anywhere else to go??

Please start by reading your messages... then click this PRICELINE link and reply to this thread and well comment on your post above.

I've noticed this. I don't understand it and it is starting to make me really concerned. I called a Priceline rep the other day because I was confused on why they were guaranteeing the "best rate" and their rates were $200+ more than booking through the hotel directly.

What is it that you're concerned about... assuming the 'retail' PRICELINE rate is fully refundable, why not book the higher rate thru PRICELINE and then make a best rate guarantee claim??

Please use the PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links on the board to begin your travel purchases.

[MurtleCake]

I think Vegas has just possibly been more crowded lately... I don't think it's up to PRICELINE, if they are selling more rooms, they don't have to sell as many to PRICELINE. The rooms got SO undervalued before. a 5 star hotel shouldn't be $50 a night.

[jen_m78]

If I were to put in the "Best Rate Guarantee" I believe I would have to cancel my hotel reservations, book directly through the hotel, and then receive a refund 6 weeks later. If that's how it works-it's not worth it.

[thereuare]

You would book thru PRICELINE and then notify them indicating that you found a lower rate then what you had purchased for and evidence of the lower rate.

Please use the PRICELINE and HOTWIRE links on the board to begin your travel purchases.