By risaqq 
Finding the best hotel room online is a complex process, which implies the need to consider many factors. Firstly, it is vital to identify the specific features of the information infrastructure of the chosen booking system and the accompanying specific features of interaction with a hotel. In the first place, it is essential to know that the systems for booking hotel accommodation are divided into three main types: online travel agencies, metasearch engines, and hotel websites. Online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Booking, control the property database, make deals, and provide guests with confirmation of reservations. Thus, Booking acts as an intermediary between the client and the hotel. Meanwhile, metasearch engines do not control any data, providing users with comparing prices and convenient booking via an external link. Finally, the third type of booking systems are websites of hotels. Interacting with them involves a direct contract between the customer and the establishment. Therefore, the importance of finding out the peculiarities of the chosen system is evident; it will allow the traveler to conduct a cost-effective search for the most favorable conditions
References & Tools: Booking.com Official Site , Expedia Official Site
Google Hotels Search Engine.
Core Features of an Effective Booking Engine
A great hotel booking platform should provide more options than just a list of prices for each night. First of all, the search feature should be highly sophisticated, allowing one to find the best deals with specific criteria in mind, such as a guest’s review, proximity to the desired location, room amenities, or cancellation policy. Secondly, the ability to search on the map is also beneficial as it helps to locate the hotels in relation to transportation and other landmarks. It prevents last-minute expenses on taxis due to a decision to choose a cheap but inconvenient accommodation. Great platforms also allow travellers to sort results by the guests’ actual reviews only in order to avoid any fake comments section. And finally, the most reliable booking website will calculate the final price so that there are no surprises at the end with extra taxes and fees
References & Tools : Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Guide on Translucent Pricing , Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Travel Guidance
Weighing Direct Hotel Bookings Against Third-Party Agencies
Consideration of the Option of Reservation
In my opinion, there are two primary options for making a reservation: contacting the hotel directly and using the services of an outside agency. The first option allows me to deal directly with the front desk of a chosen hotel when communicating via their website, for example, or by phone. As a result, I can ask the hotel for specific services and request special offers. In addition, when registering on the websites of major hotel chains, such as Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and others, I will be able to collect points for visiting different hotels, which will allow me to enjoy elite status at these organizations. The second option is the use of third-party booking systems, for example, Priceline. Here, the advantage of using such resources may be the ability to customize a full travel plan: rent a car, register on a flight booking system, and reserve a hotel. However, when I am faced with the need to address customer care, I will have to contact the third party rather than the hotel directly
References & Tools: Marriott Bonvoy Direct Booking , Hilton Honors Program Terms, Priceline Travel Hub.
Strategic Booking Advice for Diverse Travel Styles
Adapting the booking approach according to the personal preferences may maximize the chances to occupy the most comfortable and affordable place. Hence, the budget travelers and backpackers would benefit from choosing the most popular platforms offering a large variety of accommodation options, such as Hostelworld, providing the information about the shared dorms, private rooms in budget hostels, and overall atmosphere. The digital nomadism and extended stays require specific criteria in terms of workspace, fast internet, discounts for long-term guests, which can be found via Booking.com. Finally, the families and groups of the friends usually tend to look for different accommodation options, requiring multiple rooms, having a kitchen, and flexible check-in policies. These criteria might contribute to finding a reliable accommodation, meeting the individual needs, without being deceived by scams or paying over the prices for the luxury hospitality services
References & Tools:Hostelworld Global Stays , Booking.com Long-Stay Options.