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The holiday season is quickly approaching and that means many of us will be traveling to see family and friends or taking a much-needed vacation. As someone who works in a hotel and also loves to travel, I thought I would share some helpful tips to make your planning and traveling as stress-free as possible.

Hotels: Booking Direct vs Third Party

Third-party sites like Hotels.com and Booking.com can be economical. They give you many options and rates for different hotels. However, booking directly with a hotel can have way more advantages for just a little more money. When you book via a third party, the hotel cannot edit your reservation or refund you instead, you have to go through the third party site. When you book a reservation directly with the hotel, there is much more flexibility should you need to make a change.

Be sure to always ask for an upgrade or access to the concierge lounge if they have one. Don't forget to sign up for their rewards programs too. Marriott offers the Bonvoy Loyalty Program at Marriott.com. Remember to call the hotel and ask if any big events are happening during your stay. A romantic weekend away can be spoiled if the hotel is hosting a children's dance competition or a bunch of weddings. Remember to check for hidden fees and cancellation policies before booking. Another important tip, if you check in late to a hotel that is at capacity, you may not have a room when you arrive. Guests who check in after 9 pm have a higher chance of not getting a room than someone who checks in at 4 pm. It's not ideal of course, but it can and does happen.

Air Travel and Etiquette

Air travel is expected to be at an all-time high this holiday season, so plan smart, and expect delays. If you need to be somewhere on a particular day, you should plan to travel a day or two before if possible. If you can fly on a lighter travel day, then do it. The Tuesday before Thanksgiving will be less crowded than the Wednesday before or the day of in most cases. The same applies to flying home. Try to fly back on Monday rather than Saturday or Sunday. Pack lightly with just a carry-on if possible. Checked bags can cause delays and or get lost. Bringing gifts? Consider shipping them beforehand. Be kind to the folks working at the airline counters. They didn't make you late, nor do they control the flight schedules, delays, or cancellations. I always book directly with the airline as opposed to a third party and I always purchase the travel insurance. You just never know what can come up. I'd rather spend an extra $100 than lose $600 or more on the tickets.

I wish you a beautiful Thanksgiving holiday with your loved ones and safe travels.

Tracy Lisee
Spa Director
Cerulean Beauty & Spa

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