Editorial
Avoid hidden flight, hotel fees
By Jason Alderman, Visa Financial Education Program director
The last few years have been tough economically for many people. Unemployment fears combined with plunging home, stock and retirement account values caused many to forgo big vacations – even though stressful times are when we most need to recharge our batteries.
But with the economy turning around, many families are cautiously dipping their toes in the travel pool once again. Hotel occupancy rates have risen in many areas and airports are as crowded as ever.
Airlines and hotels are notorious for tacking extra charges onto their bills. Here are a few to watch out for:
• A few airlines allow one free checked bag (Southwest still allows two), but most charge up to $25 for the first checked bag each way, and even more for additional pieces. Plus, most now tack on hefty fees for overweight and over-sized checked and carry-on luggage, so measure and weigh your luggage carefully.
• Expect to pay extra for things like changing flights, extra leg room, priority boarding, unaccompanied minors, pets, Wi-Fi access and food. Some airlines even charge extra to speak to a live person or to buy your ticket at the airport counter or by phone.
• Airfarewatchdog.com, Travelnerd.com and Kayak.com offer great fee comparison charts for various airlines; but always double-check the airline’s own posted rules before booking your flight.
• Some hotels charge extra if you check in before a certain time. Ask whether they’ll store your luggage for free until check-in so you can begin sightseeing unencumbered.
• Many hotels charge a hefty penalty if you don’t cancel a reservation 24 to 72 hours beforehand and some also charge an early-departure fee, sometimes the equivalent of one night’s lodging. Read the hotel’s cancellation policy before booking, especially if you’re looking at a discounted, non-refundable rate.
• Minibars often have electronic sensors that trigger a charge if you simply move the contents. Also, water or snacks sitting on the dresser may appear to be complimentary, but double-check before consuming.
• Hotel parking in major cities can cost up to $50 a day, and many have mandatory valet parking, which means adding a tip on top of that. Research nearby municipal parking lots beforehand, or check the city’s tourism bureau for hotels offering parking promotions. Sometimes using public transportation and taxis is cheaper overall than paying for parking.
• Resorts often charge extra for services they offer – such as gym access or daily newspaper delivery – even if you don’t use them. Find out the policy ahead of time and scrutinize your bill for unused services.
• Ask to see your bill the night before you check out, so you can review it carefully for overcharges.
• If you’re traveling abroad, be aware that using your cellphone can be mighty expensive. Research your carrier’s international calling plan and ask whether your phone is compatible with foreign networks. You may need to rent an international cellphone, or buy or rent an unlocked phone and international SIM card.
Letters
Normal Heights Community Association
Congratulations Normal Heights Community Association for your new group. It is a worthy endeavor that you undertake. May you be informative to and provide a voice for your neighborhood, and have fun at the same time [see “New Normal Heights Community Association,” Vol. 5, Issue 11].
Looking forward to Ron joining the Consortium of Community Association Presidents group for conversation and sharing.
—Luke Terpstra, Hillcrest Town Council chair, via sduptownnews.com
Great article on the Normal Heights Community Association, and great work by those involved in getting the NHCA restarted [see “New Normal Heights Community Association,” Vol. 5, Issue 11].
For the record, however, the original NHCA started in 1980, not 1985, and had relit the Normal Heights sign, instigated formation of the Adams Avenue Business Association, started the Community Development Corporation, initiated the monthly Adams Avenue Post, and was in the process of moving the fourth annual street fair onto Adams Avenue when the fire occurred.
The NHCA was involved in producing the Normal Heights Rebuilding Plan, which was delivered to the City Council 30 days after the fire. The NHCA did, however, initiate the first annual Neighborhood Awards program as a result of the fire.
—Gary Weber of Normal Heights, via email
The Verge Salon sparks interest
Sounds like a great night [see “Art, inspiration and entertainment with The Verge,” Vol. 5, Issue 11].
Thanks, it’s always inspiring to hear about new art/artist making their way. Hope I can make it to a show some time!
—Cassie Wieden, via sduptownnews.com
Take a skeptical view
I second David Lundin’s heartfelt plea, published in the last issue, that Uptown News and other neighborhood newspapers take a more skeptical view of information they receive instead of merely embroidering press releases – especially those from politicians [see “Letters,” Vol. 5, Issue 11].
Even in San Diego, many politicians twist their words to hide their real agendas and make themselves look good. They shouldn’t be taken at face value.
As for other news, not everything that happens in Uptown is a cause for celebration, nor do all plays and restaurants warrant rave reviews. Some recognition of the downsides would induce readers to take you seriously rather than simply use you as a guide to current housing prices.
—John Kroll of South Park, via email
