Bidding for a hotel room in Perth: any thoughts?
 

We are arriving in Perth late in the evening of January 2nd after 30+ hours of travel. We will need a place to stay for one night before heading south, possibly by train or bus, to our final destination of Margaret River. Since it doesn't much matter to where we stay I thought it would be a good chance to try out Hotwire or Priceline, which I have never used. We usually are satisfied with a 3 or 3 1/2 star place, though of course I would be happy with something nicer. When would be the best time to give it a try: now, or closer to our departure date? And what price should I start at?

Thanks for your suggestions.

Hi ELiz-Travels -

Do be aware that Perth is suffering an accommodation shortage due to the fly-in-fly out mining boom. Accommodation is scarce and prices are very high.

Add to that your travel dates - January is the busiest travel month in WA, as it's school holidays (summer break) and many local families are also traveling.

I suggest you book NOW and be prepared to pay more than you'd expect.

Belmont is a suburb near the international airport with an assortment of budget accommodation. I'd start there.

Thanks, Melnq8. I'll look into it right away. I was hoping there wouldn't be a lot of business travellers in Perth given that it is the end of the Christmas season, but I guess the fly-in fly-out customers play havoc with 'normal' occupancy.

Well, today just travel is not important but accommodation is also important. If you hire good accommodation then I think your whole trip will not spoil in case of services.

check out wotif.com.au for last minute accommodation. Keep in mind though, that sometimes going direct to the hotel website can be cheaper.

Thanks for your replies. After looking at options I decided convenience was a little more important than price, so have booked at the Ibis through booking.com as it is near the train station, has 11:00 checkout time, and internet access in the room (albeit at a price). Breakfast included for 2, at about $180 AU. So hopefully we will be well rested, well fed and in touch with our family in Margaret River as we head south to join them.

The Ibis is definitely well located. Enjoy your visit.