I'm considering using Hotels.Com to book our accomodations when we go to Venice(May 21-24, 04) and Rome (May 24-30)as the prices I'm getting quoted directly from the hotel is more than what we'd like to pay. How has your expierence been dealing with them?

Thanks

I've used them many times in the states and have never had a problem. Although, I do always contact the hotel directly after a day or two to ensure that the hotel has the confirmed prepaid reservation.

If I were using them for Europe, I would definitely contact the hotel in question request that the hotel fax me a confirmation. Hotels in Europe have been known to overbook. One would suppose that you cannot be denied a room for a prepaid stay, but you never know. At any rate, those with faxes in hand upon check-in seem to have no problems, whereas those without written confirmations often report problems.

I used Hotels.com to book in Bangkok. I did not contact the hotel to make sure they got the reservation, and everything turned out fine. I was pleased with the their service.

Still deciding, but perhaps for piece of mind, I'll call the hotel directly.

Thanks to everyone.

In the past, we've used www.hrs.com with much success. Once whichever reservation service we use confirms the reservation, I email the hotel (or fax) to request a direct confirmation. Haven't had a problem yet.

I have not used them in Europe but in the US I have always gotten a better price quote calling the hotel directly than using Hotels.com.