In the past I have always booked my own hotels. However, this time it just seems so convenient to use one of the many bookings services all over the web. <BR> <BR>What's the difference? Advantages and disadvantages both ways? <BR>

TRY BANCOTEL

If you want good three star hotels in Spain you can pick up your phone and call the 800 number of Best Western or you can use them on the internet. I find the hotels small, clean, well located, good prices, and they assure you the reservation with no surprises. You can also find specials such as senior citizen rates.

We used email to book many of our hotels for our trip to Spain. Rick Steves' book lists many email addresses for hotels and other establishments.

I usually start my search on expedia.com, AFTER consulting a good guidebook on recommendations. Then I go to the hotel's website to compare prices; I have repeatedly found the rates and availability better on the hotel's site versus booking engines. One disadvantage I have experienced: I booked a Best Western in Lisbon via the Triple A website and got a GREAT deal on a room with a double bed. I get there and the desk clerk shows me the reservation did not specify bed type on his end. Wound up with two twin beds! I should have confirmed the specifics of the reservation directly with the hotel via email. Well, at least it was cheap. Live and learn! <BR> <BR>Marlena

I used hoteldiscounts.com to book my hotel for Barcelona. <BR> <BR>I got the best deal on the Regencia Colon, a stone's throw away from the Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter, for under $100/night. <BR> <BR>I would recommend this hotel,and this website, in a heartbeat...