Using Priceline in Sonoma
 

I have never used Priceline before, and actually object to the whole idea of buying blind without reviewing a proposal first. However, I have been looking at the Marriott Renaissance in Sonoma which normally goes for over $300 a night. I've read a couple old posts here where it was picked up on Priceline for $90 a night! How is that accomplished? I scouted out PL and they only seem to offer Sonoma hotels in the three-star category. Is there any way to set the parameters so you know you're bidding on the Renaissance?
I can't stay there if I can't get a deal, because at this point all I'll be able to think about is that the people in the next room probably paid $450 less for their weekend than we did!!! Please help if you can.

Go to biddingfortravel.com
Read everything there before you ever try to do anything on priceline. .:))

Dreamer,

Are you talking about the Renaissance Lodge? That is the only hotel even listed as coming up through Priceline. so... you probably have a good chance of getting that property (although) not guarenteed.

Just make sure you REALLY research biddingfortravel.com to learn how free re-bids work (if your first price isn't accepted you can add an area that DOESNT have any 3*star properties and raise your bid.

If you dont want change anything except your price you will need to wait 72 hours)

Ruby

Well, I had been to Biddingfortravel, but found it a bit of an overwhelming and confusing site. But, I just returned to focus on Sonoma. So, Ruby, as you said, there is only one 3* listed in Sonoma, and it appears to be the Renaissance Lodge. But, from what I understand, PL could add another at any time. Right? In addition, why is it called a "free" rebid? I didn't realize I had to pay to bid... I guess I never got that far into it. Also, should I bid on PL directly, or go through a link on BFT? I don't mind waiting the 72 hours - would you suggest going up in increments of $5? I'd just like to do this the simplest way possible! I have visions of ending up in a dive in the middle of nowhere. Thanks for your advice.

You need to go back and read the bft travel FAQ. All of your questions are answered there.

Ahhh...
I am on a quest.
Your knowledge is not for sharing, Beaver.

Dreamer,

Yes it is true that they *could* add another hotel but I when I have inquired about this I have been told that it would be very very rare. It is a gamble though. You would not end up in a dive because you will never a get a star LOWER than your preference, meaning if you wanted a 3 * you would only get a 3 or higher, never a 2 or 1*

When they say "free" rebid they mean without the 72 hour waiting period, the way to do this is to add an area that does not have any 3* or above (see my comments above)

I know that it can be overwhelming but if you have the time it really is worth researching and educating yourself on Biddingfortravel....

Good Luck:) Let me know if you have any other ?s I dont claim to be PL expert but I have used it several times and have gotten some fantastic deals. Remeber though it is a "gamble" but there are amazing deals to be had!!

Ruby

Thank you, Ruby. You have been most helpful. I think I'll try the process out first by placing a $1 bid - so it can get rejected! - just to go through the motions. (I read about this on BFT previously.)
Although not important for this trip, since I know where I'm trying to go, my understanding indicates there is no way to state you want a place with a pool, or under a certain size, or non-smoking room, etc. But I guess I'll find out for sure with the practice run!
Thanks again!

Dreamer,

It is true that you cannot put in what type/view you want. However I have never had a problem requesting through the hotel for a Non Smoking/King Bed

Ruby

This is the quote from the Pricline website: "All rooms are requested non-smoking and will accommodate up to 2 adults. Bed type requests or other special needs should be requested through your confirmed hotel and are based on availability."
I used PL to get great rates on my rooms in SF and Monterey next month. I definitely agree that you have to thoroughly explore biddingfortravel.com before making a move on PL.