Using Priceline in Sonoma
Jun 15th, 2003, 05:44 AM
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,080
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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.
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.
Jun 15th, 2003, 06:24 AM
#3
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 262
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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
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
Jun 15th, 2003, 09:20 AM
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,080
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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.
Jun 15th, 2003, 12:02 PM
#7
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 262
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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
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
Jun 15th, 2003, 12:34 PM
#8
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,080
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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!
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!
Jun 16th, 2003, 08:26 AM
#10
Join Date: May 2003
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
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.
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.
Thread
Original Poster
Forum
Replies
Last Post
kdappleton
United States
6
Aug 16th, 2007 11:36 AM
