We all have a friend or family member that seems to get lucky when it comes to traveling like a rock star. Maybe it’s something a little less mysterious. It’s possible they’ve learned how to get what they want for less by using key phrases and questions. Here are the top seven phrases that you need to familiarize yourself with before planning your next trip.
"We're on our honeymoon!"
If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a wedding anniversary or honeymoon, many hotels, resorts, cruise lines and some restaurants will add special perks or upgrades. Sandals Resorts offer honeymooners a bottle of chilled champagne with glasses elegantly arranged in an ice bucket (with a handwritten note from the general manager); turndown service on the first night with flower petals on the bed; and breakfast in bed on one morning of the stay (don’t cheat -- proof of wedding required).
"Can I get an upgrade?"
Hotels: When you check in at your hotel, always ask if you can get a complimentary upgrade. If the hotel isn’t full and an upgrade is available, you can add value to your vacation with this simple request. If you’re on the road and stop in at a hotel for an impromptu-late-evening reservation, first ask the front desk clerk to quote you a price. If the price seems high, ask (in your best no-I’m-not-desperate-for-a-room voice) “Is that the best you can do?” If they think you might go down the road, it’s possible they’ll offer you a better rate (or a better room for the same rate).
Flights: Last-minute first and business class seat availability can open up a chance for you to move to first class for an upgrade fee. On a patriotic note: First-class passengers have been known to trade seats with military personnel as a way of saying "thank you" for their service.
Car Rentals: If you arrive early in the morning to pick up your car rental (before most people have returned their rental cars), chances are you can snag an upgrade, so keep that in mind when you’re making the reservation. Start cheap!
"Would you like my seat so your family can sit together?”
If you’re traveling solo in economy class, and you offer to move to a different seat to accommodate other travelers flying together, there’s a possibility that you’ll be moved to a better seat -- maybe even first class if there are empty seats available! Who says nice guys finish in economy class?
"What discounts do you offer?"
Cruise lines offer discounts for members of the military. So do some hotel chains and theme parks. Also, ask about discounts if you are over 55, a repeat customer, AAA member or AARP member. If you are a frequent flyer, sign up for your favorite airline’s frequent flyer program and earn points toward upgrades or free airfare. If you are loyal to one brand of hotel chains, sign up for their rewards program and earn free or discounted nights. Tell your travel agent about any and all discounts you might qualify for.
"Does your resort provide free parking/breakfast/wifi?"
Hotels in high-traffic business districts often charge a (sometimes-hefty) fee for parking. Other hotels serve a complimentary hot breakfast, which can save you big bucks over the cost of eating out, especially for a family of four sharing one room. Cruise lines charge you if you take an item out of that little mini bar in your stateroom. Some hotels and resorts charge extra for wifi. “Know before you go.”
“Should I buy travel insurance?”
Ask a travel agent about the pros and cons of travel insurance. If a family member is in poor health or your job schedule is totally unpredictable, travel insurance is a must. Most policies cover 100% of the trip cost if you have to cancel because of an injury or illness to yourself or an immediate family member. Travel insurance also covers trip interruption, lost/delayed baggage, medical expenses and more. Some travel suppliers offer affordable cancel-for-any-reason insurance. This is a great option for travelers with unpredictable work schedules. You can still benefit from those early-booking sales, but get a full refund if you have to postpone your vacation.
"Would you like some chocolate?"
I know this sounds far fetched, but in a June 2012 article on johnnyjet.com, John E. DiScala (a.k.a. Johnny Jet) swears by chocolates to increase your chances of getting a better seat on the plane. In his article, he says, “I almost always bring two boxes of chocolates — one for the gate agents and one for the flight attendants because these people can make or break your trip. When you give it to them do it with a big smile, be genuine and don’t look for anything in return. If there is a chance they can give you a better seat they will but it’s really to thank them for their hard work because they have to deal with a bunch of miserable people for little pay and perks.”
Okay ladies, I checked out Johnny Jet’s personal profile on his website and he’s gorgeous...I mean, seriously, have you SEEN him? Maybe it’s not all about the chocolates....
