A hotel is one of the most important purchases you will make on a trip. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to read reviews before you book a room. Those reviews can tell you what the hotel is really like, from its amenities and services to its reputation in the community. But, in the era of anything-goes hotel review sites, it’s often hard to know which ones are actually trustworthy. A new survey from CivicScience revealed that the most trustworthy hotel review sites aren’t the usual suspects.
While TripAdvisor, Google, and Trivago may be the most well-known review sites, they weren’t even among the top three most trusted. Instead, the most trustworthy hotel review site was a little less obvious: the hotel’s own website.
Hotels have a lot to gain from positive online reviews, and it isn’t uncommon for them to pay reputation management companies to boost their ratings on review sites. But, a few people can easily manipulate the results to give an unfairly negative picture of the hotel.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of hotel reviews are written by people who had a bad experience or have an agenda, which excludes people who had an acceptable stay and didn’t bother to write a review. The result is a skewed view of the hotel’s actual quality, and it’s doing a disservice to travelers who are looking for accurate lodging advice.
It’s also a good idea to read a variety of reviews, both positive and negative, so you can get an accurate feel for the hotel. You’ll also want to look at the date of the reviews, as many amenities and service can change over time. It’s also helpful to see how the hotel responds to negative reviews, as this can reveal a lot about the company’s culture and commitment to guests.
Aside from the hotel’s own website, it’s a good idea to use at least two or three other hotel search websites to compare prices. This will help ensure you’re getting the best possible rate and won’t be caught by any hidden fees or booking surcharges. It’s also a good idea to check prices frequently, as they can fluctuate and you may be able to find a deal that isn’t available if you wait too long.
Having the right hotel for your trip is crucial, especially in busy cities like New York City. Fortunately, there are plenty of luxury options to choose from, including hotels in Manhattan’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Whether you’re searching for an elegant retreat in Midtown or want to stay close to Broadway, there are hotels in New York that suit every traveler.
