Booking room through hotel GM?

[burrco]

Recently the General Manager of a hotel suggested that I book my future stays through them. Could a more "worldly" member help me out with how this works in practice?

To me it would seams almost egotistical and a waste of time to the GM (and their staff) to contact them directly when the hotel has a perfectly good online booking system. What do other members in a similar situation do? I genuinely appreciate the offer - but don't want to make a pest of myself.

 

[nlagalle]

They may offer you a preferential rate booking directly that isn't available via a website.

We have booked directly in the past which has also saved agent fees.

 

[Cruiser Elite]

What do other members in a similar situation do? I genuinely appreciate the offer - but don't want to make a pest of myself.

I met the GM of a 5 star hotel in Beijing which is a member of one the very large international chains - he gave me his card and said email me when you want room.

I now get a standard room at approx 66% rate of best rate I can get online through their online booking system.

Go for it - suck it and see - what is the worst thing that can happen?

 

[markis10]

Booking through the GM saves the commission payable for the hotel and often results in best room upgrades compared to taking the normal routes.

 

[Ikara]

PS - it will not be the GM who is reading your email and reacting to it. He has a whole gammut of staff to make sure his "offers" are acted on.He's made the offer (assuming male - could be a female), take him/her up on it. I sure as hell would!

JB

 

[burrco]

Thanks everyone - the answer seams somewhat unanimous!

 

[UP4014]

Yes, if you have a direct line to the GM use it. I find it's worked well for me.

 

[Sprucegoose]

Recently the General Manager of a hotel suggested that I book my future stays through them. Could a more "worldly" member help me out with how this works in practice?

To me it would seams almost egotistical and a waste of time to the GM (and their staff) to contact them directly when the hotel has a perfectly good online booking system. What do other members in a similar situation do? I genuinely appreciate the offer - but don't want to make a pest of myself.

You are not a pest. You are a consumer with purchasing power. the hotel GM heads up a service and wants your money. It's a marriage, takes advantage of what is on offer.