Originally Posted by
cordelli
I've had it both ways, where they do not care, anybody can stay at any rate if you ask, and I've also had them check with the contact at the company for verification.
It may also be possible the rate is only for bookings made through the travel desk.
You will probably have no problems at all doing it, but it's also possible you will be caught. Not really sure I'd want that to happen, I wouldn't do it.
if the rate is only made via the travel desk (our corp rates all have codes for use on the hotels websites) then it is a moot point b/c he can't book it online. Now I suppose he could call and ask for it (we do that too) but then again if he just calls and says can I get the XYZ corp rate and they say yes.. I don't see any fraud unless they ask "are you an employee" or similar.
As with anything in life I'm sure there are properties somewhere, some place who will verify that you work for the company or otherwise are eligible for this rate but IMHO 98+% of the hotels out there (esp in the USA) will accept the business card or other information as acceptable.
personally, I wouldn't worry about it and would do it in a heartbeat. If it really does bother you, just have a back up cancellable plan
Originally Posted by
mbstone
Technically, claiming your former employer's rate is fraud. Practically, since you are spending your own money, you should be using Priceline.
I just have to
at the people who make this statement everytime this question is asked
yeah op, you better be worried, there are vice squads in every city dedicated just to fraudsters like this *shaking my head*