Originally Posted by
MoreMilesPlease
The absolute easy thing to do is to dispute the charge with American Express. This can be done on-line in about 1 minute.
Calling the hotel, trying to get someone with authority to make an instant decision about the charge will take 10 times longer and probably not resolve the issue.
Thats not true, at least in my experience. I have had charges refunded many times that were posted separately in error (like mini bar, coffee, etc) It is MUCH easier to call the hotel and speak to accounting. They can take small charges right off and process a refund without going to any supervisor, etc. When you dispute with Amex (or any CC), its not over - they give you a "provisional" credit, then investigate, then what happens if the hotel stands by their charge - another email and another letter from /to you.
Before saying that going to the hotel direct is a pain, try it.....it works for me and is MUCH easier then dealing with Amex who on the surface is very quick and very efficient but its not a done deal till they find out the hotels side first