I have used free night certificates several times at places such as Intercontinental Park Lane, Crowne Plaza NYC and various other IHg properties and the stay has indeed been "free".

I've just looked at using two current vouchers I have and several hotels I have looked at, although showing free, when clicking on the rate details are showing "Barclaycard free night" with a rate ranging anywhere from $60 to $100 and in some cases additional service charges of $27-$45. I'm more than a bit astounded that a"free" night could cost anything up to $150. I'm not looking at peak season or prime location.

Is this something new or have I lucked out in the past not being charged it?