Hi. Just wanted to let whoever is panicking that it is possible to book a stopover hotel (albeit rather haphazardly and confusing). Two weeks ago I booked Osaka to LHR via Abu Dhabi on Etihad (Dep' March 6th). I am business going to LHR and economy on the return leg back to Osaka.

After receiving my PNR, I too tried to book a hotel. Instead of no availability at all, I just kept receiving a list of hotels with prices included. For the premium hotels my PNR was rejected each time. After several days, I tried again and the Alof hotel was available for $0. I quickly grabbed it ( not really my 1st choice but well...). I received an email and voucher almost immediately after that. My advice: just keep trying.

I do think it is an unfair and complicated booking system and the terms and conditions are ridiculous. They seem so arbitrary. I still don't know why I couldn't access the premium package, even though I am flying business. Im looking forward to my business class (o/w) leg but not the economy return! Good luck.