Originally Posted by
Posco
I am not sure whether checking in the app would be sufficient to avoid the cancellation fee. Despite using the check in option in the app, I always have to check in physically before I can get into the room. This is my experience with the app in Europe.
Anywhere in the world outside the US, online check-in is just a heads-up to let the hotel know the estimated time of arrival and, perhaps, request a late check out. Hotels must comply with local guest registration laws and prefer to have a physical card preauthorization on file.
Even in those places where OLCI is enough, I suspect that the guest will be a no-show if the wireless key is never used to enter the room during the stay.