I'm usually not litigious by nature. I've never filed a suit regarding anything in my life. But you are right, this is a case where there is a high potential for "pass the buck" and I have to believe that an action in small claims court naming both as defendants would result in the matter being settled rather quickly. In my mind, a reservation was made and should be honored. I'd pay more if I had to do so to secure the room, but I'd expect that difference to be refunded one way or another. Hire a lawyer? No way. Not worth that. But a trip to small claims court? Perhaps...