Originally Posted by clarkef
My $0.02
If the rate is an obvious error, then I think it is unethical to book it. I have no problem with the hotel correcting it. If it just looks like a good deal, i.e. the rate is reasonable in light of the circumstances, then the hotel should honor it.
It is NOT reasonable to expect to get a major chain hotel in times square for a couple of dollars. That falls under obvious error as it is so far outside of common experience of expectation.
If the rate is $100.00 then you can reasonably believe that is just a low occupancy day and they are having a fire sale.
So, what if the rate is $99? How about $94? Do I hear $67? Are you aware that Marriott associate rates can be as low as $29?
I am
appalled that Marriott is reacting the way they are to this episode. It is as if zombies have invaded Bethesda and Bill Marriott is being held hostage somewhere.
The "Marriott Way" is to honor this rate and then spend a few months negotiating and bickering with Interstate Hotels on their franchise fees to determine who's responsible for the revenue loss.
It is absolutely against the grain for Marriott to come out, in this one instance only, and tell their guests "we goofed BUT you guests should read our minds and know better; your res is cancelled and we're not talking."
Boo on Marriott. Utter shame.