Confused by rate rules
Jun 25, 2024 | 2:08 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2009
Location: EUG
Programs: AS MVP, AA MM, HH Diamond, MR Gold
Posts: 8,524
Confused by rate rules
Can anyone explain to me this Flexible Rate?
Member Rate Flexible,
Additional InformationCommissionable Rate
Cancelling Your ReservationYou may cancel your reservation for no charge before 11:59 PM local hotel time on March 21, 2025 (3 day[s] before arrival). Please note that we will assess a fee of 233.33 USD if you must cancel after this deadline. If you have made a prepayment, we will retain all or part of your prepayment. If not, we will charge your credit card.
When You Check-inPlease be prepared to show proof of eligibility for your rate (such as a membership card, corporate or government identification card, or proof of your age).
Modifying Your ReservationAny change in the length or dates of a reservation may result in a rate change.
Member Rate Flexible,
Additional InformationCommissionable Rate
- Stay 4 nights or more and save up to 20 percent (rate already reflects discount) Full prepayment required. Non-refundable.
Cancelling Your ReservationYou may cancel your reservation for no charge before 11:59 PM local hotel time on March 21, 2025 (3 day[s] before arrival). Please note that we will assess a fee of 233.33 USD if you must cancel after this deadline. If you have made a prepayment, we will retain all or part of your prepayment. If not, we will charge your credit card.
When You Check-inPlease be prepared to show proof of eligibility for your rate (such as a membership card, corporate or government identification card, or proof of your age).
Modifying Your ReservationAny change in the length or dates of a reservation may result in a rate change.
Jun 25, 2024 | 5:44 am
#2
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: BOS/EAP
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Yeah, this sometimes happens. I have seen it when there are extraordinary demand times and they make all rates non-refundable no matter what, even BAR/REG rates. I am pretty sure with the detailed cancellation rules you will be able to argue for a refund, if needed, but there is a non-zero risk with that.
Jun 25, 2024 | 6:48 am
#3
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: CPH
Programs: UAMP S, TK M&S E (*G), Marriott LTP, IHG P, SK EBG
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Yeah, this sometimes happens. I have seen it when there are extraordinary demand times and they make all rates non-refundable no matter what, even BAR/REG rates. I am pretty sure with the detailed cancellation rules you will be able to argue for a refund, if needed, but there is a non-zero risk with that.
Then the second part is clearly stating that you can cancel for free 3 days before arrival, but then the wordings about eligibility is just weird - why do I have to prepare my Marriott membership card if the reservation is booked by a member (as you have to be a member to book that rate)?
I suspect the property didn't load the rules properly.
Jun 25, 2024 | 9:42 am
#4
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Jun 25, 2024 | 10:30 am
#5
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When there is a contribution or ambiguity, in US consumer regulations and law, the benefit sides with the consumer... but I wouldn't want to have to deal with arguing that and trying to get a refund.
As others said, sounds like the property loaded the rate coding/rules incorrectly. A 'flexible rate' shouldn't be prepaid nonrefundable.
As others said, sounds like the property loaded the rate coding/rules incorrectly. A 'flexible rate' shouldn't be prepaid nonrefundable.
Jun 25, 2024 | 8:22 pm
#6
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OTOH some states have penalties for violating consumer protection law. In Massachusetts, for example, violations carry multiple damages up to triple the amount of the violation plus attorney fees.