Resort fees

Question

Hi everyone,

I visit Waikiki once a year and usually stay at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. I've heard in the past that if you ring the hotel direct, they may waive the resort fees. Has anyone ever avoided having to pay resort fees?

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Resort fees are a common issue in many hotels in Waikiki and across Hawaii, and it's understandable why you’d want to avoid them. Here's what you should know based on experiences from other travelers:

Direct Booking: It's true that some people have had success in negotiating resort fees when they book directly with the hotel, especially if they are repeat customers or booking a long stay. However, this can vary greatly from hotel to hotel. Calling the hotel directly and politely asking if the resort fee can be waived or reduced is worth trying, but there’s no guarantee it will be waived.
Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of the hotel's loyalty program, you might have a better chance of avoiding resort fees or getting perks that offset the cost. Some hotels waive resort fees for loyalty members, or at least offer discounted rates on them.
Check for Promotions: Occasionally, hotels will run special promotions where resort fees are discounted or waived as part of a package deal. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, it’s worth checking for any such offers before booking.
Booking Through Third-Party Sites: If you book through third-party websites like Expedia, Booking.com, or similar, resort fees are usually non-negotiable and often not included in the initial price displayed. This is something to keep in mind when comparing prices, even though you may save on the room rate.
Alternative Hotels: Some budget-friendly hotels in Waikiki have lower or no resort fees. If you're looking to avoid these fees altogether, it may be worth exploring other hotels or vacation rentals that don't charge resort fees.

In short, while it’s possible to have resort fees waived, especially through direct negotiation or loyalty programs, it’s not a guarantee at all hotels. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask about any potential discounts or fee waivers, particularly if you're a returning guest or if you're booking during a quieter period when they may be more willing to accommodate your request.