Ended up searching all the hotel booking websites but couldn’t find a perfect property for your new year staycation? Are the ones listed giving out rooms at exorbitantly high prices? This is utterly heartbreaking and we can totally relate to your agony. But if your will is strong, there are still some ways to find a satiating stay. Here are some secret tips to grab the last-minute deals on hotels.
1. Try Booking In The Traditional Ways
People used to travel long distances even before the advent of the internet. Thus, even if the online sites ditch you, you can still count on some relevant contacts. Also, there are many hotels which are not listed on the internet but there are travel agents who can help you in booking them. Call up your regular travel agent, as that’s the best option. Meanwhile, here are some worst mistakes people make while booking a hotel.
Also Read: I Went On A Trip To A Secluded Campsite In Pushkar During The Pandemic
2. Search On Social Media Pages For Properties
You can use relevant keywords on Facebook or Instagram to search for properties. For example, say you need a homestay in Manali. You need to type phrases like ‘ Manali homestay’, ‘homestays in Manali’ and more. In this way, you’ll get access to the official pages of some remote homestays and will also get their contact details.
3. Call Up Properties Directly
Before my Pelling trip, I had found a property on two travel websites and I totally fell in love with it. It was right amid the snow-clad mountains. But I wasn’t happy with the prices that were shown. So, I googled the property separately and ended up finding the owner’s number. She was a kind Sikkimese lady and she offered a mountain facing wooden room at ₹1400 for a night. Also, the stay was customised according to my preferences. So, calling up the owners directly can give you a lot of perks.
4. Count On A Friend Who Is Currently Staying In The Location
Say, you’re travelling to Dehradun. You have a friend who is currently staying in Dehradun for work and one room in her accommodation is empty. This is just an example. But you can search for possibilities like these.
Also Read: 7 Dreamy Himalayan Resorts In Himachal You Can Stay Under ₹1500
5. If Nothing Else Works, Buy A Tent
This is probably the last option you can resort to. If you fail to book any property, you can simply pick up a tent and fix it in a permitted zone of the destination you’re travelling to.
