Why Do You Pay a Resort Fee in Las Vegas?
Understanding Resort Fees
The resort fee is an additional charge that guests pay in addition to the advertised room rate when staying at a hotel in Las Vegas. It’s a common practice in the hospitality industry, but many guests are often left wondering why they have to pay these fees in the first place.
Resort fees are meant to cover the cost of amenities and services provided by the hotel, such as Wi-Fi, gym access, pool facilities, and other perks. In essence, it’s a way for the hotel to recoup the cost of these amenities without increasing the base room rate. The fees are charged per night of stay, and they can vary widely from one hotel to another. Some guests may feel that resort fees are unfair and deceptive, as they are often not included in the initial booking price and can significantly increase the overall cost of the stay.
FAQs about Resort Fees
What is typically included in a resort fee?
Resort fees can cover a wide range of amenities and services, including Wi-Fi, gym access, pool facilities, local phone calls, and even daily newspapers.
Why are resort fees not included in the advertised room rate?
While this practice may appear misleading to some guests, hotels often argue that it allows them to keep the room rates competitive while still offering additional amenities.
Can you negotiate or waive resort fees?
While it is not common, some guests have had success in negotiating or getting the resort fee waived under certain circumstances, such as for special occasions or with the use of loyalty program points. However, this is not standard practice and is at the discretion of the hotel.
Do all hotels in Las Vegas charge a resort fee?
Most hotels in Las Vegas charge a resort fee, but it’s best to check with the specific hotel at the time of booking to confirm the exact amount and what it covers.
Are resort fees legal?
Resort fees are legal as long as they are properly disclosed to guests at the time of booking. Hotels must clearly state the resort fee amount and what it covers before the guest completes the booking.
How can guests avoid paying resort fees?
Some guests have found success in avoiding resort fees by booking through third-party websites or by joining loyalty programs. However, these methods are not guaranteed and may not be available at all hotels.
Can resort fees be disputed?
Guests who feel that the resort fee was not properly disclosed or that the amenities were subpar may be able to dispute the charge with the hotel. However, this process can be time-consuming and may not always lead to a refund.
Are resort fees refundable?
Resort fees are typically not refundable, even if the guest does not use the amenities covered by the fee. It’s important to carefully consider the resort fee when booking a hotel in Las Vegas.
Are there any benefits to paying a resort fee?
While resort fees can feel like an additional expense, they do provide access to various amenities and services that can enhance the overall guest experience, such as free Wi-Fi or pool access.
Why don’t hotels just include these amenities in the room rate?
Hotels argue that by charging a separate resort fee, they can keep the base room rate competitive and attract more guests, while still providing a wide range of amenities and services.
Do resort fees vary by hotel?
Yes, resort fees can vary widely from one hotel to another, and even within the same hotel chain. It’s important to check the specific resort fee for the hotel you plan to stay at.
Do resort fees ever change?
Resort fees can change at any time and are not set in stone. It’s essential to check the current resort fee amount and what it covers before completing the booking.
