How to save money on hotel rooms

There are a lot of sites that promise the best price for a hotel. One can check hotels.com and hotwire.com. A bid can be placed on priceline.com.

But did you ever think about calling the hotel's 800#?

Not too long ago I needed a room at the Lisbon Marriott. I went online and was puzzled by something I read. So I called the 800# to ask some questions. I was offered a prepay special...$52 per night. That's right! That's NOT a typo. I grabbed it.

Recently I wanted a reservation at a Best Western in Arizona. I honestly can't remember why I called but the online numbers room rate was $185 per night. I was offered a Manager's Special of $115 per night. I had to prepay the first night, but if I call at least 24 hours in advance if I have to cancel, it will be refunded.

Want a better room rate? Call the hotel's 800# and ask for it.

How to avoid taxi scams

Arriving in a new city? Worried about being 'taken for a ride' by the local taxi drivers?

Then check I Hate Taxis before leaving home. I Hate Taxis has information on more than 300 international airports, train stations and ports in 85 countries.

Each airport listing has information on the terminals, ATMs, how far the airport is from city center and how to identify a legitimate taxi. There is also information on alternative transportation like buses and trains.