Be Cautious with Last Minute Offers
Last minute offers require careful consideration to avoid the risk of receiving less favorable conditions, stated Gabriela Rumenova, the founder of the platform “We, the Consumers.” She drew attention to seemingly attractive deals on electronic platforms for last-minute hotel accommodations, where enticing prices are often valid only for specific periods. The catch is that these dates typically fall outside the peak season when prices are generally lower, Rumenova added during an interview.
Understanding Last Minute Deals
Last minute offers are also available as the dates approach when certain rooms are likely to remain vacant. The goal in such cases is to sell these rooms, and this does not always translate into a genuine discount for potential customers. Often, such offers come with countdown timers that aim to pressure consumers, limiting their ability to explore alternative options for comparison and reflection.
Advice Before Committing
“Therefore, before taking advantage of such an offer, let’s check the prices at the same hotel during other periods, as well as at other places we might consider staying in this or another resort. Conducting this research, followed by a comparison, should help us determine whether the offer is economically viable for us,” Rumenova advised.
Watch for Hidden Costs
An important aspect of last minute offers is that sometimes the lower price is achieved by “cutting” some of the services included in the package, which may require additional payment later. This is why it is crucial to read the offers carefully, particularly regarding what is included in the price and what is not.
