My Secret to Picking the Perfect Hotel: A Dash of Google Maps Magic!

Choosing the perfect hotel for your getaway can be a bit of a puzzle. After all, what you see on travel websites isn't always what you get. That's where my trusty tool, Google Maps, comes into play. In this blog, I'll share my secret to finding the ideal hotel for your travels – from accurate pictures to nifty cost-saving tricks!

Points Galore with Expedia:

Let's start with the foundation of my hotel research – Expedia. Why? Because, my friends, it's all about those sweet, sweet points. With Expedia, I can earn points with every booking, which is basically money I can use towards future adventures. It's like a travel treasure chest!

Unmasking the Real Deal:

The first step in my hotel hunt is to check out reviews on Expedia. It's essential to know what previous guests have experienced. But, remember, travel websites often show the best pictures, and those images can be outdated. They're basically hotel selfies at their best.

Google Maps: Your Secret Weapon:

Here's where Google Maps swoops in to save the day. I search for the hotel or resort there and then dive into the review section. Why? Because Google Maps lets customers upload their own photos. These are the real deal – not the hotel's glossy marketing shots.

Filter for the Freshest:

Once I'm in the pictures section, I make sure to filter for the "others posted" or "visitors posted" option. These images are like gold because they haven't been edited or doctored by the hotel. It's the unfiltered, real-life view of the rooms, the food, and all the amenities.

Stay Current and Compare:

It's crucial to check the most recent pictures that guests have uploaded. This way, you get an accurate look at how the hotel or resort looks right now. You don't want to be fooled by pictures from five years ago when the place might have had a makeover.

Price Comparison Magic:

Another nifty trick I've got up my sleeve is comparing prices. Google Maps allows you to compare the prices the hotel is currently charging with what you'll find on Expedia. But here's the kicker: sometimes you can give the hotel a call, mention the lower price on a third-party website, and see if they'll match it. They might even sweeten the deal to avoid paying commissions to Expedia.

Choosing the perfect hotel for your trip doesn't have to be a gamble. By combining the power of Expedia points, honest reviews, and Google Maps magic, you can make an informed decision that suits your travel style and budget. So, happy hotel hunting, fellow travelers, and may your adventures be filled with accurate pictures, memorable stays, and a little extra cash in your travel fund!