Hey there! Thinking about booking a stay at a Marriott property and wondering about that "destination fee" you see on the bill? You're not alone. It's a common charge that can be confusing, but don't worry, we're here to break it down. Let's get started on understanding how this fee works so you can be a savvy traveler!
Step 1: Understanding What a Destination Fee Is
First things first, what exactly is a destination fee? Think of it as a mandatory daily charge that a hotel adds to your room rate. It's a lot like a resort fee, but it's typically found at properties in urban or "destination" locations rather than traditional resorts. This fee is meant to cover a bundle of on-site amenities and services that the hotel provides.
What's the difference between a destination fee and a resort fee?
The main difference is the location and the type of amenities they cover. A resort fee is usually for properties with things like pools, spas, and golf courses. A destination fee, on the other hand, is for hotels in cities and might cover things like local tours, food and beverage credits, or premium Wi-Fi.
Step 2: How the Destination Fee is Applied
The destination fee is an automatic charge that's added to your bill, usually on a per-night basis. This means if you're staying for three nights, you'll be charged the fee three times. It's crucial to look for this fee when you're booking, as it's often listed separately from the room rate.
The "Bait-and-Switch" Concern
Many travelers find destination fees frustrating because they feel it makes the initial advertised price misleading. For example, a room might show a nightly rate of $200, but with a $30 destination fee, your actual cost is $230 per night, plus taxes. This is why it's so important to review the final price breakdown before you confirm your reservation.
Step 3: Breaking Down the Amenities and Credits
The core of the destination fee is the "value" it provides. Hotels justify the fee by bundling it with a variety of perks. These can vary significantly from one property to another, but they often include a daily credit that you can use at the hotel.
What can the credit be used for?
The most common use for the credit is for food and beverages at on-site restaurants or bars. Some hotels might let you use it at the hotel gift shop, for spa services, or even for things like movie rentals. It's important to ask the front desk exactly what the credit covers when you check in. Don't assume it can be used for everything.
Other included amenities
Beyond the credit, the fee often includes other services such as:
Enhanced Wi-Fi: A step up from the basic complimentary Wi-Fi.
Complimentary bottled water.
Access to local experiences: This could be a walking tour, a fitness class, or even bike rentals.
Discounted admission to nearby attractions.
Step 4: Using Your Destination Fee Credit Wisely
Once you've confirmed what your destination fee includes, the next step is to make sure you use the benefits to get your money's worth. Many travelers forget about the credit and end up paying the fee for services they never used.
How to ensure you get value
Ask at check-in: When you arrive, politely ask the front desk to clarify the exact amount of the daily credit and a list of all the amenities included.
Plan ahead: If you know the credit can be used at the hotel restaurant, consider having a meal or a drink there.
Use it daily: In most cases, the credit is a daily benefit, and it doesn't roll over. If you don't use the full $25 credit on Monday, you can't add it to Tuesday's credit.
Step 5: The Challenge of Waiving the Fee
Can you avoid paying the destination fee? This is a tricky one. In most cases, it's a mandatory charge that cannot be waived. However, there are a few exceptions and strategies people have tried with varying success.
Is it possible to get it waived?
Marriott Bonvoy Status: While Marriott's official policy is to charge destination fees on both cash and award stays, some elite members have reported success in getting the fee waived, especially if they already receive similar benefits (like free breakfast) through their status. This is not guaranteed, but it's worth a polite inquiry.
Asking the front desk: Some travelers have found that if they explain they will not be using any of the amenities, a hotel might, on rare occasions, be willing to remove the fee. This is entirely at the discretion of the hotel staff and is not a common occurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find out if my Marriott hotel has a destination fee?
The best way is to check the rate details before you book. The fee will be listed in the breakdown of charges, usually under "Taxes and Fees" or a similar heading. If you're unsure, you can always call the hotel directly and ask.
How to use the destination fee credit?
To use the credit, simply charge any eligible purchase to your room. When you check out, the credit will be automatically applied to your bill. Always confirm what is eligible for the credit at the front desk.
How to use Marriott Bonvoy points to pay the destination fee?
Generally, the destination fee is charged in cash, not points. However, if the hotel allows you to charge eligible purchases to your room, and you have enough points for an "Instant Redemption" at a participating property, you may be able to use your points for the services the fee covers.
How to know what amenities are included with the fee?
You should be able to find a list of included amenities on the hotel's website, or it might be mentioned in your reservation confirmation email. If not, the front desk is the best source of information.
How to get a destination fee refunded after my stay?
Getting a refund is difficult once the stay is complete. Your best bet is to address the issue during your stay if you believe you were charged unfairly or didn't receive the promised benefits.
How to avoid paying the destination fee altogether?
The most reliable way is to book a property that doesn't charge one. When searching for a hotel, make sure to check the total price, including all fees, before you confirm your reservation.
How to calculate the total cost of my stay with a destination fee?
Your total cost will be the nightly room rate, multiplied by the number of nights, plus the destination fee multiplied by the number of nights, plus all applicable taxes.
How to know if the destination fee is a scam?
While many people dislike the fees, they are typically not a "scam" in the legal sense because they are disclosed during the booking process. The controversy comes from the fees being separate from the initial room rate.
How to deal with a destination fee if I'm a business traveler?
Many corporate and government travelers are exempt from destination fees. If you're booking for business, make sure you're using your company's negotiated rate or a government rate, which often waives these fees.
How to ensure I get value from the destination fee?
Be proactive! Ask questions at check-in, review the list of benefits, and make a conscious effort to use the included credits and amenities. This is the only way to ensure you're getting something in return for the fee you're paying.
