Come on the Go!

Does your company book your hotel reservation for you? Make sure that the hotel has your reward number before you arrive...just in case.

About a month ago, one of my clients booked me at a Hilton. "No worries," I thought. "I'm a Gold member, so I should get a good room."

Well, I would have. Except for the fact that (1) the hotel didn't have my rewards number (even if I had given it to the client a couple times) and (2) the hotel was totally booked.

My punishment: A smaller-than-small room with enough room for a bed - period. And no chance of an upgrade.

I learned to never (ever) assume that the hotel has my rewards number. It's a smart bet to call your hotel at least 72 hours in advance and confirm that they have all of your information. Sure, it's an extra step during an already-stressful travel time. At the same time, it can make a difference between a nice room - and getting stuck with a room next to an always-dinging elevator...