I made hotel reservations by email. After getting availability info I sent my credit card info and I have replies from all the hotels saying "we confirm you for ..."
My question is whether I should send a round of emails to the hotels a week or so before I go to reconfirm? Is this just wasting their time, or is it something I should be doing? The countries I will be visiting are Italy, Germany, and Austria.
I would send a round of emails with a "just double checking" message. If you word it nicely, they won't feel you're wasting their time. I sent a message for one of the reservations I have for July , and I'm glad I did. They had me booked in a room for 2, whereas I needed a room for 4. They were very apologetic and I was glad I checked.
Mike, I too have always checked my hotels a week or two in advance of our trip. Never had any problem but it just makes me feel better - like I'm really read to go. I've also never felt that I was wasting their time - the reconfirming emails were often warmly personal. I don't know if it is something you SHOULD do, but I don't think it bothers anyone.
I called a day or 2 before I arrived. There was no problem but I am glad I called, it made me feel better. :)
I always carry the email confirmation from them. And I always send a emai just before we leave to say that we are coming and will checkin sometime after X pm.
Also bring your copy of the confirmation to avoid any mis communiation about the type of room you booked. I usually shrink the page so it fits in my travel journal.
