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Best Way to Book Hotels and Avoid Bad Stays

This guide is super basic, but I’ve found that some travelers aren’t aware of this process—and they’ve helped me dodge some disappointing places after I started using it.

Step-by-Step Strategy

Step 1: Browse booking platforms

Start by finding a place you like on Booking.com, Agoda, or any other travel site. Filter by your preferences—price, location, amenities. Avoid the top listings pushed by ads; they’re often promoted, not necessarily better.

Step 2: Cross-check reviews on Google

Once you’ve found a potential stay, look up the hotel or guesthouse on Google and check its Business Profile. Booking platforms often remove negative reviews, but Google reviews are harder to manipulate and usually more honest.

Step 3: Evaluate the review history

If the Google Business Profile is brand new or has very few reviews, it’s safer to skip it. If there are mixed reviews but the negative ones are old, it might be a sign the place has improved—worth considering. Read through a couple of reviews and make your own judgement if they are fake or not.

Bonus Tip: Negotiate in Low Season

In many Southeast Asian countries, especially during low season, hotels often have plenty of empty rooms. If I’m staying for more than a couple of nights, I’ll try to negotiate the rate directly—either by calling ahead or showing up in person. It doesn’t always work, but when it does, I’ve saved up to 40% compared to online prices.