Exploring the origins, impact, and future of resort fees in the travel industry.

Episode Highlights

- **Introduction to Resort Fees:**

 - Overview of the episode's focus on the frustration caused by resort fees.

 - Brief history of how resort fees started in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

- **Historical Context:**

 - Initial introduction in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii.

 - Expansion into more hotels and cities over the decades.

 - Evolution from covering amenities to becoming an additional revenue stream.

- **Consumer Impact:**

 - How resort fees disrupt budget planning for families.

 - Lack of transparency leading to consumer frustration and legal scrutiny.

 - Federal Trade Commission's role in investigating deceptive pricing practices.

Key Discussion Points

- **Why Hotels Charge Resort Fees:**

 - Bundling of amenities and services.

 - Revenue generation without raising advertised room rates.

 - Market positioning and competitive pricing strategies.

 - Offsetting operating costs.

 - Avoiding commission fees paid to third-party booking platforms.

- **Types of Hotels Charging Resort Fees:**

 - Originally resorts and destination hotels in tourist-heavy areas.

 - Expansion to urban hotels in cities like New York and San Francisco.

 - No universal regulation, but emphasis on transparency and disclosure.

- **Consumer Advocacy and Legal Actions:**

 - Lawsuits against deceptive practices.

 - Increased consumer awareness leading to clearer disclosures.

 - Federal and local regulations requiring all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront.

Tips for Travelers

- **Avoiding Resort Fees:**

 - Research and contact hotels before booking.

 - Book through channels that include fees in the total price.

 - Look for packages or promotions that waive resort fees.

 - Confirm fee details before arrival.

 - Negotiate or express concerns during check-in.

 - Review your bill at check-out and dispute unauthorized charges if necessary.

Legislation Update

- **No Hidden Fees Act:**

 - Supported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).

 - Aims to establish a single standard for transparent fee displays.

 - Passed the House and awaits Senate approval.

 - Potential impact on competitive pricing and hotel practices.

Personal Insights

- **Rob's Perspective:**

 - The impact of resort fees on travel agents.

 - Potential pitfalls of federal regulation.

 - The importance of a comprehensive standard for fee transparency.

 - Statistics from the AHLA indicating the prevalence and cost of resort fees.

 - Recap of the history, current practices, and potential future of resort fees.

 - Encouragement for listeners to stay informed and proactive in avoiding hidden fees.

 - Thanks for tuning in to Episode 159 of The Family Vacationer.

 - Invitation to join the next episode for more travel insights and tips.

Additional Resources

- **Links to Relevant Articles and Websites:**

 - Federal Trade Commission guidelines on resort fees.

https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/foia/frequently-requested-records/hotel-pricingresort-fee

 - AHLA's stance on resort fees and related legislation.

https://www.ahla.com/news/house-passes-no-hidden-fees-act-major-ahla-legislative-priority

Have Show Ideas? Contact Rob at rob@thefamilyvacationer.live