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Motel-Finding Ideas For Weary Travelers Jay Clarke Roadside motels aren't intended to be luxury palaces. But at national chains, even simple rooms may come with TV, phone, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, Internet access, coffee maker and pool. Many even come with a free breakfast. Rates vary widely. In our survey of 16 of the largest U.S. motel chains, rates were quoted as low as $39 and as high as $199. Most landed in the $49-$99 range. Most children can stay free with parents, but some motels levy a small charge -- usually less than $10 -- for occupancy greater than two. Nearly all the chain motels are franchises. That is, they are managed, but not owned, by the chain, which gets a percentage of the revenue. Many branded motels are siblings -- either to each other or to more upscale brands. With more than 4.3 million hotel and motel rooms in the U.S., choosing a motel can be a trying experience, especially when it's late in the afternoon and the travelers are tired. Here are a few tips: In the busy summer travel season, it's best to call ahead -- sometimes days in advance, but certainly no later than the morning of arrival day. If not, try to find a motel before the sun goes down. You'll likely get the best rates if you book well ahead of arrival in busy locales. In less-trafficked places, you may get rock-bottom rates as a walk-in. Many chains offer Web-only deals. If you guaranteed a room with your credit card, know that you'll be charged a day's rate if you fail to show up. The deadline for cancellation without penalty is usually 4 or 6 p.m. the day of arrival. If you have memberships such as AAA, AARP or airline frequent-flier programs, always ask if the motel offers discounts. If you have any doubts about the quality of accommodations offered, ask to see the room before checking in. ------- For more news or to subscribe, please visit http://www.freep.com Copyright ©2011 Detroit Free Press. All Rights Reserved. Copyright ©2011 Detroit Free Press. All Rights Reserved. Post a Comment | Share Home and Consumer Advice from ArcaMax Learn about everything from indoor planting to fair trade coffee with free videos from ArcaMax's Home and Consumer channel. The channel also features the latest news, advice columns like Everyday Cheapskate and Small Spaces, and the latest product recalls. Subscribe to the Home and Consumer ezine instantly for all this content and more sent to you by e-mail all week long. -- From the ArcaMax editors   Today's Reader Submitted Photos Share your Travel photos. Visit our full Travel Photo Gallery   Advertisement How to build an effective marketing business on the 'Net Get A Flawless Perfect Tan That Lasts Up To 10 Days - Click here   More from ArcaMax Recent Stories in Travel • Niagara Falls - History Over The Falls! • Travelers' Mantra: Pack Light, Pack Light, Pack Light • Windshield Repair - Do it Before Taking That Road Trip! • Nicaragua's Wheel of Fortune • Oh No, My Hotel Rewards Have Been Downgraded Other News on ArcaMax.com • Current News • Entertainment News • Political News • Weird News

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