Table of Contents
- Background
- The Scam Unfolds
- Dealing with the Hotel and HRS
- Credit Card Safeguards
- The Outcome and Lessons Learned
- Conclusion
- Sidebar: My Tips for Secure Travel Booking
Background
In November 2024, my wife and I planned a tour around the Gulf, a trip punctuated with scheduled business stops. For our accommodations, we relied on various platforms, including HRS.com—a service I’ve trusted since 2018 due to its convenience and perks like mileage accrual. This time, we booked a stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clearwater South, expecting a smooth experience.
The Scam Unfolds
We booked our room at an agreed rate of $376.90 for four nights. However, the context was anything but ordinary—Tampa had just been hit by severe hurricanes, and accommodation prices had skyrocketed. At check-in, we were initially relieved to have secured our rate months in advance. Yet, this relief turned to disbelief when I noticed multiple strange charges from the hotel on my AMEX account totaling over $1,600—an exorbitant figure compared to our booking.
Dealing with the Hotel and HRS
The reception staff, once friendly, turned unhelpful, insisting all charges were correct and directing me to sort it out with Expedia, though I had booked through HRS. The lack of assistance from the hotel was frustrating, and HRS’s initial shock and promise to resolve the issue did little to alleviate the situation as they later seemed to attribute the resolution to actions I had taken independently with AMEX.
Credit Card Safeguards
Thanks to the protections offered by my credit cards, I contacted AMEX and Mastercard. Both providers took immediate action; AMEX initiated a chargeback for the incorrect amounts, and after some time, Mastercard also adjusted the charges to reflect the correct rate we initially booked. The responsiveness and support from these credit card companies starkly contrasted with the hotel and HRS’s handling of the situation.
The Outcome and Lessons Learned
On checkout day, despite promises from another confused receptionist, no adjustments were made, and I left without an invoice—a first in hundreds of hotel stays. HRS’s lackluster follow-up only added to the disappointment, closing the case without real resolution from their end.
Conclusion
This experience was a stark reminder of the pitfalls in travel bookings. While platforms like HRS can offer convenience, they do not replace diligent oversight of your bookings and charges. It’s crucial to use reliable credit cards when traveling and to keep vigilant about your financial transactions.
Reflecting on my experiences, I highly recommend the credit cards from AMEX and Mastercard by Advanzia. These cards not only saved me from undue charges but also offer significant benefits. Both cards come without monthly fees, which is a huge plus. With AMEX, you can accrue Payback points, and if you sign up through my referral link, you’ll instantly receive 2,000 points as a welcome bonus. For the Mastercard, a welcome bonus of €60 awaits you when you join using my referral. If you’re looking to enjoy the same advantages I had in my time of need, simply click on these links:
AMEX Referral Link
Mastercard Referral Link
Let’s ensure your travels are as secure and rewarding as mine! I hope my story helps you avoid such pitfalls and ensures safer travel arrangements.
My Tips for Secure Travel Booking
- Always use credit cards with strong fraud protection for bookings, e.g. the above mentioned cards
- Regularly review your statements during and after hotel stays
- Consider booking directly with hotels to avoid third-party miscommunications
- Keep all booking confirmations and correspondence in case disputes arise