Earlier we discussed the importance of realistic expectations of a HOllywood hotel. This includes checking out separating the marketing hype and looking for customer reviews — but that’s not all. Many tourists want to pay dirt-cheap than complain that they’re not getting the star treatment. It doesn’t work that way.

The trick is to identify what’s important for you and put your money there. Here is your criteria:

1. Location. Clearly the most aspect of any hotel, since you’ll want to reach the major tourist attractions with minimal hassle. If it’s not within walking distance of the tourist spots, check if it’s near the pubic transportation system or if it provides shuttle services.

2. Parking. You need this if you brought your car with you. Is the parking free? If not, how much will you pay? When you look at customer reviews, check if the parking is secure.

3. Rooms. This is a matter of preference. Some want luxury and sophistication; others just need a clean, soft bed (they reason that they won’t be spending that much time in the hotel, anyway).

4. Support services. Dry cleaning, laundry/ironing are handy if you’ll be spending a lot of time in Hollywood (you won’t have to pack as many clothes). Business travelers may need wireless internet, photocopiers and faxes. Families may want to look for babysitting/childcare services and recreational facilities like a pool.

Originally posted on January 5, 2008 @ 2:49 am