The internet is a great place to start planning your spring and summer getaway travels and select the accommodations most suited to your needs. When planning a trip, it’s tempting to book your stay through third-party platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com because that’s what sometimes pops up when you search online. They’re convenient, fast, and make it easy to compare options. But what many travelers don’t realize is that booking directly with a hotel or bed and breakfast can often lead to a better overall experience and most times, save you money.
Recently, we’ve had guests actually say they booked through our official Holden House website (HoldenHouse.com), only to learn they were on a third-party website. With the expansion of internet sources, it’s confusing to be sure, but there are some important tips to remember when booking and researching online and why official websites are better choices for value, service, selection and direct contact.
One of the biggest advantages of booking direct is the level of service you receive. B&Bs and Hotels can prioritize guests who book through their own website or by phone and offer better rates overall. This can translate into small but meaningful perks—and even complimentary extras. It’s a subtle difference, but one that can make your stay feel more personalized and enjoyable. You can more likely choose the room and location of your room more easily.
Flexibility is another major factor. When you book through a third-party site, any changes or issues often have to go through that platform first, which can slow things down. Booking directly cuts out the middleman, making it much easier to modify your reservation, handle cancellations, or resolve problems quickly. If something goes wrong, you’re dealing directly with the people who can actually fix it rather than an impersonal online booking agent who may not even be in the United States. Often it’s confusing to find your reservation on the third party platform and ask for a cancellation or date change.
Loyalty programs also play a role. There may be rewards, points, or exclusive benefits—but these are usually only available when you book directly vs a third-party. If you’re a frequent traveler, those missed perks can add up quickly when using third-party services.
Pricing transparency is another area where direct booking can win. While third-party sites sometimes advertise lower rates, extra fees can appear at checkout. Booking directly often provides clearer pricing—and in many cases, bed and breakfasts and hotels will match or even beat third-party rates if you ask. You may also miss specials and add-on packages that are not available on third party sites. And, what you may not know is that all properties including bed and breakfasts and hotels pay a substantial fee to these websites of 15-30% which is often reflected on the rate through 3rd party websites. Most times, you’ll save money and be assured you get what you want when you book direct. It’s knowing how to distinguish between an official website and a third party website.
Simply find the property’s official Google or Tripadvisor listing and click on the highlighted listing for “website” or “official website” which will take you to your ultimate destination. There you’ll also find the direct property information where if you have questions, can call or email for more information. Third-party platforms may be a great option for planning a trip from scratch, but pay attention to where you are ultimately booking to know the website is official for the property you want to book.
If you want better service, more flexibility and a potentially more rewarding stay, booking directly with the property is the better choice. Even if you prioritize convenience and quick comparisons, third-party sites are helpful research tools.
About Holden House: Holden House 1902 Bed & Breakfast Inn is a historic and charming Victorian inn located in scenic Colorado Springs near the historic districts of Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs and close to downtown Colorado Springs. Only a few miles from the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Pikes Peak Highway, Garden of the Gods Park, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum, it’s in a central location for all your sightseeing adventures throughout the Pikes Peak region. Learn more by visiting www.HoldenHouse.com
