The Strange Ways of Hotels

This past week I gave in and tried Priceline for the first time.  I'd already booked in at the Hilton Baltimore for a Friday night, at a rate of $166 per night, which I thought was way, way too high.  But, it was for a special occasion, so I was ready to bite the bullet and pay.

Just for kicks, I thought I'd bid on Priceline to see what things cost.  I bid $65 per night for two nights at a four-star property.  Nothing.  So, I bid $85 per night for two nights.  The result?  I got TWO nights at ... drum-roll ... the Hilton!  The exact same hotel, for half price!

Now, the only downside is that I won't get any of the Diamond benefits or earn any Hilton points while there, but, really, are those benefits worth anything approaching $160 additional dollars for a two-night stay?  No way.

Look, I'm willing to pay a little extra for the points and the Diamond benefits, but, at this rate, I'm happy to abandon earning points altogether.  With the money I'm saving I can buy breakfast (the only real Diamond benefit Stateside), and come out with about an extra $100 in my pocket.  Come on, Hilton, please be realistic!