Dear Penny Pincher,

I have a friend who is always bragging about the great room deals he gets at hotels. But whenever I ask the front desk about deals they tell me I'm out of luck. Do hotels offer a range of prices for rooms?

-- Bruce

Hi Bruce.

Yes. The number of different rates offered by hotels are similar to the vast array of fares offered by the airlines. The best way to get the best rate is to call a hotel directly and inquire about any specials rates or promotions they might have. Often hotels offer rates to members of professional groups, AAA members, holders of certain credit cards, special weekend rates, along with the well known corporate rate.

-- Joel