Hotel deals abroad

Compare the total price, not the headline rate

The nightly rate in the search results is rarely what you end up paying. Before comparing two hotels, go through to the final summary screen and check what is included: VAT, service fees and local taxes. Many European cities, including Paris, Amsterdam, Rome and Prague, charge a city tax per person per night, and it is often paid at the front desk on arrival rather than included in what you paid online.

Compare like with like. A room with breakfast and free cancellation is not the same product as a room-only, non-refundable rate. Sometimes the gap is smaller than it looks; sometimes it is worth paying for.

• Total for all nights, including taxes and fees
• City tax: included or payable at the hotel
• Breakfast: included or extra
• Cancellation terms and the free-cancellation deadline

Free cancellation or non-refundable?

Non-refundable rates are usually cheaper, but if your flight changes or plans fall through, you may lose the whole amount. If your flights are not booked yet, or you are booking far ahead, a flexible rate buys peace of mind. Note the exact deadline and its time zone, and be aware that some properties charge upfront even on flexible rates and refund only after you cancel.

Location, reviews and the right room

A cheap hotel on the edge of town can cost more once you add taxis and time on public transport. Check the map for the walk to the centre, the nearest metro stop and the airport train. Read reviews from the last few months, not just the overall score, since renovations, new management or building work nearby can change the picture quickly.

Families should check the actual bed configuration and the maximum occupancy. A "family room" may turn out to be a double bed and a sofa bed, and in many places children count as guests. If Shabbat or kosher food matters to you, contact the property before booking and ask about things like mechanical keys or kosher meals rather than relying on the listing.

Tips for flying out of Ben Gurion

Plenty of flights from Tel Aviv land early in the morning or leave late at night, while check-in at most hotels starts in the afternoon. You can request early check-in or ask whether you can leave luggage at reception; if you really need the room on arrival, booking the previous night is sometimes the simpler option.

Bookings are made on Trip.com. Prices are set by the partner and can change until you complete the booking, and many hotels ask for a credit card at check-in for a deposit or a temporary hold, so keep some room on your card.