Author: hotelsetc

Hotels Etc membership club offers the most amazing discounts on Hotels, Car Rentals, Restaurants, golf, theme parks, recreation, entertainment and more. Stop searching public booking sites and start using Hotels Etc to make your discounted reservations. www.hotelsetc.com/membership If you are looking to save money on your travel, entertainment and recreation expenses, join Hotels Etc and save up to 80% off your next reservation. Hotel discounts, cheap hotels, resorts, cruises, car rentals, restaurants, golf, theme parks, movies, recreation, entertainment and more. White label travel solutions, fundraising, distributorships, Exclusivity, and more available at www.hotelsetc.com

Popular Cruise Ship Travel Options

by hotelsetc, posted in cruise, cruise discounts, cruises, Home, recreation

Popular Cruise Ship Travel Options

When it comes to planning a vacation aboard a cruise ship, many individuals focus their planning solely on their cruise. For many individuals, this can be a costly mistake. While the cruise itself is important, so is how you plan on making it to your vacation.

Unfortunately, a large number of individuals are unaware that they must make travel arrangements to their cruise ship’s departure location. When many individuals become aware of this fact, it is often too late for them to change their mind. You are encouraged not to be one of those individuals. When booking a cruise, it is important to keep a cruise ship’s departure location in mind. Doing so may prevent unnecessary travel expenses.

Selecting a cruise ship, with a close departure location, is advisable. Unfortunately, for many this is impossible. A limited number of coastal locations serve as cruise ship departure ports. If you are unable to find a cruise ship departure location that is within a short distance to your home, you need to consider the cost of travel while booking your reservations. This cost is important because it may cause your vacation costs to exceed what you had previously expected.

In the event that you must make travel plans to reach your cruise ship departure location, you should consider all options. These options may include driving your own vehicle, renting a car, flying on an airplane, riding the bus, or taking the train. All of the fore said travel methods are doable, but the option you select will likely depend on convenience and the cost of travel.

There are a number of advantages and disadvantage to driving yourself to your cruise ship departure location. The greatest advantage of doing so is that your travel will be easy. Simply by hopping into your vehicle and hitting the road, you could be on your way. When driving your own vehicle, planning is often easier. The only downside to driving your own vehicle is the cost of gasoline. If you are required to drive a long distance, the cost could substantially add up.

If you are worried about the excessive miles on your own vehicle, you could rent one. Vehicle rentals are a popular way to reach your designation without an excessive amount of planning. Unfortunately, the cost of gasoline will also have an impact on driving. In addition to the cost of gasoline, the length of your cruise may also have an effect on the total cost of renting a vehicle. Vehicle rentals are charged by the day; therefore, if your car rental is left in a parking lot you may be wasting money.

Flying is a popular travel method; however, it can be a costly one. Individuals trying to reach their cruise ship departure location are often encouraged not to arrive at their destination by airplane, unless absolutely necessary. This is due to the cost of flying. If your cruise ship departure port is only a few hours a way, air travel may not be the best option. However, there are some cases where air travel may be the only option. If you are without your own vehicle, flying may be necessary to reach your cruise ship’s departure location.

Traveling to your cruise ship’s departure location by bus or train are other acceptable travel options. Each is likely to take some time, but they are both inexpensive ways to travel. Many individuals can easily afford a bus ticket or a train ticket. Aside from excessive stops, it is possible that you may not have access to either. Bus stations and train stations are only available in limited locations. You may find it difficult or impossible to find a station that offers service to the location of your choice.

Each of the above mentioned travel methods all have their advantages and disadvantages. To find the perfect method of travel to reach your cruise ship’s departure location, you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Once you have decided which method best fits your needs, you can rest assure knowing that you will make it on time for your cruise ship’s departure.

To book your next cruise at up to 70% off visit https://www.hotelsetc.com

Tennessee Ski Vacations

by hotelsetc, posted in Home, ski, ski discounts, ski vacation, skiing discounts

Tennessee Ski Vacations

Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober
Gatlinburg is the only ski resort in the state. It is
more than just a ski resort, however. It is a complete
family vacation spot with an amusement park, indoor
ice skating, a bungee tower, an alpine slide, and
many other activities and attractions – there is
something to please everyone.

With an elevation of 3301 feet, and a vertical drop of
600 feet, Ober Gatlinburg features eight trails: two
beginner trails, four intermediate trails, and two
advanced trails. There are three lifts, including two
quad lifts, one double lift, and one surface lift. The
season runs from the middle of December through
early March, and night skiing is allowed on all trails
except the Grizzly trail.

Rentals are available for both ski equipment and
snowboarding equipment and you can use Hotels Etc
for deep ski discounts. Private and group lessons
for skiing and snowboarding are also available
through the Smokey Mountain Snow Sport School.
You can also easily find food at the many snack
bars, food carts, the café, the restaurant, or in the
lounge.

You must not miss the longest chair lift ride in the
south! You will see awesome views of the Great
Smoky Mountains. You will also get a bird’s eye
view of some of the slopes, and you can have your
picture taken on top of the mountain. If you don’t
ski, don’t worry! You can ride back down the
mountain on the chair lift as well. Don’t forget the
Tramway. The tramway departs from downtown
Gatlinburg and takes you to the ski resort and the
amusement park.

Even if you don’t ski, you can still explore the thrill
of flying down a mountain at a high speed – or a
slow speed if you choose. This is possible with the
Alpine Slide. The slide is approximately 1800 feet
long, and takes you down a winding wooded slope.
You have total control over your speed with the
use of a braking device on each sled. Other
attractions at the amusement park include the
Black Bear Habitat, a bungee jump, a water race,
go karts, indoor ice skating, kiddie land, an arcade,
miniature golf, a Spider Web Velcro Wall Jump,
water rides, and a shooting range.

No matter what type of fun or adventure you are
seeking, there is something to satisfy everyone in
the family at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and
Amusement Park. This is definitely a trip worth taking
– especially if you have younger kids or senior
citizens traveling with you.

Public Hotel Rates vs. Private Member Rates: What Travelers Should Know

by hotelsetc, posted in Home

Originally published September 21, 2018 | Updated August 2026

Public Hotel Rates vs. Private Member Rates: What Travelers Should Know

Have you ever searched for the same hotel on several major travel websites and noticed that the publicly displayed prices were identical or very similar?

There is a reason this can happen.

Hotels distribute rooms through many different channels, and the rates available to the general public are not necessarily the same offers that may be available through private membership programs, loyalty programs, corporate programs or other restricted distribution channels.

Understanding the difference between public hotel rates and private member rates can help travelers make better decisions when comparing hotel prices.

What Is a Public Hotel Rate?

A public hotel rate is generally a rate that anyone can view without belonging to a particular private group or authenticating their eligibility.

You may find public rates through a hotel’s website, online travel agencies and other publicly accessible booking platforms.

Because hotels work with numerous distribution partners, certain agreements and distribution practices can affect how rates are publicly advertised across different channels.

This is where the concept of hotel rate parity becomes relevant.

What Is Hotel Rate Parity?

Hotel rate parity generally refers to contractual provisions, pricing practices or distribution arrangements concerning how certain hotel rates are advertised or distributed across specified sales channels.

Rate parity should not be described as one universal worldwide law. Contracts, competition laws, regulations and legal treatment vary by jurisdiction and have continued to change over time.

For a more detailed explanation, read our guide:

What Is Hotel Rate Parity? How Public Rates, Private Rates and Closed User Groups Work

Link that sentence to:

https://hotelsetc.org/2017/01/29/rate-parity/

What Is a Private Member Rate?

Private member rates are different from rates openly displayed to everyone on the internet.

Hotels, suppliers and travel distribution partners may make certain rates, offers or benefits available through restricted channels.

These can include private membership programs, loyalty programs, corporate programs and Closed User Groups, commonly called CUGs.

Access may require a person to log in, verify membership or otherwise qualify before viewing the available offers.

This distinction is important because comparing only publicly displayed hotel prices may not show every type of offer available to an eligible traveler.

What Is a Closed User Group?

A Closed User Group is a defined group of eligible users who have access to certain offers within a restricted environment.

Instead of making every offer publicly searchable by anyone on the internet, access is limited to qualified users, such as authenticated members.

Hotels Etc. operates as a private membership program. Eligible Hotels Etc. members use their membership credentials to access the private platform and search available travel offers.

Why Can’t Every Private Rate Be Displayed Publicly?

This is one of the most common questions about private travel memberships.

If a particular offer is intended for eligible members within a restricted environment, publicly displaying that same offer could eliminate the distinction between a public offer and a private member offer and may conflict with applicable supplier or distribution terms.

That is why certain offers may only become visible after a member logs into the private platform.

Are Private Member Rates Always Cheaper?

No.

No legitimate travel platform can guarantee that every hotel will be cheaper on every date in every destination.

Hotel pricing changes constantly based on factors including:

  • Destination

  • Travel dates

  • Hotel occupancy

  • Demand

  • Seasonality

  • Special events

  • Room type

  • Available inventory

  • Cancellation terms

  • Supplier availability

  • Promotions and special offers

The advantage of a private membership platform is not a guarantee that every search will produce the lowest price.

The advantage is access.

Members can gain access to eligible private offers and benefits that may not be available through an ordinary public search.

Compare the Entire Hotel Offer

Price is important, but travelers should compare more than the number displayed at the top of a booking page.

Before booking, compare:

  • The exact hotel and property

  • Room type

  • Travel dates

  • Taxes and fees

  • Cancellation policy

  • Refundability

  • Included amenities

  • Available member benefits

  • Final booking price

Two offers that initially appear identical may have different terms.

The best comparison is an apples-to-apples comparison of the complete booking.

How Hotels Etc. Helps Members Compare Travel

Hotels Etc. has been serving members since 1996.

Through its private membership platform, eligible members can search participating travel offers and compare available options for their particular destination and travel dates.

Hotels Etc. does not claim that every hotel search will always produce the lowest rate available anywhere.

Instead, membership provides access to a private discount environment containing eligible travel offers and other participating benefits.

Members can then compare those offers with other available options and make the decision that works best for them.

Why Private Travel Membership Still Matters

Travel distribution has changed dramatically since Hotels Etc. was founded in 1996.

Consumers now have access to countless websites, apps and booking platforms.

But more websites do not necessarily mean access to every available type of offer.

Public booking platforms serve the general public.

Private membership platforms serve eligible members.

Understanding that difference gives travelers another tool when researching and booking travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do hotel prices look the same on different websites?

Hotels distribute inventory through multiple channels, and contractual arrangements, distribution practices and other factors can result in identical or similar publicly displayed rates across different websites.

Are private hotel rates available to everyone?

Not necessarily. Certain private offers may require membership, authentication or another form of eligibility before they can be viewed.

What does CUG mean in travel?

CUG stands for Closed User Group. It describes a defined group of eligible users who can access certain offers within a restricted environment.

Does Hotels Etc. guarantee the lowest hotel price?

No. Hotel pricing and availability constantly change. Savings and available benefits vary according to the hotel, destination, dates, inventory, supplier and other factors.

Why do Hotels Etc. members have to log in?

Certain member offers may be available specifically within an authenticated private membership environment and subject to supplier and distribution requirements.

How long has Hotels Etc. been in business?

Hotels Etc. was founded in 1996 and has provided private membership benefits and discount services for decades.

Learn More About Hotel Rate Parity

Understanding the difference between public and private rates is only part of the picture.

For our complete explanation of hotel rate parity, private rates and Closed User Groups, read:

What Is Hotel Rate Parity? How Public Rates, Private Rates and Closed User Groups Work

About Hotels Etc.

Hotels Etc. is a private travel and lifestyle discount membership company founded in 1996. Eligible members can access participating travel and lifestyle offers through the private Hotels Etc. membership platform.

Visit the official Hotels Etc. website for current information about membership benefits and participating services.

From the Desk of CEO Shawn Pigg

by hotelsetc, posted in Home

Hello,

My name is Shawn Pigg. I ‘m excited to get in touch with you today to let you know about our special membership club – Hotels Etc that offers our members amazing vacation benefits. Going or taking your whole family on vacation these days can cost a fortune. But there is a way to get some of the most luxurious vacation deals at reasonably discounted rates.

 Did you know that public sites are not able to offer discounts to the public. Rate parity and rate integrity are both practices hoteliers use when selling their hotel rooms. Rate parity can be defined as maintaining consistent ratesfor the same product in all online distribution channels—Expedia, Orbitz, Hotwire, etc.—regardless of what commission the OTA makes.

Hotels Etc. membership club presents you an opportunity to start enjoying  up to 75% off public rates on your vacation needs including Hotels, car rentals, cruises, resorts, vacation rentals, and vacation packages, Restaurants,  Golf. See more here – www.hotelsetc.com/explore. In fact, you can easily access worldwide destinations at unimaginable rates by being a Hotels Etc club member.

Watch some of our live comparison videos that will show you how much you can save when you join. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESp2iIsDBGU&t=113s

You can also view some screenshots at https://hotelsetc.org/2018/09/18/what-do-you-get-when-you-join-hotels-etc/

You might be saying to yourself, I am not traveling anytime soon. That is fine we still have discounts when you don’t travel. Imagine saving hundreds or thousands of dollars on your next trip or savings on Movies, Theme Parks, health, beauty, automotive and more?  https://www.hotelsetc.com/premium

Follow this link to join Hotels Etc. for as low as $19.95 per month or only $199 per year https://www.hotelsetc.com/membership

But there is more, not only do we give you the deepest discounts on the net, but we also have a built in reward points program that allows you to earn a point for every dollar spent and cash them in for trips, vacations, airlines and etc.

Don’t miss out on the incredible benefits you can enjoy by joining the club.

Here is what our members have to say about Hotels Etc. https://www.hotelsetc.com/testimonials

Check out our 3rd party reviews.
https://www.bbb.org/us/ga/loganville/profile/travel-club/hotels-etc-inc-0443-27211914

https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/hotelsetc.com

https://www.facebook.com/hotelsetc/reviews/

https://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/hotels-etc-trusted-business-verified-safe-businesses-you-can-trust-hotels-etc-inc-requires-companies-to-provide-their-network-with-a-discount-that-is-not-available-to-the-public-hotels-etc-helps-members-save-money-on-hotels-restaurants-entertainment-travel-much-more-hotels-etc-goal-is-to-save-members-hard-earned-money-enjoy-life-travel/loganville-georgia-30052/hotels-etc-lee-keith-monen-crystal-braun-hotels-etc-loganville-georgia-544034

Best regards,

Shawn Pigg

Hotels Etc
1-877-967-7283
https://www.hotelsetc.com

Seattle Washington in a Glance

by hotelsetc, posted in Home

Seattle Washington in a Glance

If you’ve never experienced Seattle, Washington, now is as good a time as any to do so. Maybe now is the best time ever for a nice visit to Seattle. Whatever your interests, there is sure to be something here that you will find appealing. From the great cultural centers to the fabulous sporting events and the wonderfully mild climate, Seattle is a great place to visit.

In addition to the wonderful climate, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that should keep you, and anyone traveling with you busy for quite some time. The biggest problem I foresee is finding there is too much to do and too little time in which to do it all. Such is the bane of vacations. Seattle is a town that has natural beauty and is surrounded not only by water, but by beautiful countryside as well. The views all around are nothing short of spectacular and I’m sure that you will find plenty to do to keep everyone in your party entertained and happy.

For those who love culture, there are many opportunities to soak up all the culture you can manage. From wine tours to museums and gourmet food, Seattle has plenty to offer the discerning tourists. Not to mention Benaroya Hall where the symphony performs and other cultural experiences such as the Seattle Opera or the Seattle Chamber Music Society. If this isn’t enough for your sophisticated demands there is the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Repertory Theatre.

For those of us with more sophomoric pursuits there is plenty around to keep our minds and hearts entertained. In addition to the activities mentioned above, there are plenty of sights to see in Seattle. There are walking tours around the city, driving tours to outlying areas and even duck tours, which are sure to delight the little ones among us.

For those who have an interest in pop culture there is the Experience Music Project, which is truly unique and very much worth the hefty price tag that admission demands. If you are going to make one splurge during your trip to Seattle alone, this would be the one I recommend most strongly. If money is no object, then count yourself blessed and take a look at what this ‘experience’ has to offer. In addition to the Experience Music Project there is the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame. As a science fiction enthusiast, this is a favorite of mine.

If you like animals, there is plenty to offer in Seattle. There is Cougar Mountain Zoo, Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, the Seattle Aquarium, Northwest Trek, Wolf Haven, and the Woodland Park Zoo in addition to the many whale-watching tours that are available. Keep in mind, you can always find deep discounts at https://www.hotelsetc.com 

If you like studying about other cultures, perhaps you should visit the International District, take a tour to Tillicum Village, visit the Wing Lake Asian Museum, or Uwajimaya Village. Each of these places offers a glimpse into the lives of those from other cultures.

In addition to all of these really fun things there are professional sports for almost every season in Seattle. For basketball there are the Seattle Sonics (NBA) and the Seattle Storm (WNBA). If your interest lean toward football, you will be happy to know that the Seahawks call Qwest Field home and baseball fans will be delighted that the Seattle Mariners are still playing at Safeco Field. For the hockey fans around, there are Seattle Thunderbirds, which are part of the Western Hockey League and call the Key Arena home.

These are only a small sampling of the many great things to do and see while visiting Seattle Washington. Just remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day and it is highly unlikely that even the fastest among us can enjoy all that this great city has to offer its visitors in a day either. Take your time and remember that it is very likely that if you didn’t get to one of your destinations today, it will be there tomorrow.