My Exact Process for Finding the best Hotel options

Finding the right hotel is one of my favorite parts of planning a trip. I probably spend way too much time researching, but I’ve learned that where you stay can completely change the experience!

I Start With a Broad Search

I usually start by looking across several different sources, including:

• The hotel’s own website

• Booking.com

• Hotels.com

• Expedia

• Tripadvisor

• Google

• Travel publications like AFAR and Travel + Leisure

• Travel blogs and destination guides

I’m not necessarily looking for a specific option right away. First, I want to understand what hotels are available and which ones fit the type of trip we’re planning.

Then I Dive Into Reviews

I never rely on just one review site.

I’ll look at reviews across multiple platforms and pay attention to things that are mentioned repeatedly. One person complaining about something may not mean much, but if 15 people mention the same issue, I take it seriously.

I pay particular attention to comments about:

• Cleanliness

• Service

• Noise

• Room condition

• Food

• Pools and beaches

• Transportation

• Location

• Whether the property looks like the photos

I also sort reviews by newest whenever possible. A hotel could have been amazing three years ago but have very different service today.

Then I Stalk the Hotel on Social Media

This is honestly one of my favorite parts.

I look at the hotel’s Instagram, and more specifically, I look at tagged photos, because those tend to show a much more realistic version of the property. I’ll also search the hotel on TikTok to find room tours, pool videos, beach conditions, food reviews, and honest opinions from people who recently stayed there.

Social media is especially helpful for figuring out the overall vibe of a hotel.

I Check the Location

I always map out where the hotel is compared with the activities we’re thinking of planning.

If most of our excursions are an hour away, that’s something I want to know before booking — especially after learning the hard way that a beautiful hotel isn’t always worth it if you’re constantly spending hours in the car.

I also look at:

• Distance from the airport

• Nearby restaurants

• Walkability

• Distance from major attractions

• Whether taxis or transportation are easy to find

I Think About the Type of Trip

The hotel I choose depends heavily on the destination.

For a city trip, I may prioritize:

• A central location

• Walkability

• A rooftop bar or restaurant

• Easy access to neighborhoods we want to explore

For a tropical or relaxing trip, I care more about:

• The pool

• Beach access

• Restaurants on property

• Spa

• Views

• Full-board or all-inclusive options

• Whether we can happily spend an entire day at the hotel

We also tend to prefer unique, boutique-style hotels over huge resorts whenever possible. I love properties that feel connected to the destination rather than feeling like they could be anywhere in the world.

I Check the Room Categories

I always look beyond the cheapest room.

Sometimes spending a little more gets you a dramatically better experience — an ocean view, private plunge pool, balcony, or much better location within the property.

At the same time, I ask myself whether the upgrade is actually worth it. If we’re barely going to be in the room, I’d rather spend that money somewhere else.

Finally, I Compare the Total Cost

Before booking, I look at what is actually included.

A hotel may seem cheaper until you add:

• Resort fees

• Breakfast

• Airport transfers

• Parking

• Taxes

• Food

• Activities

Sometimes the more expensive hotel ends up being the better value once everything is included.

My biggest hotel rule: don’t book based on beautiful photos alone. Look at the location, reviews, real traveler photos, amenities, and how you’re actually going to use the property.