A recent honeymoon trip to Hawaii for one traveler turned into a discussion about rising hotel costs and mandatory fees in the United States. The guest, staying at a Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Honolulu, reported encountering over $500 in additional "resort fees," including a $200 charge for poolside lounge chairs. This experience sparked a wider conversation online about the value of domestic travel compared to international destinations.
The traveler's account, shared on social media, highlighted a trend of increasing supplementary charges that guests often find unexpected. These fees, which covered various amenities, led her to suggest that other countries might offer a more welcoming and cost-effective vacation experience for travelers.
Key Takeaways
- A Marriott Bonvoy guest reported over $500 in unexpected "resort fees" during her Hawaii honeymoon.
- These fees included a $200 charge for premium poolside lounge chairs.
- The guest criticized the mandatory daily resort fee of $52 plus tax, which covered unwanted amenities.
- Her experience led to a social media discussion about the rising cost of U.S. travel and its impact on tourism.
- Many online users suggested international travel offers better value and hospitality.
High Resort Fees Raise Concerns for Travelers
The traveler, who uses the TikTok handle @funkshe, detailed her honeymoon experience which concluded in the Waikīkī area of Honolulu. While the initial part of her trip was positive, the final bill included significant charges she did not anticipate. She specifically mentioned a daily resort fee of $52, plus tax, per room.
This fee was described as mandatory and covered a range of amenities. Some of these included a fresh flower or coconut lei greeting, which the guest noted she did not request. She also mentioned "sh*tty" banana bread muffins and branded refillable water bottles. Internet access was also listed, despite her already receiving it as a Marriott Bonvoy member.
Fact Check: Resort Fees
- What they are: Mandatory charges added by hotels for amenities and services, often not included in the initial room rate.
- Common inclusions: Wi-Fi, fitness center access, pool towels, local calls, newspapers, and sometimes specific activities.
- Controversy: Critics argue they are hidden fees that inflate advertised prices and are not always transparent.
Amenities and Hidden Costs
The guest explained that the resort fee also covered "daily cultural activities." However, she pointed out a significant exclusion: "Guess what's not included? The actual beach chairs." This detail became a central point of her complaint.
She clarified that while free chairs were available in some areas near the pool, the prime lounge chairs located by the pool or directly on the beach incurred an additional charge of $200 to reserve. This meant guests were paying the room rate, a mandatory daily resort fee, and then an extra charge for what many consider a basic amenity for a beachside resort.
"Dude, travel in the U.S. is dead, and it's all because of corporate greed," the traveler stated in her video, expressing her frustration with the cumulative costs.
This statement reflects a growing sentiment among some travelers who feel that the cost of domestic travel, particularly in popular tourist destinations, is becoming prohibitive due to various added fees.
Impact on U.S. Tourism and Traveler Perceptions
The TikTok video quickly gained traction, accumulating 1.5 million views. A repost on X (formerly Twitter) by @WallStreetApes further amplified the discussion, reaching 7.3 million views. The widespread attention indicates that many consumers share similar concerns about travel costs within the United States.
Commenters on both platforms expressed strong reactions. Many users echoed the sentiment that such fees make U.S. travel less appealing. Some described the situation using the phrase, "America is a Third World country with a Gucci belt," suggesting a contrast between high prices and perceived service value.
Understanding Resort Fee Debates
The debate around resort fees is not new. Consumer advocates argue that these fees should be included in the advertised room rate to provide full price transparency. Hotels, however, often defend them as necessary to cover the costs of amenities and services that enhance the guest experience. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has previously indicated that mandatory resort fees could be deceptive if not clearly disclosed upfront.
Comparison to International Travel
A significant portion of the online discussion involved comparisons to international travel. Many users suggested that foreign destinations offer better value for money and a more welcoming experience for tourists.
For example, one user on X, @thangdcao, recommended Vietnam, stating, "Go to Vietnam. Free beach, free chairs, 5-star hotels will serve you like a king." Another user, @RicanLink_, added, "I keep telling people, when you leave the US you realize how much better you can live."
These comments highlight a perception that travelers can find more inclusive pricing and better hospitality in other countries, which could potentially impact U.S. tourism if the trend of increasing fees continues.
The Broader Economic Landscape for Travelers
The discussion around hotel fees is part of a larger conversation about consumer costs in the U.S. Many individuals are already facing increased expenses in various sectors. One commenter, @seandekodaphillip, theorized that hotels might be raising prices because "tourism is down and they're taking it out on anyone that can afford to go."
This perspective suggests that some businesses might be attempting to offset reduced demand by increasing charges on remaining customers. However, this strategy could deter future travelers, creating a cycle that further impacts tourism.
Consumer Sentiment and Future Travel Choices
The traveler from the Hawaii honeymoon concluded her video with direct advice: "Go to any other country for your honeymoon, for your vacation. Save your hard-earned cash and do that because in the U.S. you're never going to feel welcome as a guest."
This strong recommendation indicates a shift in consumer sentiment. When travelers feel unwelcome or financially exploited, they are likely to explore alternatives. The internet provides platforms for these experiences to be shared widely, influencing the travel decisions of many potential tourists.
- Transparency: Consumers are increasingly demanding clear, upfront pricing without hidden fees.
- Value for Money: Travelers are comparing the overall cost and experience of domestic versus international trips.
- Social Media Impact: Personal anecdotes shared online can quickly shape public perception of travel destinations and brands.
The ongoing debate over resort fees and other additional charges will likely continue to influence how travelers plan their trips and where they choose to spend their money, both domestically and internationally.
