Page 29 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - USA

PR A C TIC AL INFORM A TION  27

Overnight camping in highway and resorts may insist on a frequently provide entertain-
rest areas or along public roads two-night minimum stay. ment and activities for kids,
is not only illegal but dangerous Most of the large lodging while resorts cater to those
as well. companies operate toll-free looking for ease, comfort and
telephone lines for reservations. general relaxation.
These lines give up-to-date Boutique hotels are
Rustic or Basic information about room rates, generally small with high-end
Accommodations
availability, and are also a good design elements, and historic
There are several basic “walk-in” means to compare prices. options similarly offer a
campgrounds in forest areas, Companies also have websites characterful stay in buildings
used primarily by backpackers. where you can make reser- of particular note. Hotels and
These are generally free, but vations at the lowest cost. inns found off-the-beaten
check with park rangers about track fall under rural retreats
wilderness permits and other Children while luxury options promise
regulations. Vast portions of the excellent service and food in
West have such areas, managed Many hotels welcome children unforgettable surroundings.
by US government departments and provide extra supplies For the best of the best,
such as the National Park such as cots; babysitting look out for options that
Service, the US Forest Service, services may also be available. feature the DK Choice label.
and the Bureau of Land Some also offer activities and These have been highlighted
Management (see p47). other fun programs. Children in recognition of an exceptional
up to the age of 12, and some- feature, such as a stunning
times up to 16 or 18, can stay location, a notable history, or
Prices
free of charge in their parents’ inviting atmosphere. Most of
Room rates for overnight stays room. Rooms often have sofas these are popular, so be sure
vary quite a bit, from under that unfold into beds; or extra to reserve ahead.
$20 a night for a campground beds may be set up for an Relevant hotel listings,
or hostel, to over $500 a night additional fee. For more specific to a region, can be
in a deluxe downtown hotel. information see page 21. found at the end of each area
Most places quote the rate per chapter for your convenience.
room, but federal and state taxes,
plus resort fees can sometimes Disabled Travelers DIRECTORY
raise the actual rate by up to US law requires that all Hotels and Resorts
25 percent. businesses provide facilities
Room rates at all levels of for the disabled (see p21) and Hilton
comfort vary with demand. It is, lodgings generally do their best Tel (800) 445-8667. ∑ hilton.com
therefore, worthwhile to ask for to accommodate all guests. If Marriott
discounts or special packages, you have specific needs, give Tel (800) 228-9290.
especially on weekends in advance notice. Most places ∑ marriott.com
urban areas, weekdays in rural have wheelchair accessibility,
areas, or in the off-season. wide doorways, handicap- Starwood
accessible bathrooms, and Tel (888) 625-5144.
support bars near toilets, as ∑ starwoodhotels.com
Reservations
well as in showers.
Some lodgings offer discounts Motels
for online and advance bookings. Recommended Hotels Hampton Inn
It is also better to check for Tel (888) 378-0981.
last-minute booking discounts. The accommodation options ∑ hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Many hotels offer package deals featured in this guide have
in conjunction with a special been carefully selected for Holiday Inn
event, such as theater or their excellent facilities, good Tel (800) 465-4329. ∑ ihg.com
concert tickets with overnight locations, and value for money. Super 8
accommodations. They have been split into Tel (800) 434-3213.
A number of lodgings will several themes for guidance. ∑ super8.com
request a credit card number The B&B category offers
when you make a reservation. personable rooms with a hearty Hostels
If you choose to cancel, you breakfast, and value establish- Hostelling International USA
may be charged for a night’s ments, such as hostels and Tel (301) 495-1240. ∑ hiusa.org
stay, depending on the time. motels, help keep vacation costs
For example, if you don’t down. Business options provide Campgrounds
cancel by 6pm or earlier, you a range of useful facilities with
may be charged for one night. smart, contemporary rooms. Kampgrounds of America
At the most popular places in There are a variety of family- ∑ koa.com
peak season, many hotels friendly options, which

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