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Most of you probably know how this works. I just took a trip from Milwaukee to Norfolk Va. I booked the trip to Wash DC. via the Capitol ltd. was worried about the connection to Norfolk so I didn't buy the ticket for that segment. Big mistake. I checked the ticket price when I booked and it was 42 bucks. the Capitol limited was a half hour early so I went to the Amtrak ticket machine and was surprised that that same ticket had jumped to 99 bucks on the day of the trip. Lesson learned. Happy travels
Posts: 175 | From: FENCE WI USA | Registered: Oct 2000
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Mr. Irish, welcome to the world of demand pricing that every transportation (including freight) and lodging company practices.
I do not think it far off when major chain restaurants will encompass demand pricing. The menu will be tablet and the price of a given selection will vary depending upon time of day, availability, and "what the traffic will bear".
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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quote:Originally posted by Gilbert B Norman: I do not think it far off when major chain restaurants will encompass demand pricing. The menu will be tablet and the price of a given selection will vary depending upon time of day, availability, and "what the traffic will bear".
"Early bird specials" have been around for a long time. Truly flexible, based on volume rather than time of day, is only a natural progression.
-------------------- Geoff M. Posts: 2426 | From: Apple Valley, CA | Registered: Sep 2000
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Happy hour deals are also very common these days. Some restaurants seem to have more "happy" hours than "unhappy" hours.
What I don't like about travelling these days is the charge to change a same-day reservation. If I'm on a business trip and work finishes early, the cost to change a ticket to an earlier flight is often ridiculously high (if the original ticket isn't F or full fare Y). Even on Southwest, which advertises that they don't apply change fees, you still have to purchase a new full coach fare (minus the value of your existing ticket) to change flights. On a recent Oakland to Burbank trip, Southwest wanted an extra $140 to take a flight that left 55 minutes earlier. No thanks, but I remember when airlines would offer the earlier flight--for free--if I arrived early at the airport.
Posts: 831 | From: Seattle | Registered: Jan 2011
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Mr. Vincent, I swore off Southwest during '08, and since then I've been "all United" save two round trips on Jet Blue.
I have no use for SWA's open seating and their resulting cattle shute boarding procedures.
Jet Blue; my Niece lives in Brooklyn and she likes to have me come to her turf (she's married two kids, so she ain't coming to mine - I of course stay at a hotel - houseguesting is something from college days). United no longer has flights to JFK - the most convenient airport for Brooklyn.
Comparing ticket exchange policies of Amtrak, they sure are liberal.
But anyone who must travel (not me anymore) has to accept that the travel industry considers the choice to change an itinerary a privilege that "costs".
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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I don't know what Southwest was like during 2008 but I had the dubious pleasure of flying them last year, MDW-ONT. When checking in you're assigned a boarding group and boarding position, with the earlier checkins getting the earlier groups/positions. Then, at the gate, there are different sections for the different groups and boarding ranges (1-10, 11-20 kind of thing). That limits your boarding carnage to bunches of 10 at a time. Not perfect but better than some other low-cost airlines - and some of their change policies are more forgiving than the full service airlines.
But yes, industry changes. Surge pricing on Uber. Computer software that you "rent" rather than buy outright (more income that way). It's the times we live in: we can either accept it or choose another provider... if any.
-------------------- Geoff M. Posts: 2426 | From: Apple Valley, CA | Registered: Sep 2000
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I fly Southwest when I have to fly intra-CA or make short hops; but when I have a longer trip, I always prefer to have pre-assigned seating. Southwest does offer a paid priority seating option, which I sometimes use to guarantee better seating on WN flights.
I do notice that WN flights seem to attract more passengers in wheelchairs than other airlines. Is it because passengers in wheelchairs are offered pre-boarding? I've noticed that many of those passengers who must use a wheelchair to board the flight are able to easily get off the plane under their own power once we arrive at the destination. But other than the cattle call atmosphere at boarding, I'm fine with WN for short flights.
There are plenty of AmtrakCascades riders who would welcome WN-style "first-come, first-served" seating on the Cascades trains. The line-ups in Portland, Seattle and Vancouver BC for seat assignments aren't very popular. Hopefully Amtrak will someday upgrade its reservation system to allow for online seat assignments.
Posts: 831 | From: Seattle | Registered: Jan 2011
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quote:Originally posted by Geoff Mayo: Computer software that you "rent" rather than buy outright (more income that way). It's the times we live in: we can either accept it or choose another provider... if any.
Mr. Mayo, it would certainly seem the mechanics are already in place to initiate demand pricing with the rented software you note. If the provider choses to be nice, log on, up goes a dialog box saying it costs (whatever) per minute and/or (whatever) a meg. 'For your convenience here are the price ranges". "Do you accept or decline?"
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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I hope we never see demand pricing in restaurants. I know I would be an unhappy camper if I'd made an advance (as in a week or so early) reservation at a popular fine dining place thinking the prices were 'X' and they turned out to be 'Y'. It's annoying enough that you pay a $25 fee for each person that is a no show in restaurants now (cancellation one or two days prior required).
As to airlines, our recent western trip involved 2 segments on WN and two on Delta. We like WN because it's generally cheaper and since we reserve far in advance its nice to know we won't be faced with the penalty for change or cancellation. The no bag fee is nice too although we avoid that with AA/USair and DL credit cards.
But if all things are equal, especially the price and we're pretty confident of our trip plans, then Delta is far and away our favorite airline. Our recent Delta segments were outstanding even though for a short hop MSY-ATL-CLT.
On the second leg we were in a newly refurbished 757. It was great. The new slim seats (get more passengers on the plane) were more comfortable than the old, and strangely enough I had more leg room due to the inset configuration or the seat bottom. The electronic gadgets were endless (and all on the seat back rather than arm rest) -plugs, USB ports, multiple A/V options, and internet (for $8.95 fee). But my favorite was the Trip info available on the screen - shows GPS location with map of major cities, speed, time and distance. Too bad it didn't include rail lines on the map! The new baggage bins were taller so more carry on space.
Passenger seemed to love it, but the Seattle based crew was not so sure as they were discussing it when we boarded. They were based out of Seattle and apparently their first trip on one. I suspect the designers were more concerned with space utilization and passenger comfort than crew convenience. Space age lighting of varying colors and intensity, depending on the level of cabin activity, added to the cabin ambiance. It was almost like a Disney ride.
Posts: 2397 | From: Camden, SC | Registered: Mar 2006
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Mr. Palmland, I don't blame a restaurant in the least for taking a credit card when reserving a table, and slapping that card with a $100 charge if the party is no show. That is long overdue. My Sister and Brother in Law are terrible on that point (we changed our plans, so what?), I assure all I am not.
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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Since unless a very special occasion I do not go to restaurants that require reservations I can't picture dealing with that one. I develop an allergic reaction in the presence of high-nosed pretense.
However, I have become a convinced Southwest customer over the last year. Their senior citizen rate is a great break from the normal fare, and I have had very little difficulty getting only a couple days ahead. I was, and the word is WAS, a long time Delta customer but a couple of issues on the last flights I had with them, as in one being virtually slamming the door in my face when the connection, and their own flight at that, was late, plus Southwest doing as well or better on price, and more predictably so, has caused me to say goodby to Delta without looking back.
Back to the original: When traveling between major destination points that have competition, we like the results. When traveling between other places with lower or no competition we get a clear reminder as to why transportation price regulation came around in the first place. The only difference being that most people have their own if necessary, or between a lot of not too distant minor points, it makes more sense to rent a car one-way than to fly some rediculous spoke and hub arrangement that can take almost as long.
Posts: 2808 | From: Olive Branch MS | Registered: Nov 2002
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George- I've found that Southwest senior fares are same or more than the lowest bucket 'Wanna get away' fare?
Eating really good regional food is one of the pleasures of travel. Making a reservation makes it possible to avoid long waits.
Posts: 2397 | From: Camden, SC | Registered: Mar 2006
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If I could be permitted to, somewhat, change the subject, I'm gradually becoming a little distraught with hotel and motel practices and booking.
Although I haven't encountered such, I understand hotel/motel overbooking and "walking" is starting to become more prevalent. Many hotel chains will give you some compensation (such as upgraded rooms with your next stay) but it seems to me, when you book several months in advance, you should expect a room. I will say, from what I've read, the problem is not nearly as bad as airline overbookings.
Other trends which I find a little bothersome are minimum stays of 2 or more nights. This can really curtail an itinerary. I also find a lot of hotels or motels will charge your credit card, in advance, even if you book months before your actual stay. I suppose there is a reason but it is a little questionable in my mind.
Maybe my chief complaint is the lack of half-day rates at many hotels and motels. I would gladly pay extra for the ability to check in early or check out late. With the odd arrival and departure times for Amtrak trains, having day rates would come in handy. For example, eastbound arrival into Whitefish, Mt. is 7:45 AM. Most motels have check-ins at 3PM or 4PM. It's a long wait, although many lodges will grant early check-ins if the room is ready. I'm hoping the Izaak Walton Inn will eventually offer day rates.
Richard
Posts: 1909 | From: Santa Rosa | Registered: Jan 2004
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Richard, hotels are certainly fair game for discussion at this topic that encompasses everybody in the transportation and hospitality industries who hold, now that the Recession is over, that they can get away with whatever they want.
Minimum stays has long been the landscape whenever a "special event" such as a convention or in college towns a graduation or homecoming is scheduled.
All the other crud like early checkout, early check in, 24 hours to CANX, are simply again in place because "they can get away with it".
When rail was how business travel was done, many stations would have transfer services that would handle your bag from the station to your Downtown hotel. You would hop in a taxicab and go to your place of business.
Now with air travel being the norm, you will just get your rented car, throw your bag in the trunk, and be on your way.
Want these rules rescinded? Just wish for another recession - something I doubt if anyone is about to do.
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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I would like to think the recession is over, but many think another 2008 recession will occur and it could be much worse.
One of the things I liked about the Rocky Mountaineer was their shuttle service. They would pick you up at your hotel along with your baggage. Your baggage would then be transferred to the train and to your lodging with each destination.
Yes, I can see where hotel "special events", conventions, etc, might require minimum stays.
When booking hotels/motels, I always give them my credit card to guarantee the room. However, until about a year ago, I had never encountered an instant charge, for your room, months in advance of your stay.
Richard
Posts: 1909 | From: Santa Rosa | Registered: Jan 2004
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Richard, the major chain hotels all seem to offer an "advance purchase" rate. The terms and conditions are mighty familiar to anyone who uses air travel - and unlike some sites with a "dyed in the wool" member base, that means everybody around here.
When booking, if you see a rate that, say, is maybe $20 lower than any other for the stay, beware, unless you are prepared to accept the no CANX, pay now conditions that are part of those rates.
For myself when booking at the only place I stay, i.e. major chains, I always ring up the dialog box that sets forth the conditions. Booking by voice phone, and maybe even a "mobile" site, that might be a problem.
Finally, even if this discussion has deviated from what I believe was the originator's, Mr. Irish, intent, it still remains appropriately titled
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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From this Wall Street Journal article, which has no mention of railroads and only tangential mention of airlines, it should be evident that "Dynamic Pricing" (new buzz term) will enter almost every area of a consumer's life.
I think it is better learn to embrace it, 'cuz you ain't gonna fight it:
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Dynamic pricing is alive and well at Uber. While we liked everything about it, one driver's comment did make us aware of supply and demand in the real world.
If we had taken our mid-morining ride to the ferry terminal a couple hours earlier during the morning commute and when it also happened to be raining, the fare would have been 5 times higher. My economics 101 professor would have been pleased.
Posts: 2397 | From: Camden, SC | Registered: Mar 2006
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They say prices can change, from hour to hour or minute to minute, based on such things as browsing habits, "geolocation", and if you have done some price comparisons at different sites.
I recently encountered dynamic pricing at the Orvis website. I found a sweater, for $179, which I liked. I didn't buy it. However, later that evening, I got a pop-up ad showing the sweater for $149. I wound up buying a sweater at LL Bean. Orvis has very nice products but their prices seem to always be up to the rafters. For example, I checked out their fly fishing rods. Priced from $240 to $800 each. I guess the Orvis label is kind of a status symbol, but too rich for my blood.
As far as buying early, the Rocky Mountaineer will offer packages at significant discounts if you book early, such as Oct. or Nov. for the following summer.
Richard
PS - I have to retract the part about Rocky Mountaineer discounts. I found out they don't offer discounts but, instead, added value promotions. Credits toward additional hotel stays, meals, and additional tours.
Posts: 1909 | From: Santa Rosa | Registered: Jan 2004
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I consider myself to be a pretty savvy buyer when it comes to transportation. If I know I need to be in a certain place on a certain date, I start looking for deals ahead of time and I usually get a pretty decent fare. I'm also not a "lowest cost" type of traveler--I'll pay more for better and more reliable service. If an airline is selling $59 fares on a flight that departs at 530am and $99 fares on a flight that departs at 800am, I'll likely be on the 800am flight. But I'm not a great buyer when it comes to hotels. I usually book through Expedia-type sites and pay the best price I can find. My standards aren't particularly high: clean, convenient and safe are what I value most. I usually don't spend a lot of time in the hotel other than sleeping and showering And, like Mr. Norman, I don't need or want any affinity points from the hotel stays (I do, however, like to collect frequent flyer points). Does anyone have any tips on ways to get the best rates on hotel stays? Is there a "best time" to book a hotel?
Posts: 831 | From: Seattle | Registered: Jan 2011
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Actually Mr.Vincent, it's the other way around. I do use, but don't go out of my way to chase, hotel points. It is airline and Amtrak points I could care less about, as there are simply too many hoops to jump through. I fly when I want to and pay what I must (I simply will not fly overseas in less than Business - no more than I will travel Amtrak overnight in less than Sleeper - it's all discretionary travel and if no dough, it's simply no go); not when there is a Blue Moon - and on a Red Eye to boot!
I know I have mentioned this story around here before, but I think appropriate to repeat. I have friends who were in United's plan and they desired to travel ORD-RNO and return using reward points. Well, they got to travel; but "not exactly" something I'd accept. Their outbound was ORD-MSN-SUX-DEN on a puddle jumper. Then DEN-RNO I think on a real plane. Return was a little easier to take RNO-DEN/DEN-ORD.
Now they are in American's plan.
Posts: 9975 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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