Call hotel directly to avoid missing construction updates

Hotels at home and abroad may have areas under construction, even if they’re brand-new.

Be sure to inquire about renovations when you book your stay. The more popular a property is, the more use it gets, the more wear and tear it has and the greater its need for refurbishment.

Recently a friend booked a last-minute getaway through US Airways Vacations with a stay at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas. While he was happy that he got a great rate at this four-star property, he was disappointed when he arrived to find that it was under major renovation. The construction included the pool area.

Neither he nor the booking agent read the fine print, so the pool closure came as an unpleasant surprise with the 109-degree weather. When we later checked the Golden Nugget Web site, it did have a box to click for construction updates, but they didn’t make it clear that the pool was closed.

The US Airways Vacations Web site had a statement about the pool closure, but you had to click through to the description of the property and read a lot before finding this information. The pool closed in December and is scheduled to open in the fall, and while it probably had a minimal effect on winter travelers, spring and summer guests want to cool off.

In all my travels, I’ve seen heavy refurbishment at only three or four properties during my stays. Many times you won’t even notice construction since hotels often close entire floors to minimize the effect on guests.

While Web sites may have information about renovations, it can be hard to find and it often isn’t up to date. I recently booked a stay at the Palms in Las Vegas, and when I checked the Web site, it said the pool would reopen April 28, 2006. Since I saw this information in June, I thought it might not be accurate. I called the hotel and was told that the pool would be open during my stay.

I have rarely seen a hotel open on time, and it isn’t uncommon for renovations to take longer than forecast. If you’re arriving at a hotel a week after the estimated completion date of a renovation, then you’re just the type Las Vegas loves: a gambler.

Whether you’re booking a stay online or by phone, our advice is to call the hotel directly and tell them that you understand the hotel is under renovation and ask them what areas will be affected.

Don’t even imply that they aren’t under renovation. That way, you’re more likely to get the information you’re after. If you’re staying at a property specifically because you want to use the pool or you’re fond of the hotel restaurant, be sure to check on their status.

While you have them on the phone, ask about conventions and other major events.

One last thing to ask is if they have any special rates, such as senior or AAA to see if you can get a cheaper price.