Exploring the origins, impact, and future of resort fees in the travel industry.

Episode Highlights

- **Introduction to Resort Fees:**

- Overview of the episode's focus on the frustration caused by resort fees.

- Brief history of how resort fees started in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

- **Historical Context:**

- Initial introduction in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii.

- Expansion into more hotels and cities over the decades.

- Evolution from covering amenities to becoming an additional revenue stream.

- **Consumer Impact:**

- How resort fees disrupt budget planning for families.

- Lack of transparency leading to consumer frustration and legal scrutiny.

- Federal Trade Commission's role in investigating deceptive pricing practices.

Key Discussion Points

- **Why Hotels Charge Resort Fees:**

- Bundling of amenities and services.

- Revenue generation without raising advertised room rates.

- Market positioning and competitive pricing strategies.

- Offsetting operating costs.

- Avoiding commission fees paid to third-party booking platforms.

- **Types of Hotels Charging Resort Fees:**

- Originally resorts and destination hotels in tourist-heavy areas.

- Expansion to urban hotels in cities like New York and San Francisco.

- No universal regulation, but emphasis on transparency and disclosure.

- **Consumer Advocacy and Legal Actions:**

- Lawsuits against deceptive practices.

- Increased consumer awareness leading to clearer disclosures.

- Federal and local regulations requiring all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront.

Tips for Travelers

- **Avoiding Resort Fees:**

- Research and contact hotels before booking.

- Book through channels that include fees in the total price.

- Look for packages or promotions that waive resort fees.

- Confirm fee details before arrival.

- Negotiate or express concerns during check-in.

- Review your bill at check-out and dispute unauthorized charges if necessary.

Legislation Update

- **No Hidden Fees Act:**

- Supported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).

- Aims to establish a single standard for transparent fee displays.

- Passed the House and awaits Senate approval.

- Potential impact on competitive pricing and hotel practices.

Personal Insights

- **Rob's Perspective:**

- The impact of resort fees on travel agents.

- Potential pitfalls of federal regulation.

- The importance of a comprehensive standard for fee transparency.

- Statistics from the AHLA indicating the prevalence and cost of resort fees.

- Recap of the history, current practices, and potential future of resort fees.

- Encouragement for listeners to stay informed and proactive in avoiding hidden fees.

- Thanks for tuning in to Episode 159 of The Family Vacationer.

- Invitation to join the next episode for more travel insights and tips.

Additional Resources

- **Links to Relevant Articles and Websites:**

- Federal Trade Commission guidelines on resort fees.

https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/foia/frequently-requested-records/hotel-pricingresort-fee

- AHLA's stance on resort fees and related legislation.

https://www.ahla.com/news/house-passes-no-hidden-fees-act-major-ahla-legislative-priority

Have Show Ideas? Contact Rob at rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

Episode 158: Navigating Vacation with Your ADHD Teen

**Introduction:**

- Join hosts Rob and Traci as they dive into the intricacies of vacationing with an ADHD teen, featuring special guest Dr. Emily King.

**Discussion Points:**

1. **Creating a Supportive Environment:**

- Understanding the unique needs and strengths of your ADHD teen.

- Tailoring the vacation setting to accommodate those needs.

2. **Preparing for Structure and Routines:**

- Effective strategies for familiarizing your teen with vacation schedules.

- Implementing routines without sacrificing flexibility.

3. **Planning Activities:**

- How to choose activities that align with your teen's interests and manage ADHD symptoms.

- Balancing excitement with potential sensory overload.

4. **Managing Expectations:**

- Preparing yourself as a parent for your teen's behavior during vacation.

- Adjusting expectations and fostering understanding.

5. **Incorporating Breaks and Downtime:**

- Importance of incorporating downtime to prevent overwhelm.

- Strategies for recognizing and managing overstimulation.

6. **Recognizing Warning Signs:**

- Identifying signs of overstimulation or distress in your teen.

- De-escalation techniques and fostering emotional regulation.

7. **Addressing Meltdowns and Sensory Challenges:**

- Effective ways to handle potential meltdowns or sensory issues while traveling.

- Creating a supportive environment for your teen.

8. **Empowering Teen Ownership:**

- Encouraging your teen to take charge of their ADHD management during vacation.

- Building independence and confidence.

9. **Accommodations and Adjustments:**

- Necessary accommodations in travel plans to support neurodiversity.

- Making adjustments to ensure a smooth vacation experience.

10. **Managing Impulsivity and Hyperactivity:**

- Strategies for managing impulsivity and hyperactivity in unfamiliar environments.

- Creating structure to minimize challenges.

11. **Encouraging Positive Communication:**

- Promoting open communication and problem-solving between parent and teen.

- Building a supportive and understanding relationship.

12. **Transitioning Back to Routine:**

- Strategies for helping your teen ease back into their regular routine post-vacation.

- Minimizing post-vacation stress and adjustment difficulties.

- Dr. Emily King provides valuable insights and strategies for families navigating vacation with an ADHD teen, emphasizing understanding, flexibility, and support. Tune in for more tips and advice on the next episode! Follow Dr. Emily at learnwithdremily.com

Also make sure and listen to Episodes 127: The Post Vacation Let Down, 79: Traveling with Neurodiverse Children, 34: Managing Expectations of the Family Vacation

An end of an Era on the Family Vacationer.