Read an offer with clear definitions
Hotel offer glossary
These definitions explain useful comparison distinctions. The exact offer’s terms determine what is included, guaranteed or charged.
Nightly or whole-stay price
An amount can cover a night, a person, a room or the entire stay. These bases are not interchangeable.
Check: all rooms, nights and guests included in the final summary.
Occupancy and beds
Occupancy describes permitted guests; bedding describes where they sleep. “Four people” does not mean four permanent beds.
Check: children’s ages, bed dimensions, sofa bed and supplements.
Flexible rate
Flexibility depends on the exact terms. Cancellation, date changes and early departure are separate actions.
Check: date, time, zone and penalty for each action.
Non-refundable rate
The offer restricts refunds. Its name alone does not establish the collection date or all amendment rules.
Check: amount at risk if plans change, separately from certain spending.
Deposit and pre-authorisation
Distinguish a held or deposited amount from a final payment. Refundable funds can affect available money without being final spending.
Check: amount, accepted card, conditions and release procedure.
Connecting or adjacent rooms
Connecting rooms have an internal passage. Adjacent rooms may be neighbours without a door between them.
Check: internal door, categories and guaranteed allocation.
No-show
Failing to arrive without prior agreement differs from a confirmed cancellation. Report delays through your booking’s procedure.
Check: arrival deadline, direct contact and consequences in the terms.
Stars and guest scores
A star classification and average guest score measure different things. Missing classification does not mean zero stars.
Check: issuer, date, score scale and exact room category.
Consumer reference for France
DGCCRF documents ambiguities between per-person and room prices in online booking. This source concerns France and does not define every country’s rules. DGCCRF ↗