Subject: Re: Hotel costs
what are the thoughts on the best hotel deal?

The answer depends upon a number of variables.

If you expect to stay in hotels more than 3 or 4 times/year, it may be best to pick a major chain, join their loyalty program (and get one of their no-fee credit cards, if they offer one), and book through their website. You can also generally get a AAA, government, or senior discount in addition to the frequent-stayer perks.

The reviews at the big travel aggregator websites are good for researching a place to stay, even if you don't book through them. A simple google search (including via google.com/travel or even Google map) will generally show you the offer price from multiple websites. I find that booking.com works well and is reliable.

Travel packages can sometimes offer a good deal, but it pays to research the lodging independently before booking the package--and also see if you can cobble together a package on your own that's at least as good.