In recent weeks, users flooded social media with an avalanche of criticism about Las Vegas Strip hotel hospitality charges. Respondents bemoaned what they said was excessive and opaque pricing.
Key takeaways
- Tourists were outraged on social media over hidden Las Vegas Strip hotel fees, especially early check-in.
- The Flamingo’s $60 early check-in fee shocked visitors, especially given its mid-tier hotel classification.
- Critics said separate hospitality fees mislead guests, harming trust and discouraging future Strip hotel stays.
Despite declining tourist numbers, visitors still claim to be surprised by erupting resort fees, parking charges, and other hidden costs at prime Vegas Strip hotels. And now, as witnessed on social media and as the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported, the Flamingo hotel casino is charging those who want to check in early an extra $60 – minus tax.
Vegas hotels usually charge an early check-in fee, typically between $20 and $50. While many hotels let tourists opt for early check-in when booking online at an extra charge, reception counters don't always collect such fees.
At the Flamingo, however, the advance check-in charge is $60. By contrast, high-end resorts like Wynn and Encore on the Strip provide a similar service for $75.
Opponents argue such fees are not only costly but also misleading, as they're not included in the room rates hotels quote guests when booking and appear as separate line items on the reservation or during check-out.
Vegas visitors feel scammed
Social media sites like Twitter, Reddit, and Instagram are now hubs where displeased tourists vent their complaints. Tweets narrating astronomically hefty bills and bad value for the fees went viral, expanding criticism.
Many visitors felt cheated, stating the fees detract from the affordability and appeal of staying in Strip hotels.
Parking charges, which most hotels froze during the pandemic, also returned with higher rates in some cases. Perhaps the most objectionable one is a mindset of poorer service at a higher cost. Different social media users pointed out that housekeeping, a normal service, is now charged extra or even provided less often, adding to an aura of disapproval.
The industry ardently defends the practice, with hotel companies contending resort fees let them bundle amenities while keeping base rates competitive. Others claim they transparently disclose them during booking and are common at popular tourist destinations.
But industry observers report the negative publicity will hurt Strip hotels long term. Guests may opt for off-Strip hotels or elsewhere where they believe rates are more open and straightforward.
The furor drew attention from consumer advocacy groups as well as politicians. Supporters introduced several state and federal bills in the last few years calling for more open fee disclosures at the time of reservation.
The majority, however, are still in review to this day.