Share travel observations with those in the know

Wouldn’t it be neat to have the power to make hotel bosses quiver at the knees? Well, maybe not actually tremble in fear, but at least recognize and respect the power of the guest/consumer?

Most do, of course. They’re in business. But the frustrated traveler can daydream about the prospects of having his or her voice heard.

One small opportunity opens up as the Zagat gang is calling once again for volunteers. The Zagat Surveys are among the travel world’s most popular consumer guides — offering familiar red pamphlets with very well-read advice on cities, hotels and restaurants.

They’re conducting their eighth annual survey of the “Top U.S. Hotels, Resorts & Spas” and invite us to participate by casting votes online at www.zagat.com. We’re asked to rate and review the facilities based on their rooms, service, dining and public spaces and facilities. Those who cast votes by June 6 will receive a free copy of the Zagat Survey when it is published in November.

Hoteliers must be tossing in their sleep at this time of the year.

As it happens, at this moment the Mobil Travel Guide people are also hitting the road to do their secret surveys. Along with AAA, the Mobil folks are among the most influential. As travelers turn to the established guides for advice, a star here or there can make a huge difference.

Visiting thousands of hotels, Mobil inspectors recommend some basic steps to get the best experience:

At check-in, ask if you can upgrade to a better room. Often, suites or rooms with better views are empty, and the hotel will relocate you at a minimal cost.

When staying at a resort, reconfirm if a resort fee is charged during check-in. Resort fees can at times include staff gratuities. Checking before you tip will save you from accidentally double tipping.

When booking a reservation at a hotel with a spa or a notable restaurant, inquire about packages. Often, hotels run specials that may include a room upgrade, spa treatment, or special meal at the same rate as a standard room.

This year’s Zagat survey includes more than 1,800 U.S. hotels, resorts and spas, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Zagat Surveys are based on the collective opinions of more than 250,000 surveyors worldwide.