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I booked a beachfront hotel in the Outer Banks with priceline for the 4th of July weekend. I was so excited to see my friends who I hadn't seen in a few years!
Thursday July 3rd I took a half day and drove the 5.5 hrs straight from work. About 4:30 I realized I was running late so I tried to call the hotel to let them know I was still coming, but I'd be checking in around 6:00. Nobody answered the couple times I called. I figured it was just a holiday weekend at the beach and they were probably swamped.
As I hit the island and my GPS said 15 mins I was super excited! I was about to relax on the beach for 3 days and hang out with my friends. I was coming down the street and my hotel was in sight. The best part was there's beach access directly next to it. And then I saw it...
There were chains up across the entrance and furniture in the parking lot (the next day we saw the sign on the front of the building was gone as well). My beautiful, beachfront hotel was closed for renovations!
I immediately called Priceline and was told they have to call the hotel to confirm they can't accommodate me. Sure, go ahead and call the imaginary hotel. While I'm on hold, the gentleman hungs up on me (probably an accident, but not helping the situation). So I do what any pissed off, self-respecting Karen would do...I called right back and ask to speak with the manager. By this time I'm so mad I'm in tears. I spoke with a woman who almost "I understand" and "mmm hmmm'd" me too death. She claimed they would find me alternative lodging, but my hotel had 45 mins to respond (the imaginary hotel). I told her I was tired and just wanted to unpack and I'm wasn't sure what I was supposed to do for the next 45 mins, but fine, I understood procedures.
*It's important to note here that if Priceline ever has to find you alternative lodging and there is a price difference, you are responsible upfront and they will reimburse you after you check out and send in the invoice. IKR!
**Also, after 5.5 hrs straight in a car with nowhere to lay my head my conversation with customer service was a tad more colorful than depicted here.
I snapped out of my pity party and called my friend who graciously said "just come to the house and we'll figure it out". When I pulled up and hugged her I instantly felt better. Afterall, I was at the beach!
We went to dinner and afterward I checked my emails to see what Priceline dug up. They did actually find me alternate lodging. However, it was for 7/3 and 7/5. I guess after the fireworks on 7/4 I was supposed to sleep on the beach?
Recommendation: Never book with Priceline
