Hotel rates are constantly increasing. However, just because a hotel is quoting a certain rate doesn’t mean you have to pay it. Most hotels would rather rent empty rooms at a lower rate then leave them idle making no money at all. Be prepared to negotiate. Call the first hotel on your list and ask to speak to someone in guest relations. If there is no guest relations person, ask for the hotel manager. Be sure to ask the receptionist for the name of the person to whom you are about to be connected. Jot the name down on ...