Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Under 21 and Traveling


Those of us who are under 21, yet have the capability, responsibility, and independence to travel without anyone who is over 21, often run into difficulties.

I booked a flight and hotel reservation to Baltimore in April through Expedia. Personally, I prefer Expedia over most other sites. It is user friendly and seems to have great rates. 


I booked with them when my best friend and I went to New York City for New Years. A roundtrip flight and three nights in Manhattan was only $565.  


The daredevil in me decided it was time for my first trip COMPLETELY ALONE. So back to Expedia, roundtrip and three nights in Baltimore only cost me $430! 

Do dooo dooo dee doo, fast forward to today. 

I called the hotel to confirm my reservation that is in 5 weeks. 

Two problems, 
1. The check in age is 21.....
2. My name is not in the system.....

Ummmm....... what do I do now????

PANIC!

I called Expedia and explained my problem to a man with a foreign accent, but very good English. At first he said so was truly sorry but that is a company's policy, and asked if I would like to cancel my reservation.

He must have either heard the desperation in my voice or seen the puppy dog face I was giving the phone. Either way, he said he would call the hotel and talk to them. 

After a 20 minute wait the line disconnected and I flipped out. I was positive that this man was waiting for me to get tried of waiting and hang up, but when I didn't he hung up on me instead. 

My mind did not get long to plan how I was going to complain when my phone started ringing again.

It was the same man from Expedia. The call had been disconnected... sorry man....

Anyways, this wonderful man told me that he got the hotel to allow me to check in and that it was noted on my account to let me.

...I called the hotel directly to verify that I would be able to check in and the lady happily said I was covered and not to worry about a thing. 

YES!  D.C. here I come!!!!!

Now I just have to figure out the subway / train / walking / donkey riding situation. 
Any advice???????

Unlock YOUR World

1 comment:

Mom of 12 said...

We were in DC last year and we loved it! Take the metro. It can get you anywhere in the city and it is much faster than any of those other ideas. Hope you have fun!
Sandy